Highly Sensitive Person (HSP) Therapy NYC, NY 

effective NYC 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.