Deciding whether to stay with a narcissist partner is one of the most challenging and painful decisions one can face. While seeking professional help, many individuals are met with the daunting assertion that their partner cannot change. However, Dr. David Hawkins, Director of the Marriage Recovery Center and the Emotional Abuse Institute, offers a different perspective. This article delves into five crucial points Dr. Hawkins emphasizes for those struggling with this decision.
The Possibility of Change
The first and most important point Dr. Hawkins makes is that the belief that a narcissistic individual cannot change is incorrect. It is essential to acknowledge that everyone is capable of change under the right circumstances. While not everyone is motivated to make changes, it is not fair to dismiss the potential for change outright. Even individuals struggling with severe addictions can change, given the proper support and motivation.
The Importance of Mindset
Mindset plays a critical role in the process of change. Many individuals seeking help for their partner’s narcissistic behavior often hear that there is no hope for improvement. However, Dr. Hawkins argues that this is not the case. The Marriage Recovery Center’s programs are filled with men motivated to overcome patterns of narcissism and emotional abuse, proving that change is possible. Starting from the belief that change can happen is vital. It sets the foundation for the hard work and interventions required to make a difference.
Understanding the Situation
A thorough understanding of what is happening in the relationship is essential. Clinicians should take the time to fully grasp the dynamics of the marriage and family systems. They should ask detailed questions about the efforts made to intervene in destructive patterns of behavior. This deep understanding allows for a more accurate assessment of the situation and helps in formulating effective interventions. Clients should feel understood and supported by their clinician.
The Role of Interventions
Interventions are critical in addressing narcissistic and emotionally abusive behavior. They can take many forms and are not limited to drastic measures like divorce. Interventions can be small steps that disrupt entrenched patterns of thinking and behavior within the marriage. It is crucial to explore all possible steps to disrupt the marriage system constructively. This might include emotional distancing, confronting bad behavior, and educating oneself about emotional abuse.
A Step-by-Step Approach
Deciding to leave or stay in a relationship with a narcissistic partner should not be rushed. A step-by-step approach allows for careful consideration and gradual progress. For those who want to do everything possible to save their marriage, working with a professional to explore all options is crucial. Intervention and collaboration can lead to significant changes, and the future does not have to mirror the past.
Seeking Professional Help
For those determined to stay in their marriage and make it work, professional help is invaluable. The Marriage Recovery Center offers support and guidance to explore possibilities and make informed decisions. The goal is to bring about substantial change, ensuring a future that is encouraging and hopeful.
Should I Leave My Narcissist Partner?
Deciding to leave a narcissistic partner is not straightforward. It involves weighing the potential for change, understanding the dynamics of the relationship, and considering various interventions. Dr. Hawkins emphasizes that change is possible, but it requires a mindset open to possibilities and a willingness to take constructive steps. Seeking professional help can provide the support needed to navigate this complex decision, offering hope and clarity for the future.
To learn how we can help, reach out to us at (206) 219-0145 or info@marriagerecoverycenter.com to speak with a Client Care Specialist
Also read:What is the Only Kind of Counseling That Works For Narcissists?
About Dr. Hawkins:
The internet is inundated with hyperbole and misinformation about narcissism, leaving many people confused and hopeless. Get the facts on narcissism and emotional abuse from someone who has been researching, writing about and treating narcissism and emotional abuse for over a decade.
Dr. Hawkins is a best-selling author and clinical psychologist with over three decades of experience helping people break unhealthy patterns and build healthier relationships.
He is the founder and director of the Marriage Recovery Center and the Emotional Abuse Institute which offers education, training and counseling for people who want to break free of, and heal from, emotional abuse. Whether the perpetrator of the abuse is your spouse, partner, parent, boss, friend or family member, we offer practical advice for anyone trapped in a toxic, destructive relationship.
In addition to narcissism & emotional abuse, you’ll learn about the lesser known forms of abuse, including covert abuse, reactive abuse, spiritual abuse, secondary abuse, relationship trauma and much more.
