Describing the fundamental structure of a narcissistic relationship
- Reviewing the classical cycle of idealization/devaluation/discard/hoover
- Review of concepts including (and how these can underlie client ambivalence)
- Cognitive dissonance
- Betrayal blindness
- Trauma bonding
- Pressure to conform
Exploring why so many clients feel ambivalent about making changes in these relationships
- A review of the fallout of narcissistic abuse/antagonistic relational stress including confusion, self-blame, helplessness, rumination, regret
- The reality of what change means for the client
- The “fear of regret” and how that plays out for the client
- Exploring what the “options” are
Helping clients navigate their ambivalence and confusion
- Utilizing antagonism-informed frameworks with clients
- Exploring the multiple truths of a particular circumstance
- Validating these experiences
Fostering clinician awareness so we do not undermine their decisional autonomy and support them in this process
- Clinician frustration as the client vacillates
- Avoiding direct advice giving and self-awareness of our “agendas” for clients
- Activation of our own experiences with these types of relationships