Sensitive Stories

78: Getting to the Roots of People Pleasing


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Do you lose yourself caring for others? In this episode, I talk with Kirsten Davidson, RP about being mindful about self-abandonment and:

  • Understanding the distinction between caretaking from a place of empathy and people pleasing from a place of fear of abandonment
  • Connecting with all the parts of yourself to heal and guide you in times of insecurity
  • How to decipher the roots of your anxious experiences

Kirsten is a Registered Psychotherapist and the Founder of Mind The Gaps Psychotherapy, where she supports adults, couples, and families in moving through disconnection, emotional overwhelm, and stuck patterns toward more self-led, connected ways of being. Her work is grounded in relational, trauma-informed, and existential approaches, helping clients explore what lies beneath their patterns with curiosity and compassion. Beyond the therapy room, she contributes to broader mental health conversations through public speaking and her writing for Psychology Today, where she explores relationships, identity, and personal growth.

Keep in touch with Kirsten:

  • Website: https://mindthegaps.co
  • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kirsten.davidson
  • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kirsten-davidson-662742177

Resources Mentioned:

  • Psychology Today: https://www.psychologytoday.com/ca/contributors/kirsten-davidson
  • Internal Family Systems: https://ifs-institute.com

For more deep conversations like this, join me in Sensitive Circles - a cozy online community for highly sensitive people to find meaningful connection and deepen self-awareness at their own pace. More details: https://www.sensitivecircles.com 

Thanks for listening! You can read the full show notes and sign up for my email list to get new episode announcements and other resources at:
https://www.sensitivestories.com

You can also follow "SensitiveStrengths" for behind-the-scenes content plus more educational and inspirational HSP resources: 

  • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sensitivestrengths 
  • TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@sensitivestrengths
  • Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@sensitivestrengths

And for more support, attend a Sensitive Sessions monthly workshop: https://www.sensitivesessions.com. Use code PODCAST for 25% off. 

If you have a moment, please rate and review the podcast, it helps Sensitive Stories reach more HSPs!

This episode is for educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for treatment with a mental health or medical professional. 

Some links are affiliate links. You are under no obligation to purchase any book, product or service. I am not responsible for the quality or satisfaction of any purchase.  

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Sensitive StoriesBy April Snow

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