Benefits of Online Therapy for Narcissistic Abuse + 6 Things To Say To A Victim of NPD

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It is estimated that up to 6% of the population suffers from some form of narcissistic personality disorder or NPD.

This type of personality disorder can be very damaging to those who are in abusive relationships with someone who has the condition.

For victims of narcissistic abuse, getting help can be difficult and overwhelming. That’s why in this blog article we cover 6 things you may say to a victim of narcissistic abuse, as well as online therapy for narcissistic abuse.

Ideally, you want to talk about narcissistic abuse in a very safe, non-blaming way while also building their self-esteem to seek out resources for help.

Admittedly, going about these delicate conversations in a balanced way is tough.

Fortunately, online therapy can provide a safe and accessible way for victims to get the help they need.

Our team at Online Mental Health Reviews has extensive experience in researching, evaluating, and writing about online therapy resources related to narcissistic abuse.
We have experience investigating treatment options, understanding the latest research and trends, and compiling all this material into informative articles that provide insights into the best ways to find help for those suffering from narcissistic abuse.
We are committed to helping individuals affected by narcissistic abuse and other mental health struggles gain access to reliable, evidence-based treatments so they can start to rebuild their lives.

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Table of Contents

Narcissistic Abuse Is Difficult to Overcome

Narcissistic abuse is a form of psychological abuse in which the abuser uses various tactics to manipulate and control their victim.

These tactics may include:

Gaslighting
Devaluing their victim’s self-worth
Playing mind games
Other forms of emotional manipulation

As a result, victims often feel helpless and trapped in their abuser’s control. It is not easy to break free from this type of situation without outside help.

Getting Help Can Be Difficult

It can be difficult for narcissists to admit they have a problem and seek help for it because they are usually unwilling or unable to take responsibility for their actions.

Also, many people may not recognize that they are in an abusive relationship until it is too late.

As a result, it can be hard for victims of narcissistic abuse to access traditional therapy or counseling services due to geographic location, cost, or other reasons such as fear or shame.

Online Therapy Offers Solutions

Fortunately, online therapy offers an effective solution that can make it easier and more comfortable for victims of narcissistic abuse to access the help they need from qualified professionals no matter where they are located or what time it is.

There are numerous websites and apps available that specialize in providing online therapy services such as video chat sessions with licensed counselors or therapists who have experience working with victims of narcissistic abuse.

These services offer convenient access to quality care at an affordable price, making it easier than ever before for victims to get the help they need when they need it most.

Signs and Symptoms of Narcissistic Abuse

Narcissistic abuse is a form of psychological manipulation and emotional abuse. It can be hard to recognize, but it can have serious effects on your mental health.

The signs and symptoms of narcissistic abuse can vary, but some common ones include:

intrusive thoughts
flashbacks
avoidance of certain situations
feelings of loneliness and isolation
feeling extremely alert

Victims may also experience a sense of mistrust, self-isolation, loss of self-worth, depression, anxiety attacks, hypervigilance, and emotional flashbacks. Other signs include walking on eggshells around the abuser or feeling like you are not yourself anymore.

If you think you may be experiencing narcissistic abuse it is important to seek help from a mental health professional. They can help you identify the signs and provide support in dealing with the effects of this type of abuse.

Loss of Sense of Self and Self-Worth due to Narcissistic Abuse

Narcissistic abuse can have a devastating effect on a person’s sense of self and self-worth.

It is common for victims of narcissistic abuse to experience a loss of identity and self-worth.

Victims may feel like they are not good enough or that they do not matter.
They may also struggle with feelings of guilt or shame for not being able to stand up for themselves or stop the abuse from happening.
It is important to remember that these feelings are normal responses to an abnormal situation and that it is not your fault.

If you are struggling with the effects of narcissistic abuse, it is important to reach out for help. A therapist or counselor can provide support and guidance in dealing with the trauma associated with narcissistic abuse.

Additionally, talking with friends and family members who understand what you are going through can be beneficial in helping you cope with your emotions and regain your sense of self-worth.

What are typical Behaviors of Narcissistic Abuse Survivors?

Narcissistic abuse can have a lasting impact on its survivors. It is important to be aware of the common behaviors that survivors of mental illness may experience.

Survivors of narcissistic abuse may find themselves doing anything for kindness, even if it means going against their own needs and values.
They may also be very attuned to the needs of others, often putting their own needs aside to help those around them.
Survivors may also blame themselves for any wrongdoings, thinking that they must have done something wrong in life to deserve the abuse.

Other common behaviors include:

sudden mood swings and irritability
self-harm such as cutting or burning
triangulation (being put in the middle of an argument between two people)
gaslighting (being manipulated into questioning your reality or sanity)
love-bombing (being showered with affection only to be taken away suddenly)
lying
silent treatment
scapegoating (blaming someone else for their mistakes)
hoovering (attempts by the abuser to get back into contact)

What Qualifies as Narcissistic Abuse?

Narcissistic abuse is a form of emotional abuse that occurs when someone with narcissistic personality disorder (NPD) mistreats or manipulates another person¹.

It can take many forms, including verbal, physical, sexual, and financial abuse.

Verbal abuse includes belittling comments, insults, and criticism. Physical abuse may involve hitting, pushing, or other forms of violence. Sexual abuse includes any unwanted sexual contact or advances. Financial abuse involves controlling access to money or using it as a way to manipulate the victim.

It’s important to recognize the signs of narcissistic abuse so you can get help if you are in an abusive relationship.

Common signs include feeling like you are constantly walking on eggshells around your partner, feeling like your opinions and feelings don’t matter, being isolated from friends and family members, and feeling like you are constantly being criticized or belittled by your partner.

What are the 4 stages of Narcissistic Abuse?

Narcissistic abuse is a type of relationship that can be very damaging to the victim. It typically follows a cycle of four distinct stages: idealization, devaluation, discard, and hoover.

The first stage is idealization. This is when the narcissist puts their partner on a pedestal and showers them with compliments and attention. They may even make promises of a future together.
The second stage is devaluation. In this phase, the narcissist begins to criticize their partner and make them feel small or unworthy. This can include verbal or emotional abuse as well as gaslighting or manipulation tactics.
The third stage is discarded. During this phase, the narcissist will abruptly end the relationship without warning or explanation. This can leave the victim feeling confused and abandoned.
The fourth stage is hoovering, which occurs after the discard phase has ended. The narcissist will attempt to re-engage with their former partner to regain control over them again.

It’s important to recognize these four stages of narcissistic abuse so that you can identify it if it happens to you and take steps to protect yourself from further harm. If you are in an abusive relationship, seek help from a mental health professional right away.

6 Things You Say to a Victim of Narcissistic Abuse

If you know someone who is a victim of narcissistic abuse, it’s important to be supportive and understanding.

It can be difficult to know what to say, but the most important thing is to let them know that you are there for them and that they are not alone. Here are some tips on how to support someone who is a victim of narcissistic abuse:

Listen without judgment: It’s important to give your friend or family member the space to talk about their experiences without judgment. Let them tell their story in their own words and validate their feelings.
Offer emotional support: Showing empathy and understanding can go a long way in helping someone feel supported during this difficult time. Offer reassurance that you are there for them and will help in any way you can.
Educate yourself: Learn more about narcissistic abuse so that you can better understand what your friend or family member is going through. This will also help you provide more informed advice and support when needed.
Encourage self-care: Taking care of one’s physical, mental, and emotional health is essential for recovery from narcissistic abuse. Encourage your friend or family member to take time for themselves, practice self-care activities, and seek professional help if needed.
Create a safety plan: If the person feels unsafe in their current situation, create a safety plan with them so they have an escape route if necessary. This could include having an emergency bag ready with essential items such as money, documents, clothes, etc., as well as identifying safe places they can go if needed (e.g., friends’ houses).
Seek professional help: If the person needs additional support beyond what friends and family can provide, encourage them to seek professional help from a therapist or counselor who specializes in narcissistic abuse recovery or domestic violence counseling services available in their area.

Who do you Report Narcissistic Abuse to?

If you are a victim of narcissistic abuse, it is important to know who to report it to. Here are some resources for narcissistic abuse, according to HotLine.Org²:

Depending on the situation, you may want to consider reporting the abuse to the police or another law enforcement agency.
You can also contact the National Domestic Abuse Helpline on 0808 2000 247 for emotional support and practical advice.
Additionally, you can reach out to the National Dating Abuse Helpline at 866-331-9474 for further assistance.
Finally, if you need a crisis hotline or want to learn more about therapy, please contact RAINN (Rape, Abuse, and Incest National Network) at 1-800-656-4673 or The National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233.

How Can I Help Someone After Narcissistic Abuse?

If you know someone who is dealing with narcissistic abuse, there are a few ways to help them.

The first step is to listen to and validate their experiences. It’s important to let them have a safe space and know that they are not alone in this situation.
The next step is to educate them about narcissistic abuse. This can help them understand the dynamics of the relationship and how it has affected their mental health, as well as the potential of healing from NPD.
Encourage them to practice self-care and set boundaries with the abuser. They should also be willing to block or unfollow the abuser on social media.

It’s also important for victims of narcissistic abuse to acknowledge what happened and take time for themselves to heal from the trauma of the experience.

This includes exercising self-compassion, being patient, leaning on support systems, and practicing mindfulness.

In addition, victims may need practical assistance such as packing an emergency bag for themselves and their kids or pets, stashing some cash off-site at a friend or family member’s home, or opening a credit card in case of an emergency.

Overall, helping someone after narcissistic abuse requires patience and understanding as they go through different stages of healing. It is important to provide emotional support while also respecting their boundaries so that they can recover from this traumatic experience in their way.

What is the Best Response to Narcissistic Abuse?

Narcissistic abuse can be a difficult and traumatic experience. It is important to know that you are not alone, and there are steps you can take to protect yourself and heal from the experience.

The best response to narcissistic abuse is to set boundaries, stay calm, be assertive, and seek safety and support if needed.
It is also important to educate yourself on Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD) so that you can better understand the behavior of the abuser.
Additionally, it is helpful to practice self-compassion and separate your thoughts from those of the abuser.

When confronting a narcissist, it is important to put your ego aside and be willing to let them say whatever they need to say without getting drawn into arguments or tangents.

Keep your answers short, clear, and concise to avoid getting pulled into an unproductive conversation.

Overall, responding rather than reacting when dealing with a narcissist is key to protecting yourself from further, emotional pain and harm.

How to Heal From Narcissistic Abuse

Healing from narcissistic abuse can be a difficult process, but it is possible. It’s important to identify the reasons why you accept abuse and build coping skills to help you navigate abusive relationships.

There are several stages of healing after narcissistic abuse, including setting boundaries, taking time to grieve, staying away from your abuser, and building up your self-esteem.

By following these steps, you can begin to heal from narcissistic abuse. It’s also important to remember that recovery from a narcissistic father or partner is a journey and it may take some time before you feel like yourself again.

If you need additional support during this process, consider talking with a therapist or joining a support group for people who have experienced narcissistic abuse.

Set Boundaries to Recover from Narcissistic Abuse

Recovering from narcissistic abuse can be a difficult process, but setting boundaries is an important step.

Boundaries are the limits you set for yourself and others to protect your mental health and well-being. Identifying the feelings in your body, slowing down, imagining yourself as powerful, and being kind to yourself are all ways to help set effective boundaries.

It’s also important to name your values and reclaim your boundaries after narcissistic abuse. When dealing with toxic people, it’s essential to set boundaries so that they take responsibility for their abusive behavior.

Finally, it’s important to acknowledge the abuse you’ve experienced and take excellent care of yourself when recovering from narcissistic abuse.

Encourage Them to Practice Self-Care in response to Narcissistic Abuse

Encouraging someone to practice self-care in response to narcissistic abuse can be a difficult task.

However, it is important for their recovery and overall mental health. Self-care includes activities such as getting enough sleep, eating healthy, exercising regularly, and engaging in activities that bring joy.

It also involves setting boundaries with the abuser and seeking support from friends and family. Additionally, positive affirmations can help rebuild self-esteem which is often damaged by narcissistic abuse.

Finally, it is important to remember that healing takes time and there is no one-size-fits-all approach to recovery.

Practice Self-Compassion in the Face of Narcissistic Abuse

Practicing self-compassion in the face of narcissistic abuse can be a challenge, but it is an important step in recovering from the experience.

Self-compassion involves taking care of yourself and being kind and understanding towards yourself during difficult times. It also involves recognizing that you are not alone in your experience and connecting to others who have gone through similar situations.

Furthermore, it includes embracing your emotions instead of running away from them, as well as setting healthy boundaries with the abuser to protect yourself. Finally, it means accepting that it will take time to heal and that recovery is a process that happens over time.

Start With No-Contact with Narcissistic Abuser (If Possible)

No contact with a narcissistic abuser is one of the best ways to protect yourself from further emotional and physical activity and psychological harm.

It can be difficult to go no contact, as narcissists often resort to love bombing, begging, self-victimization, and other tactics to keep you in their grasp.

However, it is important to remember that no contact is an indefinite boundary that ideally is maintained for your safety.

Breaking no contact with a narcissist can be dangerous, as they may try to suck you back into the relationship. To successfully go no contact with a narcissist, it is important to remain firm and consistent in your decision.

If they try to manipulate you into a false sense of security or make promises of change, do not give in.

When going no contact with a narcissist, it is also important to remember that they will likely respond with rage or aggression when faced with rejection.

This reaction should not be taken personally; instead, it should serve as a reminder of why maintaining distance from them is so important for your mental health and well-being.

Overall, going no contact with a narcissistic abuser can be difficult but necessary for protecting yourself from further emotional harm. It requires consistency and strength on your part but will ultimately lead to healthier romantic relationships in the future.

Lean on Support from Loved Ones If Narcissistic Abuse

If you are struggling with narcissistic abuse, it is important to lean on the support of your loved ones. Having a strong support system can help you heal and recover from the trauma of narcissistic abuse.

It is also important to seek professional help such as therapy or coaching, as they can provide guidance and resources that your loved ones may not be able to offer. Additionally, setting clear boundaries with your family members who have narcissistic tendencies can give you leverage when dealing with them.

Finally, remember that there is no shame in seeking help and that healing from narcissistic abuse takes time.

Rebuild Self-Esteem lost from Narcissistic Abuse

Rebuilding self-esteem after narcissistic abuse can be a difficult process, but it is possible. Narcissistic abuse can leave you feeling worthless and powerless, but there are steps you can take to start rebuilding your self-esteem.

One of the most important things to do is recognize what you are good at and make a list of your strengths, talents, and accomplishments. This will help remind you of your worth and give you something tangible to look back on when you’re feeling down.
It’s also important to build positive relationships with people who support and understand you. Disconnecting from those who don’t understand or don’t have your best interests in mind is also key to rebuilding your self-esteem.
Being assertive and standing up for yourself is another way to build self-esteem and self-confidence. Setting boundaries with people helps protect you from being taken advantage of or manipulated by others.
Additionally, practicing self-care and healing methods such as yoga, affirmations, running, journaling, etc., can help restore feelings of love for yourself.

Rebuilding your self-esteem after narcissistic abuse takes time and effort but it is possible with the right strategies in place.

Seek Help from Professionals

If you are struggling with mental health, it is important to seek professional help. Professional help can provide the necessary support and guidance to help you manage your mental health.

Your first step should be to talk to your primary care physician or family doctor. They can provide a referral for a mental health specialist such as a therapist, psychologist, or psychiatrist. You can also ask friends or family members for recommendations.

It is important to recognize when it may be time to seek professional help.

Signs that may be time include feeling overwhelmed by stress, having debilitating anxiety, depression becoming your new normal, and thoughts, emotions, or behaviors that are out of control.

What is the Best Therapy for Narcissistic Abuse?

If you are struggling with narcissistic abuse, several therapies can help.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a type of therapy that focuses on changing negative thought patterns and behaviors. It can help you to develop better boundaries and communication skills to reduce the pain of narcissistic abuse.
Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP) is another type of ‘therapy’ that focuses on understanding how language affects our thoughts and behavior. It can help you to gain positive self-esteem and manage your emotions more effectively.

Holistic, mind-body therapies such as yoga, meditation, and mindfulness can also be beneficial in reducing anxiety, depression, and mood swings associated with narcissistic abuse.

Ultimately, the best therapy for narcissistic abuse is one that works for you. Finding a therapist who specializes in this area can be incredibly helpful in healing from this type of trauma.

What kind of Therapist Treats Narcissistic Abuse?

If you are struggling with narcissistic abuse, it is important to find the right therapist for your needs. A therapist who specializes in treating narcissistic abuse can help you understand the dynamics of the situation and provide strategies for dealing with it.

Generally, a therapist who has experience in treating personality disorders such as Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD) will be best suited to help you.

This type of therapist may use psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), schema therapy, or gestalt therapy to help you work through your issues. Additionally, medication may be recommended if needed.

It is important to find a therapist that you feel comfortable talking to and one that understands your individual needs.

Does EMDR help with Narcissistic Abuse?

Yes, EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) can help with narcissistic abuse, if the right pathways are met according to a 2015 science article, “Understanding and Treating Narcissism With EMDR Therapy”.

“For an effective EMDR therapy process to take place, it is necessary to understand the specific pathway that each client has traveled from their specific early experiences to their real present problems.”
Jim Knipe

EMDR is a type of therapy that helps to reduce the distress associated with traumatic memories. It works by helping the brain reprocess the traumatic event or experience in a way that reduces its emotional intensity.

This can help those who have experienced narcissistic abuse to process their experiences and move forward in their recovery.

EMDR is effective in treating post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), which is often associated with narcissistic abuse. It can also help to reduce feelings of guilt, shame, and self-blame that are common among survivors of narcissistic abuse. Additionally, EMDR can be used to address any negative beliefs or distorted thinking patterns that may have been developed as a result of the abuse.

If you have experienced narcissistic abuse and are looking for ways to heal from it, consider talking to your doctor or therapist about whether EMDR could be beneficial for you.

Is there a Support line for Narcissistic Abuse?

Yes, there is a support line for narcissistic abuse.

The National Domestic Violence Hotline (USA) provides free 24/7/365 confidential support at 1-800-799-7233. Refuge (UK) also offers a helpline at 0808 2000 247.
Additionally, Crisis Text Line provides emotional abuse support by texting HOME to 741741.

These resources provide victims of narcissistic abuse with the help free support they need to recognize what is happening in their relationship and take steps to protect themselves from further harm. It is important to remember that you are not alone and that help is available.

How do you Expose Narcissistic Abuse in Court?

Exposing narcissistic abuse in court can be a difficult process. It is important to remember that courts do not recognize a diagnosis of narcissism as a valid reason to bring a case to court.

However, courts do recognize domestic abuse and other forms of disordered behavior as grounds for legal action.

To prove narcissistic abuse in court, it is essential to document the facts and evidence of the abuse. This includes keeping copies of any communications with your abuser, such as emails or text messages. It is also important to remain calm and communicate in a manner that the judge expects during court proceedings.

Additionally, if you are dealing with counter-parenting from a narcissistic parent, it is best to avoid engaging in legal battles and focus on presenting evidence instead.

Finally, there are many resources available online that provide helpful advice on how to deal with narcissists in court proceedings. These include books like “How To Annihilate A Narcissist: In The Family Court” which can provide valuable insight into how to navigate these difficult situations.

What is the Best Treatment for Narcissistic Abuse?

When it comes to recovering from narcissistic abuse, there are many options available.

The most important step is to acknowledge and accept the abuse, and then set boundaries with your abuser. It is also important to prepare for complex emotions that may arise as a result of the abuse.

Therapy can be an effective way to help you heal from narcissistic abuse.

A combination of holistic, cognitive, and mind-body therapies can help trauma survivors recover from their symptoms. Painting and using watercolors can also be helpful tools in recovery. Additionally, it is important to take care of yourself by getting enough rest, eating healthy foods, exercising regularly, and engaging in activities that bring you joy.

In some cases, breaking up with a narcissist may be the best option for reclaiming your well-being. However, if this isn’t possible due to the nature of the relationship, no-contact strategies can still be used to keep a healthy relationship and protect yourself from further harm.

If you or someone you know has been diagnosed with Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD), treatment typically involves talk therapy (psychotherapy) combined with medication when necessary.

It is important to find a therapist who specializes in NPD so they can provide appropriate treatment tailored to your individual needs.

No matter what type of treatment you choose for narcissistic abuse recovery, it is essential to have patience and kindness toward yourself throughout the process. With time and effort, healing is possible!

Online In-Network Therapy for NPD Recovery via Talkspace

A popular online counseling service called Talkspace supports persons with a variety of mental health conditions, including narcissistic abuse victim disorder. The app connects users with qualified therapists who have experience treating narcissistic abuse and other mental health issues.

For the more than 40 million Americans with health insurance, Talkspace hopes to make accessing and paying for mental health treatment simpler and less expensive. The software provides tailored treatment programs, maybe involving medicine, as well as simple communication options like texting, calling, and video sessions.

We discuss our experience purchasing Talkspace in our online review, and we also include audio and video files from sessions we had with a Talkspace therapist and doctor for therapy and medication. We both broke down in tears when speaking with the doctor.

However, it’s crucial to keep in mind that Talkspace may not be the greatest option for everyone. Other tools or treatment approaches, like those offered by Brightside Health, may be preferable for patients whose primary concern is anxiety or depression. It’s crucial to consider your individual requirements and preferences while choosing an online counseling service.

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Online Therapy for Narcissistic Abuse Conclusion:

Narcissistic abuse is one of the most damaging types of psychological abuse out there.

For those who suffer from this kind of abuse, getting help can feel impossible due to stigma or lack of access to traditional counseling services – but there is hope!

Online therapy (especially when you know your therapy is covered by insurance) offers an accessible and affordable way for victims of narcissistic abuse to get the support they need while remaining safe and secure in their homes or private spaces without fear or judgment from others.

By seeking professional help through online therapy services, you can start on your path toward healing today!