Like nearly 70% of my clients, Jessica was trapped in a web of self-blame and confusion. She clung to memories of the good times—not grand gestures, but moments when the despair felt less crushing. She remembered days when she believed they were genuinely happy together. But now, it felt like her heart had been ripped out, leaving a wound that refused to heal.

But something unexpected occurred as we began a series of gentle breathing exercises designed to relax her body. Anika fell fast asleep, and despite my efforts, she remained in a deep slumber for nearly an hour.

Divorce with a narcissist is not just difficult, it’s exhausting. They see the world in black and white, and you’re firmly placed in the “bad” category. They will change the narrative, deny reality, and turn everything on its head. If they’re in pain, you’re to blame. If anything goes wrong, it’s your fault. There’s no reasoning or negotiation—just warfare.