Weekly Insights: Healing Without a Therapist

Weekly Insights: Healing Without a Therapist

Author: Mark Ettensohn, Psy.D. May 27, 2025 Duration: 11:29
In this Weekly Insight, Dr. Ettensohn shares an adapted preview from his upcoming video on narcissism at the neurotic level of personality organization. He reflects on what it means to move toward psychological integration, emotional complexity, and the capacity for self-reflection - especially for those doing this work without a therapist. Drawing from clinical understanding and developmental theory, Dr. Ettensohn discusses how self-acceptance, mindfulness, and the capacity to tolerate imperfection are crucial aspects of healing. He emphasizes the importance of allowing history to be real, recognizing and managing splitting, and loosening rigid self-perceptions that often emerge from narcissistic defenses. Using metaphor, lived experience, and grounded strategies, he shows how healing becomes possible even outside the therapeutic relationship when we begin to relate to ourselves differently.

In Heal NPD, clinical psychologist Mark Ettensohn, Psy.D., offers a nuanced and compassionate exploration of narcissism, moving beyond simplistic labels to examine the underlying psychological structures. This podcast delves into the complexities of narcissistic personality disorder and related traits, providing clarity for those who recognize these patterns in themselves or in their relationships. Dr. Ettensohn draws from his specialized therapeutic practice to discuss the origins of narcissistic adaptations, the impact on interpersonal dynamics, and the realistic pathways toward change and healing. Episodes often break down clinical concepts into accessible language, featuring discussions on empathy, identity, shame, and the challenging process of building healthier self-esteem and relational skills. The tone is educational yet deeply human, aiming to reduce stigma and foster understanding. Whether you are a mental health professional, someone personally affected by NPD, or simply curious about personality psychology, this series provides a rare, expert-guided look into a frequently misunderstood area of human behavior. Tune in for a thoughtful perspective that prioritizes psychological science and the possibility of growth.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 62

Heal NPD
Podcast Episodes
Lisa Taylor-Austin’s Interview with Dr. Ettensohn [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:12:02
This episode is the audio from an on-camera interview between licensed psychotherapist Lisa Taylor-Austin and Dr. Ettensohn. The video of this interview can be viewed on Lisa's youTube channel here: https://www.youtube.c…
Decoding NPD: The Critical Role of Attachment [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 22:41
In this episode, Dr. Ettensohn draws heavily on his own research concerning pathological narcissism and attachment patterns, using attachment theory as a lens to focus explanatory power onto the often confusing dynamics…
5 Common Misconceptions about NPD [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 27:27
In this episode, Dr. Ettensohn addresses 5 common misconceptions about pathological narcissism and NPD: 1. NPD is not a mental illness 2. NPD is not treatable 3. Even if NPD is treatable, actual healing is impossible 4.…
Boundaries, Assertiveness, and NPD [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 24:47
In this episode, Dr. Ettensohn discusses the important topic of boundaries. He provides a definition of interpersonal boundaries, discusses the reasons why boundaries are important for mental health and healthy relations…
What Causes Narcissistic Rage? [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 19:04
In this episode, Dr. Ettensohn explores the possible causes of narcissistic rage, referencing the work of Ernest S. Wolf, a close collaborator with Heinz Kohut and author of the book 'Treating the Self: Elements of Clini…
Do Narcissists ”Know What They’re Doing?” [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 14:47
In this episode, Dr. Ettensohn discusses the topic of self-awareness in NPD. Numerous commenters have shared their belief that narcissists "know what they are doing"...that they are fully aware of the harm caused by thei…
Why Narcissists Lack Empathy [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 15:21
In this episode, Dr. Ettensohn outline 4 reasons why empathy may be impaired in pathological narcissism and NPD: 1. Lack of self awareness 2. Objectification of the self and others 3. A 'starvation mindset' 4. Avoidant a…
Illness Anxiety and NPD [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 10:35
In this episode, Dr. Ettensohn explores the connection between illness anxiety and pathological narcissism. This episode explores how illness anxiety in NPD can be disguised anxiety about loss of self or psychological di…
A Real Definition of Narcissistic Abuse [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 10:20
The term ‘narcissistic abuse’ has been, itself, heavily abused. Is has largely been a pop-psychology term that means different things depending on how and where it is used. It is often used to demonize individuals with p…
Why Narcissists Feel Empty Inside [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 13:29
In this episode, Dr. Ettensohn discusses the emptiness that individuals with pathological narcissism and NPD often experience using the concept of ‘Self as Object.’ Individuals with pathological narcissism and NPD often…