Chaowen Yuan

How often do you catch yourself comparing your life to others? We’re bombarded with pressure to be more—more successful, more attractive, just… more everything. It’s easy to feel like you’re never enough, stuck in self-doubt or burnout. Sound familiar?

You might be struggling with:

• Accepting where you are right now




• A cycle of self-criticism—swinging between overwhelm and exhaustion




• Focusing on what’s undone rather than your achievements




• Persistent anxiety, comparison, or a lack of joy

You’re not alone. I help high-achievers like you—ambitious, driven, but secretly wrestling with doubt or burnout.

You might be wondering: What does ‘high-achiever’ mean, and do I fit that mold? If you’re pushing yourself to succeed but battling that inner critic—chances are, you are.

Together, we’ll overcome those challenges, build sustainable habits, and get you thriving, not just surviving. Expect less anxiety, more confidence, and finally setting boundaries and saying ‘no’ without guilt. If you’re feeling stuck or uncertain, I’m here to guide you toward clarity and progress.

Why Me?

I understand—I’ve been the high-achiever facing burnout myself. Starting in HR at IBM in 2010, I navigated corporate demands, pursued graduate studies at UPenn, and co-founded an EdTech startup there. Living in dynamic cities like Shanghai and Vancouver taught me how to bend without breaking. I’ve confronted the same self-criticism you might feel, and I’ve emerged more grounded.

Through it all, I’ve had the privilege of supporting hundreds of individuals—fresh graduates, mid-career professionals, and everyone in between—as they launched their careers and navigated life’s big transitions. My lived experience, paired with my professional expertise, allows me to not just understand the challenges you face—I’ve faced them too.

What’s the Journey Like?

In-person therapy in Nanaimo, BC, or virtual sessions across BC. All sessions are delivered through a secure online video platform—or by phone if that’s your preference—so you don’t need to worry about commuting or confidentiality. I provide person-centered counseling, which means your sessions are tailored to you and whatever you want to explore. Here are some areas we can focus on:

• Manage burnout and quiet self-criticism.




• Shift from comparison to self-acceptance.




• Reclaim joy in your achievements.




• Master effective coping strategies.




• Establish boundaries with confidence.



 

Ready to regain your confidence and balance? Book a free consultation with me—let’s kickstart your journey to thriving.