Narcissistic abuse
When a relationship leaves you questioning yourself
Narcissistic abuse can be difficult to recognise, particularly when you have been living with it for some time.
You may find yourself constantly questioning what happened, wondering whether you are overreacting, or blaming yourself for things that aren't your fault.
Sometimes the relationship can leave you feeling as though you have lost your confidence, your sense of self or your ability to trust your own decisions.
You may find yourself...
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constantly walking on eggshells
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questioning your own feelings or memories
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feeling that your feelings are dismissed or invalidated
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blaming yourself for what is happening
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feeling as though you can never do anything right
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struggling to make decisions because you have been criticised or undermined
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becoming isolated from friends or family
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losing confidence or self-worth
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putting your own needs aside to keep someone else happy
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feeling confused about what is happening in the relationship
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feeling anxious, helpless, numb or emotionally exhausted
You may also find yourself wondering why you are finding it so difficult to leave, set boundaries or trust yourself again. There is no shame in this. Relationships involving manipulation, control or emotional abuse can have a profound effect on how you see yourself and the world around you.
You don't have to prove that it was "bad enough"
Sometimes people minimise what has happened to them because there were also good times, or because they have been told that they are too sensitive, difficult or emotional.
You don't have to prove that your experience was bad enough to deserve support. If a relationship is leaving you feeling frightened, confused, diminished or unable to be yourself, it is okay to seek help.
How counselling can help
Counselling can provide a safe and confidential space where you can talk about what has been happening without judgement. We can explore the relationship and the patterns within it, while also looking at how it has affected your confidence, boundaries, self-worth and sense of self. You don't have to have everything worked out before you come to counselling. Sometimes the first step is simply having somewhere safe to say what has been happening and begin making sense of it. My approach is compassionate and non-judgemental. We can work at a pace that feels manageable for you and focus on what you need now.
Narcissistic abuse counselling in St Neots and online
I offer narcissistic abuse counselling in St Neots, as well as online counselling across the UK.
Whether you are currently in the relationship, have recently left, or are trying to understand the impact of a past relationship, counselling can give you space to begin rebuilding your confidence and reconnecting with yourself. If you're unsure whether counselling is right for you, you're welcome to get in touch for an initial conversation.
You don't have to work through this alone.
If you identify with several of these symptoms, please get in touch.
sarahharrisoncounselling@gmail.com
07395 826987