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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

Ready to heal from narcissistic abuse? Join Lisa and my upcoming Healing Strong live group coaching. Groups limits to 8 and the next group begins Jan 9, 2024. Secure your spot here!

Looking for direction on what first steps you should take to heal from a toxic relationship? Become a Substack newsletter subscriber and get immediate access to this week’s Podcast Extra interview. Get your access here: substack.com/@breakingfreenarcabuse

Did you know you don't need to wait a week for your next podcast fix? For only $5/month, sign up for weekly podcast extras!  Join me on Substack! 

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• E-mail: [email protected]
• Newsletter: https://breakingfreenarcabuse.substack.com/ 
• Website: https://www.breakingfreenarcissisticabuse.com/

Kerry Kerr McAvoy, Ph.D., a mental health specialist and author, is an expert on cultivating healthy relationships, deconstructing narcissism, and understanding various other mental health-related issues. Her memoir, Love You More: The Harrowing Tale of Lies, Sex Addiction, & Double Cross, gives an uncensored glimpse into the dynamics of narcissistic abuse.

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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.

And, in this week’s Podcast Extra, Lisa and I discuss one listener’s struggles to leave. Learn what helpful suggestions and strategies we suggest to help her break free. Get immediate access this newsletter with the podcast extra here: substack.com/@breakingfreenarcabuse

Did you know you don't need to wait a week for your next podcast fix? For only $5/month, sign up for weekly podcast extras!  Join me on Substack! 

Follow Dr. McAvoy!

• YouTube: @kerrymcavoyphd
• Instagram: @kerrymcavoyphd
• Facebook: @kerrymcavoyphd
• E-mail: [email protected]
• Newsletter: https://breakingfreenarcabuse.substack.com/ 
• Website: https://www.breakingfreenarcissisticabuse.com/

Kerry Kerr McAvoy, Ph.D., a mental health specialist and author, is an expert on cultivating healthy relationships, deconstructing narcissism, and understanding various other mental health-related issues. Her memoir, Love You More: The Harrowing Tale of Lies, Sex Addiction, & Double Cross, gives an uncensored glimpse into the dynamics of narcissistic abuse.

As an Amazon affiliate, a commission is earned from qualifying purchases.

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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.

If you think you’ve been trauma bonded, become a subscriber today and get immediate access to the exclusive podcast extra interview on the first steps to finding enough strength to save yourself. Subscribe here: https://breakingfreenarcabuse.substack.com/ 

Did you know you don't need to wait a week for your next podcast fix? For only $5/month, sign up for weekly podcast extras!  Join me on Substack! 

Follow Dr. McAvoy!

• YouTube: @kerrymcavoyphd
• Instagram: @kerrymcavoyphd
• Facebook: @kerrymcavoyphd
• E-mail: [email protected]
• Newsletter: https://breakingfreenarcabuse.substack.com/ 
• Website: https://www.breakingfreenarcissisticabuse.com/

Kerry Kerr McAvoy, Ph.D., a mental health specialist and author, is an expert on cultivating healthy relationships, deconstructing narcissism, and understanding various other mental health-related issues. Her memoir, Love You More: The Harrowing Tale of Lies, Sex Addiction, & Double Cross, gives an uncensored glimpse into the dynamics of narcissistic abuse.

As an Amazon affiliate, a commission is earned from qualifying purchases.

Listen on: Apple Podcasts   Spotify

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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.

To learn how to stop reactive abuse, subscribe for immediate access to the practical steps on this week’s Podcast Extra. Join here: https://substack.com/@breakingfreenarcabuse

Did you know you don't need to wait a week for your next podcast fix? For only $5/month, sign up for weekly podcast extras!  Join me on Substack! 

Follow Dr. McAvoy!

• YouTube: @kerrymcavoyphd
• Instagram: @kerrymcavoyphd
• Facebook: @kerrymcavoyphd
• E-mail: [email protected]
• Newsletter: https://breakingfreenarcabuse.substack.com/ 
• Website: https://www.breakingfreenarcissisticabuse.com/

Kerry Kerr McAvoy, Ph.D., a mental health specialist and author, is an expert on cultivating healthy relationships, deconstructing narcissism, and understanding various other mental health-related issues. Her memoir, Love You More: The Harrowing Tale of Lies, Sex Addiction, & Double Cross, gives an uncensored glimpse into the dynamics of narcissistic abuse.

As an Amazon affiliate, a commission is earned from qualifying purchases.

Listen on: Apple Podcasts   Spotify

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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.

Are you struggling to recognize stonewalling? Maybe your partner is just emotionally overwhelmed. In this week’s Podcast Extra, Ro and I discuss the differences between being emotionally flooded and giving someone the silent treatment. Get immediate access to this and other exclusive interviews by subscribing today. substack.com/@breakingfreenarcabuse

Did you know you don't need to wait a week for your next podcast fix? For only $5/month, sign up for weekly podcast extras!  Join me on Substack! 

Follow Dr. McAvoy!

• YouTube: @kerrymcavoyphd
• Instagram: @kerrymcavoyphd
• Facebook: @kerrymcavoyphd
• E-mail: [email protected]
• Newsletter: https://breakingfreenarcabuse.substack.com/ 
• Website: https://www.breakingfreenarcissisticabuse.com/
  
  

Kerry Kerr McAvoy, Ph.D., a mental health specialist and author, is an expert on cultivating healthy relationships, deconstructing narcissism, and understanding various other mental health-related issues. Her memoir, Love You More: The Harrowing Tale of Lies, Sex Addiction, & Double Cross, gives an uncensored glimpse into the dynamics of narcissistic abuse.

As an Amazon affiliate, a commission is earned from qualifying purchases.

Listen on: Apple Podcasts   Spotify

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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
Check out his new book, The Nature and Nurture of Narcissism: https://www.drpetersalerno.com

Follow Dr. McAvoy!

• YouTube: @kerrymcavoyphd
• Instagram: @kerrymcavoyphd
• Facebook: @kerrymcavoyphd
• E-mail: [email protected]
• Newsletter: https://breakingfreenarcabuse.substack.com/ 
• Website: https://www.breakingfreenarcissisticabuse.com/

Kerry Kerr McAvoy, Ph.D., a mental health specialist and author, is an expert on cultivating healthy relationships, deconstructing narcissism, and understanding various other mental health-related issues. Her memoir, Love You More: The Harrowing Tale of Lies, Sex Addiction, & Double Cross, gives an uncensored glimpse into the dynamics of narcissistic abuse.

As an Amazon affiliate, a commission is earned from qualifying purchases.

Listen on: Apple Podcasts   Spotify

Support the show

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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.

Could your child be showing signs of trauma? Learn how to spot early signs of distress in this week’s Podcast Extra. Become a paid subscriber and get weekly exclusive interviews along with helpful healing tips and strategies. Get your immediate access to this and other interviews here: substack.com/@breakingfreenarcabuse

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

Did you know you don't need to wait a week for your next podcast fix? For only $5/month, sign up for weekly podcast extras!  Join me on Substack! 

Follow Dr. McAvoy!

• YouTube: @kerrymcavoyphd
• Instagram: @kerrymcavoyphd
• Facebook: @kerrymcavoyphd
• E-mail: [email protected]
• Newsletter: https://breakingfreenarcabuse.substack.com/ 
• Website: https://www.breakingfreenarcissisticabuse.com/

Kerry Kerr McAvoy, Ph.D., a mental health specialist and author, is an expert on cultivating healthy relationships, deconstructing narcissism, and understanding various other mental health-related issues. Her memoir, Love You More: The Harrowing Tale of Lies, Sex Addiction, & Double Cross, gives an uncensored glimpse into the dynamics of narcissistic abuse.

As an Amazon affiliate, a commission is earned from qualifying purchases.

Listen on: Apple Podcasts   Spotify

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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:
Website:  https://www.echoismrecovery.com
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@theechochamber?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc

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.


Did you know you don't need to wait a week for your next podcast fix? For only $5/month, sign up for weekly podcast extras!  Join me on Substack! 

Follow Dr. McAvoy!

• YouTube: @kerrymcavoyphd
• Instagram: @kerrymcavoyphd
• Facebook: @kerrymcavoyphd
• E-mail: [email protected]
• Newsletter: https://breakingfreenarcabuse.substack.com/ 
• Website: https://www.breakingfreenarcissisticabuse.com/

Kerry Kerr McAvoy, Ph.D., a mental health specialist and author, is an expert on cultivating healthy relationships, deconstructing narcissism, and understanding various other mental health-related issues. Her memoir, Love You More: The Harrowing Tale of Lies, Sex Addiction, & Double Cross, gives an uncensored glimpse into the dynamics of narcissistic abuse.

As an Amazon affiliate, a commission is earned from qualifying purchases.

Listen on: Apple Podcasts   Spotify

Support the show

Send us a text

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

Is there an escalating pattern of abuse in your relationship? Learn the practical strategies to protect yourself in this week’s podcast extra interview.  Become a subscriber today for immediate access to this helpful interview:  https://breakingfreenarcabuse.substack.com/ 

Follow Dr. McAvoy!

• YouTube: @kerrymcavoyphd
• Instagram: @kerrymcavoyphd
• Facebook: @kerrymcavoyphd
• E-mail: [email protected]
• Newsletter: https://breakingfreenarcabuse.substack.com/ 
• Website: https://www.breakingfreenarcissisticabuse.com/

Kerry Kerr McAvoy, Ph.D., a mental health specialist and author, is an expert on cultivating healthy relationships, deconstructing narcissism, and understanding various other mental health-related issues. Her memoir, Love You More: The Harrowing Tale of Lies, Sex Addiction, & Double Cross, gives an uncensored glimpse into the dynamics of narcissistic abuse.

As an Amazon affiliate, a commission is earned from qualifying purchases.

Listen on: Apple Podcasts   Spotify

Support the show

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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

In the Subscriber's Edition, Lisa and I discuss alternative strategies to couples therapy. Learn a simple test on how to tell if your partner is truly changing or just trying to convince you stay. Get immediate access by becoming a paid subscriber here: breakingfreenarcabuse.substack.com/

Are you struggling with post-separation abuse? Learn practical skills to halt your toxic ex from misusing the legal and social systems. Join New Powerful You, a 10-week group coaching program hosted by Dr. Kerry and Lisa Sonni. The group starts on Oct 9th; space is limited.

Secure your spot here: https://kerrymcavoyphd.com/new-powerful-you/

Did you know you don't need to wait a week for your next podcast fix? For only $5/month, sign up for weekly podcast extras!  Join me on Substack! 

Follow Dr. McAvoy!

• YouTube: @kerrymcavoyphd
• Instagram: @kerrymcavoyphd
• Facebook: @kerrymcavoyphd
• E-mail: [email protected]
• Newsletter: https://breakingfreenarcabuse.substack.com/ 
• Website: https://www.breakingfreenarcissisticabuse.com/

Kerry Kerr McAvoy, Ph.D., a mental health specialist and author, is an expert on cultivating healthy relationships, deconstructing narcissism, and understanding various other mental health-related issues. Her memoir, Love You More: The Harrowing Tale of Lies, Sex Addiction, & Double Cross, gives an uncensored glimpse into the dynamics of narcissistic abuse.

As an Amazon affiliate, a commission is earned from qualifying purchases.

Listen on: Apple Podcasts   Spotify

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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: BOOK- How to Outsmart a Narcissist: Use Emotional Intelligence to Regain Control at Home, at Work, and in Life by Erin Leonard: https://amzn.to/3z32yrI
WEBSITE- https://www.recorecounseling.net/schedule
PSYCHOLOGY TODAY- https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/contributors/erin-leonard-phd

Did you know you don't need to wait a week for your next podcast fix? For only $5/month, sign up for weekly podcast extras!  Join me on Substack! 

Follow Dr. McAvoy!

• YouTube: @kerrymcavoyphd
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• Facebook: @kerrymcavoyphd
• E-mail: [email protected]
• Newsletter: https://breakingfreenarcabuse.substack.com/ 
• Website: https://www.breakingfreenarcissisticabuse.com/

Kerry Kerr McAvoy, Ph.D., a mental health specialist and author, is an expert on cultivating healthy relationships, deconstructing narcissism, and understanding various other mental health-related issues. Her memoir, Love You More: The Harrowing Tale of Lies, Sex Addiction, & Double Cross, gives an uncensored glimpse into the dynamics of narcissistic abuse.

As an Amazon affiliate, a commission is earned from qualifying purchases.

Listen on: Apple Podcasts   Spotify

Support the show