For many overachievers, success feels like second nature. Whether it's excelling in school, climbing the career ladder, or setting and surpassing personal goals, the drive to do more and be better is deeply ingrained. But what shapes this relentless ambition? Is it simply the result of hard work and natural talent, or is there a deeper story behind the behavior?

The truth is, the roots of overachievement often trace back to childhood. Our early experiences—whether they’re family dynamics, societal pressures, or the way we were encouraged (or discouraged) to succeed—can lay the foundation for a lifelong drive to prove ourselves. In this blog, we’ll explore how childhood experiences shape the behaviors of overachievers and how those early lessons stick with us into adulthood.

n today’s business world, it’s often said that “leaders are born, not made.” While there’s some truth to the idea that leadership qualities can come naturally to some, the most successful executives today are those who have honed their emotional intelligence (EQ). In fact, emotional intelligence is fast becoming one of the most important indicators of success in leadership roles. Whether you’re negotiating with clients, managing teams, or navigating corporate challenges, your ability to understand and manage emotions—both your own and others’—can make all the difference.

Are you an EMDR-trained therapist seeking a supportive space to enhance your skills, navigate challenging cases, or refine your practice? Whether you’re new to EMDR or looking to explore advanced techniques, my consultation services are tailored to help you succeed and grow. Here’s why joining my individual or group consultations might be the perfect fit for you.

About Me

I’m Melissa Foster, LISW-S, and I’ve been practicing EMDR since 2017. As an approved consultant, I’m qualified to provide all 20 hours of consultation required for your EMDR certification—including your final letter. Additionally, I offer flexible drop-in sessions for therapists who need support with complex cases, want to revisit foundational techniques, or are interested in exploring new protocols.

My approach to consultation is relaxed but intentional. I strive to provide a space where you can feel supported while being gently challenged to overcome anything that might be holding you back from becoming the exceptional therapist you aspire to be.

Success is often seen as the ultimate goal, a metric by which we measure our worth, our progress, and our potential. The pursuit of success can be invigorating, but it can also come with hidden costs—especially when it starts to damage the relationships that matter most. Whether you're gunning for a promotion, building your own business, or climbing the career ladder, it's easy to let your ambition eclipse the connections around you. But how can you tell when your drive for success is actually harming your personal life?

You know that feeling when you're about to close your laptop, and suddenly you hear the siren song of your inbox? "Just one more email," you whisper to yourself, like you're a midnight snacker promising they'll only eat one potato chip. A whole bag of doritos later, and three hours later, you're deep in a spreadsheet rabbit hole, wondering where the evening went. If this sounds familiar, you might be flirting with workaholism.

Positive affirmations can complement therapy by reinforcing therapeutic progress, enhancing self-compassion, and fostering a positive mindset.

They provide ongoing support and encouragement, even outside of therapy sessions, helping to anchor therapeutic learning in daily life and facilitate the integration of new perspectives and behaviors. Affirmations can empower individuals to participate in their growth and transformation actively, and when customized to complement therapy, they are tailored to unique experiences, challenges, and therapeutic goals.

Living in today's high-pressure business environment, 'executive burnout' is no longer just a buzzword. More and more, I am seeing it emerge as an organizational risk. It seems to be one of those things demanding immediate attention (because of the staggering financial and human costs). The impact of burnout on individuals' well-being is just the tip of the iceberg really. Still, devastating ripple effects throughout organizations affect everything from team morale (should we just sit around in a circle and sing Kumbaya) to the bottom line ($).

People in their 20s, 30s, and 40s, are seeking therapy at a higher rate than any other generation. Millennials are the Therapy Generation. Increased interest in therapy , increased need for therapy, and a decrease in the stigma. Millennials seeking therapy for personal growth and to better themselves. Millennials identify therapy is helpful.

EMDR Intensives | Intensive therapy sessions that are longer than the typical therapy session can be beneficial in certain situations, especially when dealing with complex or severe mental health issues, those looking to make progress quickly, and for those with a restricted schedule.