Understanding Narcissism: Pathological vs. Adaptive with Dr. Brett Novick
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Course Information:
Episode Description: In this enlightening episode of Affirming Minds, host Shaina Siber, LCSW welcomes Dr. Brett Novick, an expert in family therapy, school social work, and educational leadership, to dive deep into the often misunderstood world of narcissism. Together, they explore the crucial distinctions between adaptive and pathological narcissism, how these traits manifest in personal and professional relationships, and what therapists need to know when treating clients exhibiting narcissistic traits or Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD).
Dr. Novick brings over 23 years of experience as a licensed marriage and family therapist, school social worker, and counselor to this rich conversation. He shares insights into the nuances of narcissism, offering practical clinical considerations for assessing and treating NPD. Shaina and Dr. Novick also discuss boundary enforcement, empathy-building strategies, and the challenges therapists face when working with narcissistic clients in therapy.
Whether you're a mental health professional, therapist, or someone seeking a deeper understanding of narcissism in relationships, this episode offers valuable tools and perspectives on how to approach these complex dynamics in the therapeutic space.
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Learning Objectives:
By the end of this episode, listeners will be able to:
- Differentiate between adaptive and pathological narcissism.
- Identify at least one clinical consideration when assessing and treating pathological narcissism.
- Describe one effective strategy for enforcing boundaries with clients who meet the criteria for NPD.
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Key Takeaways:
- Narcissism Spectrum: Dr. Novick explains the spectrum of narcissism, highlighting how adaptive narcissism can support confidence and leadership, while pathological narcissism can lead to interpersonal difficulties and emotional instability.
- Misconceptions About Narcissism: Common myths about narcissism, including its conflation with abusive behavior, are addressed, along with the importance of understanding narcissism as a multifaceted trait.
- Clinical Strategies: Dr. Novick offers practical guidance on managing narcissism in therapy, including cognitive-behavioral techniques, empathy-building, and establishing firm professional boundaries.
- Narcissistic Traits in Relationships: The discussion includes how narcissism can negatively impact personal relationships, particularly in families, and what signs to look for when dealing with narcissistic parents or partners.
- Future Trends: Dr. Novick shares his predictions for the future of diagnosing and treating NPD, including the potential integration of psychotropic medications and the role of virtual therapy.
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About Our Guest:
Dr. Brett Novick holds a Master's Degree in Family Therapy and post-degree certification in School Social Work and Educational Administration and earned his EdD in Educational Leadership.
For the past 23 years, Dr. Novick has not only served as a School Social Worker/Counselor but has also shared his wealth of knowledge as an adjunct instructor at prestigious institutions like Rutgers University, Stockton University, and the University of Phoenix.
He has been a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in private practice, community mental health, and substance abuse settings over the last twenty-five years. Additionally, he has supervised family counseling, school counseling, and centers for abused and neglected children, adults & children with developmental disabilities and has been a licensed foster parent.
Brett has authored ten educational and self-help books. He has written two SEL and CBT children's books and created four therapeutic games for youth. Additionally, he has written for several international, national educational, parenting, and mental health magazines. He has earned the 2019 APM Magazine Educational Writer of the Year Award and the 2024 National School Social Worker Award Book of the Year Award for his book, Beyond Academic Success: Creating Social-Emotional Learning Balance in Elementary Students.
Dr. Novick's dedication and excellence in the field of education have been recognized with several prestigious awards, including the NJEA Martin Luther King Jr. Human and Civil Rights, NJ State Governor's Office Jefferson Award for Public Service, and his District's Teacher of the Year and Ocean County Counselor of the Year. He has also been honored with the NJ State Holocaust Education Commission's Hela Young Award.
Learn more about Dr. Novick’s work at www.drbrettnovick.com.
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Conflict of Interest Disclosure: The host, Shaina Siber-Sanderowitz, LCSW, is the Founder of Affirm Mental Health, an accredited CE provider. She receives financial compensation from Affirm Mental Health for the development and delivery of continuing education content. There are no other conflicts of interest to disclose.
Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for clinical training or treatment. If you or someone you know needs mental health support, please reach out to a licensed professional.
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