Isolation in Narcissistic Relationships: Rediscovering Yourself and Reconnecting with Community

Narcissistic relationships are inherently isolating. The narcissist’s need for control and validation often leads to behaviors that undermine the victim’s sense of self and sever connections with supportive networks. Recognizing the signs of isolation in such relationships is the first step toward reclaiming one’s identity and reintegrating into a nurturing community. Let´s take a look […]

Navigating Trust Issues in Narcissistic Relationships

Trust is the bedrock of any healthy relationship. It provides the security and emotional safety necessary for intimacy and growth. However, when entangled in a relationship with a narcissist, trust often becomes the first casualty. Understanding and addressing trust issues in narcissistic relationships is crucial for anyone looking to heal and rebuild their sense of […]

Alone but Not Lonely: Embracing Solitude for Mental Health

In the bustling world we inhabit, solitude is often viewed through two distinct lenses. I’ve worked with individuals who find alone time uncomfortable, even dreadful, and those who, either inherently or through personal growth, see it as an opportunity for reflection and contentment. Let’s explore these two perspectives and delve into the world of solitude, […]

Boundaries: The Invisible Lines that Protect Your Well-Being

Boundaries, though unseen, hold immense power in protecting our well-being. They define what we’re comfortable with and what we’re not. However, many of us struggle with the concept of boundaries, often feeling guilty or selfish when we try to establish them. This struggle often originates from our upbringing, where we may have been taught that […]

Falling over but then regaining our balance after divorce

Divorce can feel like being knocked off your feet by a rogue wave—unexpected, disorienting, and overwhelming. But just like any great surfer, it’s not about avoiding the falls; it’s about how quickly you can get back on the board and regain your balance. I have often heard the experience of divorce described as “one of […]

Codependent Men and Narcissistic Partners

Even in good relationships, things can get complicated and tough. When one person focuses too much on making their partner happy and forgets about their own well-being, we might call this ‘codependency.’ It’s not a diagnostic term but instead describes a behavior pattern. For a new client of mine, Jeff (not his real name), his […]

Understanding Codependency in a Narcissistic Relationship

I want to discuss something that’s incredibly important but often misunderstood – codependency in a narcissistic relationship. As a social worker, I’ve witnessed how these toxic dynamics can profoundly impact a person’s sense of self and overall well-being. So, let’s dive into this complex issue and explore how codependency intertwines with narcissistic behavior. What is […]

Your SOCIAL DIVORCE — One of Your 6 Divorces

Divorce is a life-altering event that profoundly affects individuals on a variety of levels.  Most people readily identify two divorces: the emotional divorce and the legal divorce.  Mary K Lawler PhD has identified 6. According to Lawler, there is never just one divorce; there are 6 distinct impacts in a single divorce! This blog explores […]