Mindful Conversation: Exploring Perfectionism and Self-Compassion with Melissa Campos

_{This article is sponsored by Koselig Counselling.}

In today’s episode of Mindful Conversation, host Nikki Csek welcomes Melissa Campos from Koselig Counselling. Originally from Hamilton, Ontario, Melissa moved to Kelowna in 2018 to pursue further education at UBC Okanagan. After completing her studies, she opened her counselling practice in 2022. With a background in psychology, neuroscience, and social work, she brings a unique perspective to therapy, focusing on anxiety, burnout, and perfectionism.

Melissa explained the inspiration behind the name "Koselig," a Norwegian word that evokes well-being, contentment, and coziness. Although she isn’t Norwegian herself, the word resonated deeply with her. It captures the sense of comfort that comes from being in nature, connecting with others, and finding peace within yourself. Her practice reflects these values, aiming to help clients find balance and emotional well-being, particularly in times of uncertainty.

During the conversation, Melissa delved into the concept of perfectionism, describing it as the pursuit of an ideal. While striving for excellence can lead to growth, it often leaves individuals feeling like they’re falling short. Melissa encouraged the idea of embracing the process rather than being overwhelmed by the impossibility of achieving perfection. She emphasized that perfectionism is about recognizing the gap between where you are and where you want to be, and using that gap as motivation for improvement.

Melissa also discussed the importance of mindfulness and emotional literacy in managing perfectionism and other mental health challenges. Mindfulness, she explained, is about being fully present in the moment without judgment. It allows individuals to be aware of their emotions and how those emotions influence their thoughts and behaviours. Emotional literacy, or the ability to name and understand one’s feelings, is equally essential, as it helps people better navigate their internal landscape.

Self-compassion was another key topic of discussion. In a world that often promotes self-criticism, Melissa highlighted the importance of treating oneself with kindness. She explained that self-compassion involves offering the same understanding and care to yourself that you would extend to a friend. This approach, she noted, is especially helpful for those struggling with perfectionism or anxiety. By being mindful of your emotions and recognizing that you’re not alone in your experiences, you can begin to transform how you respond to challenges.

Melissa Campos’s approach to counselling blends neuroscience, social work, and a deep sense of compassion. Through her practice, she helps individuals navigate anxiety, burnout, and perfectionism, offering them tools to cultivate resilience and self-awareness. If you're interested in learning more about Koselig Counseling, you can visit her website at koseligcounselling.com or reach out to Melissa directly at Melissa@koseligcounselling.com.