Individual Counseling Can Help Identify and Deal With Gaslighting

Gaslighting is a common symptom of Narcissistic Personality Disorder, and individual counseling at Take Charge, Inc. in Overland Park, KS can help you to identify and deal with it. Gaslighting is a form of abuse in which a narcissistic or sociopathic abuser uses manipulation tactics to make the victim doubt their own experiences and recollection. It is not a one time event, but ongoing and repetitive offenses that make the victim question their perception of reality. This eventually allows the gaslighter to take advantage of their victim without consequence, as they are able to convince them they are simply wrong about being taken advantage of. Gaslighting is most common in romantic relationships, but it also frequently happens in dysfunctional families and workplaces. 

A person with Narcissistic Personality Disorder shows a lack of empathy for others, an obsessive need for admiration, and an inflated sense of self worth. They are self-centered to the point of not caring how they harm others in their pursuit of whatever they want. Some may not even consciously realize that they are gaslighting, as they are so oblivious to the needs and feelings of others. Once they become aware of their unacceptable behavior, some may seek help through individual counseling, but in many cases they refuse to accept responsibility or need for change entirely.

In romantic relationships, the gaslighter may be physically violent but deny it or convince their partner that they deserved it. Infidelity is common, and the gaslighter makes the victim believe that they are “crazy” for being suspicious. If they enter couples therapy, the abuser will attempt to convince the therapist that their partner is the problem, and label them incompetent if they suggest the abuser themself make changes. Based on the severity of the gaslighting the victim may need to leave a relationship or cut off contact.  .

In families, gaslighting is a form of child neglect. When parents give love and abuse unpredictably or are emotionally neglectful, children grow up feeling worthless and anxious, and are told that they are overly needy or sensitive. Often narcissistic parents are more concerned with how they appear to others than actually caring for their families, and create an environment where mistakes and emotions are not tolerated. It is important for a person to enter into individual counseling if raised by these parents to recover and be capable of self-confidence and healthy relationships.

In the workplace, gaslighters will often distort the truth and shame their co-workers or subordinates. They become extremely indignant and make assertions with extreme conviction, and ignore or attempt to discredit anyone who challenges them. It is easier to manage a gaslighter at work than at home. All interactions with them should be documented, witnesses to abuse assembled, and HR contacted.

If you believe you are the victim of gaslighting, or that you are gaslighting others, individual counseling can help you identify the root of the problem and figure out the best course of action to correct or escape it. For more information, call Take Charge, Inc. at (913) 239-8255 or click here to schedule an appointment.