When significant narcissistic traits are present in one partner in a relationship, couples therapy becomes considerably more complex. The relational dynamic that narcissism produces tends to be asymmetrical in ways that make standard couples counseling, with its assumption of mutual goodwill and shared motivation to change, difficult to apply directly. The non-narcissistic partner often arrives in couples sessions having already adopted accommodating patterns that obscure the degree of imbalance in the relationship. The narcissistic partner may use the couples therapy setting as another arena for demonstrating superiority or extracting validation. A psychologist with specific experience in narcissistic personality dynamics, like Dr. Steinbok, can navigate these patterns in ways that a general couples counselor may not be equipped to.
For couples in Boca Raton where narcissism is a significant factor, Dr. Steinbok may work with each partner in individual sessions alongside or instead of joint sessions, depending on what the clinical picture calls for. Individual work with the non-narcissistic partner focuses on helping them understand the dynamic they are in, reconnect with their own perceptions and needs, and make informed decisions about what they want to do. Individual work with the partner dealing with narcissistic traits focuses on the underlying dynamics that drive the relational patterns. Whether the relationship continues or ends, both partners benefit from the kind of depth-oriented psychological work that Dr. Steinbok's Boca Raton practice offers.
