This is part two of my interview with Darren, a therapist and coach. In this episode, we dive deeper into the complexities of relationships involving narcissistic individuals. Together, we explore therapeutic approaches to understanding and managing narcissism, emphasizing the spectrum of narcissistic traits and the potential for building healthy self-esteem. We discuss the importance of developing intimacy and relationship skills. Darren also sheds light on the concept of object constancy—often a developmental challenge for those with narcissistic traits—and the potential for meaningful change when awareness and motivation are present. This episode offers valuable insights for anyone navigating the challenges of relationships with narcissistic individuals.

If you are interested in a consultation or seeking virtual therapy services, Dr. Mazzella is accepting new patients. Please click here for more detailed information.

Want to go deeper? Join me in Office Hours — an open space where we explore psychoanalytic ideas together, answer your questions, and connect theory to real life experiences. Reserve your spot here

Next Meeting: October is Full - stayed tuned for our next meeting

For more information about Dr. Mazzella’s psychoanalytic affiliations and membership in The International Psychoanalytic Association (IPA) -which is restricted to psychoanalysts who fulfill the most recognized international standards for psychoanalytic training- please click here

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Dr. Mazzella’s personal website: drmazzella.com

In this episode of The Narcissism Decoder, I’m joined by Darren, a therapist and coach. Together, we dive into the complexities of relationships involving narcissistic individuals. Darren shares his personal journey of recognizing narcissism within his family and relationships, particularly with his father. We explore the challenges of navigating relationships with narcissists, the role of denial, and the importance of emotional vulnerability. There is a particular focus on what to do when an loved on is not accepting necessary medical treatment recommendations. 

If you are interested in a consultation or seeking virtual therapy services, Dr. Mazzella is accepting new patients. Please click here for more detailed information.

Want to go deeper? Join me in Office Hours — an open space where we explore psychoanalytic ideas together, answer your questions, and connect theory to real life experiences. Reserve your spot here

Next Meeting: October is Full - stayed tuned for our next meeting

For more information about Dr. Mazzella’s psychoanalytic affiliations and membership in The International Psychoanalytic Association (IPA) -which is restricted to psychoanalysts who fulfill the most recognized international standards for psychoanalytic training- please click here

You can follow The Narcissism Decoder on:

https://www.instagram.com/thenarcissism.decoder/

https://www.tiktok.com/@thenarcissismdecoder

https://www.youtube.com/@thenarcissismdecoder

Dr. Mazzella’s personal website: drmazzella.com

In part two of the conversation, Shannon and I continue exploring the complexities of managing relationships with adult children who exhibit narcissistic tendencies. Shannon emphasizes the importance of first fostering a healthy relationship with oneself as a foundation for setting effective boundaries. We discuss the importance of self-regulation and understanding one's own emotional state before addressing conflicts. The conversation also touches on the impact of enabling behaviors, the consequences of no contact, and the role of trauma in shaping parent-child dynamics.

 

If you are interested in a consultation or seeking virtual therapy services, Dr. Mazzella is accepting new patients. Please click here for more detailed information.

Want to go deeper? Join me in Office Hours — an open space where we explore psychoanalytic ideas together, answer your questions, and connect theory to real life experiences. Reserve your spot here

Next Meeting: October is Full - stayed tuned for our next meeting

For more information about Dr. Mazzella’s psychoanalytic affiliations and membership in The International Psychoanalytic Association (IPA) -which is restricted to psychoanalysts who fulfill the most recognized international standards for psychoanalytic training- please click here

You can follow The Narcissism Decoder on:

https://www.instagram.com/thenarcissism.decoder/

https://www.tiktok.com/@thenarcissismdecoder

https://www.youtube.com/@thenarcissismdecoder

Dr. Mazzella’s personal website: drmazzella.com

In this episode of The Narcissism Decoder, I’m joined by therapist, author and coach Shannon. Together we explore the complexities of relationships between parents and their adult children, particularly focusing on narcissistic traits and toxic dynamics. We discuss how enabling behaviors and lack of boundaries contribute to dysfunctional interactions, and emphasize the importance of both parties taking responsibility for their own emotions and actions. Through practical insights and real-life examples, Shannon and I provide strategies for setting healthy boundaries, improving communication, and fostering more balanced and respectful relationships within families.

If you are interested in a consultation or seeking virtual therapy services, Dr. Mazzella is accepting new patients. Please click here for more detailed information.

Want to go deeper? Join me in Office Hours — an open space where we explore psychoanalytic ideas together, answer your questions, and connect theory to real life experiences. Reserve your spot here

Next Meeting: October is Full - stayed tuned for our next meeting

For more information about Dr. Mazzella’s psychoanalytic affiliations and membership in The International Psychoanalytic Association (IPA) -which is restricted to psychoanalysts who fulfill the most recognized international standards for psychoanalytic training- please click here

You can follow The Narcissism Decoder on:

https://www.instagram.com/thenarcissism.decoder/

https://www.tiktok.com/@thenarcissismdecoder

https://www.youtube.com/@thenarcissismdecoder

Dr. Mazzella’s personal website: drmazzella.com

In this episode, we delve deeper into narcissism and explore the intricate dynamics of vulnerable and grandiose self-states, focusing on Step 2: Containment and Relating. Central to this discussion is the concept of "reenactment," which highlights the importance of clarifying a person’s experience as it unfolds “in the moment.” This step emphasizes staying present with self and other representations, particularly when navigating projections. Engaging in this process may involve acknowledging fault and expressing empathy for the painful experience of rejection your partner feels, while gently guiding them to reflect on how their distorted projections influence their perception of you.

If you are interested in a consultation or seeking virtual therapy services, Dr. Mazzella is accepting new patients. Please click here for more detailed information.

Want to go deeper? Join me in Office Hours — an open space where we explore psychoanalytic ideas together, answer your questions, and connect theory to real life experiences. Reserve your spot here

Next Meeting: October is Full - stayed tuned for our next meeting

For more information about Dr. Mazzella’s psychoanalytic affiliations and membership in The International Psychoanalytic Association (IPA) -which is restricted to psychoanalysts who fulfill the most recognized international standards for psychoanalytic training- please click here

You can follow The Narcissism Decoder on:

https://www.instagram.com/thenarcissism.decoder/

https://www.tiktok.com/@thenarcissismdecoder

https://www.youtube.com/@thenarcissismdecoder

Dr. Mazzella’s personal website: drmazzella.com

In this episode, we delve into the complexities of vulnerable narcissism, exploring its characteristics, emotional needs, and the importance of empathy and containment in fostering healthier relationships. Emphasis is on the concept of containment as a crucial strategy for emotional regulation and support. The discussion highlights practical approaches to understanding and managing the emotional demands of individuals exhibiting vulnerable narcissistic traits, ultimately aiming for meaningful change and growth. A fuller definition of empathy is provided along with examples of how to really empathize with loved one. 

If you are interested in a consultation or seeking virtual therapy services, Dr. Mazzella is accepting new patients. Please click here for more detailed information.

Want to go deeper? Join me in Office Hours — an open space where we explore psychoanalytic ideas together, answer your questions, and connect theory to real life experiences. Reserve your spot here

Next Meeting: October is Full - stayed tuned for our next meeting

For more information about Dr. Mazzella’s psychoanalytic affiliations and membership in The International Psychoanalytic Association (IPA) -which is restricted to psychoanalysts who fulfill the most recognized international standards for psychoanalytic training- please click here

You can follow The Narcissism Decoder on:

https://www.instagram.com/thenarcissism.decoder/

https://www.tiktok.com/@thenarcissismdecoder

https://www.youtube.com/@thenarcissismdecoder

Dr. Mazzella’s personal website: drmazzella.com

In this episode of The Narcissism Decoder, Lisa Taylor-Austin and I explore the complexities of vulnerable narcissism, with a focus on therapeutic approaches and practical ways to relate to a vulnerable narcissist in your life. We delve into the importance of containment, discussing two key aspects essential for fostering emotional safety and understanding. Our conversation highlights strategies for engaging with vulnerable narcissists, emphasizing how empathy, patience, and healthy communication can help navigate these challenging dynamics. Whether in therapy or personal relationships, we aim to provide insights that encourage growth, connection, and a deeper understanding of these individuals.

Please click here for Part 1: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i68HYbvh2jw
Lisa Taylor-Austin's Website: https://thetayloraustingroup.com/
Lisa Taylor-Austin's You Tube:    / @lisataylor-austin
 

If you are interested in a consultation or seeking virtual therapy services, Dr. Mazzella is accepting new patients. Please click here for more detailed information.

Want to go deeper? Join me in Office Hours — an open space where we explore psychoanalytic ideas together, answer your questions, and connect theory to real life experiences. Reserve your spot here

Next Meeting: October is Full - stayed tuned for our next meeting

For more information about Dr. Mazzella’s psychoanalytic affiliations and membership in The International Psychoanalytic Association (IPA) -which is restricted to psychoanalysts who fulfill the most recognized international standards for psychoanalytic training- please click here

You can follow The Narcissism Decoder on:

https://www.instagram.com/thenarcissism.decoder/

https://www.tiktok.com/@thenarcissismdecoder

https://www.youtube.com/@thenarcissismdecoder

Dr. Mazzella’s personal website: drmazzella.com

In this episode, we explore the theme of helplessness in relationships, particularly focusing on how vulnerable narcissism and emotional dependency manifest in interpersonal dynamics. We look closely at the roots of these behaviors in childhood experiences, the impact of communication styles, and the emotional burden placed on both the helpless individual and their helpers. The conversation emphasizes the importance of awareness in breaking the cycle of helplessness and fostering healthier relationships.
Takeaways

• Helplessness often masks deeper emotional vulnerabilities.
• Vulnerable narcissism can lead to dependency on others.
• Childhood experiences shape how individuals express needs.
• Neediness is often expressed through demands rather than genuine connection.
• The helper's emotional burden can lead to frustration and resentment.

If you are interested in a consultation or seeking virtual therapy services, Dr. Mazzella is accepting new patients. Please click here for more detailed information.

Want to go deeper? Join me in Office Hours — an open space where we explore psychoanalytic ideas together, answer your questions, and connect theory to real life experiences. Reserve your spot here

Next Meeting: October is Full - stayed tuned for our next meeting

For more information about Dr. Mazzella’s psychoanalytic affiliations and membership in The International Psychoanalytic Association (IPA) -which is restricted to psychoanalysts who fulfill the most recognized international standards for psychoanalytic training- please click here

You can follow The Narcissism Decoder on:

https://www.instagram.com/thenarcissism.decoder/

https://www.tiktok.com/@thenarcissismdecoder

https://www.youtube.com/@thenarcissismdecoder

Dr. Mazzella’s personal website: drmazzella.com

In this episode of The Narcissism Decoder, I’m joined once again by therapist and author Kristal DeSantis, who returns to share another vital strategy for staying safe in relationships with narcissistic partners. This time, we focus on the importance of self-regulation and how it serves as a cornerstone for maintaining healthy relationships.

We explore the differences between healthy and unhealthy conflict, emphasizing the value of self-expression and accountability in navigating emotional dysregulation. Healthy conflict allows both partners to share their perspectives constructively, while unhealthy conflict often devolves into name-calling and emotional escalation. 

Our conversation also delves into how attachment styles shape the way people navigate relationships, the transformative potential of therapy for learning self-regulation, and the skills needed to express emotions effectively. 

If you are interested in a consultation or seeking virtual therapy services, Dr. Mazzella is accepting new patients. Please click here for more detailed information.

Want to go deeper? Join me in Office Hours — an open space where we explore psychoanalytic ideas together, answer your questions, and connect theory to real life experiences. Reserve your spot here

Next Meeting: October is Full - stayed tuned for our next meeting

For more information about Dr. Mazzella’s psychoanalytic affiliations and membership in The International Psychoanalytic Association (IPA) -which is restricted to psychoanalysts who fulfill the most recognized international standards for psychoanalytic training- please click here

You can follow The Narcissism Decoder on:

https://www.instagram.com/thenarcissism.decoder/

https://www.tiktok.com/@thenarcissismdecoder

https://www.youtube.com/@thenarcissismdecoder

Dr. Mazzella’s personal website: drmazzella.com

As the holiday season approaches, I want to thank you for your ongoing support and share my gratitude for your time and engagement each week. The holidays can be a mix of joy and challenges, especially when complex family dynamics arise, so please know you’re not alone—I’m here if you need support. Looking ahead to 2025, I’m excited to bring more expert guests to the podcast to offer fresh perspectives on narcissism and relationships, helping us explore diverse approaches to these complex dynamics. Your feedback keeps me inspired, so please continue sharing your thoughts. Wishing you a peaceful holiday season and looking forward to continuing this journey together in the new year. 

If you are interested in a consultation or seeking virtual therapy services, Dr. Mazzella is accepting new patients. Please click here for more detailed information.

Want to go deeper? Join me in Office Hours — an open space where we explore psychoanalytic ideas together, answer your questions, and connect theory to real life experiences. Reserve your spot here

Next Meeting: October is Full - stayed tuned for our next meeting

For more information about Dr. Mazzella’s psychoanalytic affiliations and membership in The International Psychoanalytic Association (IPA) -which is restricted to psychoanalysts who fulfill the most recognized international standards for psychoanalytic training- please click here

You can follow The Narcissism Decoder on:

https://www.instagram.com/thenarcissism.decoder/

https://www.tiktok.com/@thenarcissismdecoder

https://www.youtube.com/@thenarcissismdecoder

Dr. Mazzella’s personal website: drmazzella.com