Scott F. Olds, Psychotherapist, HST

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Scott F. Olds, Therapist

Counseling For The Highly Sensitive Person

Coping with sensory overload can be emotionally draining to you and your significant other. Crippling anxiety and depression are possible symptoms. If you have trouble coping because the world is just too much, you may be a highly sensitive person (HSP). About 15-20% of the population is highly sensitive, so you are not alone. Being highly sensitive is natural, not a defect. Both men and women can be HSPs.

If you answer yes to some of these questions, you might be highly sensitive and benefit from HSP counseling.
  • Are you easily overwhelmed by loud sounds, bright lights, or strong smells? 
  • Do you absorb the emotions of others?
  • Do you avoid violent movies or TV shows?
  • Are you highly empathetic?
  • Are you easily startled?
  • Do you have difficulty with change?
  • Do others find you "thin skinned" or overly sensitive?
  • Do you need time alone to recover from interacting with others?
  • Do you appreciate the fine arts and music?
Sensitivity is part of who we are, not something to be "cured" - it is how we are wired. Being highly sensitive is a blessing and a curse. HSP's appreciate the wonderful things in life more deeply but can be poorly protected from intense emotions and overwhelmed by sensations when others aren't. We can learn to transform the problems into advantages. 

Relationships And The Highly Sensitive Person

Being an HSP can present challenges to our relationships.
  • Do you crave a deeper emotional connection with your partner?
  • Have you been told you're overly sensitive?
  • Do you feel your partner is not listening?
  • ​Are you feeling anger or hurt feelings?
  • Do you feel your partner is dismissive of your feelings?
  • Are your feelings disrespected?
  • Do you feel shame expressing how you really feel?
  • Are you experiencing low-self-esteem?
  • Do you feel like your current relationship is following a pattern from the past?
If your partner is not an HSP, they may not understand what you are experiencing. Likewise, they may not understand what you feel.
Therapy is a safe environment where your feelings can be explored without shame or judgement. Therapy can help you understand your feelings, set boundaries, and improve your communication skills. Coping strategies can help you regain a sense of balance and empower you to be the awesome person you are.

If you are emotionally or psychologically over-reliant on your partner, you may be codependent. Codependents struggle to set healthy boundaries in their relationship. Highly sensitive people are often compassionate and caring by nature, which can lead to codependence - a relationship that is out of balance.  If your relationship feels overwhelming and out of control, HSP counseling helps you set healthy boundaries, learn coping strategies, and regain your balance.

​Low self-esteem in a relationship refers to a negative self-perception and lack of confidence in oneself that can negatively impact the dynamics of a romantic partnership or other close relationship. Individuals with low self-esteem in a relationship may struggle to assert themselves or communicate effectively, may be overly reliant on their partner's validation or approval, and may feel unworthy or undeserving of love and affection. Low self-esteem can also manifest in a fear of abandonment or rejection, leading individuals to tolerate mistreatment or remain in unhealthy relationships. Addressing low self-esteem in a relationship often involves developing self-awareness and self-compassion, challenging negative self-talk, and building healthy coping mechanisms to manage feelings of anxiety or inadequacy. Therapy can be a valuable tool in addressing low self-esteem and enhancing self-worth in a relationship.​   

Call Scott now at (303) 817-8369 or email at Scott@springsnewhope.com

Testimonials

"I have found Scott to be a man of integrity, patience and understanding. He has developed skills over the years to deal with those in pain, in grief, and with mental health difficulties. He has a wonderful sense of humor which carries him though trying situations." - Nancy A. Falcon, M.S.​, Jeffco Family Support Network

"Scott is acutely sensitive to the emotional needs of both the patient and the caregivers living with either chronic or terminal illnesses. He knows what is needed physically and financially for both patient and family members. His work with the ALS Association has given him a broader, more in-depth comprehension of the support needed for all involved in such illnesses. He is a gifted communicator and has a gentle, caring heart." - Rev. Janet M. Buntrock, MA, LPC, FT

Resources For HSPs

A simple test shows if you are an HSP. If you are curious, take this test by Elaine Aron, Ph.D. 

You may also be interested in her book, "The Highly Sensitive Person: How to Thrive When the World Overwhelms You" at https://www.amazon.com/Highly-Sensitive-Person-Thrive-Overwhelms/dp/0553062182
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If you want to be understood, HSP counseling can be transformative. Scott is an HSP himself. He is experienced in working with other HSPs and enjoys it - he "gets it."

Counseling can be effective to help you manage over stimulation and enjoy life more fully. Call Scott for testing and a counseling session at (303) 817-8369 or email at scott@springsnewhope.com.