Counseling for People Pleasing Near Me

Constantly saying “yes” even when your soul is screaming “no?”
Are you the unofficial “therapist” for everyone in your life, but no one’s ever asking,“How are YOU doing?”
Do you overthink every conversation, wondering if you upset someone because they took longer than usual to text back?

Let’s be real—being the “nice one” isn’t always so nice, is it? You feel exhausted from bending over backward to make others happy, only to feel invisible in the process. You overcommit, under-prioritize yourself, and wonder why it’s so hard to set even the tiniest boundary without feeling like you’ve offended someone for life.

On the outside, people might see you as “so sweet” or “always there for me,” but inside, you’re carrying the weight of everyone else’s needs. And it’s heavy.

I get it, you want to try to keep everyone happy, even if it is at your own expense. It often stems from deep-rooted fears of rejection, conflict, or feeling unworthy unless you’re being useful to someone else. And you’re not alone—I’ve worked with so many people who felt trapped in this cycle, and have helped them break free. You don’t have to stay stuck, let's guide you toward a life where your needs matter just as much as everyone else’s.

You May Be a People Pleaser If You...

Say “yes” to plans or projects when you really want to say “no.”
Feel anxious if someone seems upset or distant, assuming it’s your fault.
Over-apologize for things that aren’t even your responsibility.
Feel resentful because you give so much and rarely get the same in return.
Avoid conflict at all costs—even when it means sacrificing your own needs.
Struggle to accept help because it feels like you’re “burdening” someone.

People Pleasing SupportTherapist in St. Petersburg, FL

Imagine feeling free to say “no” without guilt, speak your mind without fear, and prioritize your needs without the nagging voice in your head calling you selfish. That’s what counseling can help you achieve.

Understanding the Root Cause: Together, we’ll explore why people pleasing feels so necessary for you. Spoiler alert: It’s not because you’re “too nice”—it’s because somewhere along the way, you learned that being agreeable kept you safe or loved.

Building Confidence in Boundaries: Setting boundaries can feel like walking a tightrope. We’ll work on practical ways to communicate your needs in a way that feels authentic (and doesn’t require a PowerPoint presentation).

Rewriting Your Inner Script: That voice telling you, “You’re not enough unless you’re helping” isn’t yours—it’s a learned belief. Let’s rewrite it with a script that celebrates who you are, not just what you do for others.

Somatic and Solutions-Focused Approaches: Sometimes, people pleasing shows up in your body—like that pit in your stomach when you’re about to disappoint someone. We’ll use body-based techniques to help you recognize and release those feelings, so they don’t control you.

Three Common Types of People Pleasers

The Over-Committer
This type of people pleaser says “yes” to everything—whether it’s agreeing to take on extra work, attending events they don’t enjoy, or helping friends move for the third time this year. They fear letting others down or being seen as unreliable, so they overload their schedules to the point of burnout.
- Why it happens: Fear of rejection or judgment, combined with the pressure to “have it all together.”
- The Impact: Constant stress, resentment toward others, and little time for self-care or personal goals.
The Peacemaker
Conflict is their kryptonite. The peacemaker will do whatever it takes to avoid rocking the boat, often at the expense of their own needs or opinions. They might downplay their feelings, agree with things they don’t actually support, or apologize unnecessarily to keep the peace.
- Why it happens: A deep-rooted need for harmony, often stemming from fear of abandonment or past experiences with unhealthy conflict.
- Impact: Suppressed emotions, loss of identity, and a growing sense of dissatisfaction in relationships.
The Approval Seeker
This people pleaser thrives on external validation. They prioritize being liked, praised, or seen as “useful,” often going out of their way to meet unrealistic expectations or gain approval from others. They may seek validation through social media, overachieving, or being the “go-to” person for help.
- Why it happens: A belief that their worth is tied to what they do for others or how they’re perceived.
- Impact: Anxiety, low self-esteem, and a constant fear of failure or criticism.

Why People Wait to Seek Counseling for People Pleasing...

Many people don’t seek help because they think:

“It’s not that bad. I just need to try harder.”

“If I stop helping, everyone will leave me.”

“I can’t afford to focus on myself when others need me.”

Here’s the thing: You don’t have to reach total burnout to deserve help. And the world won’t crumble if you take care of yourself (in fact, you might find it gets brighter). Counseling isn’t selfish; it’s the ultimate act of self-respect. You’re not here to be everyone’s emotional Band-Aid. You’re here to live your life, unapologetically.

;What Other Counseling Services Are Available

Anxiety isn't the only therapy offered through Christina Rogers Counseling. Whether you're looking for support in managing your relationship, depression, burnout and stress, or taking a deeper look at the root of your self esteem issues - our therapy support can help you!

Christina has a counseling office in St. Petersburg FL. However support is also provided throughout the entire state of Florida through online counseling.

Christina also offers support throughout the state of New Jersey.

If you are looking for holistic coaching or are an entrepreneur looking for specialized therapeutic coaching, Christina serves clients across the United States and internationally.

Christina Rogers LMHC would love to support you - you don't have to navigate this alone!

Award winning, LGBTQ+ Therapy, Therapeutic Coaching, Relationship Expert and Holistic Coaching.

'Now Serving Florida & New Jersey

4923 71st Avenue North

St. Petersburg, FL 33781

(727) 353-5801

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