NARM Training Institute

In this NARM demonstration session, Dr. Heller begins by orienting viewers to the structure of a NARM session before inviting Megan to share what’s present for her. Megan describes feeling like her life is “unraveling,” marked by confusion around her identity, career choices, and a possible move back to Australia. She speaks of her recent diagnosis of complex PTSD and being stuck in a “freeze” state, overwhelmed by “toxic shame.” Central to her current struggle is her relationship with a man named Ray, which brings up feelings of emotional abandonment and pressure to people-please. Megan expresses a longing for inner clarity and a secure connection to herself.

As the session unfolds, Dr. Heller gently guides Megan to explore her emotional reactions, especially during a recent phone call with Ray where she felt consumed by his emotional needs. Megan recounts retreating into self-criticism and detachment, a familiar response rooted in her childhood. Dr. Heller supports her in recognizing this as a survival strategy rather than a personal flaw. Through the session, Megan begins to separate from the old narrative that she “doesn’t matter,” and instead acknowledges her own needs and boundaries. This growing awareness leads her to experience more self-compassion and agency in how she navigates her relationships moving forward.