Narcissistic abuse and partial reward schedules go hand in hand. The mix of unpredictable affection, dopamine spikes, and stress-relief cycles makes toxic love feel like destiny—but neuroscience shows it’s a pattern you can break.

Narcissistic abuse recovery isn’t something you can fast-track, even when we wish we could. In this blog, I examine why recovery often takes at least six months of therapy, how to stay grounded when the process feels slow, and why our healing—unfair as it may seem—is still our responsibility.

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.

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!).

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.

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.

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.

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.