The Deluded Self: pathological narcissism, psychopathology and approaches to treatment

Narcissistic disorders are complicated and cause problems with how people view themselves and connect with others. Even though research is growing, there’s still not enough clear, evidence-based advice on how to assess, plan, and treat identity disturbance and grandiose self-image issues.
This one-day conference shares current research. It explains how Deluded Self issues develop. It explores related problems and challenges. It discusses Deluded Self treatment approaches.
This workshop explores common myths about narcissism through real examples, expert insights, group discussions, and reflection.
In the Q&A session, participants can engage with Dr Adshead and explore how to apply workshop ideas.
Participants gain confidence treating complex cases.
The workshop includes:
- A 6.5-hour CPD Training with Dr Gwen Adshead
- Q&A segment
- Networking standing breakfast
- Coffee breaks
- Lunch
This workshop is designed for mental health professionals.
- Professionals include psychologists, counsellors, psychiatrists, psychotherapists, social workers, youth workers, educators, nurses, legal professionals, and police.
- Students👩🎓- In Psychology, psychiatry, social work, counselling, nursing, criminology, education and law.
Whether you are experienced in working with personality disorders or looking to expand your knowledge in this area, this session will provide valuable insights grounded in research and clinical practice.
Dar il-Ħanin Samaritan, Santa Venera, Malta. Click here for the Location on Google Maps.
Friday, 28th March 2025, from 08:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m
More Information

Dr Gwen Adshead is a forensic psychiatrist and psychotherapist with over 30 years of experience working in secure psychiatric hospitals and prisons. She has provided both individual and group therapy for individuals with severe personality disorders, complex psychopathology, and histories of violent offending.
She trained in forensic psychiatry at St George’s Hospital and in trauma psychiatry at the Maudsley. In addition, she is a qualified medical psychotherapist, group analyst, mindfulness-based cognitive therapist, and mentalisation-based therapist. Her clinical interests focus on the role of attachment insecurity in mental distress and hostility, particularly in individuals who have harmed others, including those who have abused their children.
Dr Adshead has a longstanding interest in ethical dilemmas in forensic psychiatry and psychotherapy. In 2013, she was awarded the Royal College of Psychiatrists President’s Medal in recognition of her contributions to mental health ethics.
She has published extensively in academic settings, co-authoring and co-editing several key texts, including the Oxford Handbook of Forensic Psychiatry and Clinical Approaches to Personality Disorder (with Dr Jay Sarkar). In 2021, she co-authored The Devil You Know with Eileen Horne, offering a unique insight into forensic psychiatry from the offender’s perspective. She is currently working on a book about trauma and will deliver the 2024 Reith Lectures on the complexities of violence.

The Willingness Team includes over 65 professionals who develop services like Sex Clinic Malta and Dating101 workshops. They offer trauma-focused support through evidence-based therapies for individuals dealing with PTSD and complex trauma-related difficulties.