Navigating Tranistions:
Frequently Asked Questions

What does it mean to be a Highly Sensitive Person (HSP)?. . .

Highly Sensitive Persons have a temperament trait(not a personality trait) known as HSP or Sensory Processing Sensitivity (SPS). HSPs process information more deeply, are attuned to nuance, and are highly aware of sensory and emotional cues. This can be a gift, but it can also make life more overwhelming in fast-paced, high-pressure environments. See more information about the DOES markers and differential susceptibility on Joanne's website.

How can coaching help a Highly Sensitive Person? . . .

HSP coaching helps you understand and embrace your sensitivity, manage overwhelm, and build resilience. It offers tools and strategies tailored to your needs so you can lead, work, and live in alignment with your strengths and values—without losing yourself to burnout or overstimulation.

Will this coaching make me less sensitive? . . .

No — the goal is not to “fix” your sensitivity. Instead, we explore how to harness it as a strength while building tools to reduce overwhelm, manage stress, and maintain balance.

What if I’m not sure I’m an HSP? . . .

That’s okay. Many clients are drawn to this coaching because they relate to the experience of being deeply affected by their environment, easily attuned to others, or sometimes overstimulated by stress and demands. We can explore whether the HSP trait resonates with you as part of our work.

How is HSP coaching different from therapy? . . .

Coaching focuses on where you are now and where you want to go, offering practical tools and perspectives for growth. Therapy tends to focus on healing past wounds and resolving clinical symptoms. Some find HSP coaching works well alongside therapy or other wellbeing practices.

What will we work on in HSP coaching? . . .

We'll of course work on whatever it is you want to. Here are just a few examples you may like to consider as you think this through.

• Understanding your sensitivity and how it shapes your world
• Considering your career development aspirations and what might be a good 'match' for you
• Building self-awareness and emotional regulation skills
• Developing strategies for managing stress and overwhelm
• Expanding mindset and worldview for resilience
• Empowering you as an HSP Leader
• Integrating insight into leadership and life choices
  

Is HSP coaching right for me? . . .

HSP coaching can be helpful if you:

• Feel overwhelmed or drained in your personal or work life
• Struggle to fit into conventional expectations or leadership models
• Want to lead or live with authenticity without sacrificing wellbeing
• Wish to understand yourself more deeply and work with your sensitivity as a strength
  

How do I get started? . . .

You’re welcome to book a complimentary introductory conversation. This gives us space to talk about your context, what’s challenging, and whether this coaching feels like the right support for you.