Surviving the Narcissist: The 5 Stages of a Strategic Divorce on Divorce & Beyond #383

Dr. Justine Weber joins Susan Guthrie to share what it really looks like to navigate a relationship with someone who exhibits narcissistic or high-conflict behavior - from the moment someone starts questioning things to the long road of healing on the other side.

Together, Susan and Justine walk through the five stages of divorcing a narcissist, from the first signs of doubt to post-divorce healing. Whether a listener is thinking about leaving, stuck in the thick of it, or still reeling years after the divorce, Justine offers insights for every stage. As both a therapist and coach, she’s helped countless individuals move from confusion and survival mode to clarity and stability.

Susan and Justine explore what it means to leave strategically, how to stay safe and grounded, and why documenting behavior, no matter how small, can be one of the most important steps a person can take. Justine also shares guidance on supporting children through the chaos and what it takes to rebuild life after abuse. This episode is a reminder that no one has to do it alone, and they shouldn’t. Justine’s tips, contact information, and downloadable resource are all linked in the show notes.

What You’ll Discover in This Episode:

• Document everything - privately and securely - to stay grounded and protect yourself.
• Don’t leave impulsively. Build a plan, gather support, and consult professionals first.
• Ask attorneys about handling manipulation, not labels like “narcissist.”
• Be the calm, safe parent your kids can count on—listen, don’t gaslight.
• Healing is possible, but you can’t do it alone. Support and strategy make all the difference.

More About Our Special Guest, Justine Weber:  Justine Weber is a licensed clinical psychologist, author, and coach. Justine is dedicated to helping individuals heal, grow and find meaning in life. Justine has a unique specialty in helping people heal and thrive from narcissistic relationships and break free from life’s dysfunctional barriers. With years of experience in providing therapy, Justine is known for her authentic and empathic approach, fostering growth.

Beyond relationship healing, Justine specializes in helping those who feel stuck in life, unable to move forward. She empowers individuals to harness the energy of fear as a catalyst for transformation—shifting from a place of stagnation to a life of growth and fulfillment. Through targeted strategies, she helps reframe limiting beliefs into motivating perspectives, allowing individuals to recognize their potential and embrace meaningful change.

Her commitment to creating a supportive and transformative space enables clients to break free from dysfunctional patterns, develop self-awareness, and step into a thriving, purpose-driven life. If you are ready to move beyond fear, overcome limiting beliefs, and cultivate a life of meaning and success, Justine is here to guide you every step of the way.

Grab the Five Stages of Healing - Free Download from Dr. Justine Weber

Websites: http://sereneshift.com and drjustineweber.com

Book: How the F*ck Do I Heal from This?: Understanding Narcissistic Abuse and how to Put Your Life Back Together 

Social Media: 

https://www.instagram.com/drjustineweber/

https://www.tiktok.com/@drjustineweber

http://facebook.com/drjustineweberhealing

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Also Mentioned in This Episode: The Incredible Tale of One Mom’s Successful 10-Year Battle to Be Free of a Narcissist with Tina Swithin 

Domestic Abuse Part Two: Turning the Focus to Post-Separation Abuse with Dr. Christine Cocchiola

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