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Patting yourself on the back for a job well done isn’t narcissistic personality disorder (NPD). This mental health condition requires a constant supply of excessive admiration. No matter how big or small a task is, narcissism leads to bragging. To the point of obsession. 

A fulfilling life starts at our narcissistic personality disorder treatment program. Our behavioral health center in Nashville, TN, has the experience to navigate the ins and outs of narcissism while also providing you or your loved one with the tools to strive for success outside of the limits of this condition.

TRUE Addiction and Behavioral Health knows this disorder isn’t hopeless. We are proud of our personalized treatment programs. These treatment plans make us an ideal choice for recovery. We provide the top-of-the-line psychotherapy wellness care you deserve.

A Closer Look at Narcissistic Personality Disorder 

What’s wrong with celebrating a big win at work?  Nothing at all. Narcissistic personality disorder exists on a spectrum. Narcissism runs from craving a simple compliment to an all-consuming condition that thrives off of self-obsession. An inflated sense of self-importance is a lot different from confidence. We all have narcissistic traits on some level. But when narcissism disrupts normal life, it’s a problem. 

NPD is among the ten recognized personality disorders. It is included in The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). Narcissistic personalities revolve around a lack of empathy. This disorder damages relationships, especially with family and loved ones. It is impossible to get close to a narcissistic person. They thrive on taking advantage of others and have a sense of entitlement.

The classic signs of narcissism are easy to spot. These include an elevated sense of self-importance, lacking empathy, and a craving for constant attention. The irony is that an individual’s self-esteem can be sky-high yet need ongoing validation. Delicate self-esteem is common. Unhealthy relationships are too. Narcissists cannot stand feeling less than perfect. Any criticism is met with defensiveness. Positive relationships aren’t a part of this mental health condition.

Recovery from narcissism can feel hopeless. Our mental healthcare professionals guide you to live your fullest potential in life.  A treatment plan focusing on talk therapy or psychotherapy tailored to your needs is key.

What is the Prevalence of NPD?

The stats on how many people in Tennessee and the U.S. have NPD is up for debate.  Between 0.5% to 5 % or 1 in 200 adults in the U.S. have NPD.  This figure is low because someone with NPD will unlikely admit to such an issue, let alone seek professional help for it. Arrogance won’t allow it. Research does indicate, however, that the disorder occurs more often in men than in women.

Certain groups show a higher frequency of the mental health condition:

  • 17% of medical students in their first year
  • 6% of forensic analysts
  • 20% of individuals in the military

Co-Occurring Conditions and NPD

Like other personality disorders, NPD can co-occur with other mental health conditions. These include anxiety disorders, borderline personality disorder, bipolar disorder, depression, and eating disorders.

  • 15% of people diagnosed with NPD deal with depression.
  • 13.5% have anxiety, and 17% have another mood disorder.

NPD individuals have a higher risk of developing an eating disorder like anorexia. This is because of an obsession for perfection and control over appearance.

People with the disorder often battle a substance use disorder (SUD). They turn to drugs or alcohol to cope with the stress of the disorder. 14% of individuals also have an alcohol use disorder. 24% abuse other substances.

What Causes NPD?

The disorder is a lot like other mental health conditions. The exact cause of NPD is not known. Certain elements are contributing factors, but pinpointing one common cause is difficult. 

When does NPD Develop?

The environment can help or harm how you grow up. Too much praise from parents or excess negative judgment can both be harmful. This happens when the level of response doesn’t align with the actual accomplishments. Unrealistic demands, inconsistent parenting, and learning unhealthy behaviors from parents.

Neurobiology draws a link between thinking, the brain, and behavior. Research shows NPD individuals have less gray matter on the left side of their brains. This is the area that manages emotions, compassion, and thinking. 

Genetics are also connected through inheriting certain personality attributes. Other characteristics can stem from upbringing. Narcissistic parents can bring out pre-existing traits in their children. These characteristics strengthen as they grow up. Your authentic self awaits at TRUE. We are passionate about treating narcissistic personality disorder.

Signs and Symptoms of NPD

How do you spot a narcissist? Nine of the most common characteristics give insight into someone’s NPD tendencies. 

  • Having an exaggerated sense of entitlement and importance.
  • Craving ongoing admiration
  • Expecting to be treated special 
  • Inflating accomplishments and skills
  • Not taking criticism well
  • Focusing too much on fantasies about authority, success and physical looks
  • Using or exploiting others to achieve a personal goal
  • Not being able to or not wanting to see other people’s needs and feelings
  • Acting with a sense of superiority to others

What Subtypes Exist for NPD? 

Stereotypes of a narcissistic person don’t always paint the whole picture. Treatment of NPD is not limited to changing views on looks. The different subtypes of NPD are:

A covert narcissist is the opposite of attention-seeking and ego-driven. Their hypersensitivity is to how others see them. They think their pain is the worst compared to everyone else’s.

Cerebral narcissists draw their self-worth on their intellect. They think they’re the smartest ones in the room.

Spiritual narcissists use religion as a weapon to protect themselves. They justify bad behavior with a “holier than thou” stance. 

Somatic narcissists get their self-esteem from their physical looks. They fixate on aspects of their appearance, like weight. They will put down others based on their appearance. 

Why Treatment for Narcissistic Personality Disorder Matters

NPD is tricky because many individuals lack the self-awareness to admit “shortcomings.” This huge step prevents them from seeking treatment for narcissistic personality disorder. As mentioned, this is a relationship disorder. Personal and professional relationships suffer and deteriorate if it’s untreated. The people around you get exhausted from walking on eggshells. You can miss many opportunities from people not wanting to be around you. “Personality differences” can ruin your reputation and hold you back. 

A customized treatment plan helps to prevent isolation, productivity, and quality of life. Studies have shown that many narcissists can feel (and learn) empathy. We leverage the top evidence-based therapies and other methods. Your well-being is catered to.

Why Choose Us

Many rehabs in Tennessee (and beyond) claim to treat this unique personality disorder. Our approach sets us apart. We tap into your TRUE roots in our modern and relaxing facility. We treat the physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual parts for the whole of you.

We are proud to stand out from the industry norm. Our treatment services support you in gaining a perspective to improve from within. We pinpoint areas of concern like insecurity, self-image, jealousy, and abusive behaviors. 

We combat narcissistic personality traits with immersive therapy sessions and more. We advocate kindness, gentleness, patience, forgiveness, and service. Our clinicians deliver a personalized therapy program. We use the most effective treatments, like talk therapy for NPD.

Benjamin Dobbs is a respected figure in the recovery community. Ben founded our center out of a lack of specialized mental health solutions.  His triumph over 15 years of addiction and mental disorders continues to inspire TRUE.  We bring our services together in your treatment plan. You collaborate with your team to create and refine your care.

Treatment Programs for Narcissistic Personality Disorder 

Transformation is the goal of our outpatient programs. Deep-set ways of thinking and acting define this disorder. A willingness to focus inward instead of outward to heal is essential.

Improving behaviors and actions starts from within. This disorder is treatable. Learning ways to manage symptoms starts with our clinicians’ expertise in navigating NPD. 

Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP)

Our NPD outpatient program is 30 hours a week. It’s less restrictive than inpatient. You adjust to applying new strategies when you go home at night. Your daily life doesn’t have to stop, and you’re taking an active role in regulating disordered behaviors. 

PHP goes further into mental health concerns and co-occurring disorders. You develop and practice new behaviors.

Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP)

IOP has the same features as PHP but with fewer hours and structure. The mental health professionals at TRUE are by your side. IOP is three to five days a week for 15 hours daily. This is the step we recommend after PHP. You continue to strengthen your emotional regulation, coping techniques, and thinking. We use individual and group therapy sessions in treating narcissism.

Sober Living Homes

Sober living isn’t limited to drugs and alcohol. Getting better from a personality disorder is an ongoing journey. Co-occurring disorders are common, which makes community living ideal.

Family is a main part of your life that NPD impacts. You don’t want to revert to old ways of acting and reacting negatively. 

Sober living homes give stability, meaningful support, and accountability in early recovery. Our outpatient programs aren’t the end. You’ve lived with this disorder so long that old habits are hard to break. This relapse prevention includes peer support specialists, recovery coaching, and counseling.

Our  NPD Treatment Approach

We approach recovery from all sides. We do this by introducing positive coping mechanisms. This makes it easier to manage symptoms. These include depression, handling mood disorders, and building positive behaviors. Therapy sessions address the origin of an individual’s narcissistic traits.

Your treatment plan is well-rounded and flexible. This collaborative approach gives you an optimal mix of evidence-based and wellness interventions.

Talk therapy or psychotherapy improves your mental health. One goal in therapy is to increase empathy and feeling for others. Healing can be an uphill battle, but it is worth it. You can gain control of how you react and treat others. 

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is the therapy of choice for narcissistic personality disorder. You meet with your therapist to uncover the negative thought patterns and behaviors. You learn how to relate to others and get a grasp on your emotions. 

CBT identifies triggers and behaviors. Therapists provide tools to manage the triggers that bring out narcissistic symptoms. 

You might work with your therapist on:

  • Keeping and growing relationships with family members and co-workers
  • Accepting criticism and shortcomings
  • Resetting your goals so they’re realistic and not harmful to others 
  • Insight into your feelings to manage them better 

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)

Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) is a variation of CBT. DBT is another evidence-based approach to treating various personality disorders like NPD.

The main goal of DBT is to build a life they believe they deserve. It pushes back the low self-esteem of narcissism with an optimistic outlook. Individuals who undergo DBT can improve their self-esteem and sense of self. This therapy specializes in changing thoughts and actions driving symptoms. 

Family Therapy

Family is the most impacted by NPD. Family therapy involves family members joining in the therapy process. Your therapist and loved ones work together. This treatment identifies the underlying issues or concerns related to avoidant personality disorder. 

Holistic Therapy

Outpatient is much more than therapy. We offer a range of wellness options that boost your confidence genuinely. Exploring your talents and interests supports lasting recovery.

Our current wellness approaches include:

  • Music Therapy
  • Art Therapy
  • CEMA (cognitive, emotional, memory assessments)
  • Acupuncture 
  • Yoga
  • Animal Therapy
  • Onsite physical fitness equipment with personal trainers on staff
  • Movement Therapy

Don’t Let NPD Define You

There is more to you than a narcissistic personality disorder. You can’t enjoy life to the fullest if the personality traits of narcissism are tagging along. TRUE Addiction and Behavioral Health teaches recognizing and managing these tendencies.

Take the first step now. Reach out to our narcissistic personality disorder treatment center in Tennessee. You or your loved one can live a balanced and authentic life. Give us a call or email us to start the conversation.