Therapists' lived experiences of identifying with sensory processing sensitivity: A phenomenological inquiry

Background

This study explored the lived experiences of therapists who self-identify as being highly sensitive persons (HSP), otherwise termed sensory processing sensitivity (SPS). SPS is an innate personality trait identified by deeper processing of information, overarousal, emotional intensity and sensory sensitivities (Aron & Aron, 1997). Of particular interest in this study was how being both a therapist and a HSP impacts on participants' well-being and therapeutic work.

Methods

Semi-structured interviews were conducted with a purposive sample of 10 qualified therapists. There were nine females and one male, with ages ranging from 34 to 59 years, length of practice ranging from 2 to 15 years and length of time identifying as HSP ranging from 6 months to 12 years. Data were analysed using interpretative phenomenological analysis (Smith et al., 2022).

Findings

Two group experiential themes were derived which have implications for therapists' training, practice and supervision. Participants felt that their heightened sensitivity helped them to establish relational depth with clients quickly and that they had an intuitive understanding of the nuances of clients' issues, which was often an embodied experience. They also spoke about the importance of processing time and setting boundaries to avoid burnout.

Conclusion

There is a need for increased awareness about SPS in counselling and psychotherapy training, supervision and practice. Future research may find it fruitful to explore whether SPS has an impact on therapeutic outcome.