Explore every episode of the podcast Breaking Free from Narcissistic Abuse
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| How Dangerous People Target You (Without You Even Knowing it!) | 01 Dec 2025 | 00:30:51 | |
Ever wonder why you didn't see the danger coming? This week, Dr. Leslie Dobson joins Dr. Kerry to unpack the psychological mechanisms that drive narcissistic and antisocial behavior. PODCAST EXTRA EXCLUSIVE SEGMENT Find the exclusive second segment and weekly newsletter here. MORE ABOUT THE PODCAST EXTRA INTERVIEW 🔹 Red flags you're missing: how to spot pressure, boundary testing, and grooming before it's too late. Dr. Dobson breaks down the early warning signs—from gold-toothed "tests" to rushed intimacy—and why trusting your intuition could save your life. 👉 Get immediate access to this extended interview. MORE ABOUT DR. LESLIE DOBSON
DR. LESLIE DOBSON is a clinical and forensic psychologist specializing in dangerous personalities. 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. | |||
| Why Don't Narcissists Feel Regret? And 4 Other Questions You Need Answered, Featuring Dr. Les Carter | 24 Nov 2025 | 00:22:09 | |
Dr. Les Carter has spent decades studying narcissists, and in this retrospective, he reveals what most people miss until it's too late. We revisit five groundbreaking conversations about what's really happening behind the mask. Get a glimpse into the weekly Substack newsletter with this week’s complimentary copy. Sign up today using this link. Dr. Carter may have produced his last video, but his wisdom continues on his YouTube channel, Surviving Narcissism. Thank you, Dr. Les Carter, for all your wonderful work. You have made the world a more lovely, enlightened place. DR. LES CARTER is a retired clinical psychotherapist, best-selling author, and expert on narcissistic abuse who hosts the popular YouTube channel "Surviving Narcissism". 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. | |||
| Why I Stopped Being the Perfect Wife and Daughter-in-Law | 23 Oct 2025 | 00:10:50 | |
“How can someone seem loving for years—then suddenly turn cruel?” This week’s Fan Mail revisits a letter that struck a nerve with listeners. A woman wrote about her daughter-in-law, who had seemed like a wonderful addition to the family for seven years—until she “suddenly turned into a monster.” But after the episode aired, Dr. Kerry received another listener’s response who offered the opposite perspective: “I was in a 23-year marriage marked by coercive control and escalating abuse. My in-laws adored me—until I began calling out my husband’s behavior. Then they rallied around him and turned on me.” In this episode, Dr. Kerry unpacks six possible explanations for why someone may seem to “suddenly change” in a relationship or family dynamic. Submit Your Question If you’d like your question addressed on air, send it here: 👉 https://kerrymcavoyphd.fillout.com/fan-mail 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. | |||
| Time to Leave? Top Dos and Don'ts When Divorcing a Narcissist: Interview with Kate Anthony | 05 Feb 2024 | 00:27:44 | |
Are you considering divorcing a narcissist? Wondering how to do it safely? 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. | |||
| Off-balanced by the ups and downs? How narcissists keep you confused. | 29 Jan 2024 | 00:26:27 | |
Are you feeling off-balanced? Do you wonder how your narcissistic partner or loved one is keeping you confused? 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. | |||
| Men can't be victims, right? Common myths about men and narcissistic abuse: An Interview with Brent MacLerie | 22 Jan 2024 | 00:28:55 | |
One of many harmful stereotypes men face is that they can't be victims of narcissistic abuse, yet the rates of narcissism are nearly equal between men and women. 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. | |||
| Deceived by your partner? The devastating effects of betrayal trauma | 15 Jan 2024 | 00:28:56 | |
When there's been a massive breach of trust, victims experience what's called betrayal trauma. Yet, there's often a rush to fix the duplicitous partner instead of the one betrayed, neglecting the victims' psychological devastation. 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. | |||
| How narcissists can turn dream honeymoons into a waking nightmare! | 08 Jan 2024 | 00:24:21 | |
Did you think you had met the most amazing person only to discover you had married a stranger? 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. | |||
| How to manage runaway triggers in new situations and at family celebrations | 18 Dec 2023 | 00:25:42 | |
Are you managing trauma triggers in new situations or at family holiday celebrations? Are you struggling with sudden fears, rushes of emotions, or disturbing flashbacks? 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. | |||
| How to make your holidays special despite the yearly toxic family drama! | 11 Dec 2023 | 00:23:00 | |
Do you struggle each holiday with the toxic family drama? In this episode, Tara and I discuss the common traps that can keep us from having a meaningful celebration. 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. | |||
| What red flags are you missing in that new relationship? An Interview with Dr. Heidi Brocke | 04 Dec 2023 | 00:31:16 | |
What red flags are you missing? Are you ignoring the early warning signs of a possible 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. | |||
| Can't live without them? Watch out for this early sign of a trauma bond! | 27 Nov 2023 | 00:26:05 | |
Dependency can be an early red flag that you're trapped in a traumatic bond with a narcissist. When you feel like life without them is meaningless. 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. | |||
| Are you arguing a lot? Here's why you should not try to win a fight with a narcissist | 20 Nov 2023 | 00:25:58 | |
Are you fighting a lot? Maybe it's better to learn how not to win an argument with a 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. | |||
| Can You Spot the 5 Types of People Who Could Ruin Your Life? Here's Bill Eddy's List | 20 Oct 2025 | 00:34:04 | |
Ever feel blindsided by someone who seemed charming, helpful, or even caring—only to realize later they were quietly dismantling your peace? This week, conflict expert Bill Eddy, author of The Five Types of People That Ruin Your Life, joins Dr. Kerry to unpack the five high-conflict personality types most likely to cause chaos in relationships, workplaces, and families. Podcast Extra Exclusive Interview Find the exclusive second segment and weekly newsletter here. More About the Podcast Extra Interview 🔹 What do you do when walking away from a toxic or high-conflict person feels impossible? In this members-only bonus, 👉 Get immediate access to this extended interview: https://substack.com/@breakingfreenarcabuse MORE ABOUT BILL EDDY BILL EDDY, LCSW, Esq. is HCI’s co-founder and Director of Innovation. While pioneering High Conflict Personality Theory (HCP), he was the National Conflict Resolution Center’s Senior Family Mediator for 15 years, a Certified Family Law Specialist for 15 years, and a licensed clinical social worker and therapist for over 12 years. 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. | |||
| Does the narcissist always ruin your holidays? How to handle celebration nightmares! | 13 Nov 2023 | 00:25:18 | |
Have you wondered why narcissists ruin holidays? Why they can't let you enjoy Thanksgiving, Christmas, or your birthday? 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. | |||
| Suddenly on your own? How narcissists use isolation to cut you off from others | 06 Nov 2023 | 00:26:16 | |
Are you suddenly alone? Learn how a narcissist isolates you as a way to gain control over you. How they cut you off from your closest friends and family, making you more vulnerable to abuse. 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. | |||
| Are you trapped by a covert narcissist? The top reasons why you're not spotting covert narcissists faster! | 30 Oct 2023 | 00:29:50 | |
Do you want to know why you're not spotting a covert narcissist? Learn what is a covert narcissist and the early signs you've met someone toxic. 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. | |||
| Are all narcissists abusive? Aren't we unfairly demonizing a group of people? | 23 Oct 2023 | 00:23:04 | |
Are all narcissists abusive? Aren't we unfairly classifying a group of wounded people as toxic or dangerous? Tara and I address this common accusation about narcissists and other toxic people in this podcast episode. 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. | |||
| Has the narcissist got you feeling confused? Here's how they keep you in the dark! | 16 Oct 2023 | 00:28:01 | |
Have you wondered what's real? Maybe you've noticed how narcissist keeps you in the dark--that they say one thing while doing something else. 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. | |||
| Is it a boundary or an ultimatum? Why narcissists hate limit setting | 09 Oct 2023 | 00:29:42 | |
Have you wondered why narcissists hate limit setting? Why are your boundaries treated as though optional, yet they treat theirs like ultimatums? In this podcast episode, Dr. Kerry and Tara explore the common difficulties we experience limit setting with narcissists. Instead of a self-help tip, we've answered a listener's question that was emailed to us. She asked how do you know when someone's addiction recovery isn't real. 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. | |||
| Why isn't my narcissistic partner changing when they say they're trying? | 02 Oct 2023 | 00:25:50 | |
Have you ever asked yourself, Why isn't my narcissistic partner changing despite going to therapy? Many narcissists claim they've never worked harder yet their abusive behavior continues. In this podcast episode, Kerry and Tara share from their personal experiences how to know when a narcissistic partner is truly doing the work to save a troubled relationship. And the self-help tip is a simple exercise on how to test a narcissistic partner's sincerity in making real change. 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. | |||
| Were you emotionally abused or narcissistically abused? Why the differences matter. | 25 Sep 2023 | 00:21:32 | |
Why distinguish narcissistic abuse from emotional abuse? Aren’t both referring to the same thing? In this episode, Kerry and Tara take a closer look at how narcissistic abuse uses deception to confuse and dupe victims. And the self-help tip is on how to use expressive writing for healing from abuse. LINK: Defining Narcissistic Abuse: The Case for Deception as Abuse by Kristen Milstead, PhD 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. | |||
| Are you trapped? What to do if you're stuck in a bad relationship | 18 Sep 2023 | 00:18:45 | |
What should you do if you get trapped in a bad relationship? Narcissistic abuse victims often have limited financial means and little social support. In this episode, Dr. Kerry and Tara answer a listener's letter of someone who finds themselves exactly in this position. 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. | |||
| Is it love bombing or real love? Can you tell the difference? | 11 Sep 2023 | 00:23:55 | |
How do you know if it's love bombing vs. real love? What signs should we be watching out for when meeting someone new? Does the problem of love bombing only apply to narcissists, or do other people do it too? 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. | |||
| My Ex is Blaming Me For His Broken Relationships With Our Kids | 16 Oct 2025 | 00:07:42 | |
“Why does my ex always blame me when the kids want nothing to do with him?” This week’s Fan Mail comes from a listener in Rochester, New York, who writes about the heartbreak of watching her children pull away from their abusive father, only to be blamed for it. Her ex insists she’s turned the kids against him, while his family defends him as “such a good man” who’s “done so much for us.” In this episode, Dr. Kerry explains how emotionally immature and abusive individuals deflect accountability, making others feel guilty for the natural consequences of their own harmful behavior. Submit Your Question If you’d like your question addressed on air, send it here: 👉 https://kerrymcavoyphd.fillout.com/fan-mail 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. | |||
| Are all narcissists sex addicts? What goes wrong with intimacy in the bedroom | 28 Aug 2023 | 00:19:54 | |
Can narcissism be linked with sex addiction, and what exactly is sex addiction? In this episode, Kerry and Tara delve into the intimacy challenges that some individuals with narcissistic tendencies face. Instead of providing this week's self-help tip, they address a listener's question: "Can a narcissist change?"
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. | |||
| Have you met a narcissist? How sympathy sometimes can be a warning | 21 Aug 2023 | 00:12:41 | |
Is empathy a good indicator you've met a healthy person? Narcissists are often thought of as emotionally cold and insensitive, yet this stereotype couldn't be further from the truth. 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. | |||
| Feeling knocked down? Defeated? Here's Kerry's secret on how to become an overcomer | 14 Aug 2023 | 00:27:17 | |
In this episode, Tara flips the script and interviews Kerry. Dive in as Kerry reveals a hidden gem that's been her shield against tough times. Tune in to discover how you too can stand tall against the shadows of narcissistic harm. 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. | |||
| Why am I so confused? The Making & Breaking of a Trauma Bond with Lisa Sonni | 07 Aug 2023 | 00:35:28 | |
In this episode, Tara and Kerry interview Lisa Sonni, author and trauma bond expert, on the development of powerful psychological attachments. Lisa shares how to recognize if we’re trauma bonded and how to know if we are breaking this toxic interpersonal connection. This episode demystifies the intense attachment so many of us have with toxic people with helpful, yet hard-hurting truths.
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. | |||
| How to find joy and renewed power after surviving abuse: An interview with Tara | 31 Jul 2023 | 00:23:53 | |
In this episode, we get a behind-the-scenes look into our co-host, Tara's life. She shares how she has learned to find joy and where her real source of power is after surviving abuse. 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. | |||
| Why do narcissists have to make life miserable? Dr. Les Carter Explains Narcissism | 24 Jul 2023 | 00:30:12 | |
In this episode, Tara and Kerry interview Dr. Les Carter, a psychologist with wildly popular YouTube channel and podcast, Surviving Narcissism about the narcissistic mindset. Dr. Carter demystifies why these individuals are so good at turning the tables on us, making us feel like the crazy ones. 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. | |||
| If it was just a "situationship", why do I feel so miserable? | 17 Jul 2023 | 00:20:03 | |
In this episode, Kerry and Tara respond to a listener's letter about the struggle of recovering from even just a situationship with a narcissist. Relationships with narcissists can impact us negatively even when they aren't long-term ones! And today's self-help tip is about learning to replace previous/negative habits and behaviors with positives ones. 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. | |||
| Does everyone deserve our kindness? How to reduce the risk of being exploited | 10 Jul 2023 | 00:21:59 | |
In this episode, Kerry and Tara share some of their struggles with figuring out the difference between being selfish and having self-respect. Many of us see boundaries or self-care as inherently "selfish." And today's self-help tip is assessing the motive of your or others' actions. 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. | |||
| Am I still trauma bonded? Top Signs That You’ve Broken That Toxic Connection | 26 Jun 2023 | 00:23:29 | |
In this episode, Kerry and Tara share the initial signs they had broken the trauma bond with their exes. Intense connections get formed with toxic partners and family members that can be very controlling. Breaking them is an essential part of healing. And today's self-help tip is using your observational power to recall possible consequences of any potential action as a personal boundary.
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. | |||
| My relationship is toxic? I thought all relationships required a lot of work | 19 Jun 2023 | 00:25:40 | |
In this episode, Kerry and Tara address a common fallacy that all relationships are a lot of hard work. We will explore why many of us struggle to recognize signs of a toxic partnership. And the self-help tip is using our bodily sensations to identify safe connections and situations.
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. | |||
| Why Narcissists Use Secrets to Avoid Intimacy | 13 Oct 2025 | 00:41:16 | |
Ever feel like your relationship was the most intoxicating connection of your life—only to discover shocking lies and betrayal later? This week, intimacy expert Gary Katz reveals how narcissists protect themselves by keeping secrets, building false connections, and manipulating trust. Podcast Extra Exclusive Interview Find the exclusive second segment and weekly newsletter here. More About the Podcast Extra Interview 🔹 Think your relationship is missing intimacy, but not sure why? In this members-only bonus, Katz shares practical tools to reignite connection, repair conflict, and restore closeness. 👉 Get immediate access to this extended interview MORE ABOUT GARY KATZ: Center for Intimacy Recovery GARY KATZ, M.S.W., C.S.A.T., C.P.T.T. is a psychotherapist and founder of The Center for Intimacy Recovery in New York. 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. | |||
| How will I know when I'm supposed to leave? What if I make the wrong decision? | 12 Jun 2023 | 00:29:00 | |
In this episode, Kerry and Tara tackle one of the most asked questions of abuse survivors: how do I know if I should leave? We'll discuss the common hindrances to making this decision and how to support a loved one who's trapped in this kind of indecisiveness. Today's self-help tip is to make a realistic budget for expenses if you should decide to leave.
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. | |||
| Could you be at risk? Why you should be afraid of the Dark Triad Personality | 05 Jun 2023 | 00:28:07 | |
In this episode, Kerry and Tara discuss a particularly dangerous group of people, the Dark Triad Personality Disorders. And today's self-help tip is how to assess if someone you know is a one.
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. | |||
| Friends as Enemies: What to do when those you love are narcissistic | 22 May 2023 | 00:25:43 | |
In this episode, Kerry and Tara tackle how complicated it can be when the narcissists in your life can also be friends or family members. And the self-help tip is a visualization strategy for your boundaries.
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. | |||
| How can my narcissistic ex move on so easily? The Problem of Grief | 15 May 2023 | 00:25:35 | |
Victims of narcissistic abuse often complain about seeing happy photos of their exes on social media. In this episode, Kerry and Tara will discuss why some people move on so quickly and easily after leaving a relationship. And the Self-Help Tip will be how to use "containment" for intense emotions like grief.
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. | |||
| Waking up to a Stranger: What Happens Once Love Bombing is Over | 08 May 2023 | 00:27:02 | |
Have you noticed how narcissists and toxic people morph into someone new once love-bombing is over? In this episode, Kerry and Tara examine the chameleon-like nature of personality disorders and how this creates confusion and self-doubt for victims. And the self-help tip is a helpful exercise to expose if this dynamic is happening in your current 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. | |||
| Announcement | 24 Apr 2023 | 00:00:24 | |
Breaking Free from Narcissistic Abuse will be dropping a new episode on May 8, 2023. In the meantime feel to listen to previous episodes here: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2150391 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. | |||
| Could I be the narcissist? The power of reactive abuse to make victims feel crazy. | 17 Apr 2023 | 00:25:21 | |
In this week's episode, Kerry and Tara tackle the power of reactive abuse to make some narcissistic abuse victims feel crazy. And the self-help tip is how to increase the effectiveness of an affirmation by pairing it with a positive behavior. 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. | |||
| Am I more vulnerable to toxic relationships because I have ADHD or Autism? The answer might surprise you. | 10 Apr 2023 | 00:31:08 | |
In this week's episode, Kerry and Tara discuss the vulnerabilities those of us with ADHD or Autism might have in regards to toxic relationships. And, the self-help tip is on how to practice boundaried sharing with the social skyscraper. 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. | |||
| Aren’t narcissists fantastic lovers? Tackling the myth of great sex in abusive relationships | 03 Apr 2023 | 00:26:59 | |
In this week's episode, Kerry and Tara discuss the myth of sex in the narcissistic relationship, and how it might be bad, weaponized, or even assaultive. And, the self-help tip is on how to practice red light/green light in assessing if and what you should do in regards to physical intimacy in a current or new relationship.
As an Amazon affiliate, commission is earned from qualifying purchases. 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. | |||
| Why do I feel so confused and awful? Are these signs of cognitive dissonance? | 27 Mar 2023 | 00:27:48 | |
In this week's episode, Kerry and Tara discuss the signs of cognitive dissonance and the impact it can have on us physically, mentally, and emotionally. And, the self-help tip is on how to practice H.A.L.T in order to get back to practicing the basics.
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. | |||
| My Husband Claims His Facebook Account Has Been Hacked!… | 09 Oct 2025 | 00:09:18 | |
What do you do when the evidence points to betrayal, but your partner insists you’re crazy? This week’s Fan Mail comes from a listener in Atlanta, Georgia, who describes the heartbreak of suspecting her husband of nearly 50 years is living a double life. Despite finding suspicious phone activity and even an STD clinic reference, her husband denies everything—blaming and belittling her instead. In this episode, Dr. Kerry unpacks the signs of DARVO (deny, attack, reverse victim and offender), explains why being called “crazy” is psychological abuse, and shares what to do when you feel destabilized by betrayal trauma. She also offers practical next steps—from documenting evidence to protecting digital privacy—to help regain clarity and safety. Submit Your Question If you’d like your question addressed on air, send it here: 👉 https://kerrymcavoyphd.fillout.com/fan-mail 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. | |||
| Are you a gaslighter? How we might unintentionally gaslight in even healthy relationships | 20 Mar 2023 | 00:32:36 | |
In this week's episode, Kerry and Tara discuss how we might actually gaslight in healthy relationships and how to avoid doing this in the future. And, the self-help tip is on letting others "earn" our trust before blindly giving it to them.
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. | |||
| Is Codependency a Bad Word? Should it be Used to Describe Narcissistic Abuse Victims? | 13 Mar 2023 | 00:28:03 | |
In this week's episode, Kerry and Tara discuss codependency vs. Super Traits, what's the difference, and why we differ in how we feel about each of the terms. And, the self-help tip is on how to create a list of top lines for yourself.
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. | |||
| Why do I love my abuser? The power of a trauma bond explained | 06 Mar 2023 | 00:25:41 | |
In this week's episode, Kerry and Tara give an intimate look at the emotional power of a trauma bond. How trauma bonds create mental confusion and a psychological dependence on the abuser. And, the self-help tip is on the importance of identifying and protecting non-negotiable boundaries. Links:
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. | |||