013: Shrink Wrap: How to Find a Therapist

How To Be a Terrible Daughter

This week, we’re tackling the high-stakes scavenger hunt of finding the right therapist, especially for those of us recovering from narcissistic abuse. Let’s face it—finding a therapist isn’t just about picking the one who looks the least like they’d start a cult. We break down the whole process, from roping in friends and former therapists for recommendations (because why do all the work yourself?) to nailing those 15-minute consultation calls to see if they’re worthy of your copay. We’ll also walk you through the serious (and seriously uncomfortable) considerations that come with embarking on deep healing work—you know, the kind where you’re basically signing up to face your emotional nightmares, but hopefully with a guide who isn’t more terrifying than the dreams.

Not into traditional therapy? No problem. We’ve got the lowdown on complementary healing modalities too, from energy work to body-based approaches, and what to watch for so you don’t accidentally end up in a drum circle wondering how you got there. Megan shares why it’s okay to toss out what doesn’t work for you, while Elizabeth heaps praise on Megan’s energy healing skills—seriously, she might start a fan club. And, of course, no episode would be complete without our “Mini Crazy Mom Offs,” because healing from toxic mothers takes more than therapy—it takes humor. We close with the weekly tools that kept us grounded, including sunset beach walks and one delightfully strange way to complete nature’s circle.

We’re so happy to be back here with you for a brand-new season of the podcast. If you haven’t already, don’t forget to subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube or your favorite podcast app to automatically get all of the new episodes as soon as they drop. Unlike the narcissist in your life, we'd love to hear your stories and how they affected you. Email us or DM us on Instagram, @terribledaughterpod or at [e-mail]! 

What We Cover In This Episode:

• How to enlist the help of friends, previous therapists, and other resources to find the best therapist for your needs [2:47]

• The unique challenges and needs of people recovering from narcissistic abuse [6:49]

• A step-by-step process for researching and selecting a therapist, along with helpful questions and prompts [8:34]

• Our insights into important considerations for embarking on a deep healing journey through therapy [13:49]

• Various complementary modalities that can support your recovery from narcissistic abuse and what to keep in mind with each of them [17:37]

• The benefits of energy healing and why Elizabeth considers Megan the best energy worker they've ever worked with [46:24]

• Our “Mini Crazy Mom Offs”: Two more stories about the impact of toxic mothers and our strategies for healing from these wounds [53:53]

• The weekly tools that helped us get through the week, including sunset beach walks and a transformative way to complete nature’s circle [64:00]

Links & Resources: 

Learn More About Megan’s Energy Healing

Psychology Today

No Bad Parts by Richard C. Schwartz, PhD

Curvy Yoga