My Therapeutic Method
A rooted, collaborative, and contextual process that builds clarity and self-trust.
Together we’ll explore the relational dynamic you’ve been navigating to uncover patterns of behavior, accurately locate responsibility, process the distress stored in your nervous system, and regain your sense of self. As a Certified Narcissistic Abuse Treatment Clinician with training in Response Based Practice, I offer support that addresses both the psychological impact of narcissistic abuse and the toll it has on your identity.
Internal Family Systems (IFS)
Working with the parts of you that have adapted to antagonistic relational stress.
Narcissistic abuse creates an internal conflict between different parts of you: a part that has bonded to the narcissistic person and will sacrifice your needs to protect this connection, a part that tries to predict and prevent disruption, a part that is confused and considering running away, and a part that is completely exhausted. IFS helps us identify and support these parts with compassion so we understand how they’ve helped you survive. Over time we work toward restoring balance to your internal system so you can feel more connected to your essential self.
Attachment Theory
Understanding why this relationship feels so powerful— and so destabilizing.
Attachment theory helps us make sense of how narcissistic abuse creates such a strong emotional bond. By exploring the patterns of connection you've experienced throughout your life, we can uncover your attachment pattern and make adjustments so you can heal and protect yourself from trauma bonding in the future.
Systems Theory
Understanding your context.
Power is not distributed equally. There are very real factors that keep people trapped in narcissistic abuse. Together we can gently trace your social location of power and privilege to understand the options that are available to you. We’ll unpack cultural norms and family dynamics that have shaped you so you can untangle from external expectations and reconnect with your internal authority so you can become more self-led.
Response Based Practice
Honouring your resistance and restoring your dignity.
Response-Based Practice is essential because people who experience narcissistic abuse can lose sight of the many ways they have been resisting abuse. By acknowledging these responses, we counteract the shame and self-blame that narcissistic abuse creates and develop your sense of agency.
Somatic Experiencing
Supporting your body to process antagonistic relational stress.
Narcissistic abuse creates chronic nervous system activation: hypervigilance, anxiety, fear, numbness, and burn out. Somatic experiencing is a method for releasing this distress and restabilizing your nervous system.
Harm Reduction Theory
Promoting safety and exploring options to improve your wellbeing.
Harm Reduction is essential because terminating a relationship with someone who is narcissistic is not always a safe option. I’ll meet you where you’re at without a shred of judgement or pressure so you can consider your options and take steps to improve your wellbeing.