132: Empaths vs Covert Narcissists: Recognizing Energy Vampires

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Exploring the often misunderstood overlap between covert narcissists, who often masquerade as empaths, and truly empathetic highly sensitive people:

Covert narcissists use their heightened sensitivity for others emotions to manipulate and control.  If you are a highly sensitive person in a toxic or radically imbalanced relationship, you are not alone. These relationships can leave you feeling drained and taken advantage of. But there is hope!

Join me to learn:

• The definition and characteristics of highly sensitive people (HSPs).
• How covert narcissists may also be highly sensitive people.
• Key differences between an empathic HSP and a covert narcissistic HSP.
• The dynamics of toxic relationships involving energy vampires and compassionate HSPs.
• The role of the drama triangle (victim, rescuer, persecutor) in these relationships.
• How covert narcissists manipulate empathy to maintain control.
• Signs you're in a giver-taker relationship and how to set boundaries.
• Practical steps to assert yourself, recognize toxic patterns, and regain your energy.

If you find yourself constantly giving in relationships but receiving little in return, you might be entangled with an energy vampire. By learning to recognize the signs of covert narcissism, you can protect yourself, assert your needs, and restore balance. Start practicing self-awareness, set healthy boundaries, and reclaim your energy.

Helpful Links:

• Energy Healing for Empaths: How to Protect Yourself from Energy Vampires, Honor Your Boundaries, and Build Healthier Relationships by Lisa Campion https://amzn.to/3XO0r3m
• Episodes 109-111: The Drama Triangle
  Part One: Victim/Creator Energy: Choosing Empowerment https://www.buzzsprout.com/2028767/episodes/15087772
  Part Two: How Does Victim Energy Show up for Helpers, Healers & People Pleasers? https://www.buzzsprout.com/2028767/episodes/15118007
  Part Three: Persecutor/Challenger Energy: Choosing Empowerment https://www.buzzsprout.com/2028767/episodes/15172797
  Part Four: Rescuer/Coach Energy: The Drama Triangle vs The Empowerment Dynamic https://www.buzzsprout.com/2028767/episodes/15126580
• Episode 121: Boundary Setting as a Highly Sensitive Person https://www.buzzsprout.com/2028767/episodes/15488012

If you’re ready to break free from toxic dynamics and reclaim your energy, subscribe to the podcast and leave a review. Don’t forget to check out the resources mentioned in the show notes and share this episode with anyone who might benefit from it. Keep practicing self-compassion and remember that your needs matter too.

Ready for customized one on one support?  Let's jump on a consult call and see if we might be a good fit for each other! https://maryannwalker.life/contact-me