The Connection Between Complex Trauma, Codependency, & Narcissism

Are you in a codependent relationship? Are you stuck in toxic cycles of narcissism and co-narcissism? If so, you’re going to want to tune in to today’s episode. Steph & Craig welcome trauma expert, @TimFletcher to the podcast. Tim is a pioneer in the addictions and Mental Health treatment profession and an expert on complex trauma. He is the founder and president of RE/ACT (Recovery Education for Addictions and Complex Trauma). He’s also a counselor, a researcher, and a pastor. Tim offers up a masterclass on complex trauma and its connection to codependency. He breaks down how children who experience complex trauma in childhood will oftentimes have one parent or caregiver who is narcissistic or displays narcissistic traits and will in turn form a codependent relationship with that parent or caregiver. Tim goes on to explain the cycles of codependent relationships, how addiction plays a role, what you can do if you find yourself in this type of relationship, and so much more. Buckle up because there’s a lot of information covered and you’re going to want to catch it all. Connect with Steph & Craig: Watch the episodes on YouTube-https://www.youtube.com/@stephandcraig/?sub_confirmation=1 Follow Steph & Craig on Facebook- https://www.facebook.com/stephandcraig Steph & Craig on Instagram- https://www.instagram.com/steph.and.craig/ Steph & Craig on TikTok- https://www.tiktok.com/@stephandcraig Sign up for Steph & Craig’s newsletter- https://www.stephandcraig.co/ Disclaimer: We’re just sharing our journey with you. We’re not licensed therapists, and this podcast is NOT intended as a substitute for the advice of a physician, professional coach, psychotherapist, or other qualified professional. Cool? Good deal. We’ll see you soon. In this episode: 00:00 Understanding the Shame Spectrum 10:16 Exploring Codependency in Relationships 31:10 The Cycle of Codependent Relationships 33:32 Approaching Codependency and Narcissism with Compassion 34:58 The Dynamics of Codependent Relationships 36:16 Fluctuating Roles in Codependency 43:45 Differentiating Codependency from Healthy Love 48:14 The Influence of Childhood Experiences on Codependency 56:25 Understanding and Healing Codependency 01:04:36 The Role of Addiction in Codependency 01:07:42 The Connection Between Complex Trauma and Addiction 01:14:39 The Role of Self-Soothing and Coping Mechanisms 01:18:01 Understanding Codependency in Relationships 01:25:30 Breaking Free from Codependency 01:36:39 Creating Healthy, Interdependent Relationships Connect with Tim: Follow Tim on YouTube- https://www.youtube.com/@TimFletcher Check out Tim on Instagram- https://www.instagram.com/timfletcherco/ Tim’s Website- https://www.timfletcher.ca/ Tim on Facebook- https://www.facebook.com/TimFletcherCo/ Expect the best. Plan for the greatest.