Blog | The Inner Life of the Highly Sensitive Person

The Covert Narcissist & the Sensitive High-Achiever: A Painful Pairing

The covert narcissist doesn’t rage—they guilt, withhold, and twist your empathy against you.
For Highly Sensitive High-Achievers, that dynamic is both intoxicating and devastating.
This post explores how to recognize the pattern—and how to walk away with self-trust intact.

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The Hidden Impact of Covert Narcissistic Abuse (And How You Can Heal)

Covert narcissists may not raise their voice, but their tactics can leave you exhausted, guilty, and questioning your own worth. If you recognize these patterns, you are not overreacting. Naming these behaviors for what they are is the first step toward healing.

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10 Tactics of a Covert (Vulnerable) Narcissist You Need to Know

When most people think of narcissism, they picture someone loud, arrogant, or demanding the spotlight. But covert (or vulnerable) narcissists often look very different. They may appear quiet, humble, or even insecure. On the surface, they don’t seem threatening.

But behind closed doors, they use subtle, manipulative tactics to control, confuse, and wear you down. If you’ve ever felt constantly guilty, drained, or unsure of yourself, you may have experienced covert narcissistic abuse.

Here are 10 common tactics to watch for:

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10 Signs You Might Be Experiencing Gaslighting

Gaslighting is one of the most confusing—and damaging—forms of emotional abuse. It’s designed to make you question your memory, your feelings, and even your sanity. The truth is: if you’ve been made to believe you’re “too sensitive,” “imagining things,” or “overreacting,” you may be experiencing gaslighting.

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Christina Sheehan, MS. LPC. LMHC

As a Highly Sensitive Person (HSP) myself (she/her pronouns), I know the struggle it can be to accept yourself and your unique abilities and needs. My dream is a world where all HSPs can feel their value and have the freedom to share their gifts in the world. Now, maybe more then ever, highly sensitive people and empaths are very needed to help care for this world. Through my private practice in Portland, Oregon I currently contribute by working with highly sensitive individuals on the issues that affect HSPs more deeply then others. This includes, covert narcissistic relationships, midlife transitions/crisis!, and learning about & accepting yourself.