Narcissistic Abuse Recovery and Toxic Relationships
Constantly exploiting people and opportunities…
That’s what the narcissist does.
And for those on the receiving end:
Gaslighting.
Love-bombing.
Manipulation.
Sabotage.
And when you’re in a RELATIONSHIP with one…
It’s usually a toxic situation that leaves your head spinning.
They build you up with praise, kind gestures, gifts, professional opportunities, or physical affection.
Then, out of nowhere, they tear you down.
They criticize your body, insult you, or contradict you in front of others.
They withhold money or break promises.
They isolate you from your resources and support network.
You’re left wondering what you did wrong, why they turned on you, and if you should leave. And if you decide to go, their behavior can change rapidly (AGAIN), wooing you back with charm and indulgence.
They’re like energy vampires.
They suck the blood of your confidence and autonomy, which they need to maintain their narcissistic supply.
They feed off your pain, and it makes them stronger, leaving you feeling confused and helpless.
And you’re left feeling drained… and used… and not good enough for anyone else.
Therapy frees you from the pattern.
In therapy, you’ll start with psychoeducation: learning why narcissists behave the way they do and how to recognize the red flags that can pull you into a cycle of narcissistic abuse.
In relationships, the factors that most strongly affect our partner choice are proximity and familiarity. Chances are, you’re choosing narcissists based on the familiarity of that behavior pattern.
To break the cycle, you have to embrace more unfamiliar patterns of behavior and rewire your nervous system, so you learn new, healthy relationship patterns.
Like anything new, that can be uncomfortable and difficult.
But in therapy, you’ll learn that the effort is worth it because it’s the only way to stop reliving the same toxic abuse.
If you’re divorcing or co-parenting with a narcissist, you’ll learn communication techniques that thwart the vampire’s interest and responsiveness to you.
Boundaries are also critical. Together, we’ll work through your feelings of shame, confusion, and denial so you don’t feel guilty saying “no” or standing up for yourself.
You’re not the cause of someone else’s abuse.
Healing happens when you realize that in your soul.
- Challenge your negative beliefs about yourself.
- Forgive yourself.
- Reclaim your identity.
Let’s rebuild your confidence.
You can heal from narcissistic abuse.
Call (202) 753-9836 or fill out the contact form to schedule your first appointment or request a free 15-minute consultation.