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February 28, 2025 37 mins

Healing from narcissistic abuse isn’t just about moving on. It’s about rebuilding who you are and learning to trust yourself again.

 

In this episode, I’m answering your questions on what it takes to heal, navigate life after a narcissistic relationship, and co-parent in a way that gives your children stability. If dating again feels impossible or you find yourself second-guessing every new relationship, you’re not alone. Narcissistic abuse erodes your sense of self, and I’ll explain why taking time before jumping into something new is one of the best things you can do for your healing.

 

Leaving a narcissist isn’t just difficult. It requires a plan. I’ll share why revealing your intentions too soon can put you at risk, how to prepare emotionally and financially, and what to expect when dealing with high-conflict custody battles. I’ll also break down how narcissistic traits can be passed down through emotionally immature parenting and what you can do to help your children develop a healthy sense of self.

 

If you’re struggling to move forward, wondering if you’ll ever feel like yourself again, or trying to co-parent with someone who thrives on chaos, this episode is for you. Let’s talk about how to take your power back.

 

Episode Breakdown:

00:00 Introduction

01:13 Answering Listener Questions

01:55 How to Flirt After Healing from Heartbreak

03:00 Trust Issues Post-Narcissistic Relationship

05:07 Importance of Not Dating Immediately After Breakup

06:12 Reestablishing Sense of Self

08:18 Misinterpreting Behaviors in New Dates

11:09 Staying Present While Dating

12:34 Maintaining Sense of Self in New Relationships

13:49 First Steps After Telling Narcissistic Spouse About Divorce

18:04 Differences Between Narcissistic and Toxic Breakups

20:00 Emotional Immaturity in Parents

23:00 Learned Behaviors vs. Narcissistic Personality Disorder

24:17 Accountability and Change

26:03 Narcissistic Tendencies in Children

27:08 Supporting a Loved One Dating a Narcissist

28:00 Isolation Tactics by Narcissists

30:29 Co-Parenting with a Narcissist

33:45 Demonstrating Healthy Boundaries

36:06 Closing 

 

Links

Connect with Dr. Z: https://www.drjaimezuckerman.com/

https://www.zgrouptherapy.com/

https://www.instagram.com/dr.z_psychologist/

https://www.tiktok.com/@dr.z_psychologist

https://www.youtube.com/@DrJaimeZuckerman

 

Get my FREE breathing exercise here: http://www.drjaimezuckerman.com/newsletter

Register for my on demand virtual courses here: http://www.drjaimezuckerman.com/workshops

Order my workbooks! *Find Your Calm / Find Good Habits* http://www.drjaimezuckerman.com/books

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