In this episode of Insights from the Couch, we are back with Vanessa Reiser for part two of our deep dive into narcissistic abuse. We continue unpacking the signs, behaviors, and long-term effects of dealing with narcissists, including the devastating post-separation abuse that often follows the end of these toxic relationships. Vanessa explains key terms like gaslighting, hoovering, and supply, providing listeners with practical tips on how to recognize and protect themselves from narcissistic behaviors.

Vanessa also offers valuable insight into what recovery looks like—how to escape, heal, and rebuild your life after enduring this form of psychological manipulation. If you’ve ever struggled in a relationship with a narcissist or suspect someone in your life might be manipulating you, this episode is a must-listen. You’ll walk away feeling empowered and ready to reclaim your life.

Episode Highlights:
[1:39] - Understanding key terms like gaslighting, hoovering, and narcissistic supply.
[6:00] - What is hoovering? Why narcissists come back, and how to protect yourself.
[7:45] - What happens when you cause "narcissistic injury"? The risks of confronting a narcissist.
[10:40] - Can you neutralize a narcissist in a relationship if you can’t leave? Practical advice.
[12:01] - How to safely get out of a relationship with a narcissist: Tips for planning your exit.
[14:01] - Minimizing contact and communication with a narcissist when planning to leave.
[19:29] - Encouraging your children to think independently to avoid narcissistic relationships.
[21:42] - First steps in emotional healing after leaving a narcissist.
[24:13] - Finding the right therapist or coach for support and how to protect yourself legally.

Resources:

For more on this topic visit our website insightsfromthecouch.org If you have questions please email us at info@insightsfromthecouch.org we would love to hear from you!

If today's discussion resonated with you or sparked curiosity, please rate, follow, and share "Insights from the Couch" with others. Your support helps us reach more people and continue providing valuable insights. Here’s to finding our purposes and living a life full of meaning and joy. Stay tuned for more!

In this episode of Insights from the Couch, we dive into the complex world of narcissistic abuse with the incredible Vanessa Reiser, a licensed clinical social worker specializing in narcissistic and cult abuse. Together, we explore what it’s really like to experience this insidious form of domestic violence, how to identify narcissistic behaviors early on, and the warning signs that often go unnoticed until it’s too late. Vanessa shares her personal story of surviving narcissistic abuse, shedding light on the psychological manipulation that victims face and the steps they can take to heal and escape.

This episode is packed with insights on understanding narcissistic personality disorder (NPD), the difference between someone acting narcissistically versus having NPD, and the trauma bonds that make it so difficult for victims to break free. Whether you're dealing with a narcissist in your life or just curious about the subject, this episode will open your eyes to the tactics used by these master manipulators and the hope that lies in recovery.

Episode Highlights:
[3:10] - Vanessa’s personal journey: From working in the Bronx to becoming an advocate for domestic violence survivors.
[6:10] - What is narcissistic personality disorder (NPD) and how does it differ from narcissistic behavior?
[9:22] - Red flags to watch for in a relationship: Love bombing, superficial charm, and fast-moving affection.
[12:46] - How long can a narcissist hold their mask before revealing their true self?
[15:33] - The dangerous cycle of abuse and why victims struggle to leave.
[18:25] - The role of intermittent reinforcement and how victims become addicted to the narcissist’s approval.
[22:16] - The biological and psychological factors that drive narcissistic behavior.

Resources:

For more on this topic visit our website insightsfromthecouch.org If you have questions please email us at info@insightsfromthecouch.org we would love to hear from you!

If today's discussion resonated with you or sparked curiosity, please rate, follow, and share "Insights from the Couch" with others. Your support helps us reach more people and continue providing valuable insights. Here’s to finding our purposes and living a life full of meaning and joy. Stay tuned for more!

In this eye-opening episode, we sit down with author and journalist Melissa Petro, whose new book, Shame on You: How to Be a Woman in the Age of Mortification, delves into the complex world of shame and societal judgment. Melissa brings her unique perspective, shaped by her own experiences in the sex trade and as a mother, to explore how shame affects women in both public and private spheres. We get into how women are often burdened with shame from a young age, and Melissa shares how she’s navigated the harsh terrain of public shaming, including a scandal that nearly ended her career. She also offers practical insights on developing "shame resilience" and creating safe spaces for healing.

We unpack everything from body image and motherhood to the cultural narratives that reinforce shame. Whether you’ve struggled with feelings of inadequacy or have felt judged for choices in your personal life, this episode offers a thoughtful and compassionate look at how we can break free from societal expectations and find strength in our authentic selves. Tune in to explore Melissa’s journey and find out how we can all cultivate resilience against shame!

Episode Highlights:
[0:04] - Meet Melissa Petro: author, journalist, and advocate for women navigating shame and public scrutiny.
[1:38] - The inspiration behind Shame on You and Melissa's personal journey from public scandal to resilience.
[3:52] - The societal pressures on women around body image and motherhood, and how shame is often weaponized.
[8:57] - Navigating the double bind of using sexuality as power while dealing with the shame that follows.
[17:14] - The impact of mass media shaming and how Melissa coped with being in the public eye.
[26:07] - Exploring the concept of "shame resilience" and why finding safe spaces is crucial for healing.
[32:17] - Melissa’s insights on body acceptance and how to challenge internalized shame in today’s culture.
[37:15] - The power of empathy and connecting with others as a path to overcoming shame.

Links and Resources:

• Melissa Petro’s Book: Shame on You: How to Be a Woman in the Age of Mortification
• Melissa’s recent article in Time Magazine: Read Here

For more on this topic visit our website insightsfromthecouch.org If you have questions please email us at info@insightsfromthecouch.org we would love to hear from you!

If today's discussion resonated with you or sparked curiosity, please rate, follow, and share "Insights from the Couch" with others. Your support helps us reach more people and continue providing valuable insights. Here’s to finding our purposes and living a life full of meaning and joy. Stay tuned for more!