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Insights on narcissistic abuse recovery, trauma processing, EMDR therapy, and attachment styles—written by a licensed therapist in Chicago, Illinois. If there's anything you'd like to see us write about, feel free to send us a message!
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TWO LIGHTS THERAPY CENTER
Our Latest Insights
"Am I Too Much?" | Why You Feel Shame & A Need To Shrink Even During Narcissistic Abuse Recovery
If you’re in narcissistic abuse recovery and constantly asking yourself, “Am I too much?”—you’re not alone. The truth is, you were never too much. You just learned to shrink in a relationship that couldn’t hold your fullness. Healing means learning to take up space again.
Anxious-Preoccupied Attachment & Narcissistic Abuse: The Silent Risk Factor
Anxious-preoccupied attachment is often misunderstood and, too often, mocked. Behind the fear of being “too much” is deep self-abandonment and vulnerability to narcissistic abuse. If you find yourself overgiving, second-guessing your worth, or chasing love that hurts, it’s time to come home to yourself. Two Lights Therapy Center offers support for individuals with anxious-preoccupied attachment styles and narcissistic abuse recovery in Chicago.
Couples Therapy For Narcissistic Abuse: When Is It a Bad Idea? | Chicago Narcissism Therapist Explains
Thinking about couples therapy for narcissistic abuse in Chicago? In most cases, it’s not the safest or most effective path (and can even be harmful without the right precautions). But in very select situations, with a specialist and a clear harm reduction approach, couples therapy may help clarify relational realities or reduce further harm. Learn more about when it’s appropriate and when it’s not (in this blog!).
Signs It May Be Narcissistic Abuse (Not Just a Toxic Relationship)
Wondering if it's narcissistic abuse? Learn how to spot the signs, from chronic gaslighting to identity erosion, and why these patterns go far beyond ordinary relationship toxicity.
Narcissist or Fearful-Avoidant? Understanding the Overlap in Attachment Challenges & Narcissistic Traits
Wondering if you’re dealing with a narcissist or fearful avoidant? While they can look similar on the surface—hot-and-cold behavior, emotional withdrawal, or hypersensitivity—their core motivations are different. This blog breaks down how to tell the difference, how attachment wounds can mimic narcissism, and what it really takes to navigate conflict with a fearful-avoidant partner.
What Therapy Is Best for Narcissistic Abuse?
If you’ve experienced narcissistic abuse, finding the right kind of support is essential. In this post, we explore the best therapy for narcissistic abuse—why general approaches often fall short, and how a trauma-informed, relational specialist can help you safely process the manipulation, rebuild self-trust, and find peace. Not all therapy is created equal, and for survivors, that difference matters.
Narcissist or Antagonistic Dismissive Avoidant? A Chicago Narcissism Therapist Explains the Overlap
If you’ve been left reeling from a confusing, emotionally volatile relationship, you might be wondering whether your partner was a narcissist or a dismissive avoidant. The truth is, antagonistic dismissive avoidants can look a lot like narcissists, especially when their fear of intimacy turns into resentment, cruelty, or perceived abandonment. Understanding the difference can help you make sense of the chaos. Start therapy today.
Narcissistic Abuse Support Groups in Chicago: Finding the Right Support for You
Searching for a narcissistic abuse support group in Chicago? Whether you’re craving community or trying to break free from a trauma bond, this guide explores the benefits of group support & how individual trauma therapy for narcissistic abuse might offer additional benefits.
The Silent Struggles of Survivors in Narcissistic Relationships
Survivors of narcissistic relationships often face invisible wounds that go far beyond the relationship itself. From isolation and gaslighting to being met with judgment instead of support, the struggle doesn’t always end when the relationship does. This blog explores the silent weight survivors carry—and why healing requires more than just “leaving.”
Why You Shouldn’t Use the Word “Narcissist” in Court | Chicago Narcissism Specialist Explains
Thinking of calling your ex a narcissist in court? As a Chicago narcissism specialist, I’ve seen how this can backfire. Learn why using behavior-based language is often a smarter legal strategy—and how to protect your credibility in high-conflict cases.
Narcissist or Avoidant? 3 Ways to Tell If You're Dealing with Narcissistic Traits, Fearful Avoidant Attachment, or a Dismissive Avoidant | Narcissistic Abuse Therapy, Chicago, IL
Confused about whether you were dealing with narcissistic traits or avoidant attachment? This guide breaks down 3 key differences. Narcissistic abuse therapy in Chicago can help you make sense of it all.
What is Post-Narcissist Stress Disorder & Is Narcissistic Abuse Syndrome a Real Diagnosis? | Understanding These Commonly Misunderstood Terms, Causes & Treatment
You may have asked yourself, what is post-narcissist stress disorder, or you've wondered whether narcissistic abuse syndrome is an official diagnosis. While these aren't formal clinical terms, they reflect very real trauma symptoms experienced after emotionally abusive relationships. This blog explores the origins of these phrases, what they truly mean, and how therapy can support your narcissistic abuse recovery journey.
Why Relational Therapy Matters for Narcissistic Abuse Recovery | Chicago, IL
Relational therapy is a powerful approach for narcissistic abuse recovery. By creating safety, building trust, and offering corrective emotional experiences, this form of therapy helps survivors heal the relational wounds that logic & insight alone can’t touch.
EMDR Therapy for Narcissistic Abuse Recovery & Relational Trauma | Understanding the AIP Model | Chicago, IL
EMDR therapy helps survivors of narcissistic abuse and relational trauma reprocess and integrate painful memories utilizing what we know about the AIP model. By targeting the root of emotional wounds, EMDR reduces distress, rewires negative beliefs, and offers lasting relief. This blog explains how it works—and how Chicago-based EMDR therapy can support you in your recovery after narcissistic abuse.
Narcissistic Smear Campaign: How to Respond & Reclaim Your Truth After Narcissistic Abuse
A narcissistic smear campaign can flip your world upside down—especially when it affects your work, friendships, family life, or support systems. In this blog, we’ll look at how these campaigns unfold, how to stay grounded in your truth, and when to consider legal action like defamation lawsuits or restraining orders. Rebuilding your reputation starts with knowing you're not alone—and you don’t have to stay silent.
The Strengths of the Dismissive Avoidant Attachment Style (As Told by an Attachment-Focused Chicago Therapist)
Dismissive avoidant attachment is often misunderstood—it’s not all emotional unavailability and distance. People with this style are often incredibly independent, focused, and calm under pressure. They tend to handle change well, enjoy time alone, and self-regulate in creative (if imperfect) ways. These strengths can be powerful assets when paired with self-awareness and therapy. Let’s reframe the narrative and appreciate what dismissive avoidants bring to the table.
Attachment Style Therapy: Why Attachment Theory is the Key to Understanding Yourself and Your Relationships
Attachment theory and attachment style therapy helps us understand why we repeat the same relational patterns, feel triggered by certain things, or struggle inside of our relationships. These aren’t just unique quirks—these behaviors are rooted in early attachment wounding. By exploring your attachment style and core beliefs, therapy can be helpful in reconnecting you with your values and a life you want.
How to Break a Trauma Bond After Narcissistic Abuse: Why It Takes Time (and What Will Really Help)
Breaking a trauma bond after narcissistic abuse takes time. Learn from a Chicago narcissistic abuse recovery therapist how EMDR and parts work can help you heal deeply and let go for good.
Getting Back with a Dismissive Avoidant Partner: What You Need to Know
Getting back with a dismissive avoidant partner? Here's why the reunion feels so good—and why it often ends the same painful way. Learn more from a licensed therapist in Chicago, Illinois, who specializes in attachment styles.
Can Virtual EMDR Therapy Really Work? What the Research Is Actually Showing Us
Does EMDR therapy work online? Learn how virtual EMDR helps trauma, anxiety, and narcissistic abuse, from a licensed Illinois therapist
What is EMDR for Narcissistic Abuse? | Chicago Trauma Therapist Explains
Struggling to heal after narcissistic abuse? EMDR therapy in Chicago can help process painful trauma and let you feel like yourself again.
3 Lesser-Known Dismissive Avoidant Personality Traits
Dismissive avoidants work hard to avoid emotions, intellectualize feelings, and are both drawn to and fearful of emotionally intense people.
Who Is The Phantom Ex: The Ever-Present Ghost in Narcissistic Relationships
The phantom ex haunts insecurely attached and narcissistic relationships, fueling comparison, insecurity, and emotional unavailability.
The Dismissive Avoidant & Fearful Avoidant Relationship: Why This Attachment Style Pairing Feels Impossible & Tends to End In Heartbreak
Understand the dismissive avoidant &
fearful avoidant relationship dynamic. This is the most painful, heart-breaking attachment pairing.
Narcissistic Relationships: Common Communication Challenges (Spoiler Alert – It’s Not You That’s Making It Difficult)
Communicating with a narcissist can leave you feeling confused and unheard. Learn why—and how to reclaim your voice.
Why Sex with a Narcissist Feels So Addictive—And How to Break Free
Sex with a narcissist can feel intoxicating, but is it real intimacy or a cycle of manipulation? Learn why it feels addictive—and how to bre
Finding Narcissistic Abuse Therapy Near Me: Resource List | Two Lights Therapy Center PLLC | Chicago, Illinois
Struggling to find a therapist for narcissistic abuse in your state? Explore top directories & expert tips for finding the right support.
Therapists for Narcissistic Abuse: 4 Red Flags to Watch For
Not all therapists understand narcissistic abuse. Watch for these 4 red flags to ensure your therapist is truly trauma-informed.
Expanding On Our Narcissistic Abuse & Narcissistic Tendencies FAQ’s | Two Lights Therapy Center | Chicago, Illinois
Wondering if our specialized treatment is right for you? We expanded on our FAQs about narcissistic abuse therapy and more.
Why, as a Narcissistic Abuse Therapist, My Top Priority Is NOT Reducing Your Anxiety Without First Exploring It
Your anxiety after narcissistic abuse isn’t the problem—it’s a message. Healing starts by listening to it, not silencing it.
Chicago Narcissistic Abuse Therapist: Does It Matter If They Are a Narcissist?
Chicago narcissistic abuse therapist explains how patterns, not labels, define toxic relationships and healing from narcissistic abuse.
2 Counterintuitive Ways to Begin Healing After Narcissistic Abuse or Antagonistic Relational Stress
Healing from narcissistic abuse requires self-compassion. Learn to embrace your emotions and take the time you need to recover fully.
Therapy for Narcissism (NPD): How a Therapist Can Help Heal and Transform
Therapy for narcissism offers a judgment-free space to heal and grow. Through therapy & lowered pressures, transformation becomes possible.
Part 2: How a Trauma Bond Forms & Progresses (Through a Simplified Neuroscience Lens)
Uncover the neuroscience behind a trauma bond. Explore how narcissistic abuse fuels emotional dependency through neurochemical changes.
The Simplified Neuroscience of Trauma Bonds: How Narcissistic Abuse Can Hijack Your Brain (Part 1)
The neuroscience of trauma bonds reveals how narcissistic abuse hijacks your brain via a neurochemical con-job, making distance unbearable.
How to Heal After Narcissistic Abuse: Steps for Recovery and Self-Empowerment
Healing from narcissistic abuse means stabilization, breaking cycles, & growth. Reclaim your identity and thrive. #NarcissisticAbuseRecovery
A Word With Erika (Part 1): Chicago Narcissistic Abuse Recovery Therapist & Therapist for Narcissistic Personality Styles
Hear from Two Lights Therapy Center's founder, Erika Koch-Weser, who specializes in narcissism, narcissistic personalities & abuse recovery.
Help Towards Healing: Narcissistic Abuse Recovery Therapist or Coach?
Learn the key differences between a therapist & coach to find the right support for your healing during narcissistic abuse recovery therapy.
A Letter to Healing Survivors in Narcissistic Abuse Recovery
You did your best with what you knew. Your vulnerability is a strength, not a weakness. Healing takes time—be patient & gentle with yourself
The Lingering Trauma of Narcissistic Abuse: Finding Healing Through Grief and Empowerment
Healing from narcissistic abuse means grieving without shame, breaking the trauma bond, and reclaiming your life one small step at a time.
Understanding the Effects of Narcissism: What Trauma-Bonding Is & What It Isn’t in Narcissistic Abuse
Discover the science behind trauma-bonding in narcissistic abuse and why it’s so hard to break free from the emotional rollercoaster.
Narcissistic Abuse: The Less Obvious, More Coercive Kinds of Love-Bombing and Their Impact on Your Mental Well-Being & Future Healing
Discover the hidden forms of love-bombing in narcissistic abuse and how they impact your mental well-being and healing process.
2 Reasons Why Individuals with Narcissistic Personality Traits (Narcissistic Personality Disorder) CAN Benefit From Mental Health Therapy
Can therapy actually help someone if they have narcissistic personality disorder?
Road to Recovery– 3 Tips: “How Do I Find a Qualified Narcissistic Abuse Specialist for Therapy Near Me?”
"I'm not in Illinois! How Do I Find Another Qualified Narcissistic Abuse Therapist Near Me?"
3 Ways That Trauma-Informed Narcissistic Abuse Recovery Therapy is Different Than Traditional Talk Therapy
Should I see a narcissism specialist or generalist therapist?
3 Ways to Distinguish Between A Narcissistic Personality Style and A Dismissive Avoidant Attachment Style
Dismissive Avoidant Attachment or Narcissistic Personality? It can sometimes be hard to tell.
Thank you for visiting our blog!
At Two Lights Therapy Center, we find purpose in working exclusively with individuals who are seeking therapy & support for relationships characterized by coercive control, narcissistic abuse & antagonistic relational stress. We also offer treatment for folks with narcissistic personality styles, as well as individuals with attachment and codependency challenges. Narcissistic abuse treatment telehealth therapy services are available for all of Chicago & Illinois.
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Disclaimer
The information provided in these blog posts is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional therapy or therapeutic services. Readers should not use this content as a replacement for individualized advice or treatment. If you are experiencing a crisis or need immediate assistance, please call 911 or contact other emergency services in your area.
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