Julia Schafer Therapy

Treatment Specialties

Each of these stories represents challenges that many people experience. Therapy can help you address these patterns, understand where they came from, and create a path toward a life that feels authentic, balanced, and fulfilling. If you recognize yourself in these descriptions, reach out to start a journey of self-discovery and lasting change.

Perfectionism and Overachievement

Sarah is a successful corporate lawyer, known for her commitment and meticulous work. She’s sacrificed countless hours and personal relationships in the pursuit of excellence. Promotions and achievements follow, but instead of satisfaction, Sarah feels even more pressure, haunted by the fear that one mistake could unravel everything she’s built. When she’s not working, she’s planning the next big goal, yet each milestone brings a hollow victory. Deep down, Sarah wonders why she can’t feel happy or proud of herself, even though she seems to have “made it.”

Does this sound like you?

If perfectionism has you constantly pushing yourself without feeling the reward, you may feel trapped by a cycle of never-ending achievement without fulfillment. In therapy, we’ll work on understanding the roots of your drive to succeed, identifying how your need for perfection took hold, and finding what actually matters to you beyond achievement. You’ll learn to feel worthy outside of what you accomplish, and together, we’ll explore ways to feel genuine pride in your efforts while creating a more balanced, sustainable approach to success and self-worth.

Breaking Free from People-Pleasing and Self-Criticism

Emily is a dedicated teacher, admired by her colleagues and loved by her students. She spends her days making sure everyone around her feels supported and happy, often at her own expense. Every time she sets a boundary or even considers saying “no,” guilt quickly follows. Her evenings are filled with replaying conversations, scanning for any hint that she may have disappointed or upset someone. Beneath the surface, Emily feels exhausted and wonders why she can’t seem to value herself as much as she does everyone else.

Does this sound like you?

People-pleasing can leave you feeling like a hollow version of yourself, always putting others’ needs first and doubting your own worth. Together, we’ll look at where this pattern started and how it’s reinforced by beliefs that keep you from self-compassion. Therapy will help you recognize that you don’t need to sacrifice yourself to be loved. Through exploring and challenging the patterns that hold you back, you’ll begin to set healthy boundaries, honor your needs, and respond to that critical inner voice with understanding, so you can finally show up for yourself as much as you do for others.

Emotional Disconnection and Intellectualizing

Josh, a data analyst, prides himself on his ability to solve complex problems logically. He turns to analysis to navigate difficult situations, carefully rationalizing away any uncomfortable emotions. While it feels safe, this habit has distanced him from his partner and loved ones. Josh wonders why he feels disconnected, even though he tries so hard to “stay in control.” He wants to feel close to others but fears that letting down his emotional guard will leave him vulnerable.

Does this sound like you?

If you find yourself caught in your head, explaining away your feelings rather than experiencing them, it may be a way of coping that once helped but now leaves you feeling distant and misunderstood. Therapy offers a space to gently explore and reconnect with your emotions. We’ll work on integrating your analytical strengths with emotional presence, allowing you to stay grounded while also embracing the vulnerability that brings connection. Over time, you’ll feel more comfortable engaging with your emotions directly, enriching both your relationship with yourself and those around you.