Two Queens And A Joker: My Narcissist's Ex And Me

Hope Is Not Proof: Why Leaving Is So Hard and Going Back Feels So Tempting

Brenda and Sara Episode 33

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SUMMARY

In this episode, Brenda, a licensed therapist, discusses the complexities of relationships with narcissistic individuals. She explores why individuals stay in such relationships, the psychological mechanisms at play, including intermittent reinforcement and trauma bonding, and the emotional turmoil experienced during and after leaving. Brenda emphasizes the importance of understanding these dynamics for healing and offers insights on supporting children in these situations. She also addresses the feelings of guilt and confusion that often accompany the decision to leave a narcissistic partner, encouraging listeners to seek clarity and support.

TAKEAWAYS

Staying in a narcissistic relationship is not a sign of weakness.
Intermittent reinforcement creates a strong bond in abusive relationships.
Hope can keep individuals hooked in unhealthy dynamics.
The withdrawal phase after leaving can feel like substance withdrawal.
Children need a regulated adult for emotional safety.
Grieving hope can be more challenging than grieving the person.
Reality-based hope is essential for healing.
The urge to return to a narcissist is common and should be acknowledged.
Naming the trauma bond can help in the healing process.
Support systems are crucial for those leaving abusive relationships.

CHAPTERS
00:00
Understanding Narcissistic Relationships
02:46
The Cycle of Intermittent Reinforcement
05:46
Fantasy Attachment and Hope
08:50
Navigating the Withdrawal Phase
11:57
Supporting Children in Abusive Dynamics
14:39
Finding Clarity and Moving ForwardNarcissistic abuse leaves deep imprints on trust, relationships, and identity. Survivors often feel isolated, anxious, and hypervigilant. But healing is possible. By rebuilding self-trust, noticing patterns, and taking small, steady steps toward connection, survivors can slowly allow safe people back into their lives.

The scars remain, but they don’t define the future. Survivors are not broken, they are rebuilding.

We specialize in helping survivors untangle the patterns of narcissistic abuse and recover their sense of self. Learn more at www.narctrauma.com.

Follow for support and resources:
Facebook: Narcissistic Abuse Recovery Center
TikTok: @narctraumarecovery
Instagram (Podca

Two Queens and a Joker, My Narcissist Ex and Me 
is sponsored by the Narcissistic Abuse Recovery Center, where we provide therapy, classes, and support groups for people healing from narcissistic abuse. Contact us at www.narctrauma.com. 

Narcissistic abuse leaves deep imprints on trust, relationships, and identity. Survivors often feel isolated, anxious, and hypervigilant. But healing is possible. By rebuilding self-trust, noticing patterns, and taking small, steady steps toward connection, survivors can slowly allow safe people back into their lives.

The scars remain, but they don’t define the future. Survivors are not broken, they are rebuilding.

We specialize in helping survivors untangle the patterns of narcissistic abuse and recover their sense of self. Learn more at www.narctrauma.com.

Follow for support and resources:
Facebook: Narcissistic Abuse Recovery Center
TikTok: @narctraumarecovery
Instagram (Podcast): @2queensandajoker
Instagram (Recovery): @narcrecoverycenter