5 Ways to Manage a Narcissist – And How Therapy Can Help

Navigating a relationship with a narcissist, whether it’s a partner, parent, friend, or colleague,  can feel like walking on eggshells. Their charm can be disarming, but behind the mask may lie manipulation, control, and emotional exhaustion. If you’re regularly left feeling confused, drained, or doubting yourself after interactions with someone, you may be dealing with narcissistic behaviour.

What Is a Narcissist?

The term narcissist is often used casually these days, but narcissistic personality traits actually exist on a broad spectrum, and not all narcissists present in the same way. Most commonly recognised is the overt narcissist—typically charismatic, attention-seeking, and outwardly self-assured. They may dominate conversations, exaggerate achievements, and demand admiration, often appearing arrogant or entitled.

However, a form that is equally prevalent—though often less recognised—is the covert narcissist. Unlike the overt type, covert narcissists can appear shy, sensitive, or self-deprecating. They may struggle with feelings of victimhood, harbour resentment, and manipulate through guilt or passive-aggression rather than overt dominance. Their self-centredness is hidden beneath a façade of vulnerability or martyrdom, making their behaviours more difficult to spot and more psychologically confusing to those around them.

Another lesser-known type is the saviour or charity-leader narcissist. This person thrives on being seen as a helper, rescuer, or moral authority. While they may genuinely engage in charitable work or acts of service, their motivation often stems from a need for admiration, control, or moral superiority. They may use their “good deeds” to manipulate others, elevate their status, or avoid criticism, and they can become defensive or controlling if their benevolence is questioned.

When you’re caught in the web of any type of narcissistic dynamic, it can leave you feeling confused, invalidated, or emotionally drained. That’s where therapy can be particularly helpful.

How Can Therapy Help?

Living or working with a narcissist can quietly erode your self-esteem. You might question your reality (“Did that really happen, or am I being too sensitive?”), feel guilt for expressing your needs, or find yourself constantly trying to please someone who is impossible to satisfy.

Therapy can be an invaluable lifeline. It provides a safe space to:

• Understand narcissistic behaviour and its impact
• Rebuild your confidence and trust in your own perspective
• Set and maintain healthy boundaries
• Process emotional pain or trauma caused by the relationship
• Learn strategies to protect your well-being

Whether you’re considering leaving the relationship or need tools to manage it day-to-day, therapy can help you reclaim your power.

5 Tips to Help You Manage a Narcissist

Here are five therapist-recommended tips that can support you in dealing with a narcissist in your life:

1. Don’t Try to Change Them

It can be tempting to reason with a narcissist or hope they’ll change if you just say things the right way. But narcissists often lack the insight or willingness to reflect on their behaviour. Focus instead on what you can control – your reactions, boundaries, and choices.

2. Set Clear Boundaries

Narcissists often push limits. Be clear, firm, and consistent about what behaviour you will and won’t accept. Boundaries might include saying “no” without guilt, limiting contact, or stepping away from conversations that become abusive or manipulative.

3. Don’t Take the Bait

Narcissists may provoke you to gain control or to feed off your emotional response. Recognise when they’re trying to hook you into conflict or guilt. Practice stepping back, breathing, and choosing a calm, non-reactive response.

4. Prioritise Your Mental Health

It’s easy to lose sight of yourself in a narcissistic dynamic. Carve out time to reconnect with your values, hobbies, and supportive relationships. Journaling, mindfulness, and self-care routines can help strengthen your emotional resilience.

5. Seek Outside Support

Isolation is common in narcissistic relationships. Confide in a trusted friend, join a support group, or work with a therapist who understands narcissistic dynamics. You don’t have to do this alone.

How Therapy at KlearMinds Can Help

At KlearMinds, we understand how complex and emotionally draining it can be to deal with a narcissist. Our experienced integrative therapists provide a warm, confidential space where you can unpack your experiences and begin to heal.

We tailor therapy to your unique situation and goals. Whether you’re seeking help with:

• Identifying and understanding narcissistic behaviours
• Breaking cycles of self-doubt or guilt
• Learning assertiveness and communication strategies
• Recovering from gaslighting or emotional abuse
• Making decisions about whether to stay or leave the relationship

…we’re here to support you.

Our integrative approach means we draw on a range of science-backed therapies to provide tools that truly work for you.

Case Study: How KlearMinds Helped Sarah Reclaim Her Life

Sarah (name changed for privacy) came to KlearMinds after years in a relationship with a partner who consistently belittled her, blamed her for everything, and made her feel like she was “never enough.”

At first, Sarah felt confused – her partner wasn’t always cruel, and sometimes he was charming and affectionate. But the pattern of criticism, emotional withdrawal, and manipulation left her walking on eggshells.

In therapy, Sarah learned to recognise narcissistic abuse tactics such as gaslighting and blame-shifting. With her therapist’s support, she rebuilt her self-esteem, set clear boundaries, and developed the confidence to make decisions based on her own needs – not fear of her partner’s reactions.

After several months, as it became evident her partner had no plans to reflect upon or make any real attempts to change their abusive behaviour, Sarah chose to leave the relationship. Therapy gave her the tools to process her grief and start fresh with a stronger sense of self-worth and freedom.

Looking for Further Support?

Managing a relationship with a narcissist can be one of the most emotionally taxing experiences in life. But you are not powerless – with the right support, you can protect your mental health, rebuild your confidence, and create healthier relationships.

At KlearMinds, we’re here to walk that journey with you. If you’re struggling with a narcissist in your life, don’t hesitate to reach out. You deserve to feel heard, respected, and empowered.

Get in touch today and take the first step toward a clearer, stronger you.

Contact KlearMinds today to find out more or book an appointment with one of our highly skilled therapists.