Narcissistic abuse is a profound and often hidden form of trauma that affects countless individuals, leaving deep emotional scars. Whether inflicted by a parent, friend, colleague, or partner, the abuse can be emotional, physical, financial, and sexual. It begins subtly, with the “love bombing” phase, where the narcissist grooms their victim by portraying themselves as the perfect partner, using techniques like mirroring and future faking. This manipulation can make the victim feel like they’ve met their soulmate, only for the narcissist’s true nature to emerge over time, revealing a person who is the complete opposite of who they first appeared to be.
As the mask slips, victims find themselves trapped in a cycle of manipulation and control, often isolated from their support network, and feeling increasingly dependent on the narcissist’s intermittent affection. The bond formed is a trauma bond, making it incredibly challenging to break free, even when the abuse is evident. Gaslighting is a common tactic, making victims question their sanity and feel like everything that goes wrong is their fault. This leads to a trauma response, often resulting in complex PTSD, anxiety, depression, and even self-harm or substance abuse.
The Importance of Therapy
At Mustard Seed Tree, we understand the critical need for healing and support in overcoming narcissistic abuse. Therapy is essential for validating your story, breaking the trauma bond, and rebuilding your self-worth and self-love.
Common Therapies for Narcissistic Abuse Recovery
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Helps you challenge negative self-perceptions and cognitive distortions, promoting self-trust and empowerment.
- Trauma-Focused CBT (TF-CBT): Specifically designed for children and teens, alongside their caregivers, to address trauma and build coping skills.
- Prolonged Exposure Therapy (PE): Aims to help you confront and process distressing memories and situations, reducing avoidance behaviors associated with PTSD.
- Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR): Helps reprocess traumatic memories, reducing their emotional impact.
- Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT): Focuses on building skills in mindfulness, emotional regulation, distress tolerance, and interpersonal effectiveness.
What to Expect in Therapy
In our compassionate and supportive environment, you will be heard, believed, and validated. Therapy will involve:
- Understanding Narcissistic Abuse: Learning about gaslighting, manipulation, and control.
- Breaking the Trauma Bond: Through addiction therapy and building self-worth.
- Addressing Anxiety and Depression: Techniques to manage flashbacks and intrusive thoughts.
- Building Strong Boundaries: Identifying red flags and creating a path to healthier relationships.
Our goal is to help you regain your sense of self, develop healthy coping mechanisms, and empower you to live a life free from the shadows of narcissistic abuse.
Our Rates
We offer flexible and affordable online counselling sessions to support your journey to healing:
- South African Rand (ZAR): 600
- US Dollar (USD): 33
- Canadian Dollar (CAD): 45
- British Pound (GBP): 29
- Euro (EUR): 30
- Australian Dollar (AUD): 59
Take the First Step Towards Healing
At Mustard Seed Tree, we are here to support you every step of the way. If you’re ready to talk to a therapist who understands and cares, reach out to us today. You can email us directly or use our search tool to find a counsellor who is right for you. Let us help you begin your journey to recovery with compassion and care.
Free Consultation
Wondering if counseling is right for you? Take the guesswork out with our quick 10-minute consultation—it’s on us! Whether you need advice, a listening ear, or just want to see how we can help, we’re here. Give us a call and let’s start this journey together!
📞 Dial +27 62 184 8866 and let’s chat! Your first step towards feeling better is just a call away