Understanding HSPs with Jesie Steffes, LPC

Have you ever been told you're "too sensitive" or that you feel things more deeply than everyone else around you? It's not a character flaw. It can be an advantage, and you'll learn why in this episode.Kayla sits down with Jesie Steffes, a licensed professional counselor, grief therapist, and certified intuitive eating counselor, to unpack what it means to be a Highly Sensitive Person (HSP).Jesie breaks down how to tell if you might be an HSP, and practical tools for navigating life with this trait—from setting boundaries (vs. rules) to knowing the difference between “caring” and “carrying,” especially if you work in a helping profession. She also digs into how HSPs relate to food, body image, and emotional eating, and why living in rhythm with the seasons can be a game-changer for your nervous system.If you've ever wondered why you feel frazzled or overstimulated compared to others, you won’t want to miss this conversation.Chapters:00:00 Introduction to Highly Sensitive People (HSPs)04:34 Understanding the HSP Identity09:54 Boundaries as a Love Language20:01 Body Image and Emotional Eating Among HSPs22:33 Practical Strategies for HSPs in Therapy28:13 Caring vs. Carrying in Helping Professions34:08 Establishing Boundaries and Intentional Schedules38:29 Living with the Seasons: Embracing Natural Rhythms45:48 The Power of Writing and Connection51:59 Introducing 'The Way of the Tender' CourseKeywords:highly sensitive person, HSP, Elaine Aron, boundaries, people pleasing, burnout, helping professions, therapy, seasonal living, introvert, self care for empaths🔗Links Mentioned:Visit Jesie’s websiteThe Way of the Tender—8-week course for HSPsSeasonal Self WorkshopsFollow Jesie on InstagramSated Soul on SubstackThe Highly Sensitive Person: How to Thrive When the World Overwhelms You by Elaine N. Aron PhDHSP Self-TestMore from Kayla:Follow Kayla on InstagramSubscribe on YouTubeKayla's WebsiteGet Kayla’s Free Weekly Newsletter