Self-doubt is a very human response to feeling overwhelmed and unsure. It’s OK to feel this way. The trick is to still move forward anyway.
Dr. Adam Grant, Organizational Psychologist
What is Imposter Syndrome?
Imposter Syndrome is a psychological pattern in which an individual doubts their skills, talents, or accomplishments and has a persistent fear of being exposed as a “fraud.” Despite external evidence of their competence, individuals fall prey to thinking that they are frauds and do not deserve the success they’ve achieved. Proof of success is dismissed as luck, timing, or the result of deceiving others into thinking they’re more intelligent or capable than they truly are.
Imposter Syndrome is not recognized as a mental health disorder. It’s a term that has grown in use over time and points to the tendency to underestimate and discount one’s abilities and achievements.
At Mile High Psychology, most of our therapy clients are high-functioning individuals with full and busy lives and many of them experience an internal sense of not measuring up and compare themselves negatively to their peers.
Dr. Rob Leach helps people recognize patterns of self-critical and shame-based thinking, while cultivating a more accurate and affirming view of themselves.
Who Can Experience Imposter Syndrome?
Imposter Syndrome does not discriminate—it can affect anyone regardless of their social status, work background, skill level, or degree of expertise. While imposter syndrome may be more prevalent among high achievers, it can strike anyone. It can be related to perfectionism and can contribute to stress, anxiety, low self-confidence, fear of failure, and even depression.
Symptoms of Imposter Syndrome
Common signs of imposter syndrome include self-doubt, attributing success to luck or external factors, fear of not meeting expectations, overworking, undermining your own achievements, and fear of failure.
Strategies to Overcome Self Doubt and Imposter Syndrome
At Mile High Psychology, addressing Imposter Syndrome during the course of therapy often involves an array of strategies:
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy can be employed to challenge and alter thought patterns that lead to feelings of being an imposter.
- Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) encourages individuals to accept their thoughts and feelings of fraudulence without judgment, while simultaneously encouraging them to align their actions with their values, fostering greater psychological flexibility.
- Insight-oriented therapy can address how past experiences contribute to self-doubt and low self-esteem.
- Additionally, supportive therapies provide comfort, help reduce anxiety, and aid in boosting self-confidence.
Combining these approaches offers a well-rounded approach for those struggling with Imposter Syndrome.
Embrace Your Authentic Self
Take control of your narrative and step into the person you truly are. It’s important to remember that you’re not alone and help is available. Many people experience imposter syndrome, and it’s something that you can address. We are here to help.
Individual Therapy with Dr. Rob Leach
If you’re tired of the recurring feelings of self-doubt and the fear of being unmasked, we’re here to support you on your journey.
Rob Leach, PsyD, MBA
Clinical Psychologist and Executive Coach
With therapies like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dr. Leach can help you learn tools and strategies to address your thought patterns and take actions to enhance your overall well-being.
Getting Started on Overcoming Imposter Syndrome
If you or someone you care about is being dragged down by self doubt and negative comparison to others, let’s discuss how we might be of assistance to you.
Discover How We Can Help
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