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Have you ever found yourself questioning your own reality in a relationship?
Wondering if you're being too sensitive, expecting too much, or somehow imagining things that feel very real?
In this episode of The Midlife Rebel Podcast, I'm joined once again by psychologist, EFT practitioner, and returning guest Kasia Dodd. This time, we're discussing her new book, The Chameleon's Game, which explores the often confusing and painful experience of being in a relationship with a narcissist.
Kasia shares both professional insight and personal experience as we unpack narcissistic personality disorder and, in particular, covert narcissism — the form that can be much harder to recognise because it doesn't always look like arrogance or grandiosity. Instead, it can hide behind vulnerability, charm, victimhood, and an ability to keep you second-guessing yourself.
We explore why the term "narcissist" has become so common on social media, what actually distinguishes narcissistic traits from narcissistic personality disorder, and why so many people struggle to identify these patterns while they're living inside them.
During our conversation, Kasia explains how emotional manipulation can slowly erode confidence and self-trust. We discuss gaslighting, love bombing, devaluation, discard, and hoovering — terms many people encounter when searching for answers about difficult relationships.
We also talk about why leaving isn't always simple. When you've spent years adapting, accommodating, and trying to make sense of conflicting behaviours, it can become incredibly difficult to trust your own instincts.
Importantly, this conversation isn't just about recognising unhealthy relationship patterns. It's also about healing.
Kasia shares how EFT tapping can support recovery from narcissistic abuse by helping people process emotional triggers, rebuild self-worth, and reconnect with their own needs and intuition. We also discuss some of the tools and resources she's created to support people navigating life after what she calls "the chameleon" relationship.
If you've ever felt confused, emotionally exhausted, or like you've somehow lost yourself inside a relationship, this conversation offers both insight and hope.
And if you're supporting someone who may be going through a similar experience, I encourage you to share this episode with them.
In this episode we discuss:
- The inspiration behind Kasia's book The Chameleon's Game
- The difference between narcissistic traits and narcissistic personality disorder
- Covert narcissism and why it's often difficult to recognise
- Love bombing, gaslighting, devaluation, discard and hoovering
- Why self-trust can disappear in emotionally manipulative relationships
- The challenges of leaving and rebuilding after narcissistic abuse
- EFT tapping as a tool for healing and recovery
- How to reconnect with your intuition, confidence and sense of self
Visit our website to find out more about this week's guest.
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https://midliferebelpodcast.com/guest-directory
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