If Someone DOES THIS, They're A Narcissist Trying To Trap & Control You! | Terri Cole

Jul 10, 2025

Terri Cole, a licensed psychotherapist and relationship expert, delves into the intricate world of narcissism and toxic relationships. She outlines red flag phrases used by manipulators and explains why even great people can find themselves in harmful dynamics. Cole emphasizes the importance of recognizing early signs of toxicity and taking back personal power through boundary setting. The conversation also touches on how healthy conflict can strengthen relationships, debunking myths around disagreement as harmful.

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ADVICE

Narcissist Red Flag Phrases

Beware phrases that imply "I'm the only one who loves or understands you."
Watch for belittling of your feelings and fake concern to manipulate social pressure.

INSIGHT

Narcissist-Codependent Dynamic

Narcissists often entangle codependents, creating a damaging symbiotic relationship.
Narcissists take; codependents give, which fits but inevitably causes harm.

ADVICE

Spotting Early Manipulation

Tap the brakes if someone is love bombing you early in a relationship to reveal true intentions.
Watch for isolation tactics and gaslighting as signs of manipulative behavior.

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Terri Cole is a licensed psychotherapist, relationship expert, author and podcast host. Today on the show we discuss: red flag phrases that narcissists and manipulators commonly use, why great people stay stuck in toxic relationships, early signs that you are dating someone toxic, how narcissists secretly manipulate you, what you can do to take your power back, why conflict in relationships is actually healthy, and much more. Today's sponsor: Vitali Skincare Get 20% off ⁠Vitali Skincare⁠ by using code "Doug" at checkout ⁠https://www.vitaliskincare.com/ ⁠ ⚠ WELLNESS DISCLAIMER ⚠ Please be advised; the topics related to health and mental health in my content are for informational, discussion, and entertainment purposes only. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your health or mental health professional or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding your current condition. Never disregard professional advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have heard from your favorite creator, on social media, or shared within content you’ve consumed. If you are in crisis or you think you may have an emergency, call your doctor or 911 immediately. If you do not have a health professional who is able to assist you, use these resources to find help: Emergency Medical Services—911 If the situation is potentially life-threatening, get immediate emergency assistance by calling 911, available 24 hours a day. National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, 1-800-273-TALK (8255) or https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org. SAMHSA addiction and mental health treatment Referral Helpline, 1-877-SAMHSA7 (1-877-726-4727) and https://www.samhsa.gov

Get 20% off ⁠Vitali Skincare⁠ by using code "Doug" at checkout ⁠https://www.vitaliskincare.com/ ⁠ ⚠ WELLNESS DISCLAIMER ⚠ Please be advised; the topics related to health and mental health in my content are for informational, discussion, and entertainment purposes only. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your health or mental health professional or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding your current condition. Never disregard professional advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have heard from your favorite creator, on social media, or shared within content you’ve consumed. If you are in crisis or you think you may have an emergency, call your doctor or 911 immediately. If you do not have a health professional who is able to assist you, use these resources to find help: Emergency Medical Services—911 If the situation is potentially life-threatening, get immediate emergency assistance by calling 911, available 24 hours a day. National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, 1-800-273-TALK (8255) or https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org. SAMHSA addiction and mental health treatment Referral Helpline, 1-877-SAMHSA7 (1-877-726-4727) and https://www.samhsa.gov

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