Trauma can hide in the smallest details, yet its impact is undeniably profound.
Dear Colleague,
When working with survivors of narcissistic abuse, it’s crucial to understand how deeply trauma can weave itself into every corner of their experiences. The manipulation, gaslighting, and relentless erosion of self-worth may leave survivors questioning their very reality. Trauma often shows up as hypervigilance, diminished self-esteem, dissociation, or even physical symptoms like chronic fatigue or pain, making it vital for therapists to recognize these signs and respond with empathy.
One particular survivor shared that the constant cycle of love bombing followed by silent treatments and criticism left her unable to trust her own judgment. She would often replay conversations over and over, trying to figure out where she had gone wrong, unaware that this relentless self-blame was a byproduct of the emotional abuse she endured. Through trauma-informed therapy, she began to see these patterns for what they were and started the courageous work of rebuilding her confidence and sense of self.
To support your clients on this complex healing path, resources like the Types of Abuse worksheet can help identify and contextualize harmful patterns in their relationships. Similarly, the Red Flags of Abuse guide offers clarity on the warning signs many survivors struggle to name on their own. Incorporating these tools into your sessions can guide survivors toward a deeper understanding of their trauma and empower them to reclaim their narrative.
Your role as a therapist is invaluable. By fostering a safe space rooted in compassion and validation, you help survivors of narcissistic abuse begin to rewrite their story from one of pain to one of resilience and hope.
With appreciation for all you do,
Catrina LPCS
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