Tara Cousineau, PhD, is a clinical psychologist, staff psychologist at Harvard University's Counseling and Mental Health Services, and author of The Kindness Cure- How the Science of Compassion Can Heal Your Heart and Your World (New Harbinger Publications 2018). She is professionally trained in mind-body medicine, mindfulness, mindful self-compassion, and innovative psychological methods, including energy psychology and Internal Family Systems. Learn more at www.taracousineau.com.
Praise for The Perfectionist's Dilemma: “In this comprehensive but practical guide, Dr Tara Cousineau explores the roots of perfectionism and its often-hidden toll on your well-being. Tara introduces an innovative six-step solution, EVOLVE, to help you embrace self-compassion and achieve genuine happiness. The Perfectionist's Dilemma offers practical insights and compassionate guidance. It includes techniques and tools you can immediately implement for tracking your progress, and worksheets to support your journey. Whether you are looking for personal change or inspiration for those in your care, The Perfectionist's Dilemma: Learn the Art of Self-Compassion and Become a Happy Achiever is the guide you must read.” ~Professor Peta Stapleton, Clinical Psychologist, Bond University, Australia, and author of The Science Behind Tapping “Tara Cousineau’s perfectionism has paid off! First, she has normalized perfectionism. It is a drive in all of us. Most importantly, she is masterful in showing readers how to harness this natural force so your life will be more balanced, happier, and more successful – as close to perfect as wise guidance is likely to bring you.” ~Donna Eden and David Feinstein, Ph.D., co-authors of Energy Medicine: Balancing Your Body’s Energies for Optimal Health, Joy and Vitality “The Perfectionist's Dilemma offers a transformative guide on overcoming perfectionism. By weaving self-compassion, self-acceptance, and resilience, the author provides a practical guide to embracing imperfection and finding true fulfillment. A must-read for anyone seeking balance in a perfection-driven world.” ~James R. Doty, M.D., founder & director of the Stanford Center for Compassion and Altruism Research and Education and New York Times bestselling author of Into the Magic Shop: A Neurosurgeon’s Quest to Discover the Mysteries of the Brain and the Secrets of the Heart and Mind Magic: The Neuroscience of Manifestation and How It Changes Everything “Dr. Tara Cousineau cares deeply about her clients and equally those seeking as her readers. She wants to help you to open your heart, to love abundantly, and foremost find vitality and meaning in this precious journey of life. Dr. Cousineau helps to make a transition from empty achievement to a vibrant sense of contribution.” ~Lisa Miller, Ph.D., Professor, Columbia University and author of The Awakened Brain: The New Science of Spirituality and Our Quest for an Inspired Life “This beautiful book imparts diverse insights about perfectionism, weaving together clinical psychology and neuroscience, to help people overcome their harsh inner critic and develop a greater sense of self-compassion. Offering rigorous science and powerful tools, this book has the power to transform our individual and collective lives. Highly recommend!” ~Shauna Shapiro, author of Good Morning, I Love You: Mindfulness and Self-Compassion Practices to Rewire Your Brain For Calm, Clarity, and Joy “A phenomenal, must-read book for any of us who struggle with perfectionism. Brilliantly integrating psychology, neuroscience, energy psychology, mindfulness, self-compassion research, and more, this book offers a unique framework for understanding the roots of perfectionism and how to work with it. Skillfully and with clear guidance, wisdom, compelling stories and a multitude of enriching mind-body practices, Dr. Cousineau shows us how to listen inwardly, loosen the grip of perfectionism’s grasp, befriend and care for our inner critic, and transform old, protective patterns to experience ease, wholeness and joy in this human life.” ~Beth Kurland, Ph.D., clinical psychologist and author of You Don’t Need to Change to Change Everything: Six Ways to Shift Your Vantage Point, Stop Striving for Happy, and Find True Well-Being