Welcome to HSP Tools Today, a newsletter for and about Highly Sensitive People (HSPs).

If you missed our last edition, please find it here. If you're a Highly Sensitive professional looking to list resources on our website, learn about submissions. And if you're looking for a resource or service that isn't in this newsletter, search the directory.

In today's issue:

• Explore the latest research, as summarized by Dr. Elaine Aron

• Learn more about William Allen of The Sensitive Man

• Browse upcoming HSP events

• See our curation of articles, podcasts, and videos from the Web.

... and more.

Let's get started.

What's New?

• In a recent blog post, Dr. Elaine N. Aron summarizes 5 of the latest research studies about High Sensitivity and shares her thoughts on a new Spiritual topic: The Container and the Contained. Read here.

• Men with S.T.Y.L.E is a new podcast for Highly Sensitive Men. The first episode is scheduled to air today, April 1, with Dr. Elaine N. Aron as the guest. The hosts are William Allen of The Sensitive Man and Randy Grasser of The Living Adventurers.

• Did you miss the live webinar by Sensitivity Research on Highly Sensitive Children in School? You can read more about it here and watch the recording on YouTube.

• You can now get lifetime access to the entire HSP Tools Database in a simple Google Sheet with over 300 resources for Highly Sensitive People, updated weekly. This option is for you if you prefer information in a single spreadsheet instead of an online directory with multiple pages and ads. Learn More Here.

Upcoming Events

• April 1 or 2 (depending on location): Nervous System Regulation for Sensitive Souls. Join Dr. Janine Kreft in a free 60-minute webinar to learn a frequency-based approach for cultivating accurate intuition & emotional balance.

• April 5: Wise Women & Wonder. Join Alane Freund, LMFT, in this 90-minute online circle for Highly Sensitive Women over 55.

• April 5: Combining Sound & Breath for Nervous System Regulation. Join Joshua Leeds, a sound researcher and educator, in a 60-minute webinar on how to restore balance & mental health with next-level sound-healing practices.

• April 10: Embodied Sensitivity: A Monthly Somatic Workshop. Join Rachel Wilson and other Highly Sensitive People in a 60-minute online meetup to practice embodied awareness in a supportive community.

• April 26: Ignite Your Power as a Highly Sensitive Soul. Join Morgan Lucas and fellow HSPs in a three-hour online event on using energy work to heal your body and highly sensitive system.

Practitioner Spotlight

William Allen - Author and Advocate for Highly Sensitive Men

William Allen is a certified hypnotist, brain training coach, and author who has dedicated his career to helping men understand and harness their innate sensitivity.

His journey as a Highly Sensitive Man (HSM) led him to create The Sensitive Man blog in 2016 to explore the challenges and strengths of High Sensitivity in men. He has also written two books on this topic, including Confessions of a Sensitive Man and On Being a Sensitive Man.

In addition to his writing and coaching, William founded the online HSP Men’s Group, a monthly gathering providing a safe and open forum for Highly Sensitive Men to connect, share their experiences, and gain a deeper understanding of their unique trait.

In 2025, William Allen launched a self-paced online program for HSP men featuring 16+ modules and 16+ guest interviews. The course is currently open for enrollment. And starting today, April 1, he will be the co-host of Men with S.T.Y.L.E - a new podcast discussing sensitivity in men.

In Case You Missed It:

Read

• Finding the Right Help: Therapy, Coaching, and Mentorship Resources for Highly Sensitive Men - The Sensitive Man

• 35 Gentle TV Shows & Movies for Highly Sensitive Children - MelissaShwartz.Com.

• High Sensitivity Is Not a Trauma Response - Psychology Today.

• 7 Habits Highly Sensitive People Need to Be Happy - Sensitive Refuge

• Is Your Brain Overloaded? Here's How to Fix It! - Highly Sensitive Person Publishing Company.

• Letting Go of the Fear of Judgment: A Guide to Owning Your True Self - HiSensitives

• Do You Need a Full System Reset? - Sustainably Sensitive

• Tap Into Your Midlife HSP Power (10 Essentials) - HSP Journey

• How One Simple Daily Goal Can Shift Your Mood and Energy - JulieBjelland.Com

Watch/Listen

• Tools for Creating Healthy Relationships as an HSP - Compassionate Conversations, YouTube

• Highly Sensitive Children in School: New Findings and Resources - Sensitivity Research on YouTube

• The Pain of Being in the Wrong Job as a Highly Sensitive Person - The Inluminance Podcast, YouTube

• Honouring Your Thresholds as a Black HSP, with Dr. Lana Holmes and April Snow, LMFT -- Sensitive Stories

• Sensitive Jerks and Toxic Behaviours of "Like-minded" People - Cosmic Tickle Podcast

• Beyond Hustle: Non-Toxic Productivity for High Achievers & Highly Sensitive People - The Sensitivity Doctor

• When Relaxing Feels Uncomfortable: Stress Relief Strategies for HSPs - Stress Todd Smith's Podcast

Hello and Welcome to HSP Tools Today, a newsletter for and about Highly Sensitive People (HSPs).

If you're reading this for the first time, subscribe here. If you're a Highly Sensitive professional looking to list resources on our website, visit this page.

And if you're looking for a resource or service that isn't in this newsletter, search the directory.

In today's issue:

• Learn more about On Being a Sensitive Man - the new online course for Highly Sensitive Men.

We all have a male friend, brother, husband, or colleague who feels deeply, processes experiences profoundly, and exhibits heightened empathy. 

These individuals are often Highly Sensitive Men and possess the Sensory Processing Sensitivity trait found in 20-30% of the population. 

While we all agree that sensitivity is a gift, societal norms – especially for men – can make embracing this trait challenging. 

That’s why the Highly Sensitive Human Academy has introduced a new online course: On Being a Sensitive Man.

The course is a four-month online program designed for Highly Sensitive Men seeking empowerment, self-discovery, and personal growth.

Enrollment is ongoing and those who register by March 31 will get a 20% discount with code HSH20 at checkout.

Go here to learn more and enroll.

More Details about the Course

Men with high sensitivity often navigate a world that doesn't fully understand or value their depth of feeling. 

This course aims to provide tools and insights to help Highly Sensitive Men (HSM) embrace their nature confidently.​

Course Highlights

On Being a Sensitive Man course offers:​

• 16 In-Depth Modules: Explore topics like Taoist principles, emotional regulation, confidence building, and creating a purposeful life.

• 14+ Expert Interviews: Learn insights from renowned coaches, psychologists, and thought leaders in sensitivity and personal development

• Interactive Exercises: Engage in guided activities, visualizations, and tools to help you apply lessons to your daily life.

• Community Support: Gain access to a supportive community of like-minded individuals, fostering connections and shared experiences.

• Bonus Materials: Access additional resources, such as guided audio scripts for relaxation and visualization.

Who Can Benefit from this Course?

The On Being a Sensitive Man online course is ideal for:​

• Highly Sensitive Men seeking to understand and harness their sensitivity as a strength.​

• Family and friends who want to support their loved ones by gaining deeper insights into the experiences of Highly Sensitive Men.​

• Professionals: Therapists, coaches, and educators looking to better support HSP clients and students.​

Why Should You Enroll?

Course participants can expect to:

• Understand the biological and psychological roots of high sensitivity, dispel myths, and embrace the unique gifts this trait offers.

• Develop tools for emotional regulation, navigate overwhelm, and channel your depth of feeling into creative and constructive outlets.

• Explore how sensitivity aligns with modern masculinity and how HSMs can lead the way in creating a balanced, inclusive vision of manhood.

• From setting boundaries to expanding your comfort zone, the course provides actionable strategies to thrive in relationships, careers, and personal pursuits.

• Cultivate a mindset of growth, purpose, and self-belief to build confidence and align with your values.

About the Course Instructor: William Allen

Leading the course is William Allen, a retired IT executive turned author and advocate for Highly Sensitive Men. 

Since 2016, William has been writing and supporting HSMs through his blog, The Sensitive Man. He has also authored two insightful books:​

• Confessions of a Sensitive Man: An unconventional defence of sensitive men, where William shares his journey and educates readers about the HSP trait.

• On Being a Sensitive Man: Offers success strategies for harnessing one's high-sensing nature.​

With certifications in hypnosis and neurofeedback and as a fellow Highly Sensitive Man, William combines personal experience with professional expertise to guide HSMs toward self-acceptance and growth.

Ready to Join?

If you or someone you know could benefit from this transformative experience, consider enrolling in On Being a Sensitive Man.

The course is accessible online, allowing participants to progress at their own pace and revisit materials as needed.​

And remember, if you enter code HSH20 at checkout by March 31, you get 20% off.

Hello and welcome to HSP Tools Today, a newsletter for and about Highly Sensitive People (HSPs).

In today’s edition: 

• Meet one of our favourite HSP practitioners – Katrina Lazzaro.

• Explore 6 resources and services designed for sensitive bloggers and business owners

• Browse a quick list of upcoming events

Meet Katrina Lazzaro - HSP Blogging & Business Coach

Katrina Lazzaro - Blog & Business Coach for Sensitive People

Katrina Lazzaro is an occupational therapist, neurological rehab specialist, copywriter, web designer, multiple-time blogger, entrepreneur, and a sensitive and neurodivergent person.

She provides support, empathy, and practical tools to support her community of ambitious, courageous, and often Highly Sensitive women.

Katrina helps fellow HSPs work with their sensitivities and strengths – rather than against them – to become more grounded, calm, authentic, creative, and successful on their terms.

Her website, xokatrina.com, features discussions, resources, and articles revolving around these topics:

• supporting your nervous system,

• healing from burnout,

• honouring your sensitivity,

• working smarter, not harder,

• reaching your goals without hustling,

• balancing productivity with rest, and

• starting and growing a successful online business with blogging at its core.

6 HSP Resources and Services by Katrina Lazzaro

With a focus on helping Highly Sensitive individuals start a blog business without being overwhelmed, here are Katrina’s resources and services for HSPs:

1. The Blogging Roadmap - a free eBook guiding sensitive people on how to start a blog business without overwhelm.

2. Nervous System Regulation Workbook - a digital guide with exercises, tools, and techniques to help with nervous system regulation and recovery from burnout.

3. The Sensitive Blogger Comprehensive Course - get the complete strategy to build your entire blog from scratch while honouring your sensitive nervous system. Enroll today at $47.

4. Squarespace Website Design Templates - starting a website or blog can be overwhelming for sensitive people. Explore Katrina’s ready-to-go template kits.

5. Squarespace Web Design Services - even with available templates and themes, creating a full custom website can be stressful. But with Katrina’s help as a professional web designer and fellow HSP, it can also feel like a breeze.

6. The Sensitive Blogger Website - Visit Katrina’s website, XOKatrina.Com, to explore workshops, articles, design templates, and other resources for sensitive bloggers.

Happening this Week & Month

Today is March 11. 

Below are some events happening this week and later this month.

• March 12, 30: AYHS Office Hours - live Q&A and Coaching for HSPs and parents with Alane Freund, LMFT, ICHS. Free for members, $57 for guests. (Learn about the Community)

• March 15: The Support Group for Highly Sensitive People led by Eva Deligiannis, a Psychotherapist and fellow HSP, kicks off. Meetings will be every two weeks. (Details Here)

• March 17: Registration opens for On Being a Sensitive Man - a 4-month online course for Highly Sensitive Men, led by Willam Allen and featuring 14+ guest speakers. (Join the Waitlist)

• March 19: The Sensitive Helpers Circle with Lori L. Cangilla begins its 12-week journey. (If you register by March 15, you get a free 30-minute coaching call)

• March 20: The monthly HSP Men’s Group online meeting with William Allen of The Sensitive Man. (Learn More)

• March 22: Speaking Horse - a birthday party for rescue horses with Alane Freund, LMFT. This is an in-person event for those in Petaluma, California. (Learn More)

Did I leave something out?

Reply or comment to let me know and it will be in the next edition of HSP Tools Today.

Until next time, visit this page to learn more about Katrina Lazzaro and how to succeed as a sensitive blogger without being overwhelmed.

Welcome to HSP Tools Today, a newsletter for and about Highly Sensitive People (HSPs).

If you're a Highly Sensitive professional looking to list resources on our website, visit this page. And if you're looking for a resource or service that isn't in this newsletter, search the directory.

In today's issue:

• Explore 11 new or upcoming HSP resources.

• Browse upcoming HSP events.

• Meet Eva Deligiannis, a coach and therapist specializing in Highly Sensitive People (HSPs).

• Discover recent HSP articles, podcast episodes, and YouTube videos about High Sensitivity.

And much more.

Are you reading this newsletter for the first time? Subscribe here.

What's New?

1. In this new post on HSPerson.Com, Dr. Elaine N. Aron shares the latest research & something more personal and spiritual.

2. On Being a Sensitive Man is a new 4-month online course for Highly Sensitive Men. Enrollment opens on Monday, March 17, and William Allen, author and founder of The Sensitive Man, will be your course instructor. Learn more here.

3. Guide to Navigating Sensory Overload is a new 8-week online course for Highly Sensitive, Autistic, and Neurodivergent individuals by Julie Bjelland. And like all Julie's courses, it comes with free access to the Sensitive Empowerment Community.

4. Men With S.T.Y.L.E is an upcoming new podcast for Highly Sensitive Men. It launches on April 1, 2025, with Randy Grasser and William Allen as your hosts and Dr. Elaine N. Aron as the first guest. More information is coming soon.

5. The Highly Sensitive Rabbit is a new children's book by Dr. Judith Orloff. It launches later this year, in October, and is currently available for preorder.

6. SensitivityResearch.Com has new free resources for teachers of Highly Sensitive Children: the Test Your Student questionnaire and this teacher training module. Visit the website to learn more and explore additional resources.

7. Sensitive Living Magazine is currently looking for article contributors from experts who serve the HSP community on the following topics: health, empowerment, relationships, energy protection, prosperity and abundance. Go here to learn more about submissions.

8. This HSP support group is for Highly Sensitive People (HSPs) seeking connection, insight, and resources to thrive in a world that often fails to understand our unique gifts. The group starts on March 13 and is based in Melbourne, Australia. Learn more here.

9. The Luxury HSP retreat is a worldwide event designed by Alane Freund, LMFT, for Highly Sensitive People to pause, reflect and connect in nature. It's scheduled for February 14, 2026, in Costa Rica, and early bird registration opens soon. Go here to learn more and show your interest.

10. The Return to Serenity Island is a self-paced online course by Andy Mort of The Haven. It features a mix of video lessons, audio, soundscapes, live picnics, downloadable resources, and a WhatsApp group for regular engagement. Registration is open for the next two days.

11. Sensitive Blogger is a comprehensive online course for Highly Sensitive People (HSPs) wanting to start a blog without being overwhelmed. Katrina Lazzaro, an occupational therapist and business coach, is the instructor. Enrol today for a 75% discount.

Upcoming Events

• February 28: The Journal Circle - a weekly online event inside The Haven community to help you start, rejuvenate, or explore potential journaling habits and practices. Join The Haven on a free 28-day trial or get a monthly pass for $15.

• March 1: Wise Women and Wonder (paid)- an online monthly circle for Highly Sensitive Women over 55 years to connect and find support.

• March 8: Skill Development for Highly Sensitive People (paid) - a monthly in-person event sharing resources to help HSPs overcome people-pleasing, poor boundaries, anxiety and other sensitivity challenges.

• March 8: Psychoeducation Class for The Highly Sensitive Person (free) - a two-hour in-person event sharing practical tools and insights from a licensed therapist.

• March 9: Warrior Reminder (free)- an online Highly Sensitive Person Support Group facilitated by Ash Alves, author, coach and therapist.

• March 9: Reclaim Your Spark (free) - a 90-minute guilt-free self-care event for Highly Sensitive women.

• March 12: Webinar on High Sensitivity in Children (free) - a one-hour online event organized by the SensitivityResearch.Com team to share the latest research and resources for HSCs.

• March 12: Embodied Sensitivity (donation) - a monthly Somatic Workshop for Highly Sensitive People to practice embodiment in community with others.

Practitioner Spotlight

Eva Deligiannis - HSP Coach & Psychotherapist

Meet Eva Deligiannis

Eva Deligiannis is a clinical psychotherapist and HSP coach specializing in helping Highly Sensitive People (HSPs) navigate transitions with more ease and awareness. ​

She has a private practice in Melbourne, Australia, offering psychotherapy, supervision, and coaching services to fellow HSPs and organizations.

She also holds space for sensitive people to connect and share experiences through HSP support groups.

Eva builds a trusted partnership with her clients to help them understand their HSP traits and learn to see their HSP gifts as a strength that supports them in an increasingly complex and unpredictable world.

Visit this website to learn more about Eva Deligiannis.

From the Web

Listen:

• High Sensitivity in Pupils: Redefining Educational Strategies for Inclusive Classrooms - Prof. Michael Pluess explains how sensitivity influences engagement and shares practical strategies to enhance teaching methods.

• Healing Anxiety Starts with Feeling Safe: Here's How - Listen to Daphnie Leigh, a Holistic Anxiety Coach & HSP, on the Highly Sensitive & Strong podcast as she explains why safety is the foundation of healing.

• 90% of Alcoholics are "Empaths or HSP" - Listen to Matt Finch, a recovery coach and fellow HSP, discuss how and why empaths and highly sensitive people are often at high risk for alcohol use disorder (AUD).

Read:

• What If Everything You’ve Been Told About Finding Your Passion Is Wrong? (The Highly Sensitive Person Publishing Company)

• How Do You Build Emotional Resilience with Sensory Processing Sensitivity? (Tomatis Australia)

• Are You Facing Wrenching Relationship Changes? 3 Thoughts to Hold You Steady. (Sustainably Sensitive)

• Anxious and Fatigued Teen? She Might Be Highly Sensitive. (Highly Sensitive Refuge)

• Three Signs You Might Be a Highly Sensitive Person (HSP). (Psychology Today)

• HSPs, Here’s How to Deal With That Angry Person in Your Life (Highly Sensitive Refuge)

• How to Communicate With a Highly Sensitive Person (The Good Men Project)

• The Idealized HSP: Aspiration or Whitewashing? (The Sensitive Man)

• How to Build Unshakable Confidence as a Highly Sensitive Person (HiSensitives)

Watch:

• Finding the Natural Leader Within as a Highly Sensitive Person, with Willow McIntosh and Kemal Shaheen. (The Inluminance Podcast, YouTube)

• 5 Strategies To Reduce Overstimulation for Highly Sensitive People. (Lurning Curve on YouTube)

• Do Your Intense Emotions Overwhelm Others? How to Live Authentically as a Highly Sensitive Person. (Christine Baun, YouTube)

• Nurturing Your Highly Sensitive Energy with Elizabeth Cush, LCPC. (Awaken Your Wise Woman, YouTube)

My earliest memory of bargains and discounts is one uncomfortable shopping trip for Christmas outfits. Every year, my parents would take us on a two-hour ride to get new clothes and shoes to celebrate the holiday.

My mum was always in charge of all the shopping, while dad used the waiting time to catch up with his brother. It was an unspoken understanding, and while exhausting, she preferred it that way.

We didn't understand the dynamic, and honestly, I doubt we even cared. Until the day my dad decided to join us and couldn't stop asking for maximum discounts.

Shopping took longer than usual. My mum's feet got swollen from walking too much. She turned red with anger. And we became too hungry to be excited about the new stuff.

Only my dad spoke in that car on the way back - telling us why we should always insist on a discount.

I don't remember what happened after that or what conversation transpired. But he never joined us again for the shopping part of our holiday tradition. Mum took back control, and everything was back to normal.

If you have lived in or experienced a haggling culture, you know asking for a discount is often an unspoken expectation. Many sellers will even price items higher to leave room for bargaining.

But getting a good deal on a product you love shouldn't be so strenuous that you don't enjoy it.

Here are 7 easy ways to get a discount on HSP courses, Coaching Programs & Other Resources

1. Enrol Early in the Application Window

Many HSP courses and coaching programs with a preset start date offer discounts on early registrations.

This pricing model means that the earlier you join a program, the cheaper your total cost will be. It's a way for practitioners to guarantee sales for their products and services while allowing consumers to save.

For instance:

• This 3-month certification program for HSP practitioners starts in May 2025. If you enrolled before the end of last year, you got a 20% early bird discount.

• This Growing Sensitive & Strong group coaching program always opens with early-bird pricing before transitioning to regular price.

2. Subscribe to a Practitioner's Newsletter

Many business owners use newsletters to connect with their followers, readers, and clients. It's the best way to keep an engaged audience, develop a loyal community, and stay in touch with potential customers.

To say thank you and also make a sale, practitioners occasionally send exclusive offers to their email subscribers.

These could include a free consultation, a free copy of an upcoming book, or reduced prices on their products and services.

For instance:

• When opening registration for her HSP Discussion Groups, Dr. Jadzia Jagiellowicz always gives a discount to newsletter subscribers.

• Cheri Gregory, who champions February 1st as the official HSP New Year, uses email to announce registration for her membership community.

• Julie Bjelland, creator of the Sensitive Empowerment Community, offers email subscribers a random 75% discount.

There are more examples, of course. Stay subscribed to us to get notified🙂.

3. Stay On the Lookout for Available Discounts

Sometimes, HSP resource creators offer a random discount just because they can, to increase sales or another reason best known to them.

This sale will be prominent on their website as a popup or top bar announcement. It will also be in the pricing section on the course's landing page, and you might need to scroll down slowly to see it.

If you know of a practitioner offering a course you would like to take, see if discounts are available on their website. You might find offers for first-time clients or random sales you know nothing about.

For instance:

• If you visit Julie Bjelland's website today, you'll see the 60% discount as a popup on the course pages only. It's no longer on the homepage.

4. Apply for Open Scholarships

Many course creators and HSP practitioners provide this option with every program, but only a few people utilize it.

The reason for this could be the placement of scholarship notices on the course landing page (it is never prominent). Or it could be the stigma surrounding needing help.

I don't claim to know why many people don't apply for online course scholarships (myself included), but they exist in most cases.

Here are two examples:

• A scholarship for this 3-month certification program gives you 20% off the regular price.

• Julie Bjelland offers partial (up to 87% off) and full scholarships for four of her six HSP courses, including her latest one: "Discovering Autism as an Adult".

5. Plan Your Enrolment around a Holiday

To get a discount on HSP courses during a holiday doesn't mean waiting until November for Black Friday or end-of-year deals. While this is a good idea, it's not the only option.

Think of the practitioner's birthday or business anniversary. Think of awareness days or months like World Social Work Day or Mental Health Awareness Month.

Many course creators and HSP practitioners will announce limited-time offers around these special holidays.

For instance:

• To celebrate 5 years of Are You Highly Sensitive (AYHS), Alane Freund, LMFT, offered one month of free access to all community resources.

• To celebrate the Fall season, April Snow, LMFT announced a 25% discount on all Sensitive School courses and 10% off consultation.

There are more examples, of course. But you get the idea.

6. Contact the Course Instructor for a Discount

When you can't find a discount through all the five ways above, another method is to reach out to the practitioner or HSP course instructor.

This option will work best if you know the ins and outs of the program and are sure you want to commit.

Some facilitators will let you know on the course page that they're open to a reduced price and give their contact information for further discussion.

Others will offer a free introductory call to explore course elements and ask questions. During your conversation, you can ask for available discounts.

Here are some examples:

• This HSP course for grandparents on Eurythmy4you (listed 2nd) doesn't offer a discount. However, the instructors communicate that a lower price is possible and include a link to contact them.

• Willow McIntosh, founder of Inluminance and creator of The High Sensory Coaching program, has offered discounts before. But because there are no current offers, you can book a free discovery call and request one. There's no guarantee, but it's worth trying.

7. Take a Free Masterclass

I saved this for last, not because it's the least best way to get a discount, but because it's the most effective.

We all know that many free webinars, workshops, and similar events are a pathway to an online course, coaching membership, or another product or service.

However, it's also an effective way for you (the Highly Sensitive buyer) to assess the practitioner's teaching style and value proposition. If you enjoy their masterclass, there's a chance you will love their program.

And because there's almost always a special discount for class attendees, you save money.

Here are some free masterclasses that lead to HSP courses & coaching programs:

• These six webinars by Julie Bjelland, LMFT: Choose the one that addresses your current need, then grow from there.

• This 60-minute masterclass with Willow McIntosh: Take this class if you want a career as an HSP coach, facilitator or healer.

• This 3-part audio series by Dr. Michaela Dunbar: Take this if you're a Highly Sensitive, ambitious woman wanting to overcome high-functioning anxiety.

And many more.

I could continue adding examples to the list, but this email is getting too long. So, I'll stop here and believe it’s sufficient.

P.S. If my childhood story left you wondering if my mum ever asked for a discount, she always did. But it was never to the extreme levels of her spouse.

In the News

A recent study suggests that Highly Sensitive Persons are more emotionally lonely than the general population.

Are you emotionally lonely? According to a research article published in Scientific Reports, you are not alone.

The study examined the relationship between Sensory Processing Sensitivity (SPS), loneliness and social isolation in adults.

After controlling for age, gender, education, neuroticism and extraversion, results showed that Highly Sensitive People (HSPs) experience more emotional loneliness than the general population.

Interestingly, the study also found that HSPs are Not socially lonely, leading the researchers to emphasize the need to distinguish between emotional and social loneliness.

Events You Might Want to Attend

• January 26: Highly Sensitive Person (HSP) Café – In-Person Event with Cindy Gale, UK

• January 29: Neurodivergent Parenting Week 2: Create Emotional Safety - the second event in an 8-week free series open to parents of Highly Sensitive Children.

• January 30: AYHS Office Hours - Open Coaching for Highly Sensitive People and Parents with Alane Freund, LMFT.

• February 1: Wise Women and Wonder Sensitivity Circle – a Live Event for HSPs Over 55

• February 2: Online Trauma-Sensitive Meditation Circle - a free event to regulate your nervous system and happening every first Sunday of the month.

• February 5: Free Webinar Discussing The Highly Sensitive Person—Has Mental Health Treatment Been Missing Something?

• February 6: The Highly Sensitive Person deep dive with Dr. Marie-Lise Schlaeppy (In-person, Australia) - a one-hour session introducing attendees to the HSP trait.

• February 22: Energize Your Intuition in a Healing Circle for Spiritual Awakening - a two-hour online event focusing on self-empowerment and spiritual growth.

13 Free Classes for Highly Sensitive People

Whether new to the trait or looking to deepen your understanding, these masterclasses can be a great introduction to understanding the Highly Sensitive Person (HSP) trait and learning to thrive.

1. Understanding the Highly Sensitive Person

Duration: 46 minutes

Instructor: Alane Freund, LMFT -- an International Consultant on High Sensitivity (ICHS)

Where to Watch: Alane Freund’s YouTube channel

This is a talk providing a comprehensive introduction to High Sensitivity, ideal for those just starting their journey. Alane Freund explains the science behind the trait, detailing how it affects brain function and emotional responses.

2. High Sensitivity and Anxiety

Duration: 1 hour

Instructor: Julie Bjelland, LMFT - a psychotherapist specializing in Highly Sensitive and Neurodivergent individuals.

Where to Watch: Julie Bjelland’s website

This class explores the connection between anxiety and High Sensitivity, emphasizing why HSPs are more prone to feeling overwhelmed. Julie Bjelland delves into the brain’s role in processing sensory information and explains how heightened awareness can trigger stress.

3. Are You Truly Anxious or a Highly Sensitive Person?

Duration: 1 hour

Instructor: Alane Freund, LMFT, ICHS.

Where to Watch: Online webinar (The Shift Network)

In this insightful class, Alane Freund examines the overlap between anxiety and High Sensitivity. She outlines three primary reasons HSPs may experience heightened stress and shares actionable steps to navigate these challenges effectively.

4. The Highly Sensitive Person and Childhood Trauma

Duration: 36 minutes

Instructor: Patrick Teahan, Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW)

Where to Watch: Patrick Teahan’s YouTube channel

Childhood trauma can leave a lasting impact on HSPs, often magnifying their sensitivity. This discussion follows Patrick Teahan as he explores how early experiences shape emotional patterns and responses. He provides a compassionate framework for understanding these dynamics and offers tools for healing.

5. Highly Sensitive Children in Early Education

Duration: 60 minutes

Instructor(s): Sensitivity Research

Where to Watch: A video link will be sent to your email.

This is an interactive online training module for educators, school counsellors, educational psychologists, and other early education professionals. It takes approximately 1 hour and is self-paced, meaning you can pause and play it back as you desire.

It addresses common myths about High Sensitivity and features expert insights, evidence-based facts, and teacher tips.

Ongoing Offers & Scholarships

1. Apply for a 20% Off Scholarship with the Highly Sensitive Human Academy.

Last week, I shared that applications are open for two coaching courses at The Highly Sensitive Human Academy by Jules De Vitto.

What I forgot to mention is that you can apply for a 20% off scholarship for one of the programs and still choose a payment plan for both.

Please visit the course landing pages below to learn more about scholarship applications or book a free call with Jules De Vitto.

You may need to scroll down slowly to see these options.

• 3-Month Professional Training: Coaching Highly Sensitive People - This course offers an integrative and holistic approach to coaching HSPs, drawing on psychological and spiritual perspectives. It starts in May 2025. (scholarship & payment plans available)

• Empowering Highly Sensitive Children: Professional Training Certificate - Wondering how to support the healthy development and social-emotional well-being of HSCs in 2025? Enrol in this 3-month program to become a Highly Sensitive Child Practitioner. (payment plans available)

2. Get 60% Off these HSP Courses. Use code SENSITIVE60 at checkout.

Julie Bjelland, LMFT is still running a 60% discount on all her six courses for Highly Sensitive People.

Here are the online courses on offer:

• The HSP Toolbox – Created to share holistic tools to calm a sensitive nervous system.

• Your Self-Discovery Journey - Designed to help Highly Sensitive People follow a guided path to authenticity and become fully themselves.

• Blooming Brilliantly - Helps HSPs learn how to set healthy boundaries, advocate for their needs, protect their energy and improve relationships.

• How to Grow a Heart-Centered Online Business - Demonstrates what works for HSPs when starting and growing a business.

• Brain Training for the Highly Sensitive Person - Shares tools and techniques to help HSPs reduce anxiety and overwhelming emotions. 

All courses are self-paced, 8 weeks long, and include free access to the Sensitive Empowerment Community.

3. Apply for a Full or Partial Scholarship for Julie’s HSP Courses

I’m always sharing available discounts on Julie Bjelland’s HSP courses. But did you know that you can also apply for a full or partial scholarship allowing you to pay $50 for a $399 online course?

To take advantage of these scholarship offers, visit the information page for the online course you’re interested in and scroll to the FAQ section at the bottom. Under the question on scholarships, you’ll see the two options (full and partial).

Read the instructions and apply for the one you’re qualified for!

Featured Resources in January

Our focus this month is HSP communities. Here are the membership communities you might like as a Highly Sensitive Person.

1. The Haven: an online village for Highly Sensitive People and those who think and feel things deeply. (Free 28-day trial, then $15/month)

2. The Sensitive Empowerment Community: an online sanctuary for Highly Sensitive and Neurodivergent individuals. ($40/month)

3. Are You Highly Sensitive (AYHS): a membership community for Highly Sensitive People, hosted by Alane Freund, LMFT. (Starts at $37/month)

4. Community Hub for HSP Professionals: a community of coaches and professionals who work with Highly Sensitive People. ($17/month)

5. The Ideal Self Membership: for Highly Sensitive People and Empaths. (7-day free trial, then $9.99/month)

Around the Web

• Social but lonely? The emotional challenges of highly sensitive people - about the research study I shared earlier.

• Raising Sensitive Minds: How Warm Parenting Fosters Emotion Regulation in Highly Sensitive Children - read on Sensitivity Research.

• How to Enjoy Your Overwhelm - by Emily Agnew on Sustainably Sensitive. Have you subscribed to her twice-per-month newsletter? You should!

• Slow Transitions and Mourning the Places You Knew Best - by April Snow, LMFT on Sensitive Strengths.

• The Art of Saying No: Protecting Your Energy as a Highly Sensitive Man - by William Allen on The Sensitive Man

Practitioner Spotlight:

Presh Namor, MBA - Life Purpose Coach for HSPs and Empaths.

Presh Namor, MBA

As a fellow Highly Sensitive Person (HSP) and Empath, I get it. After finding my own inner peace by managing stress and anxiety, I knew I had to help others do the same. I’m a Certified Life Coach and Integrative Change Worker with an MBA, and I’m here to guide you in uncovering your purpose and breaking free from what holds you back. Let’s connect on a free clarity call—I can’t wait to meet you!