Description
721: HSP (Highly Sensitive Person) 101
Lisa Philippart, M.A.
Lisa Philippart, LPC, LLC
44 Hughes Rd., Ste. 1050
Madison, AL 35758
Summary
Most people are not familiar with the term, Highly Sensitive Person (HSP), yet Dr. Elaine Aron defined this innate trait in 1991 to describe 15-20% of the population. These HSP individuals present with Sensory Processing Sensitivity (SPS), the trait’s scientific term, through depth of processing, overstimulation, emotional responsibility, and sensitivity to subtleties. Working with HSP clients in counseling sessions requires a unique awareness and expertise because this trait has often been misunderstood and misdiagnosed. In this presentation, the attendees will be offered the opportunity to take the HSP self-quiz, learn basic research information, and study the characteristics that make HSPs seek counseling in the first place! Information will be provided for licensed mental health providers to adapt existing therapeutic modalities, such as cognitive behavior therapy (CBT), solution-focused therapy, and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), to work with the HSP’s sensory sensitives more effectively. Special attention will be provided to specifically address the Christian HSP client with spiritual techniques.
Learning Objectives
Participants will:
• Identify the mental, physical, spiritual, psychological, and behavioral characteristics of the HSP
• Identify how professional counselors can help clients take steps to self-care and growth as an HSP
• Adapt various therapeutic modalities for licensed mental health professionals to help the Christian HSP more effectively
