The Lifeworks Group, Inc.

  By: Brian Murray, LMHC    Is it possible to treat narcissism? It really depends on the counselor you ask. Some say yes while many are likely to say no. There are a lot of counselors out there who feel this condition is next to impossible to treat. Treating narcissism is a very difficult and time-consuming effort on behalf of the therapist, even for the most qualified. Treatment can be equally frustrating for the client. Most narcissistic clients end up feeling defeated through lack of change and quit prematurely usually within the first 1-6 months. This is partly due to high expectation due to the general condition of narcissism and perhaps a therapist who is not used to treating narcissism. Treating narcissism requires a therapist who is experienced and has equipped themselves to take on these personality types. Self-reflection and forming internal resolutions with the client are very common in counseling, however, these same processes have led to the narcissist bu...

By: Christine Hammond, LMHC, NCC Brian came into therapy describing his wife’s behavior as having Borderline Personality Disorder. He looked up the definition online and said he knew she had it. He gave numerous examples of how perfectly she fit the profile and how he and the kids had been traumatized by her behavior. Brian said she was fearful of his abandonment and in desperation would rage anytime he mentioned separation. He talked about her alcohol abuse and how she seemed like an addict. He said she would be happy one minute and furious the next. Yet every time the conversation was redirected to him, he became evasive. Physically, Brian’s face seemed unusually red. He was a bit shaky, noticeably uncomfortable, and yet meticulously groomed. His manner of speech seemed rehearsed and he was hyper-focused on his wife. He desperately wanted affirmation from me, the therapist, that he was right in his diagnosis of her and was upset that I was unwilling to give it im...