We all, directly or indirectly, have experienced someone who is unusually difficult, entitled, grandiose, and manipulative. Who sets the emotional thermostat of any room they walk into. Who makes people walk on eggshells and cater to their emotional needs. Some of us have even had the experience of being close enough to that person to see their mask fully slip, exposing the full extent of their lack of empathy, vindictiveness, and rage.
Just as it’s important to have a thorough understanding of mental health conditions like depression and anxiety, for our health and wellbeing as well as others’, it is important to understand narcissistic personality disorder in order to keep ourselves and our communities safe.
In this dynamic and interactive class, Sophia Rehmus will deliver a comprehensive overview of narcissistic personality disorder (NPD), its effects on interpersonal relationships and society, and practical tools for when we encounter it in our lives. Topics covered will include:
What is the real definition of narcissistic personality disorder?
How does someone become a narcissist? Why do they do what they do? Will they ever change?
What traits are important to look out for?
What traits do narcissists look for when choosing targets?
What do I do if I suspect someone in my life is a narcissist?
How do I protect myself and my loved ones, and specifically in the dating scene?
What are the psychological effects of narcissistic abuse? What are options and resources for healing?
How do I handle high conflict personalities as they appear in everyday life? At work? School? In my friend group? My Instagram feed?
The class will be a combination of lecture, small and large group discussion, and journaling prompts for self-reflection. Participants will have ample opportunity for questions!
This event is open to all genders & presentations, and is a HYBRID event—both in-person in Dumbo, Brooklyn, and online via Zoom! We offer sliding-scale rates to expand access to those with financial barriers.
Who’s teaching?
Sophia Rehmus (she/her) is a feminist, mental health advocate, psychoeducator, and creative. Trained in trauma and narcissistic abuse treatment, Sophia is passionate about educating others on narcissism, patriarchy, and pathological love relationships—and how to use that knowledge to cultivate healthier self-awareness and intimate relationships. Sophia's work is firmly rooted in feminist pedagogy—she recently received her Master's degree in Women, Violence, and Conflict, where she wrote her dissertation on narcissism and gender.
When she isn't researching, writing about, or teaching psychology, Sophia is an avid traveler and explorer. She works with several organizations directing teen travel programs across the globe, and has completed two Fulbright grants. In everything she does, Sophia strives to create an environment based on warmth, inspiration, and creativity.