Narcissists in divorce – the lure, the loss and the law.

Follow Narcissists in divorce – the lure, the loss and the law.
Share on
Copy link to clipboard

Top UK family lawyer, Karin Walker, teams up with Dr Supriya McKenna to tackle head on the issues that occur when one is divorcing a narcissistic personality type. With legal tips, advice for lawyers and more, this podcast is invaluable for anyone who suspects their spouse or partner might be narcissistic, as well for family lawyers, wishing to be able to better represent their clients. Its groundbreaking content will even be useful for family court judges, who see narcissistic individuals at at least 50% of final hearings.

Karin Walker and Dr Supriya McKenna


    • May 30, 2023 LATEST EPISODE
    • infrequent NEW EPISODES
    • 22m AVG DURATION
    • 59 EPISODES


    Search for episodes from Narcissists in divorce – the lure, the loss and the law. with a specific topic:

    Latest episodes from Narcissists in divorce – the lure, the loss and the law.

    Rebuilding your life after a relationship with a narcissist

    Play Episode Listen Later May 30, 2023 59:38


    In this episode, in which she was interviewed by Stowe Family Law, Dr Supriya McKenna gives some strategies to help you to rebuild your life after a relationship with a narcissist. This podcast was brought to you in association with Stowe Family Law, the largest family law firm in the UK,  as part of our Stowe talks series. The Stowe talks podcast and video series are designed to help people go through a relationship breakdown and all the challenges this brings, covering topics including narcissism, domestic abuse, supporting children, finances and navigating the family court. Follow the link for our podcast series on Spotify or watch our video series on YouTube More resources for you: You can check out our Amazon number one bestseller, 'Divorcing a narcissist - the Lure, the Loss and the Law' here. It's available in paperback, and, for discretion, as an audiobook and Kindle Edition too. Click here if you'd like to read Chapter One for free. If you want to be sure that your partner is a narcissist the 'Is your partner a narcissist? Knowing for sure' online course is out now, as is the 'Demystifying the Narcissist' online course - and, due to popular demand, the 'Divorcing a Narcissist' online course is on its way. Please head over to doctorsupriya.com for online course information and updates. For more free information and blogs, and to contact Dr Supriya for 1:1 coaching, visit thelifedoctor.org. You can also follow Dr Supriya on Twitter, Instagram and Linkedin for more narcissism related insights.

    Easy ways to avoid dating a toxic mate after narcissistic abuse - with Dr Elinor Greenberg

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 4, 2023 32:28


    In this episode personality disorder psychologist and psychotherapist,  Dr Elinor Greenberg, chats with narcissism expert Dr Supriya McKenna about easy ways to spot a toxic date. Dr Greenberg's tips are particularly useful for anyone worried about being back in the dating arena after a narcissistic relationship. She describes a simple method involving counting the negative things said in the first hour of a first date, and another where you simply closely examine your date's behaviour in the very first 10 minutes of the date. She also explains how the different types of narcissist (the exhibitionist, devaluing and closet narcissists)  might give themselves away in these interactions.  More resources for you: You can check out our Amazon number one bestseller, 'Divorcing a narcissist - the Lure, the Loss and the Law' here. It's available in paperback, and, for discretion, as an audiobook and Kindle Edition too. Click here if you'd like to read Chapter One for free. If you want to be sure that your partner is a narcissist the 'Is your partner a narcissist? Knowing for sure' online course is out now, as is the 'Demystifying the Narcissist' online course - and, due to popular demand, the 'Divorcing a Narcissist' online course is on its way. Please head over to doctorsupriya.com for online course information and updates. For more free information and blogs, and to contact Dr Supriya for 1:1 coaching, visit thelifedoctor.org. You can also follow Dr Supriya on Twitter, Instagram and Linkedin for more narcissism related insights.

    Dr Elinor Greenberg discusses the giveaways that you might be dating a Narcissist.

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 17, 2023 37:56


    In this episode internationally renowned clinical psychologist Dr Elinor Greenberg talks with  Dr Supriya McKenna about the various ways that Narcissists can convincingly present as being genuine when dating.  She gives the tip offs for each of her archetypes - the Detective, the Hunter, the Narcissistic Love Script, The Romantic, The Casanova and the Recycler. They talk about the idea of 'I-Thou' versus 'I-It' relationships - and how in all their relationships the narcissist views the other person merely as an object.  More resources for you: You can check out our Amazon number one bestseller, 'Divorcing a narcissist - the Lure, the Loss and the Law' here. It's available in paperback, and, for discretion, as an audiobook and Kindle Edition too. Click here if you'd like to read Chapter One for free. If you want to be sure that your partner is a narcissist the 'Is your partner a narcissist? Knowing for sure' online course is out now, as is the 'Demystifying the Narcissist' online course - and, due to popular demand, the 'Divorcing a Narcissist' online course is on its way. Please head over to doctorsupriya.com for online course information and updates. For more free information and blogs, and to contact Dr Supriya for 1:1 coaching, visit thelifedoctor.org. You can also follow Dr Supriya on Twitter, Instagram and Linkedin for more narcissism related insights.

    Dr Craig Malkin talks Narcissism - Part Four

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 18, 2022 24:06


    In this episode Dr Craig Malkin discusses his role in the NY times bestselling book "The Dangerous Case of Donald Trump", in which he broke down the behaviours  of pathological narcissism as exhibited by Mr Trump. We discuss how it is actually simpler for the spouse of a narcissist to recognise narcissism in their partner than for a clinician (who has very limited information). We also talk about mutual abuse and reactive abuse, about whether narcissists are conscious that they are narcissists, and about the dark tetrad of psychopathy, sadism, narcissism and machiavellianism. We also talk about the category of the Communal (altruistic) Narcissist, and how narcissists can move between the different categories as they become more and more driven to special and unique.

    Dr Craig Malkin talks Narcissism - Part Three

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 4, 2022 27:17


    In this episode Harvard psychologist and narcissism expert and author Dr Craig Malkin talks with Dr Supriya McKenna and Karin Walker about how one can protect their children from becoming narcissistic, even when they have a narcissistic parent. They also discuss the difficulties encountered in dating when one has had a previous narcissistic relationship, to do with attraction, chemistry, trust and relating in new ways. 

    Dr Craig Malkin talks Narcissism - Part Two

    Play Episode Play 48 sec Highlight Listen Later Nov 20, 2022 30:49


    In this episode Dr Craig Malkin, psychology lecturer at Harvard Medical School and narcissism expert and psychologist explains the concept of the 'spectrum of narcissism', which he describes in his book, Rethinking Narcissism. He talks about 'healthy narcissism', and about those people who do not have enough of it (the 'Echoists'). We talk about the overlaps of this type with co-dependents, highly sensitive people, and empaths. Dr Malkin explains the importance of feeling one's anger when one is a victim of narcissistic abuse. We also talk about social media, and how this can have a part to play in some narcissistic individuals. 

    Dr Craig Malkin talks Narcissism - Part One

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 6, 2022 27:21


    In this episode, Dr Craig Malkin, Psychology lecturer at Harvard Medical School and narcissism expert, discusses with Dr Supriya McKenna and Karin Walker how ageing can affect narcissists. We talk about narcissistic collapses, and how  in older narcissists whose relationships have broken down they use projection (blaming others of what they themselves are thinking, feeling or doing) as a defence. Dr Malkin talks about the concept of the psychotic spiral, and how during a narcissistic collapse narcissists may even become delusional in their thinking. We also discuss therapy for narcissists, and what Dr Malkin's experience of this has been. 

    Dr Elinor Greenberg talks about narcissism - Part 4

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 14, 2022 25:43


    In the final episode of this mini series with Dr Elinor Greenburg, Dr Supriya McKenna and Karin Walker ask Elinor whether it is possible to 'cure' a narcissist. Elinor explains how previously therapy would take 5-10 years to have an effect on a minority of narcissists, but how she has recently been working on a new therapy, which has much faster effects. She explains which specific type of narcissist is able to respond to this type of therapy, and the strict boundaries and rules she enforces when working with them.  They discuss the concept of neuroplasticity and how treating narcissist involves breaking old autopilots and creating new ones. Elinor explains what drew to her working in this field, and they discuss depression in narcissists, and how the "Nobel Prize narcissists' rarely fall into depressions ('or narcissistic collapses'). 

    Dr Elinor Greenberg talks about narcissism - Part 3

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 14, 2022 25:53


    In this episode Dr Supriya McKenna and Karin Walker continue their conversation with  world renowned psychotherapist and educator Dr Elinor Greenberg.  Elinor explains how to manage a narcissist using her 'narcissistic sandwich' technique. Karin describes how she uses this technique herself in her role as a family lawyer and a mediator, and highlights why it is so important for family law practitioners to understand that they are dealing with a narcissist, so that they can facilitate negotiations effectively.  They discuss the concept of  'hoovering' and give tips for preparing to leave the narcissist, and how to prepare for narcissistic rage. 

    Dr Elinor Greenberg talks about narcissism - Part 2

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 14, 2022 25:51


    In this episode Dr Supriya McKenna and Karin Walker talk to internationally renowned Narcissism expert and psychotherapist Dr Elinor Greenberg. They delve into what 'healthy narcissism' is, how people become narcissists, and what determines whether a child will become a narcissist. Elinor differentiates narcissists from psychopaths and gives her view on the idea that narcissists are 'evil' - and she recommends her psychology.com article "Narcissistic Judo" for those who wish to try to keep things smooth with a narcissist. 

    Dr Elinor Greenberg talks about Narcissism - Part One

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 2, 2022 27:49


    In this fascinating episode , the first of a small series, Dr Supriya and Karin are joined by internationally recognised NPD expert and psychologist Dr Elinor Greenberg, who is famed for her work in explaining NPD to the general public and working directly with narcissists and those who have been affected by them. Elinor discusses the essential concept of 'whole object relations' to explain why the narcissist sees people as only 'all good' or 'all bad'. She describes the 3 types of narcissist - as first identified by James F Masterson, with whom she studied,  and explains her concept of the 'GOD defense' as demonstrated by exhibitionist narcissists. 

    Conversations with barrister Nicholas Wilkinson - Part 3

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 5, 2022 32:52


    In this episode Narcissism Expert Dr Supriya McKenna and top UK lawyer Karin Walker speak to barrister Nicholas Wilkinson from leading London chambers One Hare Court. Nick has a wealth of experience in dealing with cases involving narcissists, and has been the instructed barrister in a number of high profile cases. He recently successfully represented Princess Haya of Jordan in the High Court during her divorce from the Ruler of Dubai. In this episode Nick runs through the specific considerations that are necessary when  cross examining a narcissist on the witness stand, and gives his tips for how to do so. They also discuss the use of terms such as 'gaslighting' in court and why a narcissist's bad behaviour will not usually be relevant in determining a financial settlement. Karin explains the misconception that many people have that the family court is able to financially punish people for bad behaviour and deliver retribution. 

    Part Two - Conversations with barrister Nicholas Wilkinson

    Play Episode Listen Later May 29, 2022 26:02


    In this episode narcissism expert Dr Supriya McKenna and top family lawyer Karin Walker speak with acclaimed barrister Nicholas Wilkinson, from One Hare Court Chambers. Nick has a deep understanding of Narcissistic Personality Disorder, and has been involved in many high conflict cases. He even successfully represented Princess Haya of Jordan in her recent high profile divorce from the Ruler of Dubai. They discuss how common it is, in Nick's experience, for solicitors to be unaware that narcissism is at play in their cases. They also talk about how difficult it is to spot a covert (closet) narcissist in court proceedings and why it is so dangerous to miss this type. Supriya and Karin give their tips for lawyers on how to recognise the covert narcissist, including the giveaways in correspondence between solicitors. They discuss how the true narcissist has an overriding sense of entitlement in the divorce, which they cannot be talked out of and which doesn't subside at all over time. Nick makes the point that it is particularly hard to spot covert narcissists on the 'other side' because what might look like a sense of entitlement could actually be an aggressive stance taken by their lawyers, rather than by the client themselves.

    Conversations with barrister Nicholas Wilkinson - Part One

    Play Episode Listen Later May 27, 2022 25:16


    In this episode narcissism expert Dr Supriya McKenna and top UK family lawyer Karin Walker talk to highly acclaimed barrister Nicholas Wilkinson, who is most recently known for successfully representing Princess Haya of Jordan (the former wife of the ruler of Dubai)  in the High Court. Nick, who has an exceptionally deep understanding  of NPD, explains the specifics of why it is so important for family law barristers to understand narcissism, and the potential pitfalls of not recognising it in their clients or in the client 'on the other side'. 

    Why is it so hard to leave a Narcissist?

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 25, 2022 15:48


    In this episode, narcissism expert Dr Supriya McKenna explains the many difficulties faced by anyone who is trying to extricate themselves from a narcissistic relationship.  She deconstructs the psychological issues that have resulted from narcissistic abuse and explains how it is these very things themselves that make leaving so hard - and she busts the myth that the abuse can't have been real or serious, because if it had been then the victim would have left sooner. She also explains why it is so common for victims to return to the narcissist after many repeated attempts at leaving, and talks about addiction to the narcissist, gaslighting, isolation, hoovering, guilt, complex PTSD , anxiety and fear - and how all of these have a part to play in making leaving so very difficult. 

    Conversations with Dr Caroline Logan, personality disorder diagnostician and Consultant Clinical Forensic Psychologist - Part Three.

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 31, 2022 17:34


    In this episode, Dr Caroline Logan and Dr Supriya McKenna discuss violence in narcissistic relationships, and the part played by gender. They also discuss the realities of getting a personality disorder diagnosis for the purposes of Court, what the purpose of doing so could be, and what you need to consider when looking for a suitably qualified diagnostic professional to act as an expert witness.   

    conversations court consultants personality disorders diagnostician clinical forensic psychologist
    Narcissism 101 - for the people supporting the victims of narcissistic relationships.

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 2, 2022 22:43


    In this episode, for the people who are supporting the victims of a narcissistic relationship or divorce, narcissism expert Dr Supriya  McKenna explains the basics of narcissistic personality disorder. This episode should be useful for family members, friends and even legal professionals who are trying to get a basic grasp of narcissism. Dr McKenna also makes suggestions of some key things to avoid saying to the victim of narcissistic abuse, and addresses common misinformation about narcissism in order to make the process of helping loved ones or clients, who are victims, easier. 

    Conversations with Dr Caroline Logan, personality disorder diagnostician and Consultant Clinical Forensic Psychologist - Part Two.

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 20, 2022 29:13


    In the second part of this interview, Dr Supriya McKenna and top family lawyer Karin Walker chat with Dr Caroline Logan. Dr Logan is a  Consultant Clinical Forensic Psychologist in the NHS and she trains psychiatrists and psychologists in exactly how to make accurate and robust personality disorder diagnoses. In this episode they discuss being 'duped' by pathological narcissists, and what narcissistic parenting means for the children. 

    conversations consultants nhs personality disorders diagnostician clinical forensic psychologist
    Conversations with Dr Caroline Logan, personality disorder diagnostician and Consultant Clinical Forensic Psychologist - Part One.

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 9, 2022 35:28


    In the first part of this interview, Dr Supriya McKenna and top family lawyer Karin Walker discuss the differences between healthy narcissism, pathological narcissism and psychopathy with Dr Caroline Logan. Dr Logan is a  Consultant Clinical Forensic Psychologist in the NHS and she trains psychiatrists and psychologists in exactly how to make accurate and robust personality disorder diagnoses. 

    conversations consultants nhs personality disorders diagnostician clinical forensic psychologist
    Cyberstalking with cybersecurity expert Rory Innes - Part Two.

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 17, 2022 26:08


    In this episode cybersecurity expert Rory Innes explains to narcissism expert Dr Supriya McKenna and lawyer Karin Walker why it is that blocking a cyberstalker can lead to an escalation of stalking behaviour, potentially to dangerous levels. Rory explains the different categories of stalker, and outlines the difference between stalking and harassment, and why more training needs to given to the police to help them recognise and manage these criminal offenses. 

    Cyberstalking with cybersecurity expert Rory Innes - Part One.

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 7, 2022 26:23


    In this episode narcissism expert Dr Supriya McKenna and top UK family lawyer Karin Walker talk with cybersecurity expert Rory Innes about cyberstalking - a common tactic employed by narcissists in the separation/divorce period. Rory is founder and CEO of The Cyber Helpline, which provides free help to those experiencing suspected cybercrime. They discuss the commonest types of cyberstalking, and what to be aware of. 

    Hybrid Mediation Part 2 - with Rachael Oakes and Claire Colbert, from Family Mediation and Mentoring LLP.

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 10, 2021 29:38


    In this episode top UK Lawyer Karin Walker and Narcissism expert Dr Supriya McKenna talk with Hybrid Mediators Rachael Oakes (who also sits as a Deputy District Judge) and Claire Colbert about the need to educate solicitors and clients about hybrid mediation. They discuss why court should be  last resort, and why so called 'alternative' dispute resolution should be renamed 'First Line Dispute Resolution'. They discuss the traumas of the court system, the fact that one can drop out of the court system into mediation at any time and how hybrid mediation can even be run alongside a court application, with court as a backstop. They also discuss the realities of the power of the court, and the issues of obtaining truthful, complete financial disclosure from a narcissist. 

    Hybrid Mediation - with Deputy District Judge Rachael Oakes and Claire Colbert

    Play Episode Play 60 sec Highlight Listen Later Dec 1, 2021 28:17


    In this episode top UK divorce lawyer Karin Walker and Narcissism expert Dr Supriya McKenna talk with Deputy District Judge Rachael Oakes and her colleague mediator, Claire Colbert, about why classic, traditional mediation and shuttle mediation do not work with narcissists. They discuss the benefits of using 'Hybrid Mediation' instead, where a narcissist is involved. They explain why Hybrid Mediation is best used for parties that have legal representation for the duration of the process, and how it is significantly quicker, cheaper and less traumatic than court, which they all agree should be avoided where a narcissist is involved. 

    Barrister Nicholas Anderson shares his views on Narcissism - Part Three

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 21, 2021 25:29


    In this episode, London family law barrister Nicholas Anderson, top UK family lawyer Karin Walker and Narcissism expert Dr Supriya McKenna  discuss the issue of parental alienation - and how it is used by narcissistic parents as a means to punish their former spouse. Nick explains why the court is not the best place to deal with cases such as these, and Karin explains why arbitration is a much safer method to use where a narcissist is involved, where an adjudicative decision has to made regarding the children because the parents cannot agree. They discuss the important issue of how family solicitors representing a narcissist find themselves perpetuating the narcissist's abuse of their spouse, and the simple way to prevent this from happening - and how shortsighted they will find an approach like this to be when they themselves become the victim of the narcissist's abuse. They also delve into the difficult arena of relocation cases, where the non narcissistic parent wishes to move area with the children, but the narcissist blocks it. Finally, they reiterate the importance of education for judges and family lawyers, who first need to understand that NPD is a real diagnosable disorder, before becoming able to recognise the behaviours and the serious implications that it has for families in separation and divorce. 

    Child inclusive mediation - with Rachel Oakes and Claire Colbert from Family Mediation and Mentoring LLP.

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 20, 2021 24:25


    In this episode, top UK family lawyer Karin Walker and Narcissism expert Dr Supriya McKenna discuss how to approach child inclusive mediation with lawyer mediators Rachel Oakes and Claire Colbert when a narcissist is involved. They discuss balancing the benefits of hearing the voice of the child with the possible repercussions for the child from the narcissistic parent. They also discuss the difficulties lawyers face when dealing with narcissistic clients, and how this can affect their own wellbeing,  and the challenge of balancing pressure from law firms to reach financial targets with caving into unnecessary correspondence where a narcissist is involved - and how this runs up costs for the client. 

    Barrister Nicholas Anderson shares his views on Narcissism - Part Two

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 11, 2021 19:30


    In this episode Nicholas Anderson, an experienced London barrister,  Dr Supriya McKenna and top UK lawyer Karin Walker discuss why it is still unwise to use the term 'Narcissism' in the family court. They talk about the discrepancies in recognition of NPD between the medical profession in the UK and the USA, and the issues that arise when a narcissist triangulates their barrister with their solicitor. They also discuss the importance of the legal team drafting watertight consent orders to prevent the narcissist from exploiting any loopholes in the order further down the line, and how essential it is that orders are overdetailed in order to prevent this from happening. Karin explains why methods for reviewing the order at certain times, in particular for child arrangement orders, should be built-in to the order, to prevent the need for further court litigation at the hands of the narcissist. The impact of COVID,  and how narcissistic parents have used it to prevent children from seeing their non-narcissistic parent is also highlighted. 

    Barrister Nicholas Anderson shares his views on Narcissism - Part One

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 1, 2021 19:47


    In this episode, Top UK lawyer Karin Walker and Dr Supriya McKenna talk with Nicholas Anderson, a highly experienced barrister from 1KBW Chambers in London. They discuss the misunderstandings surrounding Narcissism among many barristers and judges, and how this can lead to judgements which fail to be in the children's best interests. They talk about the dangers of the charming and plausible presentation of the narcissist and the believable victim-playing of the closet narcissist - and how this can play out in court. 

    views narcissism barrister top uk nicholas anderson
    Gaslighting

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 21, 2021 14:39


    In this episode Dr Supriya McKenna explains 'gaslighting' - one the most used narcissistic tactics of psychological abuse. She explains how it leaves the victim feeling unable to trust themselves or their perceptions, and how the resulting confusion keeps them 'in play' as a source of narcissistic supply for the narcissist. 

    OurFamilyWizard - an effective way to communicate with a narcissistic co-parent.

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 13, 2021 44:13


    In this podcast episode, Dr Supriya McKenna and top UK lawyer Karin Walker talk to the UK and USA branches of the parenting app 'OurFamilyWizard.' They find out why exactly it is that this communication tool is so effective with narcissists, and James and Racheal address  concerns regarding whether it can be used as a further tool of abuse by a narcissistic co-parent. They delve into the specific features available, and explain in detail how they work to limit instant back and forth exchanges, ultimately limiting the provision of narcissistic supply to the narcissist - and exactly how the features of the app help to hold the narcissist accountable. 

    Conversations about narcissism with Clinical Psychologist Dr Daksha Hirani - Part 4

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 10, 2021 17:21


    In this episode Dr Supriya McKenna, Top UK lawyer Karin Walker and Clinical psychologist Dr Daksha Hirani discuss how common Narcissistic Personality Disorder is in the population, and why it might be on the increase. They talk about whether Narcissism is more prevalent in certain cultures and whether Narcissists can be 'cured' of their NPD. Dr Hirani cautions how some narcissists use therapy as a means to learn how to change their behaviour in order to escape detection. Finally, they discuss the tricky concept of whether narcissists are able to experience love. 

    Conversations about narcissism with Clinical Psychologist Dr Daksha Hirani - Part 3

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 9, 2021 24:43


    In this episode Dr Supriya McKenna and Dr Daksha Hirani discuss the ins and outs of  'complex PTSD' - a consequence of narcissistic abuse. Dr Hirani explains what treatments are available, including EMDR (eye movement desensitisation and reprogramming) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. They talk about how Mindfulness Meditation is a excellent way for the victims of narcissistic abuse to rewire their brains, and how it is scientifically validated. Dr Hirani also explains why it is that seeking therapy with a therapist who does not fully understand NPD may make things worse, and how it is that the narcissist has the potential to be your greatest teacher when it comes to healing your wounds to lead you towards personal growth and happiness. 

    Conversations about narcissism with Clinical Psychologist Dr Daksha Hirani - Part 2

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 8, 2021 20:24


    In this episode Dr Supriya McKenna and top UK lawyer Karin Walker discuss with Clinical Psychologist Dr Daksha Hirani why it is that NPD is not well recognised in the UK and why mental health professional and lawyers are not being trained in NPD. They talk about the  issue of the family members of narcissists 'diagnosing' the narcissists and why getting a formal diagnosis of narcissism is unlikely to be helpful. Dr Hirani explains why victims of narcissistic abuse should never 'name and shame' the narcissist in their lives, and why it is that a narcissist will attempt to annihilate their spouse in divorce. They also discuss the narcissist's need to collect objects or continually have new fads in order to gain narcissistic supply from others. 

    Conversations about narcissism with Clinical Psychologist Dr Daksha Hirani - Part 1.

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 30, 2021 20:12


    In this episode Dr Supriya McKenna and Karin Walker talk to UK Clinical Psychologist Dr Daksha Hirani, who explains why it's so important to be able to recognise (as a victim of a narcissistic relationship) your own telltale gut feelings and responses. We discuss how the narcissist is able to show you your own wounds, and how it is that narcissistic abuse is so infrequently recognised, even within the area of domestic abuse - and why that matters. 

    The 5 reasons why couples therapy won't work with a narcissist

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 20, 2021 13:19


    In this episode Dr Supriya McKenna explains why couples therapy, or marriage guidance counselling, won't work if one of the couple is a narcissist. She explains how (even when the narcissistic individual seems keen to have therapy) this is a toxic dynamic of triangulation, playing the victim and blameshifting, and why a  narcissist won't seek to evolve or learn from couples therapy - but instead will see it as an opportunity to punish their spouse, and 'win' at it.

    The Closet Narcissist

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 11, 2021 24:55


    In this episode Dr Supriya McKenna and top family lawyer Karin Walker discuss the difficulties in spotting the so-called 'closet narcissist' - both for the partner of the narcissist and for the divorce lawyer when the closet narcissist is their client. They describe type of narcissist in detail, and explain why they so often fly under the radar.

    How does narcissism come into being?

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 2, 2021 17:39


    In this episode, Narcissism expert Dr Supriya McKenna and top UK lawyer Karin Walker discuss why people become narcissists. They outline the main types of parenting that can cause a child to develop narcissistic defences, and, when a parent is narcissistic themselves, they highlight the role of the other parent (who might otherwise be an enabler of the abuse) in limiting the damage to the children. 

    When a narcissistic parent wants 'shared care' of the children

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 21, 2021 27:43


    In this, the first episode of Season 2, Dr Supriya McKenna and  top UK lawyer Karin Walker discuss the concept of 'Shared Care',  in particular with regards to a narcissistic parent. 

    Cohabitation and the 'Common Law' - the facts for victims of narcissistic relationships.

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 24, 2021 20:57


    In this episode, top UK lawyer Karin Walker and Dr Supriya McKenna talk about the financial issues one needs to consider when cohabiting, whether you are currently cohabiting with a narcissist or whether you have left a narcissistic relationship and are looking to live with a new partner. They discuss the concept of 'common law', and how one might protect themselves when it comes to buying property with a cohabitee. 

    Communication issues in Narcissistic Divorces and The Grey Rock Technique

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 9, 2021 20:52


    In this episode, Dr Supriya McKenna and top UK divorce lawyer Karin Walker discuss the communication issues that occur in narcissistic divorces as a result of the narcissist's narcissistic injury and rage. They talk about the highly effective Grey Rock Technique, and how hard it can be at first. At the end of the podcast, Karin explains the importance for the lawyer of maintaining good boundaries with narcissistic clients, and how support staff may bear the brunt of the narcissist's poor communication style. 

    The Narcissist's New Partner (or 'Supply')

    Play Episode Listen Later May 25, 2021 11:35


    In this episode, Dr Supriya McKenna and top UK family lawyer Karin Walker explain why it is that narcissists move so quickly from one partner to the next, without needing to grieve from the loss of the relationship. They also discuss why the former partner of a narcissist should refrain from trying to save the narcissist's new partner from the narcissist. 

    No Fault Divorce

    Play Episode Listen Later May 25, 2021 13:48


    In this episode Dr Supriya McKenna asks Karin Walker how she expects the new UK 'no fault divorce' to impact upon divorces where one of the spouses is a narcissist. Karin also clarifies why it is that in the eyes of the law it does not matter what ground is cited as a ground for divorce, as this will not affect the outcome of the financial or child arrangements. They discuss why it is not necessary to cite all narcissistic behaviours in full detail in an 'unreasonable behaviour' divorce petition as this will not affect any outcomes, because the financial proceedings, the child arrangements process and the divorce petition are all completely separate from each other. 

    The cycle of idealise and devalue

    Play Episode Listen Later May 24, 2021 16:33


    Dr Supriya McKenna and UK family lawyer Karin Walker discuss one of the hallmarks of a narcissistic relationship - the addictive cycle of idealise and devalue, and how that can present. They explain that this is one of the key things to look out for for anyone trying to determine whether their partner is a narcissist. 

    Tips for divorcing a narcissist from family lawyer Karin Walker

    Play Episode Listen Later May 24, 2021 26:24


    In this episode, family lawyer Karin Walker shares her insights into how to best navigate the Family Court process where a narcissist will be manipulating the system. Useful not just for the spouse of the narcissist, but also for lawyers and mediators, she explains the realities and pitfalls of the court system, and how exactly a narcissist will exploit it. She delves into the issue of how narcissists will weaponise the children by withholding contact from the other parent, by making false allegations against them, and how the courts will deal with this. She advises caution, and explains how to stay out of court, as well as how to fund yourself through your divorce. If you want to know more about narcissism, you may be interested in bestselling author, Dr Supriya McKenna's new book, 'The Narcissist Trap - The Mind-Bending Pull of the Great Pretenders'. More resources for you: If you want to be sure that your partner is a narcissist the 'Is your partner a narcissist? Knowing for sure' online course is out now, as is the 'Demystifying the Narcissist' online course - and, due to popular demand, the 'Divorcing a Narcissist' online course is on its way. Please head over to doctorsupriya.com for online course information and updates. For more free information and blogs, and to contact Dr Supriya for 1:1 coaching, visit thelifedoctor.org. You can also follow Dr Supriya on Twitter, Instagram and Linkedin for more narcissism related insights.

    Avoiding court delays in narcissistic legal battles

    Play Episode Listen Later May 20, 2021 26:49


    In this episode Dr Supriya McKenna and Karin Walker discuss the delays in the family court and how best to get out of the system. They talk about how moving over to the private system will yield a faster, fairer and cheaper resolution, if the narcissist can be persuaded to agree. They explain how to do this, and why it is that your lawyer might not yet be aware of these better options for your case. 

    Narcissists and their children

    Play Episode Listen Later May 13, 2021 20:58


    In this episode Dr Supriya McKenna explains the complicated relationship that a narcissist has with their children. She delves into the concept of how the narcissist sees their children as extensions of themselves and how this manifests. She also discusses the idea of parental love from a narcissistic parent, the effect that a narcissistic parent can have on a child and the recommended method of 'parallel parenting'. 

    BBC Radio Sussex and Surrey talks with Karin Walker about the difficulties faced when divorcing a narcissist

    Play Episode Listen Later May 5, 2021 16:37


    In this episode, originally broadcast by BBC Radio, top UK family lawyer Karin Walker discusses the difficulties faced when one is divorcing a narcissist. She explains why it is so important to raise awareness of Narcissistic Personality Disorder, and how a narcissist will not be different with their new partner, regardless of how things may seem. 

    What is 'Narcissistic Supply' - and why does it matter so much?

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 27, 2021 12:37


    In this episode Dr Supriya McKenna talks about 'narcissistic supply', what it is and how it lies behind all narcissistic behaviours in a person suffering from NPD. She explains why it is so important to understand, and how empowering this understanding is for the victims of narcissistic relationships - something which really has the capacity to reverse the power dynamic. 

    npd narcissistic supply
    What types of people are attractive to narcissists?

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 21, 2021 12:52


    In this podcast, top UK family lawyer Karin Walker and Dr Supriya McKenna talk about the personality traits of people who narcissists find attractive, and why it is that those types of people can find themselves lured into long term narcissistic relationships. Karin and Supriya are the authors of "Divorcing a narcissist: the Lure, the Loss and the Law" aimed at helping the partner of a narcissist work out whether they are in a narcissistic relationship and, if they choose to leave, helping them to navigate their way through the rocky divorce that will follow. They have also written an acclaimed book for lawyers - "Narcissism and family Law - a Practitioner's Guide" to educate family law professionals about the specific behaviour patterns that narcissists will demonstrate in divorce, so that they can protect their clients, and themselves from these damaging behaviours. 

    Living with your narcissistic ex during divorce

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 12, 2021 25:18


    In this episode top UK family lawyer, Karin Walker,  and Dr Supriya McKenna discuss strategies for coping if you have to co-occupy the same house during your separation and divorce when your ex is a narcissist. In this detailed and informative podcast amongst other things they explain why it can be difficult to have your abusive ex removed from the house, how a narcissist will increase their boundary violations, and how to limit communication with the narcissist to protect oneself emotionally and legally. 

    What is narcissistic ‘hoovering'?

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 4, 2021 9:55


    In this episode Dr Supriya McKenna and top UK family lawyer,  Karin Walker, discuss the phenomenon of ‘hoovering' (the predictable ways in which  a narcissist will try to suck their spouse, who is on the verge of leaving, back into the relationship). They also draw parallels between how the lawyer and spouse are treated by the narcissist, and how a lawyer who wishes to terminate their professional relationship with a narcissist will be subjected to the same hoovering tactics as the spouse. 

    Radio interview with Karin Walker and Dr Supriya McKenna - part 3.

    Play Episode Play 60 sec Highlight Listen Later Mar 28, 2021 18:19


    In this radio interview top UK lawyer Karin Walker outlines narcissistic personality disorder from the lawyer's perspective. Dr Supriya McKenna explains the difficulties with trying to get a narcissistic individual diagnosed and they both give their top tips for those separating from a narcissistic spouse. 

    Claim Narcissists in divorce – the lure, the loss and the law.

    In order to claim this podcast we'll send an email to with a verification link. Simply click the link and you will be able to edit tags, request a refresh, and other features to take control of your podcast page!

    Claim Cancel