Group Therapy for Perfectionism
Grounded in cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), this psychotherapy group offers a supportive space to explore the impact of perfectionism and learn how to shift from unrelenting standards to more balanced expectations. Sessions run weekly for 50 minutes and are held either online or in person. This group runs for a total of 9 weekly sessions and is open to adults aged 18 and up.
CBT GROUP THERAPY
Perfectionism: In Pursuit of Enough
Group Description
This therapy group is designed to support adults who find themselves stuck in cycles of overthinking, self-criticism, and the pursuit of impossibly high standards. Rooted in cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), each session offers practical tools to help you recognize the costs of perfectionism, challenge rigid thinking patterns, and begin relating to yourself with more flexibility and self-compassion.
Week by week, we’ll explore topics such as the roots of perfectionism, how it’s maintained, and how to gradually shift toward healthier standards. The group combines psychoeducation, guided exercises, and meaningful discussion to help you break free from all-or-nothing thinking and create space for a more balanced, fulfilling life.
You’ll receive a weekly PDF with key concepts, reflective worksheets, and actionable strategies to reduce pressure, build resilience, and reconnect with your values beyond performance.
Group Facilitator
Michelle Lehoux holds dual professional registrations with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario (CRPO) and the Ontario College of Teachers (OCT). With a background in both psychotherapy and education, she has facilitated workshops across diverse sectors—including mental health, family wellness, and refugee resettlement—bringing a trauma-informed lens and deep respect for each person’s lived experience. Known for her calm and grounding presence, Michelle brings a gentle, steady energy to her work, creating a safe and supportive space where clients can reflect, connect, and grow.
Weekly Topics
Week 1
What Is Perfectionism?
- We’ll start by defining perfectionism and identifying how it shows up in your life. Together, we’ll explore both the helpful and unhelpful sides of perfectionistic tendencies and begin building awareness around your own patterns.
Week 2
Understanding the Roots
- This week dives into what drives perfectionism beneath the surface—looking at early influences, beliefs, and motivations that have shaped your need to strive or avoid failure.
Week 3
What Keeps It Going?
- We’ll explore the cycle of perfectionism: what reinforces it, why it’s hard to let go, and how it persists even when it creates distress. You’ll begin identifying the hidden costs of chasing unrelenting standards.
Week 4
Deciding to Shift
- In this session, we’ll weigh the pros and cons of maintaining perfectionistic behaviours versus trying something new. You’ll gain clarity on what change could look like and what it might take to move forward.
Week 5
Behavioural Experiments
- You’ll begin gently testing some of your perfectionistic behaviours. With support, we’ll introduce small behavioural changes to challenge the idea that perfection is always necessary—or safe.
Week 6
Challenging Perfectionistic Thinking
- This week focuses on your internal dialogue. You’ll learn how to spot perfectionistic thoughts, question their accuracy, and replace them with more flexible, balanced alternatives.
Week 7
Adjusting Unhelpful Rules
- Many perfectionists live by rigid “shoulds” and “musts.” This session helps you identify those inner rules and assumptions and begin reshaping them into guidelines that support, rather than sabotage, your well-being.
Week 8
Redefining Achievement
- We’ll look at how the drive to achieve may be overshadowing other meaningful areas of your life. You’ll begin exploring a broader, more compassionate view of self-worth that doesn’t rely solely on performance.
Week 9
A New Mindset
- This week brings together the work we’ve done so far by helping you build a more balanced and sustainable mindset. You’ll explore how perfectionism fits into the bigger picture of your identity and values.
Week 10
Moving Forward with Perspective
- In our final session, we’ll reflect on the insights and skills you’ve developed. You’ll create a personal roadmap to help maintain progress, navigate setbacks, and continue showing up with self-awareness and intention.
Next Session:
Start Date:
End Date:
Format:
Frequency: Weekly
Total sessions: 10
Cost per session: $40/session (Total: $400)
Group size: Limit of 6