Growing up with a narcissistic mother, I often felt an overwhelming desire to disappear. Her constant criticism and unpredictable anger left me in a state of perpetual self-doubt, confusion and fear. I couldn't understand why she seemed to harbour such disdain for me, and this internal turmoil eroded my sense of self-worth. I know first-hand the quiet suffering that accompanies such experiences.

My journey towards healing was not linear. Many times I felt that I was not moving forward at all. Despite these moment of doubt in my progress, I felt that I needed to keep exploring the many layers of my being. As each step towards a more understanding and compassionate relationship with myself, made me trust and value myself more.

On my healing journey, I turned to meditation, explored spirituality, and embraced hypnotherapy. These practices became instrumental in helping me reconnect with myself, rediscover my inherent value, and rebuild the self-trust that had been shattered.

How does narcissistic abuse erode self-trust?

Narcissistic abuse profoundly undermines self-trust through persistent psychological manipulation. Tactics such as gaslighting cause victims to question their own memories and perceptions, leading to chronic self-doubt.

Over time, this deliberate distortion of reality erodes an individual's confidence in their judgment and intuition. The abuser's constant invalidation fosters confusion and insecurity, making it increasingly difficult for the victim to trust their own thoughts and feelings.

This systematic dismantling of self-trust leaves survivors feeling disconnected from their sense of self, often resulting in long-lasting emotional and psychological challenges.

On my healing journey, hypnotherapy has turned out to be a very useful modality to regain self-trust and confidence.

How hypnotherapy facilitates healing

Hypnotherapy provides a safe and nurturing environment to address these deep-seated wounds. By accessing the subconscious mind, hypnotherapy can help survivors:

• Process trauma safely: In a state of relaxed awareness, individuals can confront and process traumatic experiences without feeling overwhelmed, allowing for healing at a manageable pace.

• Reframe negative beliefs: Hypnotherapy assists in identifying and altering negative thought patterns instilled during abusive relationships, replacing them with positive affirmations that reinforce self-worth.

• Enhance emotional regulation: Through guided sessions, individuals learn techniques to manage emotional distress, reducing anxiety and fostering a sense of inner calm.

Rebuilding self-trust

The journey to restore self-trust through hypnotherapy involves:

• Validating personal experiences: Recognizing that one's feelings and perceptions are legitimate and important.

• Strengthening intuition: Reconnecting with and trusting one's inner voice and instincts.

• Empowering decision-making: Building confidence to make choices that align with one's true self, free from the shadow of past abuse.

A compassionate path forward

Healing from narcissistic abuse is a deeply personal journey. Hypnotherapy offers a gentle and supportive approach to help survivors reclaim their self-trust and move toward a future defined by self-assurance and inner peace.

For more insights into how hypnotherapy can aid in recovery from narcissistic abuse, you might find this article helpful.

If you would like to give hypnotherapy a try, please feel welcome to message me.