From Pain to Purpose: Dr. Susan Spicer’s 4-Step Approach to Healing Trauma and Narcissistic Abuse

Brainz Magazine Exclusive Interview

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Dr. Susan Spicer is one of the world’s leading experts on healing trauma and recovering from narcissistic abuse. A licensed psychologist, neuropsychological expert, certified brain health coach, and trauma therapist, she is the author of The Narcissistic Abuse Survival Tool Kit. Dr. Spicer specializes in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy, vagal toning, and somatic healing—integrating mind-body approaches to support deep, lasting recovery. Licensed to practice in 42 states, she offers online therapy sessions to help individuals heal from childhood trauma and the complex effects of narcissistic abuse.

Dr. Spicer spent a decade working as a forensic neuropsychologist within the prison system, where she conducted neuropsychological evaluations in legal cases involving child abuse, divorce, and criminal matters. Her expertise has been trusted in courtrooms across the United States, where she has provided expert testimony in high-profile cases.

As a published author and sought-after speaker, Dr. Spicer has been featured as a psychological expert in numerous media outlets, including FOX News. Her transformative online courses, brainwave audios, and guided meditations have helped millions of people rewire their brains, release trauma, and reclaim lives filled with purpose, peace, and joy. Through her social media platforms—especially TikTok, where she has impacted hundreds of thousands—Dr. Spicer continues to educate, inspire, and empower survivors around the globe on their journey toward healing.

Susan Spicer PhD

"EMDR therapy is one of the most powerful tools we have for healing the deep, invisible wounds of narcissistic abuse. It helps you process the pain, release the trauma, and finally feel free"— Dr. Susan Spicer

Share a bit about your journey so far. How did you end up where you are today in your career?

As a licensed psychologist, neuropsychologist, and trauma therapist, my life’s mission is to guide others toward overcoming trauma and narcissistic abuse, empowering them to create the life they deserve. My career path wasn’t solely shaped by my education and clinical training. Instead, it emerged from deeply personal experiences of pain and resilience. Allow me to share my story.

During my neuropsychology doctorate program, I endured unimaginable loss. Two people close to me—both of whom lived with me—died by suicide just 18 months apart. The second was my boyfriend, who woke me in the middle of the night and fatally shot himself in our bedroom. Being present during both tragedies left me grappling with severe trauma symptoms.

As if this wasn’t enough, I found myself homeless while trying to complete my neuropsychology residency, living out of my car and facing immense challenges, including a lawsuit filed against me by my parents. Simultaneously, I was entangled in a toxic relationship characterized by narcissistic abuse. The compounded stress of these events led to five years of depression, anger, and despair—culminating in a cancer diagnosis.

Looking back, I firmly believe that the unresolved trauma and suppressed anger contributed to the manifestation of cancer in my body. But this diagnosis became a turning point. I immersed myself in practices of meditation, visualization, self-love, and forgiveness, surprising my doctor by eradicating cancer. I rebuilt my relationship with my parents and later served as my father’s caregiver through his final journey in hospice care.

Today, I am a steadfast believer in the mind-body connection and the transformative power of releasing trauma stored in the body. My experiences inspired me to develop a unique four-step approach to help individuals heal from trauma and narcissistic abuse—a method deeply rooted in both science and compassion.

Tell us about your four-step approach to healing trauma and narcissistic abuse.

Step 1: Process Trauma through Somatic Methods

Trauma is stored in the body, whether it stems from childhood abuse, neglect, or narcissistic relationships. Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy and somatic (mind-body) techniques are central to my approach. EMDR’s bilateral stimulation helps reprocess traumatic memories, diminishing their emotional charge and fostering healing.

Step 2: Practice Unconditional Self-Love

Many of us internalize societal messages that we’re not good enough—whether it’s about our appearance, achievements, or relationships. Unconditional self-love means releasing judgment, blame, and regret, and embracing yourself wholly. It’s one of the most challenging yet transformative steps in the healing journey.

Step 3: Rewire the Brain

Using my neuropsychology training, I guide individuals in creating new neuropathways that foster adaptive thinking. This involves replacing negative thought patterns, breaking free from trauma bonds, and cultivating joy and well-being. Meditation, visualization, and my customized hypnosis and thought conditioning programs play a pivotal role in this step.

Step 4: Connect with a Higher Power

The final step is about aligning with a higher power—whether you call it God, the Universe, or divine energy. This connection helps individuals co-create a life free from trauma and filled with purpose and fulfillment.

Susan Spicer PhD

"True healing from narcissistic abuse happens when you address trauma where it lives—in the body. EMDR, somatic work, and vagal toning together restore safety to the nervous system and power to the soul." — Dr. Susan Spicer

Narcissistic abuse recovery programs are growing in popularity, but there still appears to be a great deal of misconceptions about narcissistic abuse. What makes it different from other forms of abuse?

Narcissistic abuse is a uniquely insidious form of psychological manipulation. Through tactics like gaslighting, blame-shifting, and manipulation, narcissists sow confusion and self-doubt in their victims. This constant psychological warfare leaves individuals walking on eggshells, fearful of triggering the wrath of their abuser. Unlike more overt forms of abuse, the subtlety of narcissistic abuse often leads to invisible scars that profoundly impact mental health. Recognizing these dynamics is the first step toward breaking free and reclaiming your life.

As a psychologist and course creator, what advice do you have for individuals seeking to embark on a journey of healing and personal growth, especially through your programs and audios?

Embarking on a journey of healing and personal growth is both brave and transformative. Start by envisioning your goals and being open to change. Healing takes time, but every step forward is a testament to your strength.

If you’re struggling with trauma or narcissistic abuse, know that reaching out for help is a powerful act of courage. Consider working with a therapist trained in EMDR and somatic methods, and integrate self-care practices like meditation, visualization, and self-love into your daily routine. Healing isn’t just about moving away from pain—it’s about stepping into a life of empowerment, joy, and self-worth.

What’s your purpose, mission, and driving force for all the amazing work you do in this world?

My mission is to transform lives by combining my education, clinical expertise, and life experiences to offer tools for deep healing. My audios and programs have reached individuals in 78 countries, and I’m committed to expanding this impact. By sharing my story, I hope to inspire others to believe in their capacity for change and to take the first step toward a brighter, more fulfilling future.

In closing, what message or piece of advice would you like to share with individuals who are struggling with trauma or narcissistic abuse?

Healing is not only possible; it’s within your reach. And you don’t have to face it alone. If you find yourself in a place of struggle or darkness, remember that seeking help is a testament to your courage. Consider taking that brave step to connect with a therapist who understands trauma and narcissistic abuse, and trust that brighter days lie ahead.

For more info, follow Susan Spicer on TikTok and visit her web pages: https://drsusanspicer.com/, https://www.dr-spicer.com/