Perfectionism is trying to protect us from feeling. It keeps us moving, hustling and hypervigilant because it is afraid. It is afraid of pain.
Unfortunately the cost of running from pain is often higher than allowing ourselves to feel our pain. Sometimes we can only tolerate feeling it one small dose at a time. That’s okay.
It’s okay to struggle. It’s okay to feel pain. It doesn’t mean you’re doing something wrong.
Aileen is a therapist and coach based in Chicago, who works with coaching clients across the globe. She helps gifted and twice-exceptional people (and their loved ones) understand their brains, embrace their differences and reach their goals. Head to the link in bio to learn more about services.
10/17/2025
09/28/2025
I hope this helps you find or create spaces that hold friendship and belonging for all of us.
Aileen is a therapist and coach based in Chicago, who works with coaching clients across the globe. She helps gifted and twice-exceptional people (and their parents) understand their brains, embrace their differences and reach their goals. Head to the link in bio to learn more about services.
09/13/2025
Can’t. Stop. Noticinggg.
Aileen is a therapist and coach based in Chicago, who works with coaching clients across the globe. She helps gifted and twice-exceptional people (and their parents) understand their brains, embrace their differences and reach their goals. Head to the link in bio to learn more about services.
07/12/2025
It’s spiral season!
No but for real this summer has been a lot in terms of the state of the world and I think we’re all feeling it.
Wishing you the best in trying to enjoy the small moments 💗
Aileen is a therapist and coach based in Chicago, who works with coaching clients across the globe. She helps gifted and twice-exceptional people (and their parents) understand their brains, embrace their differences and reach their goals. Head to the link in bio to learn more about services.
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I know firsthand how hard it can be to care for a child or teen who has so much potential but struggles to manage their high intelligence with unique learning needs.
The frustration of dealing with systems and professionals who are often unhelpful and misinformed. The exhaustion of looking for an answer in books, articles and the well-meaning but sometimes judgmental advice of others. The helplessness at seeing your child cry, scream or meltdown while having no way to fix or control the situation.
I've been there. I was that child and I speak their language. I know what it's like to be called "gifted" while struggling in key areas that make you feel insecure and upset. To take out those feelings of confusion and anger on the people closest to you: your family. I saw how my parents had to struggle to get me the help I needed. I know what it’s like to fear that things will never get better, to resign yourself to the pain.
I also know there’s a way out. I have made it my mission to be trained in the most well-researched treatments for child and teen mental health (see my qualifications below). I have seen the transformative power of effective, compassionate therapy. I have seen children regain their confidence and ability to enjoy their childhood. I have seen families feel more connected and secure. It won’t be perfect, it will take hard work, but it will definitely be worth it. I believe that every child and family can have access to the hope, joy and fun that makes life worth living. Helping people get there has been one of the most fulfilling experiences of my life.
I’d love to work with your child, teen or family. If you feel like we would be a good fit, please don’t hesitate to reach out.
