Narcissists can be charming, intelligent, even magnetic. But being in a relationship with one can feel like being caught in a storm you didn’t see coming—until it’s too late. If you’ve been swept up in a whirlwind relationship that left you feeling small, confused, or drained, you might be dating a narcissist.
Here in Gillette and across Wyoming, we value grit, honesty, and emotional resilience. But those same qualities can make it easy to miss the red flags—especially when someone hides behind charisma. At StepStone Counseling, we help people recognize toxic patterns and take back their peace.
Here are six signs you may be dating a narcissist—and why it’s not your fault if you didn’t see it sooner.
Everyone appreciates a kind word. But narcissists rely on external praise to feel good about themselves. If your partner seems to need constant validation—or gets defensive at the slightest constructive feedback—it may be more than insecurity. It may be a sign they’re outsourcing their entire identity to you.
Big dreams are great. But when your partner constantly shifts from one flashy goal to another—with no follow-through or deeper purpose—it might not be about growth. Narcissists often pursue achievements that look good from the outside to win admiration, not because they’re meaningful.
A narcissist may struggle to name their own emotions—so they’re even less likely to respect yours. If your feelings are often dismissed as “too much” or “too sensitive,” you’re not imagining things. Narcissists tend to lack true empathy and may even react negatively to your vulnerability because it disrupts their ideal image of themselves.
If this dynamic feels familiar, it might be time to explore individual therapy or trauma therapy to regain your emotional clarity.
Narcissists often see people as accessories rather than connections. If your partner seems more interested in how you make them look than how you feel, that’s a red flag. Many narcissists lack deep friendships, use name-dropping for clout, and treat romantic partners like trophies. You’re not crazy for craving something deeper—it’s what you deserve.
Whether it’s cutting in line or dismissing your concerns, narcissists often believe the world owes them something. They may talk down to others, reject expert advice, or act like they know everything. If you’ve ever been told “you can’t out-psychology me”—you’re probably dealing with a narcissist.
If you’re starting to question your own sense of worth or confidence, support like boundaries and self-esteem counseling can help you rebuild your identity.
It’s not just about you. Narcissists need everyone’s attention. They may flirt, break boundaries, or create drama just to stay center stage. If you’ve felt invisible in your own relationship, it’s likely not a lack of effort on your part—it’s a symptom of their need for constant admiration.
Relationship counseling can help you sort through what’s healthy, what’s harmful, and what’s next.
If this hits close to home, you’re not alone—and you’re not weak. Recognizing narcissistic behavior is the first step to healing. Many people stay in these cycles out of hope, fear, or just not knowing what’s “normal.” But you can choose something better.
At StepStone Counseling, we help individuals across Campbell County reclaim their voice, set healthy boundaries, and rediscover what healthy love actually looks like.
• You’re allowed to walk away.
• You’re worthy of empathy, depth, and respect.
• And you don’t have to do it alone.
Step Stone Counseling provides outpatient counseling services to adults, couples, and families.
In addition to individual services, IOP and OP group services are available for anyone who needs that level of care.
