Highly Sensitive Man: Navigating Sensitivity, Masculinity, and Relationships with Tom Falkenstein (Interview)

What does it mean to be a highly sensitive person (HSP)? How does high sensitivity differ between individuals socialized as men versus women? What are the unique advantages and obstacles faced by highly sensitive men in their relationships and daily lives? 

In this episode, Effy and cognitive behavioral psychotherapist and author of "The Highly Sensitive Man" Tom Falkenstein take a deep dive into the core characteristics of high sensitivity and examine how societal expectations and gender norms shape the experience of sensitivity for men. Tom and Effy aim to shed light on the distinct challenges and advantages that highly sensitive men encounter in their relationships and everyday lives and provide practical tools and strategies to empower highly sensitive people to thrive in an overstimulating modern world.

To learn more about Tom
Tom Falkenstein has worked as a cognitive behavioural psychotherapist since 2006. After obtaining his degree in psychology in the UK, he completed his postgraduate training in psychotherapy in Germany. He then moved back to the UK where he worked as a psychotherapist in London. During this period, he developed a particular interest in high sensitivity and working with highly sensitive people.  He has been training with Dr. Elaine Aron (author of The Highly Sensitive Person) since 2015. Currently practicing in Berlin, he also offers workshops for highly sensitive people in both English and German. The Highly Sensitive Man is his first book and was published in Germany 2017 and since has been translated into a number of other languages. Singer-Songrwiter-Activist Alanis Morissette  called the book 'a breath of fresh air in the midst of a cultural determination to reduce toxic masculinity. This book is a balm, a movement and a revelation."

Instagram: @tom.falkenstein
Book: The Highly Sensitive Man
Website: hsp-eu.com