As a psychotherapist I’m uneasy with the notion that any feeling might be considered unwanted or unwarranted. Still, feeling out of control, or being swept along by feelings can be difficult for you and those in your life. But the solution is decidedly not to deny, repress or stomp out those feelings.

In psychotherapy our goal is to come to understand, value and appreciate all your thoughts and feelings, with the goal of being comfortable in your own skin. When we know ourselves, value ourselves and are open to all that we are inside, a vast sea of opportunities open before us.

In my practice I work with many creative types: aspiring artists, musicians, writers, and more. Whether you are a creative type or not, most of us long to explore and open our creative selves to some degree. I feel a great affinity with artists of all types as I count myself among you. The creative process requires openness and receptivity. Therapy itself is a remarkable journey of discovery and opening. The challenge is how to find ways to use your deep capacities in ways that bring satisfaction, comfort, creativity, and strong bonds, both inside and with those in your life.

I believe that those of us who “feel too much” have great potential. The therapy road may be emotionally difficult but also vastly rewarding. Unlike those who are shut down emotionally, if you wear your heart on your sleeve, then you are ready to explore your internal life and the relationships about you.

Be prepared to consider your potential — not despite your sensitivity, but rather because of it. It very well may be that you have the greatest potential for expanding your creativity, create deeply satisfying relationships and find the beauty in life.