Adult children of narcissists parents often struggle to name what happened to them.

In this episode, I’m joined again by Dr. Rachna Buxani, and we’re exploring the different faces of narcissism — and why it can be so hard to recognise.

While many people can spot the grandiose narcissist — the constant need to be the centre of attention, the arrogance, the lack of empathy — it’s the other, quieter forms of narcissism, that often go unnoticed and can be most confusing.

In this episode we explore more covert (or vulnerable) narcissism—the “poor me” dynamic, where someone positions themselves as the victim, appearing sensitive or misunderstood, while quietly centring everything around their own needs.

This can show up as guilt-tripping, emotional withdrawal, stonewalling and blame-shifting that leaves you feeling responsible for their pain.

We also look at communal narcissism — where the narcissist is widely seen as generous and selfless. They can be deeply admired in their community, yet behind closed doors it's a complexity different story. There is a constant need for admiration, validation and control. This makes the relationship confusing and one-sided — and you doubt yourself, especially when your experience doesn’t match how the world sees them.

This conversation about making sense of what you’ve lived through — so you can begin to rebuild self-trust, set boundaries, and reconnect with your voice.

Unseen - A Therapist's Reflection on a Daughter's Journey Through a Narcissistic Father's Shadow

Dr. Rachna Buxani-Mirpuri

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BEYOND SURVIVAL - The Therapy Podcast

Becoming a mother is often spoken about as a time of softness. A time where a mother is held, supported, celebrated. Where care naturally gathers around her.

But for many adult children of narcissistic parents, pregnancy and having their own children can feel like the exact opposite.

Instead of support, there can be intrusion.
Instead of care, there can be control.
Instead of being seen, there can be a sudden and overwhelming sense of being claimed.

In this week’s episode of Beyond Survival – The Therapy Podcast, I’m joined by Kristin Morgan, who brings over a decade of experience in maternal mental health and reproductive psychology. Together, we explore the emotional complexity that can arise when an adult child steps into motherhood while still navigating a relationship with a narcissistic parent.

Because for many, pregnancy doesn’t just mark the beginning of a new life — it marks the re-emergence of old patterns.

Contact Kristin: www.morgancounsel.com

The C.A.L.M Method is starting this Monday 20th April - I can't wait to welcome you in

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BEYOND SURVIVAL - The Therapy Podcast

When you’re raised by a narcissistic parent, the harm doesn’t come labelled as abuse.

It comes wrapped in concern, protection, closeness, and sacrifice. “This is for your own good.” “I’m only saying this because I love you.”

Over time, these messages don’t just justify the behaviour — they shape how you understand yourself.

In this episode, I unpack one of the most confusing and painful questions for adult children: How did I not know it was abuse?

The reason you didn’t see it wasn’t because you missed something. It’s because it was never meant to be seen.

Through real-life examples, this episode breaks down the subtle ways narcissistic abuse hides in plain sight — from criticism framed as care, to control framed as protection, to emotional enmeshment disguised as closeness. I also look at why, even in adulthood, so many adults continue to turn the blame inward — and why that response makes sense.

The C.A.L.M Method is starting this Monday 20th April - I can't wait to welcome you in

Click Here to join or find out more information

BEYOND SURVIVAL - The Therapy Podcast