A recent study by the Journal of Social and Personal Relationships found that a startling 25% of individuals have experienced some type of narcissistic abuse in their relationships.
Narcissism is a major buzzword these days, thrown at everything from celebrity news stories to TikTok. It seems everyone is dealing with narcissistic abuse in some form or another. But how much do you truly know about narcissism other than it appears to define a lot of very “selfish, self-centered people”?
But first, we need to understand:
What is narcissism and narcissistic abuse?
In order to really grasp narcissism, you need to realize it is a medically diagnosed disorder with a wide spectrum of “types of narcissism.”
Narcissism and narcissistic personality disorder (NPD) differ in that NPD is a diagnosable personality disorder affecting less than 5% of the population.
This mental health condition is commonly characterized by the following:
- Controlling behaviors
- Patterns of overinflated sense of self
- A limited capacity for empathy
- An excessive need to be praised, adored and admired
Narcissists have a relentless drive to be known as successful, powerful, and superior to everyone else. They need to be winners, even if they have to use everyone else to advance themselves.
While all narcissists possess certain traits of NPD, not everyone with narcissistic tendencies has NPD.
If you are experiencing feelings of intimidation, gaslighting, coercion, manipulation, or emotional blackmail, you may well be suffering from narcissistic abuse. Narcissists are experts at emotional abuse, and while you may or may not suffer from physical abuse, the psychological abuse victims experience can often lead to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
The seven types of narcissism
Depending on how in-depth you want to explore the disorder, you will find anywhere from 3 to 24 types of narcissism. Confusing, isn’t it? In this blog, we will focus on the seven most common types and traits of narcissism and how to spot them.
1. Overt or grandiose narcissism
Overt narcissists are the most common type of narcissist and are commonly portrayed in popular movies like The “Wolf of Wall Street” or “Fatal Attraction.”
Attention-seeking, grandiose, entitled and incredibly arrogant, overt narcissists openly flaunt their sense of superiority while dominating conversations with their super-sized egos. They might charm you with their charisma, but beware: Things will quickly turn ugly if you challenge or criticize them.
2. Covert or vulnerable narcissism
Covert narcissists, on the other hand, are far more subtle in their power-seeking ways. These sly foxes often appear vulnerable and possibly shy or introverted as they seek to maintain control of others by using passive-aggressive behaviours and emotional manipulation.
This type of narcissist can be difficult to spot as they present themselves as a victim to gain sympathy and attention. Sensitive to criticism, these individuals believe they are entitled to more recognition, but deep down, they have very low self-esteem and are quite insecure.
3. Antagonistic narcissism
Fiercely manipulative, deceitful, hostile, argumentative and critical, antagonistic narcissists thrive on conflict and tend to view relationships as a competition.
These individuals have excessive demands for attention and compliance because they believe they are superior to others. They won’t think twice about exploiting, humiliating, and undermining others to maintain or elevate their own status or power, even if it involves threats or physical violence.
4. Malignant narcissism
Sadistic in nature, malignant narcissists enjoy controlling and manipulating others through physical and emotional abuse. These vindictive individuals are often antisocial, aggressive and paranoid.
Lacking empathy, they like watching others suffer as it gives them a feeling of power.
5. Communal narcissism
Communal narcissists are motivated by altruism and charitable acts. They seek outward admiration and validation for these acts because they need the approval of others. These individuals see themselves as having high morals based on their generous actions and tend to think they are better than everyone.
While they might present themselves as selfless and caring, their self-centred actions are driven by a need for recognition and praise, and they can become resentful if they don’t get the attention they feel they deserve.
6. Adaptive narcissism
Someone with adaptive narcissism can have positive traits like self-sufficiency, confidence, ambition and assertiveness. These traits are healthy, socially acceptable and beneficial.
While they expect recognition for their achievements, this type of narcissist can be very effective in motivating leaders while also seeking admiration and contributing positively. This type of narcissist is most likely to enjoy a satisfying relationship with healthy self-esteem.
7. Maladaptive narcissism
Maladaptive narcissists display a high self-esteem, excessive entitlement and a lack of accountability. Often taking advantage of other people, these manipulative individuals are prone to aggression and emotional volatility.
Because these narcissists lack empathy, they are very damaging in relationships and negatively react when they don’t get the praise or control they feel they deserve.
Healing from narcissistic abuse at CFHH
Victims of narcissistic abuse have often experienced a great deal of trauma. At CFHH, our trauma therapy program helps clients manage the symptoms of trauma from narcissistic abuse so they can start rebuilding their lives. Unresolved trauma from narcissistic abuse can lead to PTSD and disrupt everything around you–your work, physical health, relationships and most of all, your own health and healing. You see, trauma creates deep-seated patterns of fear, avoidance, and self-doubt that are difficult to break.
Our goal is to help clients suffering from narcissistic abuse through a combination of therapeutic techniques and holistic healing practices.
The CFHH approach to healing
At Centres for Health and Healing, our therapy programs are based on holistic, trauma-informed care. We understand that narcissistic abuse affects the whole person and that to achieve true healing, effective treatment needs to address body, mind and spirit.
Our approach goes beyond simply treating the symptoms of your abuse; we aim to help our clients heal at a deeper level and really get to the root causes of distress.
We understand that narcissistic abuse is different for everyone, so we personalize our programs to meet your unique recovery needs. At CFHH, each client undergoes a thorough assessment to identify their specific challenges, goals, and preferences. Based on this assessment, we create a customised treatment plan including a combination of the following therapies:
- Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) – CBT identifies and changes negative thought patterns and behaviours that are often rooted in trauma.
- Individual Therapy – Involves one-on-one therapy sessions with one of our specialist counsellors to explore any unaddressed trauma or other painful experiences that need to be unpacked and worked through.
- Group Therapy – Facilitated by our specialist team of therapists, our clients attend group sessions with others experiencing similar issues.
- Mindfulness Practices – Regular mindfulness practice is a necessary part of trauma therapy, as it teaches you to stay grounded in the present moment, enhance self-awareness, and regulate emotions.
- Holistic Therapies – In addition to traditional therapies and mindfulness practices, CFHH offers a range of holistic treatments to support the healing process. These may include art therapy, yoga, meditation, and other complementary practices.
- Lifestyle Changes – Incorporate a more nutritious, balanced diet, daily exercise, and a better sleep routine.
Thriving after traumatic narcissistic abuse
Recovery from trauma is more than just surviving—it’s about thriving. At CFHH, we believe that with the right support, everyone has the potential to build a rich, meaningful, and fulfilling life, even after experiencing trauma at the hands of a narcissist. Our trauma therapy program helps clients heal from their past so they can create a future with a strong sense of self, hope and possibility.
After trauma-informed treatment at CFHH, you’ll be equipped to effectively manage your symptoms so you can get busy rediscovering joy, reconnecting with loved ones, and finding purpose. There is a big, beautiful life waiting for you!
Our clients often report significant and positive improvements in their relationships, mental clarity, and overall happiness as they progress through their transformational trauma work. To ensure that our clients continue to thrive long after they complete their initial therapy, CFHH offers ongoing support through our comprehensive aftercare program. This includes regular check-ins, support groups, and access to additional treatment as needed so our clients maintain their progress and continue growing in their recovery.
With CFHH, you’ll regain control of your life
Trauma from narcissistic abuse doesn’t have to control and define your life. Centres for Health and Healing is dedicated to helping our clients reclaim their lives, heal from their past, and thrive in their future.
Seeking professional help from narcissistic abuse is the first step to a bold, beautiful life. Contact us today for a free and confidential chat to learn more about our trauma therapy programs.
