Therapist Uncensored Podcast
Bonus – Disarming the Narcissist: Myths, Truths & Strategies for Healing with Wendy Behary (264)
Apr 15, 2025
Wendy Behary, a leading expert on narcissism and founder of The Cognitive Therapy Center of New Jersey, dives deep into the complexities of narcissistic behavior. She clarifies that narcissism exists on a spectrum, debunking common myths along the way. Exploring emotional unmet needs, she highlights how narcissists often struggle with self-awareness. Behary also discusses the cultural implications of narcissism and offers practical strategies to protect mental health while navigating these challenging relationships.
15:56
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Quick takeaways
- Narcissism exists along a spectrum, challenging the simplistic view that self-focused behavior equates to a full-blown narcissistic personality.
- Understanding the underlying insecurities driving narcissistic behavior is crucial for navigating relationships and maintaining one’s mental health.
Deep dives
Debunking Myths of Narcissism
Narcissism is often surrounded by misunderstandings and myths, leading to a simplistic view that anyone who displays self-focused behavior is a narcissist. It is crucial to recognize that narcissism exists along a spectrum and is not a one-size-fits-all label. Not every individual who displays harmful or abusive behavior possesses narcissistic traits; there are many factors that contribute to behavior in relationships. Understanding the nuances of narcissism can help clarify these misconceptions and allow for a more informed perspective on individuals who may be struggling with interpersonal connections.
dive into the myths, the spectrum of narcissistic traits, and the importance of understanding the underlying insecurities that drive behavior. Behary touches on the cultural implications and how it manifests in society today, as well as practical strategies for individuals to navigate relationships, highlighting the significance of maintaining one’s own mental health and well-being.
With 25+ years of professional experience and advanced level certifications, Wendy Behary is the founder and director of The Cognitive Therapy Center of New Jersey and The Schema Therapy Institutes of NJ-NYC-DC. She has been treating clients, training professionals and supervising psychotherapists for more than 25 years. Wendy was on the faculty of the Cognitive Therapy Center and Schema Therapy Institute of New York (until the Institutes merged in 2012), where she trained and worked with Dr. Jeffrey Young since 1989. She is a founding fellow and consulting supervisor for The Academy of Cognitive Therapy (Aaron T. Beck’s Institute). Wendy served as the President of the Executive Board of the International Society of Schema Therapy (ISST) from 2010-2014 and served as the Training and Certification Coordinator for the ISST Executive Board from 2008-2010. She is currently the chair of the Schema Therapy Development Programs Sub-Committee for the ISST. Wendy Behary has co-authored several chapters and articles on Schema Therapy and Cognitive Therapy. She is the author of an international bestselling book, “Disarming the Narcissist…” translated in 16 languages. The Third Edition was recently released and was selected by Oprah Daily as one of the top books on the subject of Narcissism. Wendy has a specialty in treating narcissists and the people who live with and deal with them. As an author and subject matter expert on narcissism, she is a contributing chapter author of several chapters on schema therapy for narcissism for professional readers. She lectures both nationally and internationally to professional and general audiences on schema therapy, narcissism, interpersonal relationships, anger, and dealing with difficult people.
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