By We Level Up WA | Author Nicole Huff, LCSW | Editorial Policy | Research Policy
Narcissistic personality disorder (NPD) is a complicated condition that can have significant negative impacts on one’s life. NPD is characterized by patterns of grandiosity, need for admiration, and a lack of empathy. These traits can significantly impact relationships with others.
At We Level Up Washington, our approach combines evidence-based therapies with compassionate care to create an environment where individuals with NPD can develop healthier relationships, improved self-awareness, and a more balanced perspective of themselves and others.
Understanding Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD)
Narcissistic personality disorder is not having an inflated ego or enjoying the occasional compliment. It’s a complex mental health condition that affects approximately 6.2% of the general population, with studies suggesting it’s more prevalent among men than women.
At its core, NPD is characterized by patterns of behavior that can include the following:
- Having a grandiose sense of self-importance, such as exaggerating achievements and talents, expecting to be recognized as superior even without commensurate achievements
- Preoccupation with fantasies of success, power, beauty, and idealization
- Belief in being “special” and that they can only be understood by or associated with other high-status people (or institutions)
- Demanding excessive admiration
- Sense of entitlement
- Exploitation behaviors
- Lack of empathy
- Envy towards others or belief that others are envious of them
- Arrogant, haughty behavior and attitude.
NPD typically develops in early adulthood and can significantly impact all areas of life. Relationships often suffer as the person struggles to form genuine connections based on mutual respect and empathy. Career difficulties may arise despite initial success, particularly when criticism or failure challenge the person’s self-image.
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Hotline: (509) 348-4077Comprehensive NPD Treatment Approach
Successfully treating NPD often requires a multifaceted approach that addresses both the outward behaviors and the underlying emotional needs that drive them.
The journey typically begins with helping clients understand how narcissistic traits may have developed as coping mechanisms in response to early experiences. This non-judgmental framing helps reduce shame and defensiveness, making meaningful work possible.
Specific approaches have been found to be most effective in addressing NPD:
- Setting realistic goals – Challenging but attainable goals allow for new behavior patterns to be learned.
- Attending to the treatment frame – Understanding the time it takes for real change to occur and the role of therapy in that change.
- Attending to relationships and self-esteem – Understanding and awareness of the impact of one’s behavior on others and their reactions.
- Building alliances with your therapist – This relationship helps with understanding and learning new ways to interact and behave with others.
Addressing Co-Occurring Disorders in NPD Treatment
One of the most critical aspects of effective NPD treatment is addressing the common co-occurring conditions that often accompany narcissistic personality disorder. Research finds that between 29-40% of individuals diagnosed with NPD will also struggle with mood disorders, substance use disorders, and anxiety related disorders.
These co-occurring conditions often complicate an individual’s attempt to address the emotional distress that underlies narcissistic traits. For example:
- Mood disorders may emerge when narcissistic defenses fail to protect against feelings of emptiness or when life circumstances don’t align with grandiose expectations
- Anxiety disorders can develop from the constant pressure to maintain a perfect image or fear of exposure as “less than special”
- Substance use disorders sometimes function as self-medication for painful emotions or as a way to enhance feelings of specialness and grandiosity
While medication isn’t specifically approved for NPD itself, psychiatric medication may play an important role in treating co-occurring conditions. This dual diagnosis, though, requires addressing both conditions with integrated treatment.
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Narcissistic Personality Disorder Statistics
About 1% of the population has Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD), which is more common in men. People with NPD often have other problems at the same time, like depression, anxiety disorders, or problems with using drugs. NPD can greatly affect relationships with other people, making it hard to keep happy, long-lasting connections. It can also make working hard, especially with others or people in authority. It can be hard for people with NPD to get help because they don’t want to admit they’re wrong and need to feel better than everyone else.
1%
How much NPD affects the general population
Source: NIMH
2 – 3x Higher
NPD in males is approximately two to three times higher than in narcissistic personality disorder in women.
Source: NIMH
50-60%
Individuals with Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD) are estimated to have co-occurring mental health issues.
Source: NIMH
What to Expect During Treatment
Beginning treatment for narcissistic personality disorder takes courage, and knowing what to expect can help ease concerns about the process.
Your treatment begins with a comprehensive psychological evaluation. This assessment phase is crucial for developing an accurate understanding of your unique situation. Many clients find that even this initial process provides valuable insights and a sense of being truly heard and understood.
Following your assessment, you’ll work together with your therapist to develop a personalized treatment plan that addresses your specific needs.
As therapy progresses, most people move through several phases:
- Building the therapeutic relationship – Establishing trust and rapport with your therapist, which may take time given the interpersonal challenges common in NPD
- Developing self-awareness – Gaining insight into narcissistic patterns and their impact on your life and relationships
- Working through core issues – Addressing the underlying emotional needs and wounds that drive narcissistic behaviors
- Practicing new ways of relating – Implementing healthier patterns in your relationships and daily life
Throughout this process, your therapist will provide a balance of support and challenge, creating a safe space while also gently confronting patterns that may be difficult to recognize on your own.
The length of treatment varies depending on your specific needs and goals. Some clients benefit from shorter-term therapy focused on specific behaviors, while others engage in longer-term work to address deeper personality structures. Throughout the process, we’ll collaborate with you to ensure treatment remains aligned with your evolving needs.
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What are the Benefits of Treatment?
Seeking treatment for narcissistic personality disorder can lead to profound and lasting positive changes in your life.
Improved Self-Awareness and Emotional Regulation
One of the most significant benefits of NPD treatment is developing a more realistic and stable sense of self. Through therapy, you can:
- Recognize the difference between healthy self-confidence and grandiosity
- Identify and name emotions more accurately, including those that may have been avoided
- Develop skills to manage emotional reactions without resorting to defensive behaviors
Healthier, More Fulfilling Relationships
As narcissistic patterns shift, relationships typically improve dramatically.
Benefits include:
- Greater capacity for empathy and understanding others’ perspectives
- More reciprocal relationships based on mutual care rather than utility
- Reduced conflict as defensive reactions decrease
- Ability to receive feedback without experiencing it as devastating criticism
Enhanced Quality of Life
Beyond specific symptom improvement, treatment often leads to a more satisfying and meaningful life overall.
Many people experience:
- Greater flexibility in pursuing goals and handling setbacks
- Reduced anxiety about maintaining a perfect image
- More authentic engagement in work and creative pursuits
- Increased capacity for joy and genuine pleasure
Long-Term Growth and Resilience
Perhaps most importantly, the skills and insights gained through NPD treatment continue to yield benefits long after formal therapy ends.
Clients can develop:
- Ongoing self-reflection capabilities that prevent relapse into old patterns
- Improved ability to navigate life challenges
- Greater resilience when facing criticism or failure
- Continued growth in emotional intelligence and relationship skills
While the journey isn’t always easy, the rewards of NPD treatment can transform your experience of yourself and your place in the world.
At We Level Up Washington, we’re committed to supporting you through each step of this powerful process of change.
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FREE 24/7 Dual Diagnosis Mental Health Services HotlineContact We Level Up Washington for NPD Treatment
Taking the first step toward addressing narcissistic personality disorder can feel challenging, but it’s also the beginning of a journey toward more authentic relationships and greater personal fulfillment. At We Level Up Washington, we’re ready to walk alongside you on this path.
Our compassionate admissions team is available to answer your questions about NPD treatment options and help determine if our program is the right fit for your needs.
When you call our confidential helpline at (509) 348-4077, you’ll speak with a knowledgeable professional who understands the complexities of personality disorders and can guide you through the initial process with respect and care.
Your call is completely confidential, and there’s no obligation to proceed with treatment. We’re simply here to provide information, answer questions, and help you understand your options.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Where in Spokane, Washington can you find narcissistic personality disorder treatment?
You can find specialized narcissistic personality disorder (NPD) treatment in Spokane, Washington, at We Level Up Washington. Our evidence-based mental health programs provide personalized therapy, including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), to help people with NPD develop healthier relationships and coping strategies. Contact We Level Up Washington today at (509) 348-4077 to start your path to recovery.
Where in Seattle, Washington can you find narcissistic personality disorder treatment?
While there are various mental health providers in Seattle, for specialized narcissistic personality disorder (NPD) treatment, consider We Level Up Washington in Spokane. Our expert team offers evidence-based therapies like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) in a structured, supportive environment. Contact We Level Up Washington today at (509) 348-4077 to learn more about our programs and how we can help.
Where in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho can you find narcissistic personality disorder treatment?
While Coeur d’Alene has mental health providers, those seeking specialized narcissistic personality disorder (NPD) treatment often turn to We Level Up Washington in Spokane. Just a short drive away, our clinic offers evidence-based therapies like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) to help people with NPD develop healthier coping strategies and relationships.
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