Letting Go of Perfect

with Dr. Marjan Ebadi and Dr. Whitney Geller

Letting Go of Perfect

Episode 4, Season 5 | October 8, 2024

Show Notes

It’s easy to feel like everything needs to be perfect. Our youth can pick up on that and they can become obsessed with being perfect -- in school, with their bodies, and even their hobbies. In this new episode of Voices of Compassion, we explore the complex world of perfectionism in children. What does perfectionism look like? From fear of failure and constant self-criticism to anxiety over making mistakes, many kids struggle with wanting to be "perfect." With CHC experts, Dr. Marjan Ebadi and Dr. Whitney Geller, we discuss the potential causes of perfectionism, societal expectations and personality traits. Parents and caregivers will learn how to support their children by fostering a healthy mindset, encouraging effort over perfection, and maintaining balanced expectations. Are high expectations helpful or harmful? Join us as we explore ways to nurture resilience without fueling the pressure to be perfect.

Guest Info

Dr. Ebadi attended the University of California, Davis, for undergraduate degrees in psychology and english. After graduating, she worked as a behavioral therapist at Easter Seals Bay Area, working with children and families with autism spectrum disorder. Dr, Ebadi then attended Alliant International University, San Diego, to earn her MA and PhD with an emphasis on Child and Family. She worked in various settings such as schools, residential treatment centers, and community mental health during her training years. Dr. Ebadi has extensive training in Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Parent and Child Interactive Therapy (PCIT). Dr. Ebadi has predominantly worked with children and teens with various presenting concerns such as depression, autism spectrum disorder, anxiety, ADHD, and complex trauma. When not working, Dr. Ebadi enjoys mountain biking, kayaking, being outdoors, reading or trying new foods.


Whitney Geller, PhD, is a licensed clinical psychologist with specialization in pediatric neuropsychology. She is well versed in conducting neuropsychological, neurodevelopmental, psychological, and educational evaluations to answer questions for families about cognitive ability, development, and emotional wellbeing. Dr. Geller utilizes a whole person approach to assessment, spending time with the family and individually with the child to gain a complete picture. Evaluations are focused on identifying strengths and weaknesses to provide comprehensive feedback to families including diagnostic impressions and personalized recommendations. Feedback is aimed to help families understand the child’s needs and the best ways to provide support for the child at home and in school.