Are All My Enemies Narcissists?

What if calling someone a narcissist is keeping you stuck? We get honest about the difference between painful behavior, emotional immaturity, and true narcissistic traits—and why that distinction changes how you set boundaries, assess safety, and rebuild trust with yourself. With Anne Chester, LCSW, we unpack the core marker of narcissism—lack of empathy—and explain how charm, confidence, and attention‑seeking can mask controlling patterns that erode your sense of reality.

We walk through practical ways to respond without turning into a detective. Diagnosis isn’t your job; safety is. You’ll learn how to recognize when “no” doesn’t stick, how confusion signals manipulation or mismatch, and why documenting patterns beats arguing about intentions. We also explore the spectrum of narcissistic behaviors and the less obvious traps, like vulnerable posturing or self‑pity used to regain control. Then we pivot to your side of the street: self‑inquiry that reveals triggers, stories that keep you stuck, and family roles that turn current conflicts into old echoes.

This conversation offers a grounded path forward—clear boundaries, concrete red flags, and compassionate tools for growth. You’ll hear how transference makes people into metaphors and how gratitude can be reframed as data: thank you for showing me your pattern. Sometimes distance is the boundary; sometimes it’s a reset that brings clarity. Either way, you’ll leave with language to protect your energy and a checklist for when to seek professional help, especially if safety is on the line.

If this helped you see your situation more clearly, follow the show, share it with a friend who needs it, and leave a quick review so others can find it. Live in Texas and want support? Book a free 15‑minute consult online.

To learn more about Anne Chester™, LCSW Counseling visit:
https://www.AnneChester.com
Anne Chester™, LCSW Counseling
122 River Oaks Drive
Southlake, Texas 76092
817-939-7884

What is the Art of an Apology?

Ever been handed “I’m sorry you feel that way” and left wondering why it made everything worse? We go straight to the heart of repair—what a real apology is, how to make one without excuses, and how to protect your mental health when the apology you need never arrives. Anne shares a candid personal story of making amends after causing real hurt, then breaks down a clear, humane framework: name the harm specifically, acknowledge impact, invite correction without defensiveness, express genuine remorse, ask how to repair without expecting a reward, and back it up with changed behavior.

From there, we dig into the psychology of non-apologies—performative scripts, “I’m sorry, but…” defenses, and vague pleas to “move on”—and why they erode trust instead of restoring it. We talk about timing and consent, and how pressuring someone to forgive on the spot can re-wound them. You’ll hear practical language you can use, plus guidance for staying grounded when tough feedback lands. The conversation centers autonomy and boundaries: you don’t get to control someone’s feelings, and they don’t get to control your healing.

We also tackle the hardest part: when sorry never comes. Waiting can turn into a power struggle that drains your peace. Learn how to set clear boundaries, redefine or end relationships, and find a posture of “I wish you well” without minimizing harm. We draw a firm line on safety—no one owes an apology for being abused, and the priority is staying safe and getting support. Whether you’re offering repair or grieving the apology you won’t receive, this is a roadmap for integrity, clarity, and closure that doesn’t depend on anyone else’s choice.

If this resonated, follow the show, share it with a friend who needs it, and leave a quick review to help others find these tools. Your story might be the spark for someone else’s repair.

To learn more about Anne Chester™, LCSW Counseling visit:
https://www.AnneChester.com
Anne Chester™, LCSW Counseling
122 River Oaks Drive
Southlake, Texas 76092
817-939-7884

Stop, Drop And Rethink : A Guide To Catastrophizing Less

Ever find yourself spiraling into worst-case scenarios over relatively minor issues? That's catastrophizing, and it's stealing your mental peace.

In this enlightening episode, licensed clinical social worker Anne Chester unpacks her powerful "Stop, Drop, and Rethink" method for interrupting catastrophic thought patterns. With refreshing candor, Anne shares her own experience with catastrophizing—how paying quarterly taxes triggers irrational fears of "living in a box under a bridge" despite all evidence to the contrary. This relatable example sets the stage for understanding how our brains often betray us with extreme predictions that aren't grounded in reality.

The conversation delves into practical strategies anyone can implement immediately. Anne explains how developing bodily awareness helps catch catastrophic thoughts early, emphasizing the importance of labeling emotions and identifying underlying beliefs. She offers concrete techniques for reality-testing catastrophic predictions and redirecting your attention through simple activities like taking a walk or counting backward from 500. For those who find journaling helpful, Anne presents a structured approach that avoids rumination while building emotional intelligence—starting with observations of nature and moving through positive experiences, emotional awareness, and manageable goal-setting.

Ready to transform how you respond to uncertainty? Listen now and discover why catastrophizing doesn't have to be your default setting.

To learn more about Anne Chester™, LCSW Counseling visit:
https://www.AnneChester.com
Anne Chester™, LCSW Counseling
122 River Oaks Drive
Southlake, Texas 76092
817-939-7884