Reclaiming Reality: Healing from Narcissistic Abuse Through Existential Therapy

Victims of narcissistic abuse often grapple with issues related to identity, autonomy, self-worth, and a distorted sense of self and reality. The existential approach to therapy is particularly effective in addressing these challenges because it fosters a deep, reflective exploration of the self and one’s place in the world.

Narcissistic abuse significantly erodes a victim's sense of self and reality. Those affected typically come to therapy feeling confused, believing that they are at fault, and thinking there is something wrong with them that needs fixing. This self-doubt can be even more entrenched if the abuse began in childhood. As victims’ sense of self-worth and reality become heavily dependent on the narcissist, they often start therapy with very little confidence in their own sense of reality and self.