#26 – How to Deal with a Narcissist

Tags: narcissistic abuse, gaslighting, manipulation, trauma, psychology, mental health, boundaries, healing, toxic relationships.

Nova Gibson is the founder of Brighter Outlook, one of Australia’s leading counselling services for narcissistic abuse recovery. With over a decade of experience, she has helped thousands break free from trauma bonds and rebuild their lives. She is also the author of Fake Love, a guide to spotting red flags, gaslighting, and healing from toxic love.

In this episode, we explore how narcissistic behavior shows up in romantic relationships, and what to do if the narcissist is your parent or even your own child. We talk about the most common manipulation strategies, the impact on mental health, and how to recognize when you’re being gaslit. Most importantly, we discuss the steps you can take to set boundaries, protect yourself, and begin the healing process.

Tune in to this important conversation for insight, hope, and practical tools to reclaim yourself after a psychologically draining relationship - whether with a partner or within your family.

Chapters

(02:53) - Defining narcissism

(07:49) - Can a narcissist change?

(10:53) - Trauma and coping strategies

(11:33) - Manipulation techniques

(15:00) - Why survivors protect their abusers

(18:45) - A narcissist’s number one fear

(23:25) - How to begin moving on

(26:18) - The Grey Rock Method & co-parenting

(30:30) - Growing up with a narcissistic parent

(34:00) - Setting boundaries

(38:35) - Talking about the abuse, and knowing when to stop

Interviewing Nova Gibson (Her book Fake Love)