Highly Sensitive Person (HSP) Therapy NYC, NY 

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effective therapy for HSP’s

highly sensitive people have always struggled in a noisy, intrusive world. Because highly sensitive people get overstimulated easily, the right therapist who understands the needs of HSPs can help them better navigate their internal and external worlds. Effective NYC Therapy can help HSPs learn to resource, honor, and protect their nervous system, making it easier to navigate the complexities of an over-stimulating world.

For as long as you can remember, others have labeled you as “too shy” or “too sensitive.” It sure doesn’t feel good to hear this, but it does describe your reality. Thinking about it, you’ve always felt alone, or very different. You may be more reactive than most to the moods of others, criticism can feel especially hostile, and external stimuli and energy drain you. These are just a few examples of what it’s like as a Highly-Sensitive Person (HSP), also known as deep feelers, neurodivergent individuals, and Sensory-Processing Sensitivity (SPS). Navigating a noisy, demanding world as a highly-sensitive person can be disabling for many especially as you attempt to accommodate and manage the accompanying anxiety and depression. But remember, sensitive folks have great gifts. They tend to experience high levels of perception and intuition, empathy and super-attunement, and even high levels of creativity. Sometimes, your exquisite sensitivity feels like a gift; it can also feel like a curse. Please know that you are not alone and you do not need to suffer in silence.

The term highly sensitive person (HSP) was coined by the clinical psychologist Elaine Aron in 1991 to describe a personality trait that is present in about 20% of the population. Dr. Aron began to research this nervous system sensitivity after her therapist suggested that she possessed a high degree of sensitivity, which was making her life difficult. Brain scan studies show that there are differences in the level of neural activity in the minds of HSPs, compared with non-HSPs.

What follows is Dr. Arons's list of HSP traits. You can also find more helpful information on her professional website.

  • I am easily overwhelmed by strong sensory input.

  • I seem to be aware of subtleties in my environment.

  • Other people’s moods affect me.

  • I tend to be very sensitive to pain.

  • I find myself needing to withdraw during busy days, into bed, or into a darkened room or any place where I can have some privacy and relief from stimulation.

  • I am particularly sensitive to the effects of caffeine.

  • I am easily overwhelmed by things like bright lights, strong smells, coarse fabrics, or sirens close by.

  • I have a rich, complex inner life.

  • I am made uncomfortable by loud noises.

  • I am deeply moved by the arts and music.

  • My nervous system sometimes feels so frazzled that I just have to go off by myself.

  • I am conscientious.

  • I startle easily.

  • I get rattled when I have a lot to do in a short amount of time.

  • When people are uncomfortable in a physical environment I tend to know what needs to be done to make it more comfortable (like changing the lighting or the seating).

  • I am annoyed when people try to get me to do too many things at once.

  • I try hard to avoid making mistakes or forgetting things.

  • I make a point to avoid violent movies and TV shows.

  • I become unpleasantly aroused when a lot is going on around me.

  • Being very hungry creates a strong reaction in me, disrupting my concentration or mood.

  • Changes in my life shake me up.

  • I notice and enjoy delicate or fine scents, tastes, sounds, and works of art.

  • I find it unpleasant to have a lot going on at once.

  • I make it a high priority to arrange my life to avoid upsetting or overwhelming situations.

  • I am bothered by intense stimuli, like loud noises or chaotic scenes.

  • When I must compete or be observed while performing a task, I become so nervous or shaky that I do much worse than I would otherwise.

  • When I was a child, my parents or teachers seemed to see me as sensitive or shy.

Navigating the world as a Highly Sensitive Person is not easy for many, but what follows are some things you can do to support your nervous system:

  • Reframe your sensitivity as a positive and not a negative.

  • Develop clear and firm boundaries with others who may take advantage of your compassionate nature.

  • Know that there is nothing wrong with you and you are not alone.

  • Whenever possible avoid people, places, and situations that cause you to struggle.

  • Learn to show yourself the same grace, empathy, and kindness that you so generously show others.

  • Develop a practice of regular self-care using the 3 M’s, movement, meditation, and mindfulness.

  • Ally yourself with someone or others who understand you, or may even share your experience.

About HSP Therapy NYC

This practice provides a range of psychological & wellness services in NYC and throughout NY state. The goal is to individualize treatment to your unique physical, emotional, cognitive, and spiritual needs. I have experience working with a broad range of symptoms and approaches in psychotherapy, including but not limited to EMDR Therapy, Psychodynamic Psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Solution-Focused Therapy, Internal Family Systems, and Holistic Mind-Body Medicine. Therapy begins with a therapeutic consultation, where you will gain a wealth of information about your difficulties. Many people feel better after the first session. The initial consultation also lays the groundwork for future treatment as we determine the best modalities to help you heal.

HSP Therapist With Nearly 20 Years Of Experience

This practice offers supportive, compassionate, and comprehensive care and also stays current on research related to mental health. My goal for you is to use my expertise and extensive training to get you back to living your life as quickly as possible.

Book An Appointment For HSP Therapy Today

To get started, book an appointment or text at 212-529-8292. Integrative Psychotherapy & Wellness Manhattan can help you in your healing journey toward optimal mental health. 

Exquisitely-Tailored Therapy & Experienced Guidance

You are a unique human, and your therapy should reflect your need for Compassion, agency, change, responsiveness and empowerment. Our work together will include:

  • Increasing your energy and vitality

  • Improving and balancing your mood

  • Managing your stress and anxiety

  • Improving your motivation and focus

  • Managing your movement, nutrition and sleep needs

  • Reducing or eliminating unnecessary medications when desired

Healing Modalities Used In This NYC Therapy & Wellness Practice

Psychodynamic Psychotherapy

Psychodynamic psychotherapy, also known as Insight-oriented therapy, is based on the theory that by increasing awareness of our unconscious drives, conflicts and experiences, we can live less reflexively and more consciously, creating new life… MORE

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a structured, goal-oriented type of talk therapy. It can help patients manage mental health concerns, such as anxiety, PTSD and depression. It focuses on modifying dysfunctional emotions, behaviors, thoughts… MORE

EMDR Therapy

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing is a psychotherapy that enables people to heal from the symptoms and emotional distress that are the result of disturbing life experiences. EMDR Therapy uses bilateral stimulation to help people process… MORE

Internal Family Systems

Internal Family Systems is a powerfully transformative and evidence-based model of psychotherapy that focuses on our multiple inner parts that contain valuable information, and our core Self that knows how to heal and integrate for wellbeing… MORE

Somatic Experiencing

SE is a body-oriented therapeutic model that helps heal trauma and other stress disorders. It is a multi-disciplinary study of stress physiology, psychology, ethology, biology, neuroscience, indigenous healing practices, and medical biophysics… MORE

Solution-Focused Brief Therapy

SFBT concentrates on finding solutions in the present and exploring one’s hope for the future in order to find a quick and practical resolution of one’s problems. This method takes the approach that you know what you need to do to improve your… MORE

About Holistic Psychotherapy & Wellness Manhattan

I’ve been in the holistic wellness & psychology field for nearly twenty years. As a licensed psychotherapist with a private psychotherapy practice in New York City, I blend what I’ve found to be the most effective practices in psychology, neurobiology, attachment, alternative medicine, nutrition, coaching, and mind-body medicine practices. I believe that lasting change and transformation is possible when given the right tools to thrive. I’ve received extensive training and certification in a range of innovative, effective, and evidence-based therapies to offer comprehensive care.

As a holistic psychotherapist, I believe it’s important to address the root cause of emotional and somatic suffering. As a trauma-trained therapist, I am influenced by humanist and existential philosophy, relational theory, attachment theory, psychoanalytic concepts, mindfulness, and somatic, mind, and body psychology. I have received extensive post-graduate training in EMDR Therapy, Internal Family Systems, Psychodynamic Psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Somatic Experiencing (SE), Nutrition and Integrative Medicine For Mental Health, and more. In marriage and couple counseling, my work is influenced by the Gottman Method, Internal Family Systems, and Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT).

As neuroscience demonstrates, the brain can heal, and the body and mind are inextricably linked. My 20+ years of experience with mindfulness, yoga therapy, and meditation greatly influence my work as a mental health provider. A Holistic therapy model ensures that you thrive in the many aspects of your life—including your relationship with yourself and others. Together, we work with practices designed to create an environment that supports optimal physical and mental health well-being. Lasting change and transformation is possible when given the right tools to thrive.

Holistic Psychotherapy & Wellness Manhattan Therapy Modalities

  • Psychoanalytic, Relational & Interpersonal Psychotherapy

  • Attachment-Focused Couple Therapy (traditional, non-traditional, non-monogamy, alternative lifestyle couples), Sexual Counseling

  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), DBT Skills

  • Solution-Focused Brief Therapy

  • Advanced level EMDR Therapy, Parts Therapy, Integrated Internal Family Systems (IFS), Somatic Experiencing

  • Positive Psychology, Positive Neuroplasticity Coaching

  • Transformational, Peak Performance& Wellness Coaching

  • Urban Zen Integrative Therapy, Reiki, Energy Medicine, Yoga Therapy

  • Nutrition & Integrative Medicine For Mental Health, Nutritional Amino Acid Protocols (using precursor amino acids, fatty acids, herbal medicine, supplement recommendations for mood, anxiety, ADHD, addictions, cravings, brain fog, PTSD, and more)

  • Clinical Hypnosis

Kimberly Seelbrede: Post Graduate Training & Certifications

  • New York University - Advanced CBT Certification, Psychodynamic Psychotherapy, Advanced Clinical Practice, Clinical Approaches to the Addictions, Clinical Practice with Adolescents

  • Somatic Experiencing® International (in progress)

  • Eating Disorders, Compulsions & Addictions (EDCAS) Certification

    William Alanson White Institute of Psychiatry, Psychoanalysis & Psychology

  • EMDR Advanced Level EMDR Practitioner - Laurel Parnell PhD

  • Brainspotting - Lisa Schwarz, MEd

  • Positive Neuroplasticity Training Certification - Rick Hanson PhD

  • Nutrition and Integrative Medicine for Mental Health - Leslie Korn PhD

  • IFS Immersion: Integrating Internal Family Systems Across Clinical Applications - Frank Anderson, PhD

  • Dialectical Behavior Therapy - Behavior Tech Institute

  • Mindful Self-Compassion Training - Christopher K. Germer, PhD & Kristen Neff PhD

  • Executive Life Coaching - New York University

  • Institute for Life Coach Training

  • Urban Zen Integrative Therapy Training Program

    Additional Professional Training: Gottman Institute for Couples, Emotionally Focused Therapy, Hypnosis for Trauma & PTSD, Focusing Institute, Whole Body Focusing with Glenn Fleisch, Ph.D. EMDR & Trauma Treatment with Jennifer Sweeton, PsyD, MS, MA. Ongoing workshops: Ester Perel, Bessel van der Kolk, MD, Dan Siegel, MD, Peter Levine, Ph.D, Gabor Mate, MD, Richard Schwartz, PhD, Sue Johnson, IFS, Somatic Experiencing, Trauma-Focused Treatment, Yoga Therapy, Phoenix Rising Yoga Therapy

Clinical practice Expertise & Specialties

  • Depression (major, postpartum depression, SAD, bipolar disorder, atypical depression, dysthymia, situational, chronic sadness)

  • Anxiety (panic, generalized, phobias, social, PTSD), fear, worry, stress management, insomnia, work/life balance

  • Women’s hormonal health, perimenopause and menopause mental health assessment/coaching, chronic pain

  • Trauma resolution, obstacles, blocking beliefs, self-sabotage, problem patterns, and habits

  • Crisis counseling, life challenges, transitions, grief, loss and bereavement

  • Dysfunctional relationship dynamics, professional and personal relationships, communication difficulties, divorce, separation

  • Shadow work, energetic blocks, boundary work

  • Addictions, behavioral addictions, substance abuse, alcoholism and compulsions

  • Family of origin, codependency, family conflict resolution, submissiveness and recovery from family enmeshment, ACOA

  • Recovery and post-rehab support (step-down support, wellness planning, new habit maintenance, and self-care)

  • Celebrity mental health expertise and high-profile, VIP clients, therapy for entrepreneurs, executives, creatives, medical professionals

talk therapy not enough? Find lasting Healing & Transformation with EMDR

If traditional talk therapy has not yielded the desired healing results, it might be time to consider a different model of care. I’ve been trained in many effective therapies, but I find myself consistently returning to EMDR. EMDR Therapy changed my practice years ago because it works and it changes lives. It is the one treatment method that is consistently powerful and transformative for my patients, especially when other highly effective therapies such as IFS, CBT, and Somatic Experiencing are integrated into sessions. Therapy is highly individualized, and depending on your unique needs, chosen therapy modalities may include: EMDR, Psychodynamic Psychotherapy, CBT, Internal Family Systems, Mindfulness, and Somatic Experiencing®. I completed EMDRIA-approved EMDR advanced Levels I & II training and supervision many years ago and I’ve used it in my New York City psychotherapy private practice consistently and with excellent results.

EMDR therapy is highly effective in addressing underlying beliefs, patterns, and blocks that can hinder progress in traditional therapy or life coaching. EMDR treatment can help transform mere survival into thriving, leading to a life free from disruptive symptoms. By reprocessing difficult or traumatic memories, EMDR can boost resilience and vitality in the nervous system. EMDR is not only for trauma; it is also valuable for enhancing performance in athletes, creatives, and work-related endeavors. During the pandemic, many of us discovered that EMDR can be effectively offered to many patients virtually. Virtual EMDR can be a powerful addition to your therapy journey, whether used in conjunction with your existing therapy or as a standalone solution. learn more about EMDR Therapy

Create An Hour Of Refuge And Focus On Your Emotional Wellbeing

Expert, experienced Online Therapy Serving NYC & NY State Residents

faqs about online therapy in nYC: how does Virtual therapy/video therapy work?

The technology for telemedicine has been available for decades, but the pandemic made virtual therapy a necessity. It's surprising how many people have benefitted from online virtual therapy. Like many therapists in NYC, I've been conducting virtual sessions for some time, so I'm comfortable working with technology. It's important to note that teletherapy isn't suitable for everyone seeking counseling, as many people prefer conducting psychotherapy sessions in person.

How does Online therapy work?

This holistic psychotherapy and wellness practice in New York City understands that many people have busy schedules and may find it difficult to commute to therapy sessions. That's why I offer virtual therapy and telephone therapy as modern options for counseling. This is especially convenient for individuals who work, travel, have young children with different schedules, are young adults, college students, or expats. After scheduling an online session, you will receive a secure session link from the HIPAA-compliant platform SimplePractice. You can access the virtual therapy office using your computer, iOS/Android phone, iPad, or any other tablet-enabled device. Most laptops have a built-in camera and microphone, making it easy to participate in the sessions. Creating an emotionally safe space in your home or office for virtual sessions is also important, and all you need is a strong internet connection.

What kind of therapy is offered virtually?

Online sessions are treated the same way as face-to-face sessions, using the same evidence-based therapy modalities, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), EMDR, Internal Family Systems (IFS), trauma therapy, psychodynamic psychotherapy, somatic psychotherapy, life coaching, wellness coaching, and stress management. Remote EMDR has been found to be just as effective for trauma resolution and other concerns as in-person EMDR. However, not everyone or every situation should be treated remotely, so it’s important to contact potential therapists to determine if virtual therapy is appropriate for your situation. Research now demonstrates that therapy sessions conducted by teletherapy are just as effective as face-to-face therapy. Read the research.

Who can benefit from virtual therapy?

Anyone can access high-quality therapy in a private, confidential, and convenient manner. Seeking therapy with an experienced NYC psychotherapist can lead to healthier relationships, new perspectives, reaching goals, and building resilience. Therapy can provide support during stressful and challenging times, helping you feel less alone with your problems. Living in New York City comes with unique challenges, including a fast-paced lifestyle and high levels of stress. If you're experiencing feelings of anxiety, depression, loneliness, loss, substance use, or unresolved trauma PTSD, know that you're not alone. Holistic Psychotherapy & Wellness Manhattan offers evidence-based counseling and an integrative psychotherapy philosophy tailored to your unique needs. As a licensed psychotherapist in New York, I can see you whether you live in the NYC metro area or anywhere in New York State. There are various modern therapy options available, such as BetterHelp, TalkSpace, and the numerous licensed psychotherapists and psychologists on Psychology Today who provide high-quality therapy in the US and worldwide. Interested in receiving therapy in New York using your health insurance benefits? Holistic Psychotherapy & Wellness Manhattan is In-Network with BCBS & Aetna, and Out-of-Network with most health insurances. I have also been reimbursed by Aetna, Cigna, BCBS, Emblem, Oxford, United, and many more for out-of-network mental health services. Most of my clients are compensated about 50-100% of my fees.

How can Integrative Psychotherapy & Wellness NYC enhance your life?

  • Gain support through a personal crisis, transition, loss, trauma, or challenging situation that causes personal or relational distress

  • Heal codependency and feel empowered, autonomous, safe, and secure in your life as self-esteem naturally increases

  • Find relief for sadness, depression, and chronic depression with interpersonal psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and EMDR

  • Uncover unconscious conflicts, patterns and blocking beliefs that may be sabotaging your success and happiness

  • Address dissociation, body image, eating disorders, compulsions, addictions, substance use or abuse, and obsessions

  • Learn to identify important thoughts, feelings, emotions, motivations, and unconscious internal conflicts with insight-oriented therapy

  • Develop enhanced self-awareness as well as empathy and compassion for self and others with relational therapy

  • Break through blocks in intimacy, detach from unhealthy relationships, and break patterns of repetition in significant relationships

  • Learn to identify triggers that lead to anger, confusion, and relationship dysfunction in couple and relationship counseling

  • Develop effective, assertive communication skills to benefit personal and professional relationships

  • Learn more adaptive coping skills, self-care rituals, self-acceptance, and mindfulness to create a healthy work-life balance

  • Uncover patterns of crippling perfectionism that interfere with achievement, success, and personal happiness using EMDR

  • Process and heal painful feelings of loneliness, disappointment, sadness, loss, grief, guilt, shame, anger, envy and fear

  • Resolve trauma and abuse symptoms, develop healthier boundaries, and heal early attachment wounds with EMDR Therapy

  • Discover protocols using precursor amino acids, fatty acids, herbal medicine, supplements for mood, anxiety, ADHD, addictions, cravings, brain fog, PTSD

  • Identify hormone-related (peri-menopause, menopause) anxiety, depression, insomnia, brain fog, low energy, pain, migraines, fibromyalgia

  • Learn self-care, meditation, breathing techniques, energy medicine & somatic therapy practices to regulate your nervous system

  • Obtain consultations for referrals to psychopharmacologists, psychiatrists, psychologists, and other allied professionals