Misophonia Across Generations: Unique Challenges for Different Ages
As misophonia becomes more widely acknowledged by medical personnel, therapists, and teachers, increasing numbers of people suffering from this condition are being recognized. More treatment resources are emerging, especially for what is perhaps the largest group of patients – those in early to mid-adolescence. Meanwhile, more young patients are being identified, with far fewer avenues for assistance. And those who have had this condition long before it was named have additional stressors, as they grew up with no help, no understanding, and many negative messages. This talk addresses the unique challenges faced by misophonia patients of different ages and offers tools and suggestions for individuals and families in managing this condition at any stage.
Jaelline Jaffe, PhD, LMFT, has been a licensed psychotherapist for 50 years. For the last 15 years, her practice has focused on assisting those with misophonia, as well as tinnitus and hyperacusis. Her desire to increase availability of knowledgeable resources for the misophonia community led her to create, “These Sounds are Driving Me Crazy!” A Training Program for Mental Health Professionals in Treating Sound Sensitivity Disorders. Recognizing the limited resources available for families with younger children, Dr. Jaffe developed, “These Sounds are Driving Our Family Crazy!” Guidance for Parents of Children with Misophonia. She is also completing a misophonia self-help book for teens and adults, has been an annual speaker on a wide range of related topics since 2013, and has presented at conferences across the country and in London, Warsaw, and Germany. Finally, she co-authored, "The Heroic Journey: A Rite of Passage Program for Adolescents," conducted in middle schools across the country.
