Explore every episode of the podcast Breaking Free from Narcissistic Abuse
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Why Narcissists Refuse to Say Your Name: The 4 Patterns Survivors Miss | 18 Jun 2026 | 00:09:07 | |
Why has the person who claimed to love you gone years without once saying your name — not even once? When a narcissist won't say your name, it isn't a quirk. It's name erasure: a slow, deliberate way of treating you as less than a full person. In this Viewers' Stories episode, Dr. Kerry reads real survivor stories and unpacks four ways the same tactic shows up. Each one is a covert control tactic, and together they're a form of withholding affection most survivors don't recognize as emotional abuse until much later. You'll learn how to read what someone's use of your name reveals about how they actually see you, and why these small omissions add up to something far bigger than rudeness. Key Moments
Resources
Follow Dr. Kerry! Kerry Kerr McAvoy, Ph.D, a retired psychologist & author, is an expert on cultivating healthy relationships and deconstructing narcissism. As an Amazon affiliate, commission is earned from qualifying purchases. This podcast/video is for educational purposes only. It does not constitute therapy, counseling, or professional mental health advice. If you are in crisis, please call 911 or your local emergency number. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. | |||
| Why Narcissists Use Pet Names Instead of Calling You by Your Real Name | 15 Jun 2026 | 00:25:41 | |
What if the sweet pet name your partner calls you isn't affection at all — but rather designed to keep you off balance? In this episode, Dr. Kerry and co-host Lynn Strathdee unpack one of the strangest and most overlooked patterns in narcissistic relationships: the use of pet names. Learn why some narcissists even speak about themselves in the third person, and the chilling moment when a "compliment" reveals exactly what they really think of you. Podcast Extra Exclusive Segment Want to go deeper? What does it actually take to heal when the abuse has shaped how you see yourself? In this members-only bonus, Lynn and Dr. Kerry discuss why recovery requires building a stronger sense of self. Find the exclusive second segment and weekly newsletter here. LYNN STRATHDEE is a UK-based psychodynamic psychotherapist specializing in echoism, narcissistic abuse recovery, and the unconscious patterns that keep survivors stuck in repeating relationship cycles. A former educator turned therapist, Lynn brings both clinical training and lived experience to her private practice, where she works with clients online and in person. Her approach goes beyond surface-level psychoeducation to the deeper identity work that creates lasting change. Submit your question to be answered on air here! Resources
As an Amazon affiliate, commission is earned from qualifying purchases. This podcast/video is for educational purposes only. It does not constitute therapy, counseling, or professional mental health advice. If you are in crisis, please call 911 or your local emergency number. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. | |||
| The Real Reason You Can't Stop Snooping on Your Narcissistic Partner | 14 May 2026 | 00:15:00 | |
A YouTube viewer asks: What about someone's makeup drives them to snoop instead of simply addressing the red flags? In this episode, Dr. Kerry digs deeper into a question raised in the February 19, 2026, Fan Mail segment, Feeling the Urge to Snoop on Your Partner? Here's What It's Really Telling You. Learn why victims of narcissistic abuse feel compelled to hunt for proof and why it never brings the relief you're looking for. Submit Your Question If you'd like Dr. Kerry to answer your question on air, email it to clients@kerrymcavoyphd.com or use this link. Submit your question to be answered on air here! Resources
As an Amazon affiliate, commission is earned from qualifying purchases. This podcast/video is for educational purposes only. It does not constitute therapy, counseling, or professional mental health advice. If you are in crisis, please call 911 or your local emergency number. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. | |||
| Could Your Partner Be Sadistic? Why We Excuse Cruelty in Relationships | 24 Feb 2025 | 00:25:34 | |
Ever wondered if your partner’s cruelty is intentional? Do they know they’re being hurtful, or is it just thoughtlessness? This week, Dr. Kerry and Lisa Sonni expose a chilling but often-overlooked dynamic in toxic relationships: sadism. Learn what sadism really is, how it shows up in narcissistic partnerships, and why some toxic individuals seem to take pleasure in your pain. Submit your question to be answered on air here! Resources
Follow Dr. Kerry! Kerry Kerr McAvoy, Ph.D, a retired psychologist & author, is an expert on cultivating healthy relationships and deconstructing narcissism. As an Amazon affiliate, commission is earned from qualifying purchases. This podcast/video is for educational purposes only. It does not constitute therapy, counseling, or professional mental health advice. If you are in crisis, please call 911 or your local emergency number. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. | |||
| The Four Most Dangerous Personalities Types to Avoid: An Interview with Joe Navarro, Former FBI Special Agent | 17 Feb 2025 | 00:27:19 | |
What signs warn that we’ve met not just a toxic person, but someone dangerous? This week Joe Navarro, author and former FBI special agent joins us to discuss the four most dangerous personalities. Navarro is most well-known for his work as a body language expert. He’s authored several books, including What Every Body is Saying, Dangerous Personalities, Louder Than Words, and The Dictionary of Body Language. Submit your question to be answered on air here! Resources
As an Amazon affiliate, commission is earned from qualifying purchases. This podcast/video is for educational purposes only. It does not constitute therapy, counseling, or professional mental health advice. If you are in crisis, please call 911 or your local emergency number. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. | |||
| When the Narcissist Says They Love You: Are They Lying? | 10 Feb 2025 | 00:27:28 | |
Narcissists often claim to love us. That they want the save the relationship; but do they? In this episode, Dr. Kerry and Lisa Sonni discuss the confusing dynamic of narcissistic partners claiming to be changing and addressing the relationship issues, only aren’t. Learn how survivors can tell the difference between genuine effort from sophisticated manipulation. Submit your question to be answered on air here! Resources
Follow Dr. Kerry! Kerry Kerr McAvoy, Ph.D, a retired psychologist & author, is an expert on cultivating healthy relationships and deconstructing narcissism. As an Amazon affiliate, commission is earned from qualifying purchases. This podcast/video is for educational purposes only. It does not constitute therapy, counseling, or professional mental health advice. If you are in crisis, please call 911 or your local emergency number. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. | |||
| Why Toxic Relationships Always Leave Us Traumatized and Confused: An Interview with Dr. Peter Salerno | 03 Feb 2025 | 00:25:46 | |
Narcissists know they are being abusive--that they're being manipulative and exploitative. To Learn More About Dr. Peter Salerno: Website For a Copy of Dr. Salerno’s Books: Traumatic Cognitive Dissonance: Healing From An Abusive Relationship With A Disordered Personality
Submit your question to be answered on air here! Resources
Follow Dr. Kerry! Kerry Kerr McAvoy, Ph.D, a retired psychologist & author, is an expert on cultivating healthy relationships and deconstructing narcissism. As an Amazon affiliate, commission is earned from qualifying purchases. This podcast/video is for educational purposes only. It does not constitute therapy, counseling, or professional mental health advice. If you are in crisis, please call 911 or your local emergency number. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. | |||
| Controlled by Guilt: A Popular Tool Narcissists Love to Use Against You | 27 Jan 2025 | 00:26:12 | |
Narcissists will use any means to control you, especially guilt. Submit your question to be answered on air here! Resources
Follow Dr. Kerry! Kerry Kerr McAvoy, Ph.D, a retired psychologist & author, is an expert on cultivating healthy relationships and deconstructing narcissism. As an Amazon affiliate, commission is earned from qualifying purchases. This podcast/video is for educational purposes only. It does not constitute therapy, counseling, or professional mental health advice. If you are in crisis, please call 911 or your local emergency number. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. | |||
| Why Narcissists Are So Good At Disturbing Our Peace: Interview with Anna Runkle, Crappy Childhood Fairy | 20 Jan 2025 | 00:25:22 | |
Have you noticed how upset narcissists get? How they can't regulate themselves? Submit your question to be answered on air here! Resources
Follow Dr. Kerry! Kerry Kerr McAvoy, Ph.D, a retired psychologist & author, is an expert on cultivating healthy relationships and deconstructing narcissism. As an Amazon affiliate, commission is earned from qualifying purchases. This podcast/video is for educational purposes only. It does not constitute therapy, counseling, or professional mental health advice. If you are in crisis, please call 911 or your local emergency number. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. | |||
| The Little Known Reasons Why Love-Bombing Works Every Time: Interview with Nadine Macaluso, Ex-Wife of the Wolf of Wall Street | 13 Jan 2025 | 00:24:11 | |
There are powerful psychological reasons why love bombing works nearly every time. Submit your question to be answered on air here! Resources
Follow Dr. Kerry! Kerry Kerr McAvoy, Ph.D, a retired psychologist & author, is an expert on cultivating healthy relationships and deconstructing narcissism. As an Amazon affiliate, commission is earned from qualifying purchases. This podcast/video is for educational purposes only. It does not constitute therapy, counseling, or professional mental health advice. If you are in crisis, please call 911 or your local emergency number. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. | |||
| When You Return to the Abuse: Why It Takes 7 Tries to Leave a Narcissist | 06 Jan 2025 | 00:26:37 | |
Victims return to a narcissistically abusive relationship an average of seven times. In this episode, Lisa and I discuss why leaving a narcissist or toxic partner is so extremely difficult and share some thoughts on how to view leaving differently. Submit your question to be answered on air here! Resources
As an Amazon affiliate, commission is earned from qualifying purchases. This podcast/video is for educational purposes only. It does not constitute therapy, counseling, or professional mental health advice. If you are in crisis, please call 911 or your local emergency number. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. | |||
| How Narcissists' Use Breadcrumbs of Love to Create an Agonizing Confusion | 30 Dec 2024 | 00:33:16 | |
Trauma bonds are one of the most misunderstood yet powerful connections that narcissists and toxic individuals exploit to keep their partners trapped. Submit your question to be answered on air here! Resources
Follow Dr. Kerry! Kerry Kerr McAvoy, Ph.D, a retired psychologist & author, is an expert on cultivating healthy relationships and deconstructing narcissism. As an Amazon affiliate, commission is earned from qualifying purchases. This podcast/video is for educational purposes only. It does not constitute therapy, counseling, or professional mental health advice. If you are in crisis, please call 911 or your local emergency number. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. | |||
| Everything You Need to Know About Narcissism from 3 Experts: Dr. Les Carter, Dr. Peter Salerno, and Bill Eddy | 23 Dec 2024 | 00:51:10 | |
Today you are in for a treat with a longer interview, featuring three of my favorite experts on narcissism: Dr. Les Carter, Dr. Peter Salerno, and Bill Eddy. In this episode, each of these men will describe what is narcissism, how narcissists view relationships, and why they behave as bullies. Submit your question to be answered on air here! Resources
As an Amazon affiliate, commission is earned from qualifying purchases. This podcast/video is for educational purposes only. It does not constitute therapy, counseling, or professional mental health advice. If you are in crisis, please call 911 or your local emergency number. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. | |||
| Dreading Their Next Message? How to Stop the Toxicity With a Narcissistic Co-Parent | 11 May 2026 | 00:27:36 | |
Are you bracing for impact when your phone buzzes? Does every conversation turn into a nasty fight? This week, Sol Kennedy joins Dr. Kerry to reveal why co-parenting is never get better when dealing with a narcissistic or an emotionally immature co-parent. Learn why courts don't understand narcissistic co-parents will never become reasonable and why most co-parenting apps only make the conflict worse. Sol Kennedy shares how to take back control by changing the entire dynamic. List of the latest AI Tools for Narcissistic Abuse survivors PODCAST EXTRA EXCLUSIVE SEGMENT Find the exclusive second segment and weekly newsletter here: https://substack.com/@breakingfreenarcabuse You can divorce a spouse — but you can't quit your co-parent. In this members-only bonus, Sol Kennedy goes deeper on how to set firm limits on when and how often your ex can reach you. SOL KENNEDY is a technology entrepreneur and co-parenting advocate who built the first AI-powered co-parenting app after navigating his own high-conflict divorce. BestInterest has earned the backing of renowned narcissism expert Dr. Ramani Durvasula and is now used by co-parents, family law professionals, and therapists across the U.S. and Canada. Sol also hosts the podcast Co-Parenting Beyond Conflict. FOLLOW SOL KENNEDY Podcast: Co-Parenting Beyond Conflict Submit your question to be answered on air here! Resources
As an Amazon affiliate, commission is earned from qualifying purchases. This podcast/video is for educational purposes only. It does not constitute therapy, counseling, or professional mental health advice. If you are in crisis, please call 911 or your local emergency number. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. | |||
| Why "Just Leave" is Terrible Advice: How Narcissists Keep You Trapped | 16 Dec 2024 | 00:25:34 | |
Have you been told that you should just leave? In this episode, Lisa Sonni and I discuss why this advice severely misses the mark. Why exiting a narcissistically abusive relationship is difficult and even dangerous for most abuse survivors. Resources Mentioned in the Episode A Special Thank You! Fan Mail Submit your question to be answered on air here! Resources
As an Amazon affiliate, commission is earned from qualifying purchases. This podcast/video is for educational purposes only. It does not constitute therapy, counseling, or professional mental health advice. If you are in crisis, please call 911 or your local emergency number. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. | |||
| Could This Be Right for You? New Help and Hope for Narcissistic Abuse Survivors | 09 Dec 2024 | 00:28:30 | |
Narcissistic abuse often leaves devastating consequences to the survivor’s confidence and self-esteem. Today, Kristin Arden, DNP, APRN, PMHNP-BC, Mindbloom’s Clinical Director, and Shari Botwin, LCSW, trauma counselor, join me to discuss the use of ketamine therapy as a new alternate treatment option for trauma survivors. If you would like to learn more about Mindbloom or ketamine therapy, please see https://mindbloom.com/kerrym100. To take advantage of the $100 off total of your first two treatments, use discount code “kerrym100.” Submit your question to be answered on air here! Resources
As an Amazon affiliate, commission is earned from qualifying purchases. This podcast/video is for educational purposes only. It does not constitute therapy, counseling, or professional mental health advice. If you are in crisis, please call 911 or your local emergency number. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. | |||
| Brainwashed & Spellbound: How Narcissistic Abuse is Really a Cult of Two | 02 Dec 2024 | 00:24:13 | |
Have you considered that a narcissistically abusive relationship is actually a cult of two? Daniella Mestyanek-Young, author of Uncultured and expert in cult dynamics, joins us to discuss the similarities between cult leaders and narcissists. Be sure to follow Daniella! Submit your question to be answered on air here! Resources
As an Amazon affiliate, commission is earned from qualifying purchases. This podcast/video is for educational purposes only. It does not constitute therapy, counseling, or professional mental health advice. If you are in crisis, please call 911 or your local emergency number. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. | |||
| Being Taken for Granted? How to Protect Your Big-Heartedness from Toxic People's Manipulation | 25 Nov 2024 | 00:28:42 | |
As a nod to this week’s holidays, let’s revisit three of my favorite episodes that discuss how to handle being too big- or kind-hearted. We at the Breaking Free from Narcissistic Abuse podcast hope you have a wonderful Thanksgiving holiday! Links Mentioned: • Codependent No More by Melody Beattie: Melody Beattie To learn more about the Dark Triad Personality Type, check out, “Could you be at risk? Why you should be afraid of the Dark Triad Personality” - https://www.buzzsprout.com/2150391/episodes/12978484 To listen to the full episodes featured today:
Submit your question to be answered on air here! Resources
As an Amazon affiliate, commission is earned from qualifying purchases. This podcast/video is for educational purposes only. It does not constitute therapy, counseling, or professional mental health advice. If you are in crisis, please call 911 or your local emergency number. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. | |||
| The High Cost of Toxic Relationships on Health, Wealth, and Peace of Mind | 18 Nov 2024 | 00:25:56 | |
Narcissistic relationships are parasitic in nature. Toxic personalities often drain others of their time, money, attention, and resources. In this podcast, Lisa Sonni joins me to discuss the high and sometimes hidden cost of narcissistic relationships. Reference: The Body Keeps the Score by Bessel Van de Kolk: https://amzn.to/3AtGt6z Submit your question to be answered on air here! Resources
As an Amazon affiliate, commission is earned from qualifying purchases. This podcast/video is for educational purposes only. It does not constitute therapy, counseling, or professional mental health advice. If you are in crisis, please call 911 or your local emergency number. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. | |||
| Feeling Confused? How Toxic People Keep Us Baffled and Stuck | 11 Nov 2024 | 00:26:56 | |
Have you noticed that when you’re finally ready to leave, your toxic or narcissistic partner suddenly does something amazing? Do they keep you off balance and confused about the state of the relationship? In this episode, Lisa Sonni joins me to discuss how narcissists and other toxic people use emotional manipulation to keep their partners and loved ones psychologically stuck in a bad relationship. Submit your question to be answered on air here! Resources
As an Amazon affiliate, commission is earned from qualifying purchases. This podcast/video is for educational purposes only. It does not constitute therapy, counseling, or professional mental health advice. If you are in crisis, please call 911 or your local emergency number. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. | |||
| When You Can't Leave or Stay: How to Recognize a Trauma Bond | 04 Nov 2024 | 00:23:58 | |
There comes a point when you know you need to leave, but you can’t. The connection with your loved one is too powerful. In this episode, Rossana Faye joins me to discuss the signs and symptoms of a late-stage trauma bond. Submit your question to be answered on air here! Resources
As an Amazon affiliate, commission is earned from qualifying purchases. This podcast/video is for educational purposes only. It does not constitute therapy, counseling, or professional mental health advice. If you are in crisis, please call 911 or your local emergency number. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. | |||
| When You've Been Driven Mad and Snap: The Power of Reactive Abuse | 28 Oct 2024 | 00:24:01 | |
Has someone driven you to the breaking point? When you just lose it and snap? This week, Rossana Faye joins me to discuss the destructive power of reactive abuse. Victims often feel terribly guilty afterward, yet they’ve been deliberately provoked into reacting. Submit your question to be answered on air here! Resources
As an Amazon affiliate, commission is earned from qualifying purchases. This podcast/video is for educational purposes only. It does not constitute therapy, counseling, or professional mental health advice. If you are in crisis, please call 911 or your local emergency number. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. | |||
| Is it Just the Silent Treatment or Really Rejection? Why Stonewalling is Harmful | 21 Oct 2024 | 00:24:00 | |
Is it Just the Silent Treatment or Really Rejection? Why Stonewalling is Harmful Silence occurs for many reasons, but sometimes it’s intentionally used as punishment. Rossana Faye joins me in this podcast episode to discuss why stonewalling is so painful. Silence can be weaponized to send powerful messages of rage and rejection. Submit your question to be answered on air here! Resources
As an Amazon affiliate, commission is earned from qualifying purchases. This podcast/video is for educational purposes only. It does not constitute therapy, counseling, or professional mental health advice. If you are in crisis, please call 911 or your local emergency number. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. | |||
| Why is My Partner a Narcissist? Which is it—A Nature or Nurture Problem? | 14 Oct 2024 | 00:24:36 | |
Are narcissists born or made? And why does this question matter, considering the terrible toll of narcissistic abuse? This week, psychotherapist Dr. Peter Salerno joins me to discuss the root causes of narcissism along with the common misunderstandings about Narcissistic Personality Disorder. Learn the importance of understanding the underpinning of this character makeup when it comes to healing and recovery. Follow Dr. Peter Salerno on social media: @drpetersalerno Learn more about him: https://www.drpetersalerno.com Submit your question to be answered on air here! Resources
As an Amazon affiliate, commission is earned from qualifying purchases. This podcast/video is for educational purposes only. It does not constitute therapy, counseling, or professional mental health advice. If you are in crisis, please call 911 or your local emergency number. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. | |||
| 5 Years of Stalking Hell After an Interaction With a Neighbor | 07 May 2026 | 00:12:17 | |
What happens when a simple, healthy boundary triggers five years of stalking, dismantling your life? A viewer declined an odd social interaction with a neighbor that then sparked a stalking campaign that has followed her and her 15-year-old daughter across state lines. Learn what’s called "street theater” and how these repeated tactics were ussd to make this victim sound crazy. In this episode, Dr. Kerry explains: • Why the public tends to dismiss extreme gang stalking stories • How stalking can be carried out across states and social circles • How to protect yourself and your sanity if you’re being stalking. Submit Your Question If you'd like Dr. Kerry to answer your question on air, email it to clients@kerrymcavoyphd.com or use this link. Submit your question to be answered on air here! Resources
As an Amazon affiliate, commission is earned from qualifying purchases. This podcast/video is for educational purposes only. It does not constitute therapy, counseling, or professional mental health advice. If you are in crisis, please call 911 or your local emergency number. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. | |||
| Does Childhood Abuse Leave a Lasting Legacy in Adult Relationships: An Interview with Nia Renee | 07 Oct 2024 | 00:23:44 | |
What is the impact of childhood abuse on adult relationships? Can children overcome early trauma? Nia Renee joins me this week to discuss the lasting legacy of abuse. She describes the impact of chronic gaslighting and neglect on her later relationships. Learn what role resiliency and determination played in helping break the abuse cycle. To learn more about Nia Renee: https://howtoloveabatteredwoman.com/ Follow her on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok: @howtoloveabatteredwoman Resources Mentioned: Jennifer Freyd - Blind to Betrayal: https://amzn.to/3NdpR5r Richard Schwartz - Internal Family Systems Theory: https://amzn.to/3ZJ5RiI Submit your question to be answered on air here! Resources
As an Amazon affiliate, commission is earned from qualifying purchases. This podcast/video is for educational purposes only. It does not constitute therapy, counseling, or professional mental health advice. If you are in crisis, please call 911 or your local emergency number. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. | |||
| How Narcissistic Abuse Could Cost You Your Identity: The Dangers of Echoism | 30 Sep 2024 | 00:24:41 | |
Are you speaking up less? Fawning more? There’s a high cost to living with a narcissist, and it could be your identity. This week, Lynn Strathdee, psychodynamic therapist, joins me to discuss echoism, the true opposite personality style to narcissism. She shares how fawning could result in a loss of our very self. To learn more about Lynn’s work: Lynn Strathdee is a dedicated psychodynamic therapist with a passion for helping adults recover from narcissistic abuse. Armed with a degree in Psychodynamic Counselling, a Master's in French Translation, and a Post Graduate Certificate in Education, Lynn combines her rich educational background with extensive therapeutic expertise. Lynn specializes in working with "echoists"—individuals whose identities have been profoundly impacted by narcissistic relationships. Understanding their unique struggles, she employs a blend of self-psychology and psycho-education to guide her clients toward reclaiming their sense of self and living fulfilling lives. Submit your question to be answered on air here! Resources
As an Amazon affiliate, commission is earned from qualifying purchases. This podcast/video is for educational purposes only. It does not constitute therapy, counseling, or professional mental health advice. If you are in crisis, please call 911 or your local emergency number. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. | |||
| How Relationships Become Dangerous: The Slow Shift from Toxic to Deadly | 23 Sep 2024 | 00:24:46 | |
Dangerous relationships rarely begin physically abusive. Initially, you think you’ve met a fantastic partner, but slowly, the toxicity turns into something more insidious and lethal. Trigger warning: this week, Lisa Sonni and I share vulnerable details of how we missed the early signs of danger in our narcissistic relationships. IF YOU ARE A RISK of immediate danger or abuse, please get in touch with the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 800-799-7233. References: Why Does He Do That? by Lundy Bancroft https://amzn.to/4e505fw Blind to Betrayal by Jennifer Freyd https://amzn.to/4d3xwxW Ro’s TikTok warning video: https://www.tiktok.com/@_rollercoasteroflove/video/7397857556867271942?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc&web_id=7413141517819479583 Am I the a-hole for divorcing my husband TikTok video: https://www.tiktok.com/@comfortlevelpodcast/video/7404870008377150766?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc&web_id=7413141517819479583
Submit your question to be answered on air here! Resources
As an Amazon affiliate, commission is earned from qualifying purchases. This podcast/video is for educational purposes only. It does not constitute therapy, counseling, or professional mental health advice. If you are in crisis, please call 911 or your local emergency number. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. | |||
| If You're in a Narcissistic Relationship, Why Couples Therapy is a Bad Idea | 16 Sep 2024 | 00:25:07 | |
When there’s trouble in a relationship, most couples are urged to seek couples counseling. In today’s episode, Lisa Sonni joins me to talk about why this suggestion is a terrible idea if your partner is a narcissist. Too many couples therapists lack the education to identify narcissistic abuse, and narcissistic and toxic partners are highly sophisticated at manipulating the therapeutic process. For help breaking a trauma bond, see Lisa’s resources: https://strongerthanbefore.ca
Submit your question to be answered on air here! Resources
As an Amazon affiliate, commission is earned from qualifying purchases. This podcast/video is for educational purposes only. It does not constitute therapy, counseling, or professional mental health advice. If you are in crisis, please call 911 or your local emergency number. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. | |||
| Why Narcissists Have Problems with Being Securely Attached to You | 09 Sep 2024 | 00:25:14 | |
What’s the connection between attachment styles and narcissism? This week, Dr. Erin Leonard, a practicing psychotherapist, joins me to discuss the common problems narcissists have with emotional intelligence and creating secure connections with others. She’s recently authored How to Outsmart a Narcissist, where she describes the best ways to protect ourselves from narcissists’ efforts to manipulate and exploit. More about Dr. Leonard:
Resources
As an Amazon affiliate, commission is earned from qualifying purchases. This podcast/video is for educational purposes only. It does not constitute therapy, counseling, or professional mental health advice. If you are in crisis, please call 911 or your local emergency number. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. | |||
| Dr. Carter's Best Advice About Narcissists That Every Survivor Needs to Know | 02 Sep 2024 | 00:29:09 | |
Have you wondered what a narcissist was thinking? Why would they do what they do? Do they intentionally know they were being cruel? This week, I’m going to re-release an interview I did with Dr. Carter in 2023. In it, he gave a unique perspective on the narcissist’s mindset and explained their worldview and defensiveness. Learn how they so effectively turn the tables on us, making us think we’re the crazy ones. Stay safe this week! I look forward to having you back for our new episode featuring psychologist Dr Erin Leonard next week. She will be joining us to discuss resiliency, vulnerability, and attachment problems with narcissists. Submit your question to be answered on air here! Resources
As an Amazon affiliate, commission is earned from qualifying purchases. This podcast/video is for educational purposes only. It does not constitute therapy, counseling, or professional mental health advice. If you are in crisis, please call 911 or your local emergency number. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. | |||
| Why Family Court Too Often Takes the Side of the Narcissistic Abuser | 26 Aug 2024 | 00:24:12 | |
Have you noticed that too off family court becomes just another battle ground for the narcissist? Lisa Sonni joins me this week to discuss post-separation of abuse. Most of us passionately want to protect our children from our toxic ex only to experience more helplessness in the mediation and courtrooms. Resources Referenced: When Dad Hurts Mom by Lundy Bancroft: https://amzn.to/3Xbg8mj Angela - Family Court Corner: https://www.familycourtcorner.com Submit your question to be answered on air here! Resources
As an Amazon affiliate, commission is earned from qualifying purchases. This podcast/video is for educational purposes only. It does not constitute therapy, counseling, or professional mental health advice. If you are in crisis, please call 911 or your local emergency number. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. | |||
| Why Most People, Including the Victim, Fail to Recognize Narcissistic Abuse | 19 Aug 2024 | 00:29:11 | |
Are you being abused and don’t know it? Not only is society blind to narcissistic abuse, but so are most victims. In this episode, Lisa Sonni joins me to talk about why narcissistic abuse is so difficult to spot, even to the victims, and the role this plays in the difficulty of getting help. Resources Mentioned:
Resources
As an Amazon affiliate, commission is earned from qualifying purchases. This podcast/video is for educational purposes only. It does not constitute therapy, counseling, or professional mental health advice. If you are in crisis, please call 911 or your local emergency number. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. | |||
| Bill Eddy's Best Advice For Dealing with Narcissistic Bullies | 12 Aug 2024 | 00:28:00 | |
Every person who has dealt with a narcissist has been bullied. This week, expert and author Bill Eddy joins me to discuss what we get wrong about bullying behavior and the practical steps we all should take to better protect ourselves from antagonistic and vindictive people. To learn more about Bill Eddy and his work, visit: https://highconflictinstitute.com And be sure to check out his latest book, Our New World of Adult Bullies: How to Spot Them - How to Stop Them: https://amzn.to/3Abr0r3
Submit your question to be answered on air here! Resources
As an Amazon affiliate, commission is earned from qualifying purchases. This podcast/video is for educational purposes only. It does not constitute therapy, counseling, or professional mental health advice. If you are in crisis, please call 911 or your local emergency number. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. | |||
| Why Sometimes It Feels Wrong or Immoral to Leave a Narcissist | 05 Aug 2024 | 00:23:19 | |
Leaving is a moral choice. Often, breaking up or divorce is viewed as a personal choice, but it has ramifications and is character-defining. Rossana Faye joins me this week to discuss why sometimes it becomes a moral dilemma to leave our narcissistic partner. Deciding to divorce is often not as clear-cut for many of us. Submit your question to be answered on air here! Resources
As an Amazon affiliate, commission is earned from qualifying purchases. This podcast/video is for educational purposes only. It does not constitute therapy, counseling, or professional mental health advice. If you are in crisis, please call 911 or your local emergency number. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. | |||
| Confessions of a Womanizer: "How I Became a Narcissist's Perfect Victim" | 04 May 2026 | 00:45:03 | |
What happens when the man who spent years love bombing and manipulating women becomes the victim of the very same tactics? This week, Wade Belair joins Dr. Kerry for a raw, unflinching conversation about the shocking overlap between closeted men and narcissistic abuse — and what genuine healing actually requires. Wade grew up the privileged son of an iconic retail brand founder — raised in an elite, hyper-masculine culture where conquest was currency, and vulnerability was weakness. He played the role perfectly for years: closeted, love bombing women, while living a dangerous double life. Now openly gay and two years out of a narcissistic abuse relationship, Wade speaks candidly about what it looks like when repression mimics narcissism and what real change actually requires. PODCAST EXTRA EXCLUSIVE SEGMENT Find the exclusive second segment and weekly newsletter here: https://substack.com/@breakingfreenarcabuse Are you dating a man living a double life — and missing all the signs? In this members-only bonus, Wade and Dr. Kerry break down exactly what to watch for in a man who may be closeted or on the DL, and why the red flags so often get buried under love bombing. More About Wade: Instagram Submit your question to be answered on air here! Resources
As an Amazon affiliate, commission is earned from qualifying purchases. This podcast/video is for educational purposes only. It does not constitute therapy, counseling, or professional mental health advice. If you are in crisis, please call 911 or your local emergency number. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. | |||
| When Your Partner is a Narcissist, Why the Term "Narcissistic" Matters | 29 Jul 2024 | 00:25:52 | |
These days, it seems like everyone is a narcissist. Is the label of narcissist or narcissistic harmful or helpful? This week, Lisa Sonni joins me to discuss the importance and impact of identifying narcissistic abuse and dysfunctional relationship dynamics. Submit your question to be answered on air here! Resources
As an Amazon affiliate, commission is earned from qualifying purchases. This podcast/video is for educational purposes only. It does not constitute therapy, counseling, or professional mental health advice. If you are in crisis, please call 911 or your local emergency number. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. | |||
| Best Advice for Divorcing a Narcissist Without Losing Your Sh*t: Interview with The Dirty Laundry Podcast | 22 Jul 2024 | 00:27:13 | |
Divorcing a narcissist often ends up a contentious battle. Victims come into court shaken up and traumatized, whereas their toxic ex appears poised and confident. Today, two Toronto legal mediators, Amanda Silver and Alex Howard, are joining me. They are also the co-hosts of the Dirty Laundry Podcast. They are going to share how to protect your interests better when leaving a narcissist. To learn more about Amanda and Alex, please see: Submit your question to be answered on air here! Resources
As an Amazon affiliate, commission is earned from qualifying purchases. This podcast/video is for educational purposes only. It does not constitute therapy, counseling, or professional mental health advice. If you are in crisis, please call 911 or your local emergency number. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. | |||
| When You Can't Leave: How to Survive a Narcissistic Relationship | 15 Jul 2024 | 00:25:13 | |
What if you're not going to leave a narcissist? What if leaving isn't possible? Is there a way to survive a toxic relationship? Submit your question to be answered on air here! Resources
Follow Dr. Kerry! Kerry Kerr McAvoy, Ph.D, a retired psychologist & author, is an expert on cultivating healthy relationships and deconstructing narcissism. As an Amazon affiliate, commission is earned from qualifying purchases. This podcast/video is for educational purposes only. It does not constitute therapy, counseling, or professional mental health advice. If you are in crisis, please call 911 or your local emergency number. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. | |||
| Stop trauma dumping on me! How to know if you're trauma dumping vs. trauma reprocessing | 08 Jul 2024 | 00:28:32 | |
Have you heard of trauma dumping? It’s become a new way to attack victims for talking about their narcissistic abuse experiences. Rossana Faye joins me as this week’s special guest to explore the importance of sharing your trauma and the role it plays in helping you heal from abuse. And you don’t want to miss this week’s Podcast Extra where Ro and I discuss the differences between trauma reprocessing and trauma dumping. For this exclusive interview, subscribe here: substack.com/@breakingfreenarcabuse Reference: Submit your question to be answered on air here! Resources
As an Amazon affiliate, commission is earned from qualifying purchases. This podcast/video is for educational purposes only. It does not constitute therapy, counseling, or professional mental health advice. If you are in crisis, please call 911 or your local emergency number. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. | |||
| Aren't all relationships tough? Why We Struggle to Spot Narcissistic Abuse | 01 Jul 2024 | 00:25:44 | |
In celebration of the upcoming holiday, this episode features three of our listeners’ favorites. Submit your question to be answered on air here! Resources
Follow Dr. Kerry! Kerry Kerr McAvoy, Ph.D, a retired psychologist & author, is an expert on cultivating healthy relationships and deconstructing narcissism. As an Amazon affiliate, commission is earned from qualifying purchases. This podcast/video is for educational purposes only. It does not constitute therapy, counseling, or professional mental health advice. If you are in crisis, please call 911 or your local emergency number. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. | |||
| Only Me & Never You: Inside the Bizarre Mind of a Narcissist - Interview with Dr. Les Carter | 24 Jun 2024 | 00:21:10 | |
The mind of a narcissist is wildly self-absorbed and oblivious to those around them. They are excessively focused on me, me, me. Submit your question to be answered on air here! Resources
Follow Dr. Kerry! Kerry Kerr McAvoy, Ph.D, a retired psychologist & author, is an expert on cultivating healthy relationships and deconstructing narcissism. As an Amazon affiliate, commission is earned from qualifying purchases. This podcast/video is for educational purposes only. It does not constitute therapy, counseling, or professional mental health advice. If you are in crisis, please call 911 or your local emergency number. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. | |||
| I desperately love and fear them: The Terrifying Power of a Trauma Bond | 17 Jun 2024 | 00:29:37 | |
Could you be trauma-bonded to a narcissist? Are you battling a strange mix of love and fear? Submit your question to be answered on air here! Resources
Follow Dr. Kerry! Kerry Kerr McAvoy, Ph.D, a retired psychologist & author, is an expert on cultivating healthy relationships and deconstructing narcissism. As an Amazon affiliate, commission is earned from qualifying purchases. This podcast/video is for educational purposes only. It does not constitute therapy, counseling, or professional mental health advice. If you are in crisis, please call 911 or your local emergency number. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. | |||
| Why Can't I Leave? The Crazy Confusion from Late-Stage Cognitive Dissonance | 10 Jun 2024 | 00:25:52 | |
Have you asked yourself, "Why can't I leave?" You know you should. You've even started hiding the ugly truth of what's really going on behind closed doors. Submit your question to be answered on air here! Resources
Follow Dr. Kerry! Kerry Kerr McAvoy, Ph.D, a retired psychologist & author, is an expert on cultivating healthy relationships and deconstructing narcissism. As an Amazon affiliate, commission is earned from qualifying purchases. This podcast/video is for educational purposes only. It does not constitute therapy, counseling, or professional mental health advice. If you are in crisis, please call 911 or your local emergency number. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. | |||
| Feeling duped and conned? Why We Miss the Signs of a Covert Narcissist: An Interview with Eleni Sagredos | 03 Jun 2024 | 00:24:10 | |
Have you left a relationship feeling duped? Not just betrayed, but conned? You’ve likely met a covert narcissist. Submit your question to be answered on air here! Resources
Follow Dr. Kerry! Kerry Kerr McAvoy, Ph.D, a retired psychologist & author, is an expert on cultivating healthy relationships and deconstructing narcissism. As an Amazon affiliate, commission is earned from qualifying purchases. This podcast/video is for educational purposes only. It does not constitute therapy, counseling, or professional mental health advice. If you are in crisis, please call 911 or your local emergency number. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. | |||
| Is my partner a narcissist? Highlights from Dr. Kerry's 3 Favorite Interviews | 27 May 2024 | 00:24:55 | |
Relationships with narcissists can be confounding, confusing, and incredibly frustrating. Submit your question to be answered on air here! Resources
Follow Dr. Kerry! Kerry Kerr McAvoy, Ph.D, a retired psychologist & author, is an expert on cultivating healthy relationships and deconstructing narcissism. As an Amazon affiliate, commission is earned from qualifying purchases. This podcast/video is for educational purposes only. It does not constitute therapy, counseling, or professional mental health advice. If you are in crisis, please call 911 or your local emergency number. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. | |||
| The Dark Truth About Growing Up Without a Mother’s Love | 30 Apr 2026 | 00:07:52 | |
A listener from Australia writes in: "l have been jealous of women who are loved unconditionally because being raised by a mother who cannot or does not love you, fully and completely without condition, entangles every aspect of you until many women are seething with anger, confusion, and hate." In this episode, Kerry McAvoy, PhD explores why the mother wound - the emotional neglect left by a mother who withheld unconditional love - runs so deep. Whether your mother was narcissistic, emotionally unavailable, or simply unable to love fully, the childhood trauma it creates shapes your identity, your relationships, and your self-worth. That jealousy you feel toward women with loving mothers? It may actually be grief in disguise. Submit Your Question If you'd like Dr. Kerry to answer your question on air, email it to clients@kerrymcavoyphd.com or use this link. Submit your question to be answered on air here! Resources
As an Amazon affiliate, commission is earned from qualifying purchases. This podcast/video is for educational purposes only. It does not constitute therapy, counseling, or professional mental health advice. If you are in crisis, please call 911 or your local emergency number. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. | |||
| "We're just trying to help!" How to Manage Toxic In-Law Drama | 20 May 2024 | 00:27:30 | |
Are you battling toxic in-law drama? Is your mother-in-law or father-in-law intruding into your relationship or family? This week, Rossana Faye joins us to discuss common toxic in-law drama, particularly when it involves a narcissistic mother- or father-in-law. This week's self-help tip is the importance of strengthening your couple's boundaries over time. Submit your question to be answered on air here! Resources
As an Amazon affiliate, commission is earned from qualifying purchases. This podcast/video is for educational purposes only. It does not constitute therapy, counseling, or professional mental health advice. If you are in crisis, please call 911 or your local emergency number. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. | |||
| "How mad can I make you?" The Toxic Games Covert Narcissists Play | 13 May 2024 | 00:26:47 | |
Do you find yourself exasperated or angry at your partner, but you aren’t sure why? Do they put you into no-win binds? Submit your question to be answered on air here! Resources
Follow Dr. Kerry! Kerry Kerr McAvoy, Ph.D, a retired psychologist & author, is an expert on cultivating healthy relationships and deconstructing narcissism. As an Amazon affiliate, commission is earned from qualifying purchases. This podcast/video is for educational purposes only. It does not constitute therapy, counseling, or professional mental health advice. If you are in crisis, please call 911 or your local emergency number. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. | |||
| "You're trying to control me!" Why Managing Boundaries with Narcissists Fails | 06 May 2024 | 00:27:10 | |
Have you noticed managing boundaries with narcissists always fails? That they find some tricky way to evade limit setting? Submit your question to be answered on air here! Resources
Follow Dr. Kerry! Kerry Kerr McAvoy, Ph.D, a retired psychologist & author, is an expert on cultivating healthy relationships and deconstructing narcissism. As an Amazon affiliate, commission is earned from qualifying purchases. This podcast/video is for educational purposes only. It does not constitute therapy, counseling, or professional mental health advice. If you are in crisis, please call 911 or your local emergency number. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. | |||