Calgary Psychologist Clinic - Best Choice Counselling & Assessments

Calgary Narcissistic Personality Disorder Therapy

Calgary Narcissist Therapy NPD

At Best Choice Counselling in Calgary, our skilled therapists are experts in treating complex conditions like Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD). Despite the common misconception that NPD is untreatable, therapy has shown to be effective in helping individuals manage their symptoms and develop healthier relationships. Using evidence-based methods like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Schema Therapy, and Mentalization-Based Treatment (MBT), our therapists provide tailored treatment that targets the root causes of narcissistic behaviors. These therapies help clients gain self-awareness, develop empathy, and learn better emotional regulation, allowing for meaningful progress and long-term improvement.

Our approach is centered on understanding the unique challenges NPD presents, such as the patient’s tendency to resist therapy or deny their issues. At Best Choice Counselling, we work with clients to build trust, maintain clear boundaries, and set realistic goals for recovery. With a commitment to long-term therapy, our therapists guide clients through the complexities of NPD, ensuring they feel understood and supported. We believe that with patience, persistence, and the right therapeutic tools, individuals with NPD can achieve lasting positive changes in their behavior and relationships.

Our Calgary Therapists Providing Narcissistic Personality Disorder Therapy and Counselling Support For Those Affected by Someone with NDP

Dr. Raheleh Tarani

Clinical Psychologist

English, Farsi, Japanese (basic), Hindi, Turkish, Punjabi, Urdu

Andrea Krygier

Clinical Psychologist

English, Spanish

Murray Molohon

Clinical Psychologist

English

Jarret Verwimp

Clinical Counsellor

English, French, Spanish (basic)

The Truth About Therapy for Narcissistic Personality Disorder: What Actually Works

Narcissistic personality disorder affects up to 6.2% of the population. Many people believe this condition cannot be treated, but therapy has proven effective to help patients manage their symptoms and build better relationships.

Treatment approaches have evolved substantially over the years. Cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, and schema therapy provide different paths toward recovery. Research proves that NPD patients can develop empathy and learn healthier coping strategies through regular therapy sessions, contrary to the popular belief that the condition lasts forever.

Understanding Narcissistic Personality Disorder Treatment Options

NPD treatment options need careful thought since people with NPD rarely ask for help on their own [1]. The American Psychiatric Association’s DSM-5 lists these specific diagnostic criteria that mental health professionals use to spot NPD:

  • Grandiose sense of self-importance

  • Preoccupation with fantasies of unlimited success

  • Belief in being special or unique

  • Need for excessive admiration

  • Sense of entitlement

  • Interpersonal exploitation

  • Lack of empathy

  • Feelings of envy or belief others are envious

  • Arrogant behaviors and attitudes [2]

Traditional therapy often falls short because NPD patients resist treatment or don’t think they need it [3]. People with NPD usually seek help for related problems like depression, anxiety, or substance misuse instead of addressing NPD directly [4].

Regular talk therapy comes with its own set of challenges. Studies show that 60% of patients don’t feel understood during traditional therapeutic sessions [5]. Mental health professionals must adapt their methods to handle NPD’s complex nature.

Specialized treatment plays a crucial role since NPD affects approximately 1-6% of the population [6]. Mental health experts know that successful therapy needs a custom approach.

Treatment success depends on the therapist’s skill to keep a delicate balance. Good therapists know how to explore and expand their patient’s emotions and viewpoints instead of trying to convince or push them. This approach works even with difficult emotions like contempt or grandiosity [7].

Evidence-Based Therapies That Show Real Results

Research shows that therapy for narcissistic personality disorder comes with its own set of challenges. Studies reveal a 63-64% dropout rate from psychotherapy [8]. This might seem discouraging at first, but several pre-post studies have documented notable improvements among patients who stick with their treatment [8].

Success rates of different therapy approaches

Short-term psychodynamic psychotherapy (STPP) has showed positive effects in eight studies of moderate scientific rigor [1]. Mentalization-based treatment (MBT) has emerged as a promising approach that helps patients understand their emotional states and improve their relationships with others [7].

Factors that influence treatment effectiveness

The core elements that affect treatment outcomes include:

  • Dismissive attachment patterns and perfectionism

  • Shame responses and tendency toward devaluation

  • Patient’s motivation and dedication level

  • Therapeutic alliance quality

  • Presence of co-occurring conditions [8]

Treatment success depends on the patient’s willingness to look inward and commit to personal growth [9]. The timing of intervention is a vital factor, as research suggests better outcomes come from earlier treatment [10].

Latest research findings on NPD therapy

Recent studies have confirmed the value of several therapeutic tools. The Five-Factor Narcissism Inventory (FFNI) and Narcissistic Personality Inventory (NPI) work well for assessing grandiose narcissism [11]. Transfer-focused therapy and self-compassion strategies show promise in helping patients with distorted communication patterns [11].

Current research emphasizes the need to establish clear, realistic, and measurable goals [8]. The latest findings highlight how combining different therapeutic approaches works best, especially with co-occurring conditions [12]. Patients who commit to long-term treatment end up showing steady and meaningful improvements over time [8].

Breaking Down the Most Effective Treatment Methods

Three therapeutic approaches show real promise in treating narcissistic personality disorder. Each method brings its own benefits and specialized techniques to help people with NPD symptoms.

Schema therapy and how it affects NPD

Research shows that schema therapy works well for treating narcissistic personality disorder [13]. Studies reveal notable improvements in NPD symptoms [link_1]. This method targets the “detached protector/self-soother” and “self-aggrandizer” modes. It helps patients connect with their vulnerable side [14]. The therapy changes test scores both right after treatment and during follow-ups [15]. Patients see improvements because the therapy deals with early maladaptive schemas.

Cognitive behavioral therapy adaptations

CBT provides a well-laid-out, solution-focused way to address narcissistic traits. Patients learn to spot and question automatic thoughts that cause distress [16]. The therapy includes:

  • Reshaping distorted thinking through cognitive restructuring

  • Using exposure therapy to face specific fears

  • Testing wrong beliefs through behavioral experiments

  • Learning better ways to cope through skills training

Mentalization-based treatment outcomes

Mentalization-based treatment takes an innovative approach. It helps patients understand their own thoughts and feelings, as well as those of others [7]. Therapists use a “not-knowing” stance to promote curiosity about their patients’ emotional experiences [7]. Research shows that MBT guides patients toward better social lives and work situations [17]. The treatment works on three vital areas – content, context, and process. This deepens patients’ commitment to self-reflection and emotional control [18].

Overcoming Treatment Resistance in NPD

Patients with narcissistic personality disorder create unique challenges in therapy because they resist acknowledging personal issues. Progress happens only when we are willing to understand these complex dynamics.

Understanding why patients resist therapy

NPD’s characteristic denial patterns create the biggest problem, as patients don’t accept that their issues might stem from the disorder [12]. Many patients come to therapy only because of co-occurring conditions like depression, anxiety, or substance use disorders [19]. This resistance shows up through self-sabotaging behaviors and unstable relationships with healthcare providers [1].

Strategies to maintain commitment

Treatment works best with an integrated approach that keeps patients involved. Mental health professionals typically concentrate on:

  • Establishing clear, achievable goals

  • Recognizing small progress steps

  • Creating a non-judgmental environment

  • Maintaining consistent boundaries

  • Addressing co-occurring conditions

Patients see better results when therapy improves their relationships and overall life satisfaction [12]. Notwithstanding that, therapists should remember that recovery takes time and persistence [3].

Building therapeutic alliance

Building strong therapeutic relationships becomes challenging since NPD patients don’t deal very well with interpersonal connections. Research shows that narcissistic patients often test boundaries to provoke and control their therapists [4]. Treatment success depends on therapists knowing how to show authentic interest while avoiding defensive reactions and mental distancing [20].

Therapists must guide through the patient’s tendency to devalue others while keeping professional boundaries [20]. The most effective approach combines genuine curiosity about the patient’s experiences, even with challenging emotions like envy or contempt [7]. This balanced strategy builds trust and creates a foundation for meaningful therapeutic work.

Conclusion

Research shows that narcissistic personality disorder patients can recover with proper therapeutic interventions, despite treatment challenges. Schema therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and mentalization-based treatment prove effective, especially when professionals apply them consistently.

Treatment success relies on addressing NPD patients’ resistance to therapy. Mental health professionals achieve better outcomes by maintaining clear boundaries while showing genuine interest in their patients’ experiences. Early intervention combined with a steadfast dedication to long-term treatment substantially improves positive results.

Evidence suggests that patients can develop greater empathy, build healthier relationships, and improve self-awareness through specialized therapeutic approaches. The recovery experience challenges both patients and providers, yet mental health professionals continue to refine their methods. This advancement offers hope to people affected by narcissistic personality disorder.

FAQs

Q1. What is the success rate of therapy for Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD)? While success rates vary, recent studies show promising results. One study found a 52.5% remission rate over two years, though the disorder’s traits tend to remain stable. Successful treatment often depends on the patient’s commitment and the therapist’s approach.

Q2. Which therapeutic approach is most effective for treating NPD? Several approaches have shown effectiveness, but schema therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy adaptations, and mentalization-based treatment (MBT) stand out. MBT, in particular, has demonstrated significant improvements in social functioning and emotional regulation for NPD patients.

Q3. Can individuals with NPD truly benefit from therapy? Yes, individuals with NPD can benefit from therapy. Through consistent treatment, patients can learn to relate better with others, develop greater empathy, and improve their self-awareness. However, progress often requires long-term commitment and specialized therapeutic techniques.

Q4. How do therapists overcome treatment resistance in NPD patients? Therapists overcome resistance by establishing clear goals, recognizing small progress steps, creating a non-judgmental environment, and maintaining consistent boundaries. Building a strong therapeutic alliance while navigating the patient’s tendency to devalue others is crucial for successful treatment.

Q5. Is it possible for someone with NPD to change their behavior through therapy? Yes, it is possible for individuals with NPD to change their behavior through therapy. With the right therapeutic approach and consistent effort, patients can learn to recognize their patterns of behavior, develop healthier coping mechanisms, and improve their relationships with others. However, change is typically gradual and requires ongoing commitment.

References

[1] – https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5819598/
[2] – https://www.mcleanhospital.org/npd-provider-guide
[3] – https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/narcissistic-personality-disorder/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20366690
[4] – https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7451310/
[5] – https://www.randifine.com/post/treatment-for-narcissistic-abuse-why-traditional-psychotherapy-is-ineffective
[6] – https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10187391/
[7] – https://psychiatryonline.org/doi/full/10.1176/appi.psychotherapy.20210017
[8] – https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10187400/
[9] – https://www.choosingtherapy.com/narcissist-therapy/
[10] – https://counselingcentergroup.com/therapy-for-narcissistic-personality-disorder/
[11] – https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/behavioral-neuroscience/articles/10.3389/fnbeh.2024.1354258/full
[12] – https://www.bridgestorecovery.com/blog/does-narcissistic-personality-disorder-treatment-work/
[13] – https://www.journalstudiesanthropology.ro/en/treating-narcissistic-personality-disorder-with-schema-therapy-a-case-study/
[14] – https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/9781118093108.ch40
[15] – https://journals.kmanpub.com/index.php/Health-Nexus/article/view/2474
[16] – https://psychiatryonline.org/doi/full/10.1176/appi.focus.20220055
[17] – https://www.researchgate.net/publication/340010181_Mentalization-Based_Treatment_for_Pathological_Narcissism
[18] – https://www.psychiatrypodcast.com/psychiatry-psychotherapy-podcast/episode-227-narcissism-mentalization-based-treatment-effective-strategies
[19] – https://www.health.harvard.edu/mind-and-mood/narcissistic-personality-disorder-symptoms-diagnosis-and-treatments
[20] – https://psychiatryonline.org/doi/10.1176/appi.pn.2016.5a19

We all have some luggage but that doesn’t mean that we have to carry it around for the rest of our lives.

Complete the Contact Form or Call or Text for a Free Consultation

Calgary Therapists and Psychologists That Make a Difference

Contact Us
Calgary Psychologist Free Consultation