Outline
This continuing education seminar explores the complexities of working with challenging patients, particularly those exhibiting traits of Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD). We will examine the concept of the “challenging” patient, focusing on characteristics such as non-collaboration, devaluation, and demands for immediate gratification. Through psychodynamic frameworks, attendees will gain insights into understanding these behaviors as expressions of deeper underlying issues. Practical strategies for managing these patients, without coercing them into behavioral changes, will be a key focus of the seminar.Â
Learning Objectives
- Define and identify key traits of Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD) in challenging patients, such as non-collaboration, devaluation, and demands for immediate gratification.
- Explore the psychodynamic concepts of “role responsiveness” and the “false self” to understand how unconscious dynamics influence patient behaviors and relational patterns.
- Develop strategies for managing challenging patients while appreciating the patient’s subjective experience.
- Learn techniques to foster patient self-understanding and curiosity about their behavior, promoting deeper therapeutic engagement and meaningful progress.
Course Format
This 1-hour, self-study, audio-only course is presented by Dr. Anthony Mazzella, Ph.D., LCSW. To earn credit, participants must listen to the entire audio session, complete a survey evaluation, and achieve a passing score on the final quiz. Successful completion awards a 1-hour CE certificate recognized by the New York State Education Department. Dr. Mazzella is an approved provider of continuing education for licensed social workers, as designated by the State Board of Social Work.