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Summary

In this episode, Brenda Stephens, a licensed therapist specializing in narcissistic abuse, discusses the challenges faced by adult children of narcissists. She addresses common questions and concerns, including the impact of narcissistic parenting on self-perception, the importance of setting boundaries, and the emotional struggles that arise from such family dynamics. Brenda emphasizes the need for healing through self-awareness, emotional regulation, and the establishment of healthy boundaries. She also touches on the complexities of dealing with aging narcissistic parents and the importance of seeking help and support.

Takeaways

• Narcissistic family systems train children to doubt their perceptions.
• Setting boundaries is essential for healing from narcissistic abuse.
• Guilt often accompanies the need to establish boundaries.
• People-pleasing behaviors stem from childhood experiences with narcissistic parents.
• Family roles, such as golden child and scapegoat, affect adult relationships.
• Parentification leads to emotional responsibility that can burden children.
• Familiarity with narcissistic behavior can attract similar relationships in adulthood.
• Healing requires awareness and intentionality in breaking toxic cycles.
• Emotional regulation is crucial for managing feelings and responses.
• It's never too late to start the healing process.

Chapters

00:00
Introduction to Narcissistic Abuse and Therapy

02:19
Understanding Adult Children of Narcissists

04:55
Setting Boundaries and Overcoming Guilt

07:28
People-Pleasing and Its Roots

09:54
Family Dynamics and Roles

12:41
Parentification and Emotional Responsibility

15:24
Navigating Relationships with Narcissists

17:45
Coping with Aging Narcissistic Parents

20:30
Healing and Regulating Emotions

23:00
Conclusion and Resources

Two Queens and a Joker, My Narcissist Ex and Me
is sponsored by the Narcissistic Abuse Recovery Center, where we provide therapy, classes, and support groups for people healing from narcissistic abuse. Contact us at www.narctrauma.com.

Narcissistic abuse leaves deep imprints on trust, relationships, and identity. Survivors often feel isolated, anxious, and hypervigilant. But healing is possible. By rebuilding self-trust, noticing patterns, and taking small, steady steps toward connection, survivors can slowly allow safe people back into their lives.

The scars remain, but they don’t define the future. Survivors are not broken, they are rebuilding.

We specialize in helping survivors untangle the patterns of narcissistic abuse and recover their sense of self. Learn more at www.narctrauma.com.

Follow for support and resources:
Facebook: Narcissistic Abuse Recovery Center
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