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
Shop my new Mindfully Messy hoodie here: http://www.drjaimezuckerman.com/apparel
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