Therapy Issues

Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria

Are you struggling with the effects of rejection sensitive dysphoria?

Right now, as a result of rejection sensitive dysphoria, you may be experiencing:

 

  • Intense emotional pain in response to perceived criticism or rejection, even when minimal or unintended
  • Anticipatory anxiety about social situations where evaluation or potential rejection might occur
  • Overwhelming feelings of shame, embarrassment, or self-loathing following perceived social slights
  • Physical symptoms like chest tightness, stomach distress, or difficulty breathing when facing potential rejection
  • Exhaustion from constantly monitoring others’ reactions and trying to prevent any possible criticism
  • Flashbacks to past experiences of rejection that feel as painful now as when they first occurred
  • A tendency to perceive neutral expressions or comments as negative or rejecting when they may not be

Your rejection sensitive dysphoria may be getting in the way of your life in these ways:

  • Your relationships suffer from misunderstandings when you perceive rejection where none was intended
  • Your career advancement is limited by avoiding situations where evaluation or criticism might occur
  • Your authentic self-expression is constrained by fear of others’ judgments or potential disapproval
  • Your emotional resources are depleted by the constant vigilance and recovery from perceived rejections
  • Your self-concept has become overly dependent on others’ approval and acceptance

You’re wondering…

  • Why do I experience rejection so much more intensely than others seem to?
  • Is there something fundamentally wrong with me, or is this related to my neurological makeup?
  • How can I distinguish between actual rejection and my heightened perception of rejection?
  • Will I ever be able to face potential criticism without feeling devastated by it?
  • What strategies can help me manage these overwhelming emotional responses?

You’re longing for…

  • Emotional resilience that allows you to experience rejection without being devastated by it.
  • The ability to interpret others’ actions and words more accurately rather than through a lens of rejection.
  • Freedom to take risks and try new things without being paralyzed by fear of potential criticism.
  • Relationships where you feel secure rather than constantly vigilant for signs of disapproval.
  • Self-worth that remains stable regardless of others’ opinions or reactions to you.

How we can help you.

At Evergreen Counseling, we understand that rejection sensitive dysphoria (RSD) often accompanies neurodivergent conditions like ADHD or autism, though it can affect anyone with a history of rejection or criticism. Our therapists create a validating environment where we acknowledge the real neurobiological basis for your intense emotional responses while helping you develop strategies to manage them.

What you’re longing for is possible.

By pursuing trauma therapy for rejection sensitive dysphoria, you can imagine the following:

Before Therapy After Therapy

You experience devastating emotional pain in response to even minor criticism or perceived rejection.

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You recognize the early signs of rejection sensitivity and implement strategies to manage your emotional response.

You avoid situations where evaluation might occur, limiting your personal and professional growth.

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You can distinguish between actual rejection and your perception of rejection, reducing unnecessary emotional pain.

You constantly monitor others' reactions, exhausting yourself with hypervigilance in social situations.

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You approach potentially evaluative situations with greater confidence in your ability to handle any outcome.

You interpret neutral or ambiguous interactions as negative, creating conflict in your relationships.

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You maintain a more stable sense of self-worth that isn't contingent on others' approval or acceptance.

Your self-worth plummets in response to perceived rejection, leading to intense shame and self-criticism.

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You communicate more effectively about your sensitivity, helping others understand how to provide feedback constructively.

What if I’m Not Ready?

Not Quite Ready to Book a Complimentary Concierge Matching Call? That’s Okay.

We understand that taking the first step towards therapy can feel overwhelming. We’re here to make this decision easier for you.

Starting therapy can bring up mixed feelings—part of you might be eager, while another part hesitates to confront deeply buried emotions. You might doubt whether therapy can help, especially if you’ve struggled for a long time or had disappointing experiences with untrained therapists or life coaches. At Evergreen Counseling, our trauma-trained therapists are deeply committed to providing expert care.

Here’s How We Can Help You Move Forward

  • Complimentary Concierge Matching Call: Our concierge matching call is an opportunity for you to ask questions, share your concerns, and see if our approach feels right for you—without any obligation.
  • Reimbursement Options: Concerned about the cost? We can guide you on how to get reimbursed for therapy using your out-of-network insurance benefits, making high-quality care more accessible to you.
  • Informed Decision: Whether you’re ready to start or still exploring your options, we want you to feel fully informed and confident in your choice.

Schedule Your Complimentary Concierge Matching Call

Schedule Now

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