Sarah Strader PhD
Online Counseling for teens and adults
High Sensitivity
High sensitivity, or sensory-processing sensitivity, is considered an innate trait, and is defined by high sensitivity to subtle stimulation and a tendency toward being easily over-aroused (Aron, 1996b, Aron & Aron, 1997). An estimated 15-20% of the population is highly sensitive (Aron, 1996b). HSPs process information more deeply and strongly than do others (Liss et al., 2005).
To find out if you are Highly Sensitive, you can complete the Highly Sensitive Person Scale created by Elaine Aron.
Being highly sensitive means that you may become overwhelmed more easily than others when it comes to stress in life; your emotions are more intense compared to others, and your senses are more sensitive. This can be challenging at times and it's important to find ways that help you cope when you feel overwhelmed and create a life and environment that will bring out the best in your trait. And there are many benefits to high sensitivity! Your friends may come to you because of your ability to empathize with their experience, you may know exactly how to create an environment that helps others feel comfortable, you may be a deep thinker, have creative abilities, and much more! High Sensitivity is a powerful gift and I am here to help you discover your power.
My dissertation research explored using Expressive Arts Therapy with Highly Sensitive Adolescents. Please click the reference below to access the link to the document:
