Secret #29: Narcissism with Dr. Robyn Walser

In this episode, we are joined by special guest, Dr. Robyn Walser. Robyn, a renowned clinical psychologist and expert in acceptance and commitment therapy, shares her profound insights on the complex topic of narcissism and its impact on relationships and communities.

From the deep-seated insecurities that drive narcissistic behavior to the emotional toll it can take on those entangled in such relationships, Robyn sheds light on the often misunderstood world of narcissism. The conversation delves into the allure of charismatic individuals during crises, the manipulation of power dynamics, and the dangerous exploitation of empathic and vulnerable individuals.

Listeners will gain valuable strategies for dealing with narcissistic behavior, including the importance of setting clear boundaries, seeking community support, and recognizing the red flags of covert narcissism. We also discuss the troubling tendency to surrender autonomy to powerful figures and the historical and contemporary implications of such behavior.

• Understanding Narcissism
• Causes and Rise in Attention
• Attraction and Relationships with Narcissistic Individuals
• Challenges in Addressing Narcissism
• Strategies for Dealing with Narcissists

Timestamps:

[00:00] Introduction to the Guest

[01:33] Defining Narcissism

[03:55] The Rise of Narcissism in Society

[10:10] Narcissism in Relationships

[15:53] The Impact of Narcissistic Leaders

[26:25] Coping with Narcissism

[45:21] Conclusion and Resources

About Dr. Robyn D. Walser

Visit TL Consultation Services, Dr. Walser’s

Check out this Youtube Channel @Surviving Narcissism

And a shout out to her bulldog, Daisy Optimus Prime, who can be heard breathing throughout the podcast.

TLConstulation Services is individually owned and operated in two locations. The main location is in Menlo Park, CA. Dr. Walser also has a home office. There she conducts personal consultation over Skype and by phone.

Robyn is Director of TL Consultation Services and co-director of the Bay Area Trauma Recovery Center and staff at the National Center for PTSD, Dissemination and Training Division. As a licensed psychologist, she maintains an international training, consulting and therapy practice. She is an expert in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and has co-authored 4 books on ACT including a book on learning ACT. She also has expertise in traumatic stress and substance abuse and has authored a number of articles, chapters and books on these topics. Dr. Walser has been described as a “passionate, creative, and bold ACT trainer and therapist” and she is best known for her dynamic, warm and challenging workshops. She is often referred to as a clinician’s clinician.