Narcissism

Deconstructing Rigid Meanings Therapeutic approaches to narcissism are most effective when they address the rigid and polarized meanings that narcissists often impose on themselves and others. The process starts by questioning certainty and promoting curiosity. Moving beyond the fixed meanings of the narcissist’s imaginary involves a shift from absolute certainty to a space of exploration […]

I do not believe in a manualized method when it comes to therapeutic approaches to narcissism—or to any other symptom or disorder. Every story is unique and brings specific challenges; nonetheless, certain therapeutic considerations arise from a deeper understanding of the core struggles involved. In working with narcissistic patients, the therapeutic relationship is central, as

Narcissism can be understood as a relentless pursuit of an elusive ideal: wholeness and coherence. This pursuit masks a deep-seated sense of fragmentation and a profound intolerance of anything that challenges the narcissist’s carefully constructed self-image. They strive to project a flawless façade, belying a profound vulnerability and terror of exposure. This central dynamic shapes

At the heart of narcissism lies a pervasive, unquenchable thirst for validation. The narcissist constantly grapples with questions of self-worth: “How much do I matter? Do they admire me? Am I special?  Do they see me asreplaceable? Am I the one?” This fundamental need for external affirmation stems from a deep inner void, creating a

The narcissist lives in a shimmering showcase of appearances, a world of mirrors and reflections where seeming matters more than being. Their energy is consumed by constructing an idealized image, a flawless facade to present to the world. The goal isn’t to become competent, but to appear competent. They aren’t generally interested in learning, personal

Narcissism and relationships can be a complex and often painful mix. The concept of narcissism itself carries a duality: a healthy love for oneself is not only beneficial but essential, echoing the Gospel’s wisdom to ‘love your neighbor as yourself.’ However, narcissism becomes a destructive force when rooted in a deeply negative self-image. This distorted

Childhood experiences significantly influence the development of narcissistic traits. Feeling loved is fundamental for healthy self-esteem. However, if love is conditional—whether through excessive praise for superficial achievements like appearance or popularity, or through neglect and devaluation—the child may develop a fragile sense of self, dependent on external validation. They learn to hide perceived weaknesses and

In our era of selfies and influencers, social media can amplify narcissistic tendencies. This constant pursuit of external validation can blur the line between healthy self-esteem and destructive narcissism, potentially reaching the level of what psychiatrists call Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD). But what does it truly mean to be narcissistic? The term is often misused

In an age increasingly focused on mental health, the term “narcissist” is often misused as an insult—a disparaging label synonymous with “bad person,” “egotist,” or “manipulator.” This simplification is harmful, preventing individuals (and those who love them) from seeking help. Narcissistic personality traits are complex, with nuances and varying degrees of severity. Ignoring the underlying