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Summary: In this episode, we talk about why survivors stay so long in narcissistic and abusive relationships, and how kids can change the decision. Sara shares what it was like when her children finally told her what was happening behind the scenes, how isolation and self-doubt keep parents stuck, and what recovery looks like when a parent and kids become a team.

Takeaways
- The impact of children can be a significant reason for staying in toxic relationships.
- Narcissistic parenting can severely affect children's mental health and development.
- Emotional abuse often leads to isolation from family and friends.
- Recognizing the signs of emotional abuse is crucial for recovery.
- Leaving an abusive partner is a complex and challenging process.
- Support from family and friends is vital during recovery.
- It's important to prioritize mental health over the idea of keeping a family together.
- Children are perceptive and can sense the dynamics of their parents' relationship.
- Rebuilding relationships after leaving an abusive partner is possible and necessary.
- Trusting one's intuition is key in forming new friendships and relationships.

Chapters
00:00
Welcome to Two Queens in a Joker
00:34
Why Do We Stay in Toxic Relationships?
02:38
The Impact of Children on Relationships
07:40
Recognizing Narcissistic Behavior
11:24
The Struggles of Leaving
15:48
Legal Challenges and Moving On
23:36
Finding Support and Rebuilding Relationships
26:20
Closing Thoughts and Future Topics
26:36
Golden Grass
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
TikTok: @narctraumarecovery
Instagram (Podcast): @2queensandajoker
Instagram (Recovery): @narcrecoverycenter

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
TikTok: @narctraumarecovery
Instagram (Podcast): @2queensandajoker
Instagram (Recovery): @narcrecoverycenter

Send us a text

Summary

In this episode of 'Two Queens and a Joker', Brenda and Sara discuss the complexities of recognizing narcissistic abuse, the importance of community support, and the power of language in healing. They share personal experiences and insights on how to identify abuse, the struggle with self-doubt, and the significance of open communication with loved ones. The conversation emphasizes the need for empowerment and the importance of acknowledging one's experiences as valid.

Takeaways

Many people struggle to identify their experiences as abuse.

• Self-doubt is common in relationships with narcissists.
• Community support can significantly lighten the emotional burden.
• Recognizing abuse is the first step towards healing.
• Language plays a crucial role in validating experiences of abuse.
• It's important to communicate openly with family about past abuse.
• Setting boundaries is essential for mental health.
• Healing takes time and often requires support from others.
• Acknowledging one's experiences does not diminish their worth.
• Empowerment comes from recognizing and naming the abuse.

Chapters

00:00 Welcome Back and Introduction

01:26 Identifying Abuse and Self-Doubt

04:43 The Struggle to Recognize Abuse

09:00 The Importance of Community and Support

12:26 Understanding Narcissistic Behavior

17:07 The Power of Language in Healing

20:54 Breaking the Cycle of Abuse

24:41 Communicating with Family After Abuse

27:25 Final Thoughts and Closing Remarks

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
TikTok: @narctraumarecovery
Instagram (Podcast): @2queensandajoker
Instagram (Recovery): @narcrecoverycenter

Send us a text

SUMMARY
In this episode, Brenda and Sara delve into the complexities of narcissism, exploring its impact on relationships and emotional well-being. They discuss the phenomenon of narcissistic collapse, emotional immaturity, and the cycle of abuse, while also reflecting on their personal experiences. The conversation emphasizes the importance of self-awareness, support, and the need for open dialogue about mental health issues. They invite listeners to engage with their stories and seek help if needed.

TAKEAWAYS
- The episode contains a warning about discussions of suicide and mental health crises.
- Brenda and Sara express gratitude for their global audience and local listeners.
- They discuss the concept of narcissism and its effects on individuals and relationships.
- Narcissistic collapse is a significant theme, highlighting emotional immaturity and inability to handle grief.
- The hosts reflect on their personal experiences with narcissistic partners and the cycle of abuse.
- They emphasize the importance of self-acceptance and not masking one's true self.
- The conversation touches on the emotional toll of people-pleasing behaviors.
- Listeners are encouraged to recognize the signs of narcissism and seek support.
- The hosts invite audience engagement and sharing of personal stories.
- The episode concludes with a message of support and openness to discussions about mental health.

CHAPTERS
00:00
Introduction to Narcissistic Collapse
05:40
Understanding Narcissistic Collapse
12:55
The Emotional Toll of Narcissism
13:23
Understanding Narcissistic Behavior
16:55
The Impact of Grief on Narcissism
21:12
Substance Abuse and Emotional Collapse
24:15
Consequences of Narcissistic Actions
27:27
Exploring Narcissistic Collapse

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
TikTok: @narctraumarecovery
Instagram (Podcast): @2queensandajoker
Instagram (Recovery): @narcrecoverycenter

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
TikTok: @narctraumarecovery
Instagram (Podcast): @2queensandajoker
Instagram (Recovery): @narcrecoverycenter

Send us a text

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
TikTok: @narctraumarecovery
Instagram (Podcast): @2queensandajoker
Instagram (Recovery): @narcrecoverycenter

Send us a text

SUMMARY

In this episode, Brenda, a licensed therapist, discusses the complexities of relationships with narcissistic individuals. She explores why individuals stay in such relationships, the psychological mechanisms at play, including intermittent reinforcement and trauma bonding, and the emotional turmoil experienced during and after leaving. Brenda emphasizes the importance of understanding these dynamics for healing and offers insights on supporting children in these situations. She also addresses the feelings of guilt and confusion that often accompany the decision to leave a narcissistic partner, encouraging listeners to seek clarity and support.

TAKEAWAYS

Staying in a narcissistic relationship is not a sign of weakness.
Intermittent reinforcement creates a strong bond in abusive relationships.
Hope can keep individuals hooked in unhealthy dynamics.
The withdrawal phase after leaving can feel like substance withdrawal.
Children need a regulated adult for emotional safety.
Grieving hope can be more challenging than grieving the person.
Reality-based hope is essential for healing.
The urge to return to a narcissist is common and should be acknowledged.
Naming the trauma bond can help in the healing process.
Support systems are crucial for those leaving abusive relationships.

CHAPTERS
00:00
Understanding Narcissistic Relationships
02:46
The Cycle of Intermittent Reinforcement
05:46
Fantasy Attachment and Hope
08:50
Navigating the Withdrawal Phase
11:57
Supporting Children in Abusive Dynamics
14:39
Finding Clarity and Moving ForwardNarcissistic 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
TikTok: @narctraumarecovery
Instagram (Podca

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
TikTok: @narctraumarecovery
Instagram (Podcast): @2queensandajoker
Instagram (Recovery): @narcrecoverycenter

Send us a text

Summary

In this conversation, Brenda discusses the essential aspects of therapy for survivors of narcissistic abuse. She emphasizes the importance of finding the right therapist, understanding what to expect in the first few sessions, and the healing process that often feels overwhelming. Brenda highlights the need for self-trust, emotional regulation, and the rebuilding of identity as crucial components of recovery. She also stresses the significance of community and the role that plays in the groups and classes she offers.

Takeaways

• Therapy for narcissistic abuse should focus on rebuilding self-trust.
• The first sessions should not feel like an interrogation.
• Healing from narcissistic abuse can be a messy process.
• Closure is not the goal of therapy; understanding is.
• Finding a therapist who understands narcissistic abuse is crucial.
• Therapy may feel worse before it gets better.
• Documenting experiences can aid in the healing process.
• Community support is invaluable during recovery.
• Self-care is essential; you cannot pour from an empty cup.
• You are not alone in your experiences.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Therapy for Narcissistic Abuse
01:16 Understanding Narcissistic Behavior
04:56 The Role of Therapy in Recovery
07:38 First Sessions in Therapy
13:39 Navigating the Therapy Process
16:10 Phases of Therapy for Narcissistic Abuse
20:15 Finding the Right Therapist
23:18 Tips for Starting Therapy
25:04 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
TikTok: @narctraumarecovery
Instagram (Podcast): @2queensandajoker
Instagram (Recovery): @narcrecoverycenter

Send us a text

• Takeaways
• Therapists can also fall victim to narcissistic abuse.
• Empathy can lead to enabling narcissistic behavior.
• Narcissists often manipulate even trained professionals.
• Shame is a common burden for survivors of narcissistic abuse.
• Recognizing subtle signs of narcissism is crucial for healing.
• Self-care is essential for recovery from narcissistic relationships.
• The cycle of emotional highs and lows can be addictive.
• Physical health issues can stem from emotional trauma.
• Community support plays a vital role in healing.
• Empowerment comes from recognizing one's own worth.

SUMMARY
In this episode, Brenda and Sara explore the complexities of narcissistic abuse, sharing personal experiences and insights from their professional backgrounds. They discuss the challenges therapists face when dealing with narcissistic clients, the emotional rollercoaster of such relationships, and the importance of self care and community support in the healing process. The conversation emphasizes the need for survivors to recognize their worth and the subtle signs of narcissistic behavior, while also addressing the physical health impacts of emotional trauma.

Chapters

• 00:00
• Introduction to the Journey of Healing
• 02:10
• Understanding Narcissistic Abuse
• 04:43
• The Cycle of Relationships with Narcissists
• 06:50
• The Role of Therapists and Empathy
• 09:40
• Shame and Vulnerability in Healing
• 12:19
• Addiction to Chaos and Emotional Highs
• 14:15
• The Impact of Relationships on Health
• 16:35
• Generational Perspectives on Women's Health
• 22:31
• Empowering Women's Health Advocacy
• 24:33
• Understanding the Role of Fascia in Women's Health
• 28:07
• The Importance of Self-Care and Mental Health
• 32:26
• Navigating Emotions and Reactions
• 38:03
• Cultivating a Positive Mindset
• 42:51
• The Necessity of Self-Care for Caregiver

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 Abus

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
TikTok: @narctraumarecovery
Instagram (Podcast): @2queensandajoker
Instagram (Recovery): @narcrecoverycenter

Send us a text

SUMMARY
In this episode, Brenda and Sara discuss their experiences with narcissistic relationships, focusing on the impact these relationships have on children and the challenges of parenting. They explore themes of trust, communication, and the importance of love in parenting, while also addressing feelings of guilt and the effects of parental alienation. The conversation emphasizes the need for reliable support systems and the courage required to navigate the complexities of leaving toxic relationships.

TAKEAWAYS
Brenda (a licensed therapist) works solely with survivors of narcissistic abuse.
Sara shares her personal stories and experiences.
The impact of narcissistic relationships on children is profound.
Parenting does not end at 18; it evolves.
Building trust with children is essential for open communication.
Siblings can provide crucial support for each other.
Acknowledging mistakes is part of being a better parent.
Love should be unconditional, regardless of circumstances.
Guilt over past parenting decisions is common among parents.
Leaving a toxic relationship requires careful planning and support.

CHAPTERS
00:00
Introduction to Narcissistic Relationships
00:40
The Impact of Narcissistic Relationships on Children
02:32
Building Trust and Communication with Children
06:05
The Importance of Unfiltered Conversations
07:43
Navigating Family Dynamics Post-Separation
08:57
Sibling Relationships and Support
10:26
Encouraging Open Communication
12:35
Learning from Mistakes as Parents
14:42
The Importance of Unconditional Love
15:52
Guilt and Reflection in Parenting
17:50
Trust and Emotional Expression
18:49
The Role of Reliable Parenting
20:23
The Consequences of Toxic Relationships
22:26
Final Thoughts on Parenting and Narcissism
23:37
The Impact of Parental Dynamics on Children
27:30
Navigating the Aftermath of Toxic Relationships
32:29
The Risks of Leaving an Abusive Partner

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
TikTok: @nar

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
TikTok: @narctraumarecovery
Instagram (Podcast): @2queensandajoker
Instagram (Recovery): @narcrecoverycenter