Here you will find answers to the questions I am most frequently asked in seminars, coaching sessions, and emails. If your question is missing, feel free to write to me via the contact page .
What is high sensitivity?
High sensitivity is an innate disposition of the nervous system: stimuli are processed more deeply and intensely than in other people. Highly sensitive individuals perceive more, think in more interconnected ways, and feel more intensely. This is not an illness, but a trait with many strengths.
Is high sensitivity an illness or a diagnosis?
No. High sensitivity is not a disorder, and there is no medical diagnosis for it. It is a disposition that belongs to you just like your eye color. It only becomes difficult when you consistently live against it instead of with it.
How do I recognize that I am highly sensitive?
Typical characteristics include deep processing of impressions, faster overstimulation, intense emotions, and a keen sense of moods. My high sensitivity test can give you a first clue. Final clarity often only comes from exploring the topic. To the high sensitivity test
Is high sensitivity always a consequence of trauma?
No. This theory circulates on the internet, but it falls short. High sensitivity is a disposition, trauma is an injury. Both can occur together and feel similar. Exactly why taking a close look is worthwhile.
How do I distinguish high sensitivity from trauma?
Put simply: High sensitivity has always been there and manifests in all areas of life, even in good times. Trauma consequences arise after stressful experiences and often carry fear, protective behavior, and a strong need for control. In my article, you will find a table with the typical differences. To the table: Differentiating between trauma and high sensitivity
What is the difference between shock trauma and developmental trauma?
Shock trauma is caused by a single, overwhelming event. Developmental trauma develops gradually, usually in childhood, when basic needs were consistently ignored. Developmental trauma in particular is easily confused with high sensitivity. More on this: Shock trauma and developmental trauma
Can highly sensitive people also be extroverted?
Yes. Not all highly sensitive people are introverted. Extroverted HSPs recharge their energy through social interaction and are often confused with High Sensation Seekers. This combination brings its own challenges, especially during stress.
What helps highly sensitive people when they are overstimulated?
The first step is to recognize overstimulation early, because your nervous system reacts faster than that of other people. After that, breaks, stimulus reduction, and stress management that suits your high sensitivity will help. Take your limits seriously before your body has to.
How do I know if my child is highly sensitive?
Highly sensitive children perceive finely, react strongly to stimuli, and often need more time to adjust to new situations. There is no medical diagnosis, but there are typical characteristics. My test for highly sensitive children will give you initial guidance. To the test for highly sensitive children
What can coaching do for me as a highly sensitive person?
In coaching, you will learn to understand your high sensitivity, use your strengths, and treat yourself with empathy. We work together as equals: You are the expert on your life, and I bring tools and experience.
Do I need coaching or psychotherapy?
Coaching is not therapy and does not replace it. If you have a mental illness or unprocessed trauma, treatment should be handled by a therapist. Coaching starts where you are healthy and want to develop further. If in doubt, we will look together at what you need right now.
