Setting Boundaries with a Narcissist: Protecting Your Emotional Well-Being

Setting boundaries with a narcissist can feel intimidating, but it is essential for emotional health. Narcissistic partners or family members may push limits, manipulate, or use guilt to maintain control.

Effective boundary-setting begins with clarity about your needs and limits. Communicate assertively, consistently enforce limits, and anticipate pushback without internalizing blame. Therapy provides tools and practice to navigate these interactions confidently. Techniques may include role-playing conversations, grounding exercises, and cognitive restructuring to reduce anxiety.

Maintaining boundaries also involves recognizing when to limit or end contact for your safety. Combining boundaries with self-compassion, supportive connections, and mindfulness practices fosters emotional resilience and independence.

If you want guidance in setting boundaries with a narcissist, I offer online counselling across Ontario and in-person sessions in Burlington. Book a session here: https://guidingyou.janeapp.com.

The information shared in this blog is for general educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional mental health care. Reading this does not create a therapist–client relationship. If you are experiencing distress or need support, please reach out to a qualified mental health professional.

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