Dissociation is Key: Linking Splitting, DID, BPD, and NPD

Dissociation is Key: Linking Splitting, DID, BPD, and NPD

Author: Mark Ettensohn, Psy.D. August 28, 2025 Duration: 9:31
Dr. Ettensohn expands on his recent episode exploring splitting as a dissociative process. Drawing from clinical experience and developmental theory, he addresses a common question: What’s the difference between splitting, identity diffusion, and Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID)? Rather than viewing these as separate diagnostic constructs, Dr. Ettensohn presents them as points along a continuum of dissociation. They represent defensive adaptations to overwhelming early experience. He explains why the traditional boundaries between “personality disorders” and “dissociative disorders” may be more fluid than we think. This episode continues Dr. Ettensohn’s unique, trauma-informed reframing of narcissistic personality dynamics, offering psychological depth without jargon and compassion without minimization. Purchase Unmasking Narcissism: A Guide to Understanding the Narcissist in Your Life here: https://amzn.to/3nG9FgH LISTEN ON APPLE PODCASTS: https://rb.gy/cklpum LISTEN ON GOOGLE PODCASTS: https://rb.gy/fotpca LISTEN ON AMAZON MUSIC: https://rb.gy/g4yzh8 VISIT THE WEBSITE: https://www.healnpd.org

In each episode of Heal NPD, clinical psychologist Mark Ettensohn, Psy.D., offers a grounded and compassionate look at narcissism, moving beyond the stereotypes that dominate casual conversation. Drawing from his professional practice, Dr. Ettensohn unpacks the complexities of narcissistic personality disorder and related patterns, providing clarity on their underlying mechanisms and impacts. This isn't about labeling or blame; it's a space for genuine understanding, whether you're a person seeking growth, a partner, a family member, or a professional in the field. You'll hear discussions that blend psychological science with practical insights, exploring pathways toward healing, setting boundaries, and fostering healthier relationships. The tone is educational yet accessible, demystifying a topic often shrouded in confusion and stigma. By tuning into this podcast, you gain a nuanced perspective from a specialist who approaches the subject with both clinical expertise and deep humanity. Dr. Ettensohn's thoughtful commentary aims to equip you with knowledge that is both intellectually sound and emotionally resonant, making Heal NPD a unique resource in the landscape of mental health dialogue.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 50

Heal NPD
Podcast Episodes
Weekly Insights: The Cycle of Narcissistic Dehumanization [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 10:24
The "Weekly Insights" series is for paid members of Dr. Ettensohn's Heal NPD Youtube channel. In the short-term, Dr. Ettensohn is posting all even-numbered episodes free of charge. If you would like access to the full se…
Weekly Insights: Reflections on Dichotomous Thinking [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 8:35
The "Weekly Insights" series is for paid members of Dr. Ettensohn's Heal NPD Youtube channel. In the short-term, Dr. Ettensohn is posting all even-numbered episodes free of charge. If you would like access to the full se…
Weekly Insights: Try This Instead of Gratitude [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 5:31
The "Weekly Insights" series is for paid members of Dr. Ettensohn's Heal NPD Youtube channel. In the short-term, Dr. Ettensohn is posting all even-numbered episodes free of charge. If you would like access to the full se…
The False Self: A Tragic Survival Strategy [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 20:55
In this episode, Dr. Ettensohn explores the insights of Alice Miller regarding emotional abandonment and narcissistic use of the child, focusing on how these early dynamics shape pathological narcissism and Narcissistic…
Without Emotional Skin: Understanding Borderline-Level NPD [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 40:02
In this episode, Dr. Ettensohn draws on psychodynamic dimensional models of personality development to describe narcissism and NPD at the borderline level. Characterized by identity diffusion, blurred boundaries, and dis…
Live with Dr. Ettensohn 7-25-24 [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:32:44
Dr. Mark Ettensohn answers questions and responds to viewer comments in a livestream broadcast from 7-25-24.
A Nameless Dread: Understanding Psychotic-Level NPD [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 29:14
In this episode, Dr. Ettensohn draws on psychodynamic dimensional models of personality development to describe narcissism and NPD at the psychotic level. Characterized by compromised reality testing, symbiotic object re…
Live with Dr. Ettensohn 4-26-24 [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:35:00
Dr. Mark Ettensohn answers questions and responds to viewer comments in a livestream broadcast from 4-26-24.
Live with Dr. Ettensohn 3-14-2024 [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:33:38
Dr. Ettensohn answers listener questions and responds to comments in a livestream broadcast from 3-14-24.