Projection is a classic tool of narcissistic abuse. The abuser accuses the survivor of the very things they are guilty of—lying, cheating, being selfish. Over time, survivors internalize these accusations.
Why Projection Works
Projection shifts responsibility away from the abuser and onto the survivor. If the narcissist cheats, they accuse their partner of betrayal. This creates constant defense, self-doubt, and guilt.
Therapy Application
Therapists must explicitly name projection and externalize it. Survivors need to hear: “These accusations were not about you—they were about them.” Encourage clients to separate identity from imposed guilt.
Survivor Empowerment
Once survivors understand projection, they can stop carrying blame that was never theirs. This insight is often described as “liberating.”
👉 At Soteldo Psychotherapy Clinic, we help survivors dismantle projection and reclaim their authentic self.
