Skip to Main Content
18
Views
3
CrossRef citations
Altmetric

Article

Treatment Considerations When Working with Pathological Narcissism

Pages 303-317
Published online: 28 Dec 2017
 
Translator disclaimer

The author presents his understanding and experience of working with clients who exhibit pathological narcissism. Some of the challenges that arise in the treatment process are considered from a psychodynamic perspective, particularly how destructive elements manifest themselves and impact the therapeutic relationship. After a brief overview of various theories, the etiology of narcissism, transference issues, and narcissistic vulnerabilities, the author focuses on pathological processes, particularly destructive elements. The challenge of working with these issues is described, including the way the defenses of the narcissistically organized client are threatened by the separateness of the client and the therapist. The article concludes with an examination of those aspects of treatment that must be considered when undertaking psychotherapy with narcissistic individuals, particularly from a relational orientation.

Additional information

Author information

Ray Little

Ray Little is in private practice in Edinburgh, Scotland, as an adult psychotherapist. In addition, he facilitates supervision groups and professional seminars for counselors and psychotherapists in both London and Edinburgh. Ray is a visiting tutor at several psychotherapy training institutes in the United Kingdom and Slovenia. He can be reached at Enderby Psychotherapy & Counselling Associates, 4/1F2 Oxford Street, Edinburgh, EH8 9PJ, UK; e-mail: .
 

People also read