Healing After Narcissistic Abuse: The Stages of Recovery Survivors Go Through

The Healing Journey from Narcissistic Abuse | The Phoenix Path

Healing from narcissistic abuse isn’t linear — and it isn’t something you “just get over.” It’s a journey. And it is possible.

In this episode of Strings Attached, hosts Noah and Rose walk you through the stages of recovery from narcissistic abuse using the Phoenix Path — a grounded framework that reflects the real emotional process survivors go through, from confusion and trauma to empowerment and personal growth.

We talk honestly about why recognising narcissistic abuse is so difficult, especially when manipulation and gaslighting distort your sense of reality. We explore the emotional fallout many survivors experience — including trauma responses and complex PTSD — and why grief, guilt, and emotional chaos are normal parts of the healing journey.

This conversation focuses on what actually helps: self-care that supports nervous system healing, learning to set and hold boundaries, accessing support groups, and understanding that recovery happens in stages — not all at once. We also discuss letting go of labels, grieving the person you thought they were, and slowly rebuilding a life that feels safe, grounded, and your own.

This episode isn’t about fixing yourself — because you’re not broken. It’s about emotional recovery, reclaiming your power, and remembering that life after narcissistic abuse can include peace, clarity, and even post-traumatic growth.

If you’re navigating trauma, working on your mental health, or standing at the beginning of your healing journey, you don’t have to do it alone.

You can change.
You can heal.
And you can thrive beyond what hurt you.

🎧 We’re here with you.

00:00 The Healing Journey Begins

07:28 Navigating the Inferno of Emotions

16:29 Finding the Scorch Line: Seeking Help

27:31The Role of Education in Healing

27:59 Understanding Narcissistic Abuse and Seeking Support

30:24 Establishing Boundaries and Practicing Self-Care

35:05 Navigating No Contact and Communication Strategies

38:41 Removing the Power of Labels and Grieving

43:03 Stabilizing and Rebuilding After Trauma

48:06 Thriving and Embracing Post-Traumatic Growth

53:24 Outro