Nancy Harris Blog - Psychotherapy and life coaching in Denver

Are They Gaslighting? How to Recognize and Protect Yourself from Manipulation-Part 2

How to Protect Yourself from Gaslighting

If you recognize signs of gaslighting, (see Part 1), in your relationship with a partner, boss, friend, or family member, it’s important to take action to protect yourself:

Trust Your Gut – If something feels off, don’t ignore it. Your instincts are valid.
Keep a Record – Write down conversations, events, and incidents to refer back to later if the gaslighter tries to twist the narrative.
Seek Support – Talk to a trusted friend, therapist, or support group to gain an outside perspective.
Set Boundaries – Don’t engage in arguments that go in circles or try to prove yourself to someone determined to distort reality.
Educate Yourself – Learning more about gaslighting can help you recognize it and respond more effectively.
Consider Distance – If possible, reducing or cutting contact with the gaslighter may be necessary for your mental well-being.

Are They Gaslighting? How to Recognize and Protect Yourself from Manipulation-Part 1

by Nancy Harris 1 Comment

It is my belief that the psychological manipulation of gaslighting is one of the most painful things any person can endure. This kind of treatment drives clients to my office more than pretty much anything else. Gaslighting and other forms of narcissistic abuse can, at its worse, be deadly. Get help if you are experiencing this on a regular basis.

What is gaslighting?

Gaslighting is a subtle yet insidious form of psychological manipulation that can leave you questioning your own reality, perception and, in its worse cases, your sanity. Whether it occurs in personal relationships, the workplace, or even in larger societal contexts, gaslighting can erode your confidence and make you feel isolated and confused.

The Value of Investing in Yourself: Your Greatest Asset

by Nancy Harris 2 Comments

Investing in yourself is one of the best decisions you can make.

As someone who has been self-employed for over 20 years, I know the value of investing in yourself. It has always been my belief that when you invest in yourself, you are building a reservoir of knowledge and experience that no one can take away from you. You are making a commitment to your own growth that creates a sense of confidence and competence that attracts, in my case, clients and professional contacts.

It has been my experience that this always pays off and it is one of the best investments you can possibly make. Yes, it may cost some money, but the return is exponential.

As a therapist and life coach, I often see clients recoil in fear at the prospect of investing in their own growth, healing, continuing education or training, etc. However, if you want to expand your life, you must be willing to take some level of calculated risk and invest in yourself.

Let’s take a look at the possible returns on this investment:

What to Do When You’re Feeling Unmotivated

by Nancy Harris Leave a Comment

Winter blues, anyone?

We all experience moments of low motivation—those times when even the simplest tasks feel overwhelming. Whether it’s work, personal goals, or everyday responsibilities, feeling stuck is completely normal. The good news? There are ways to reignite your motivation and get back on track.

Since you may be feeling unmotivated, I’ll keep it simple:

1. Identify the Root Cause

Before you can regain motivation, it helps to understand why you’re feeling unmotivated. Are you burned out? Overwhelmed? Lacking purpose? Pinpointing the cause allows you to address it directly.

2. Break Tasks Into Smaller Steps

A big project or goal can feel paralyzing. Instead of focusing on the entire task, break it into small, manageable steps. Completing even one small step can give you a sense of progress and momentum.

How to Use Your Body Compass: Navigating Life with Intuition and Awareness—Part 2

by Nancy Harris 1 Comment

In Part 1, I discussed what your body compass is and how it can be your best tool for creating an authentic and inspired life. This is a life aligned with your soul’s purpose and your unique reason for being here. It’s my belief, the body speaks the voice of the subconscious mind which always knows what’s best for us. I often say to my clients, “The mind lies, but the body always tells the truth.”

The sooner you learn to listen to the truth, the more authentic and aligned your life will be.

Here are some tips:

1. Listen to Your Gut Feelings

The phrase “trust your gut” exists for a reason. The gut is often referred to as our “second brain” due to its vast network of neurons and its connection to the nervous system. When faced with a decision, pay attention to how your stomach reacts. Does it feel tight and uneasy? Or light and relaxed? These physical responses can help guide your choices.

2. Observe Your Posture and Energy Levels

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