Narcissistic Abuse Counselling in Calgary: Signs, Effects & Expert Help

Are You Experiencing Narcissistic Abuse in Calgary or Alberta?

by Laura Laidlaw,

(MA, RPC)

Narcissistic abuse can be deeply confusing and emotionally devastating. Often subtle
and psychological, this form of emotional abuse leaves victims questioning their reality,
self-worth, and ability to trust others.

Whether you're facing this trauma in a romantic relationship, with a parent, or even a
colleague, recognizing the signs of narcissistic abuse is the first step toward healing.

If you're in Calgary or anywhere in Alberta, trauma-informed therapist Laura Laidlaw,
MA, RPC, offers compassionate, specialized counselling — in-person or virtually — to
help you rebuild, recover, and reclaim your life.

What Is Narcissistic Abuse?

Narcissistic abuse refers to a pattern of manipulative, controlling behaviours used by
someone with narcissistic traits or narcissistic personality disorder (NPD). This
emotional and psychological abuse can leave lasting scars and often includes:

🚩Gaslighting
🚩Blame-shifting
🚩Emotional manipulation
🚩Withholding affection
🚩Silent treatment or explosive outbursts

While the term “narcissist” is commonly used, narcissistic abuse is a serious form of
trauma that requires targeted, expert support.

7 Key Signs You’re Experiencing Narcissistic Abuse

Victims often don’t realize they’re in an abusive dynamic until they're deeply entangled.
If you’re in Calgary and experiencing any of these, it may be time to seek help:

1. Gaslighting
You're told you're "too sensitive" or your memory is wrong. You begin to doubt your
perception of reality.

2. Love-Bombing Followed by Devaluation
At first, you're idealized — then suddenly criticized, ignored, or insulted.

3. Constant Criticism
You feel like nothing you do is ever good enough. Your self-esteem suffers.

4. Blame-Shifting
They never take accountability. Everything becomes your fault.

5. Isolation
You're gradually distanced from friends and family — often subtly — so the narcissist
can maintain control.

6. Emotional Rollercoaster
You swing between highs and crushing lows, forming a toxic trauma bond.

7. Walking on Eggshells
You’re constantly anxious, trying not to "set them off."

The Emotional and Psychological Impact of Narcissistic Abuse

Without support, narcissistic abuse can lead to:
🔴Low self-esteem and identity loss
🔴Anxiety and depression
🔴Chronic self-doubt and fear of intimacy
🔴Complex PTSD (C-PTSD)
🔴Shame, guilt, and emotional numbness
🔴Coping mechanisms like disordered eating or dissociation

The good news: healing is possible with the right therapeutic support.

Why Specialized Narcissistic Abuse Therapy in Calgary Matters

Not every therapist understands the nuanced, covert nature of narcissistic abuse.
Survivors need a trauma-informed counsellor who validates their experiences, helps untangle gaslighting effects, and guides them toward emotional safety and empowerment.

Meet Laura Laidlaw, MA, RPC — Calgary Therapist Specializing in Narcissistic Abuse Recovery

With a Master’s degree in counselling and deep experience working with survivors of
emotional abuse, Laura Laidlaw helps clients:

🟢Recover from narcissistic relationships
🟢Heal childhood emotional trauma
🟢Set healthy emotional boundaries
🟢Rebuild confidence and identity
🟢Navigate C-PTSD and anxiety with evidence-based methods

She Provides:
🟢In-person therapy in Calgary
🟢Virtual counselling across Alberta (including Edmonton, Red Deer, Lethbridge,
and beyond)

Therapy Modalities Include:
🟢Parts work / Inner child healing
🟢CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy)
🟢Self-worth and boundary-building strategies

What Narcissistic Abuse Therapy Looks Like

Therapy is tailored to your needs and may include:
🟢Processing emotional trauma in a safe space
🟢Rebuilding your sense of identity
🟢Learning to recognize red flags
🟢Addressing internalized guilt or shame

🟢Cultivating emotional resilience and trust

Serving Calgary & Alberta — Online and In-Person Therapy Available
Located centrally in Calgary, Laura’s practice welcomes clients from:
🌍 Inglewood
🌍 Beltline
🌍 Kensington
🌍 Mission
🌍 Bridgeland
🌍 And virtually from anywhere in Alberta

Why Clients Choose Laura Laidlaw Counselling in Calgary

🔵Over a decade of experience in emotional abuse recovery
🔵Trauma-informed, compassionate approach
🔵Safe, supportive therapy for adults, teens (16+), and children (8+)
🔵Flexible booking: in-person or secure video sessions
🔵Specialized support for narcissistic abuse, trauma, PTSD, and emotional healing

Book Your Narcissistic Abuse Counselling Session in Calgary Today

You are not crazy — you're healing.
If you're ready to take the first step toward peace and self-trust, contact us to book a confidential
therapy session with Laura Laidlaw.

📞Call 587.330.1155 or Click Below to Schedule:
[Book an Appointment with Laura Laidlaw, MA, RPC
Offering in-person counselling in Calgary or virtual sessions across Alberta.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

❓What is the first step to start counselling for narcissistic abuse?

Book a confidential consultation to discuss your needs and determine the best
treatment plan.

❓Do I need a diagnosis to begin therapy?
No — you do not need a formal diagnosis. If you're struggling emotionally, support is
available.

❓Can I access therapy if I’m outside Calgary?
Yes! Laura offers secure online counselling throughout Alberta, including Edmonton,
Lethbridge, and more.

You Deserve to Feel Safe, Empowered, and Free

At Shelly Qualtieri & Associates, in collaboration with Laura Laidlaw, we support you in breaking free from toxic patterns, reclaiming your inner peace, and moving forward with renewed strength. You're not alone—we're here with you every step of the way.