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Narcissistic Abuse & Codependency

The imbalance in how emotions are handled can create a power dynamic where your needs and feelings are consistently subordinated to the needs and desires of the narcissistic partner. Your emotional state may be used as a tool for manipulation, keeping you dependent on their approval or validation. Even when there’s no overt conflict, the emotional atmosphere in a relationship with a narcissist can be tense and unpredictable. This can make you feel as though you are always on edge. You might experience anxiety or stress as you constantly anticipate potential criticism or manipulation, leading to a state of heightened vigilance even in seemingly peaceful moments. Trauma therapy will assist you to recognize that you deserve to be loved with respect, compassion, and understanding. Your feelings and needs are valid and worthy of being addressed in a healthy relationship. Trauma therapy will help you to understand what a supportive and respectful relationship looks like. This involves recognizing qualities such as empathy, mutual respect, and effective communication.

Codependency is a pattern of behavior in which you may find yourself prioritizing the needs and well-being of others to the detriment of your own. This often stems from deep-seated beliefs about self-worth and love. Trauma therapy can reveal ways codependency manifests, its roots in conditional self-love, and the cycle of striving for validation. Often, rescuing behavior is motivated by a desire for approval or validation from others. By meeting others’ needs, you may seek affirmation or a sense of worth. Focusing on others can be a way to avoid dealing with your own issues or unmet needs. It can serve as a distraction from personal struggles or dissatisfaction. Trauma therapy will reflect on the underlying motivations behind your rescuing behavior and the belief systems driving it. It is critical to understand why you feel compelled to earn love through deeds; therapy can help in addressing these issues. Trauma therapy will assist you to work on developing a sense of self-worth that is not contingent on external validation. You will begin to practice self-compassion and recognize your intrinsic value as a person, independent of your actions or achievements.