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Self Sabotage Therapy Specialist

Barbara J. Novak, MD

Psychiatrist located in Bethesda, MD

Dr. Barbara Novak is a Board Certified psychiatrist who has a solo practice that serves residents living in the Washington, DC area as well as Bethesda, Maryland. The doctor treats patients who are experiencing conflicts about being successful and other related issues. Dr. Novak's office is located in Bethesda and is conveniently close to Rockville, Travilah, Potomac, Cabin John, McLean, Tysons, Pimmit Hills, Woodland Acres, Falls Church, Arlington, Washington, Chevy Chase, Silver Spring, Kensington, and Garrett Park.

Self Sabotage Therapy Q & A

How do People Self-Sabotage?

Self-sabotage is one of the most damaging things a person can do to themselves. When someone has the ability but lacks the self-confidence, he might begin to talk himself out of even trying to achieve a goal or a new milestone. Self-sabotage can cheat a person out of a promotion, a new job, or even a good relationship. Often self-sabotaging people feel unworthy of having good things happen in their lives or getting rewarded for hard work. It is important for a person to discover the ways in which he is sabotaging his own efforts and why he is doing so. Psychotherapy can be very helpful in figuring out these dynamics. Once these insights are achieved, a person can begin to take the necessary steps to improve self-confidence including stopping the behavior. This allows him to take risks, achieve the desired goals, and feel comfortable with and enjoy the rewards.

What is the Best Way to Deal With Competition?

Everything is not a competition. Some people tend to believe that winning is the only answer. Others, however, choose to compete against themselves in an attempt to meet or exceed their personal best. With today's athletic teams, especially those on the high school level, competition is sometimes taken to the extreme, often leading to bullying and violence if students, parents, or coaches don't get their way. Helping both children and adults deal with competition in a safe and productive fashion takes skill and compassion. When a person's competitive nature begins to reach unhealthy limits, seeking the services of a qualified psychiatrist may be needed to find a peaceful resolution.

How Important is Self-Assertion?

Learning the art of self-assertion is extremely important if a person wants to gain an advantage in an environment where she might be easily overshadowed by others. In order to assert oneself, a person needs healthy self-confidence and enough belief in herself to want to create a change. Some people may not know how to assert themselves in certain situations. A qualified psychiatrist can help a person develop the tools needed to handle situations where she may not necessarily feel comfortable. Working outside of one’s comfort zone can be difficult, but learning how to be self-assertive is the key to taking charge of one’s career.