Breaking Free from Narcissistic Abuse

Kerry McAvoy, Ph.D.
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Breaking Free from Narcissistic Abuse

Confused by your relationship? Constantly second-guessing yourself, walking on eggshells, or feeling emotionally drained? Whether you’re still in the chaos or finding your footing after leaving, this podcast is your lifeline. Join mental health experts Dr. Kerry McAvoy and Lisa Sonni as they uncover the hidden dynamics of toxic relationships. From understanding destructive personalities and their manipulative tactics to exploring the stages of abuse and how to rebuild after the damage, you’ll gain the clarity and tools needed to break free and heal. If you’re ready to reclaim your self-worth and discover the path to emotional freedom, hit play and start your recovery journey today.

  1. The Part No One Talks About: What It Really Takes to Heal from Narcissistic Abuse

    2 JUN

    The Part No One Talks About: What It Really Takes to Heal from Narcissistic Abuse

    Send us a text This week, I’m pulling back the curtain on something few of us talk about—the emotional toll of surviving narcissistic abuse after the relationship ends. Healing is hard. Helping others heal while still navigating your own recovery? Even harder. In this episode, I share why I’m taking a short summer hiatus—and how you can still stay connected and supported during this time.  💌 For Paid Substack Subscribers: Here’s What’s Ahead This Summer  -July 9th @ 5pm CT – Ask Me Anything: A Real Conversation with Dr. Kerry  → RSVP Here (https://form.jotform.com/Kerry_McAvoy/ask-me-anything)  -August Gift Drop – A surprise bonus for active paid subscribers. You’ll love it.  -Weekly Content Series – Light, reflective summer posts that explore themes of emotional freedom, healing fatigue, and rebuilding from the inside out.  🆓 BONUS FOR ALL SUBSCRIBERS: You’ll also get early access to my brand new lead magnet: “Toxic or Troubled? Find Out How Well Your Relationship Rates” …plus a free customized gift based on your results. But here’s the catch—the only way to stay in the loop is to be on the newsletter list.  👉 Not on the list yet? Join here (http://substack.com/@breakingfreenarcabuse) to get weekly insights and free healing resources delivered straight to your inbox. **************************************** Stay in Touch Dr. Kerry! YoutubeInstagramTikTokFacebookMore About Dr. Kerry Kerry Kerr McAvoy, Ph.D, a retired psychologist and author, is an expert on cultivating healthy relationships and deconstructing narcissism. Her blogs have been featured in Mamami, YourTango, Scary Mommy, and The Good Men Project. In Love You More, Dr. McAvoy gives an uncensored glimpse into her survival of narcissistic abuse, and her workbook, First Steps to Leaving a Narcissist, helps victims break free from the confusion common in abusive relationships. She hosts the Breaking Free from Narcissistic Abuse podcast and offers trauma-related advice on social media. Support the show

    9 min
  2. What’s Wrong With Me? Why Abuse Victims Believe They're the Narcissist

    26 MAY

    What’s Wrong With Me? Why Abuse Victims Believe They're the Narcissist

    Send us a text This US holiday weekend, let’s revisit three of your favorite podcast episodes. Interestingly, they all have the same theme: why narcissistic abuse survivors initially think they’re the problem. Clip 1 is from Season 3 Episode 64: "How mad can I make you?" The Toxic Games Covert Narcissists Play” Video: https://youtu.be/pfU0y1ycgtg Audio: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2150391/episodes/15052505 Clip 2 is from Seoson 3 Episode 57: “Am I The Narcissist? When Toxic People Accuse You of Being The Problem” Video: https://youtu.be/wwKnai4Gu2M Audio: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2150391/episodes/14715474 Clip 3 is from Season 2, Episode 38: “Here's Why You're Not Spotting a Covert Narcissist…” Video: https://youtu.be/QaZovKhVoTc Audio https://www.buzzsprout.com/2150391/episodes/13845831 This week, there’s no podcast extra.    **************************************** Stay in Touch Dr. Kerry! YoutubeInstagramTikTokFacebookMore About Dr. Kerry Kerry Kerr McAvoy, Ph.D, a retired psychologist and author, is an expert on cultivating healthy relationships and deconstructing narcissism. Her blogs have been featured in Mamami, YourTango, Scary Mommy, and The Good Men Project. In Love You More, Dr. McAvoy gives an uncensored glimpse into her survival of narcissistic abuse, and her workbook, First Steps to Leaving a Narcissist, helps victims break free from the confusion common in abusive relationships. She hosts the Breaking Free from Narcissistic Abuse podcast and offers trauma-related advice on social media. Battling a Narcissist in Court: A Live Q&A with Judge Michele Locke 📅 June 10th at 6:30 p.m. CT | ⏰ 90 minutes | 💬 Survivor-Focused Guidance Not a member yet? Upgrade now to get access to exclusive events like this! 👉 Learn more here: kerrymcavoyphd.com/club Support the show

    26 min
  3. Have Bad Taste in Partners? The Red Flags We Often Miss

    19 MAY

    Have Bad Taste in Partners? The Red Flags We Often Miss

    Send us a text Why do we pick bad partners? Is purely because of deception or are we missing early warning signs of a toxicity? This week, author and clinician, Mary Crocker Cook joins us to discuss the problems of early socialization and different expectation in the dysfunctional relationship. Looking for the Podcast Extra Interview with Mary Crocker Cook? 🔹 Are you wondering how to exit a toxic relationship safely? Mary shares some powerful no-nonsense advice on how to prepare to leave.  Subscribe to our Podcast Exclusive newsletter to hear the extended interview. Get immediate access to the interview with Mary Crocker Cook along with expert tools and support to help you reclaim your peace. 👉 Join today: https://substack.com/@breakingfreenarcabuse To Learn More About Mary Crocker Cook: Website: https://www.marycrockercookbooks.com/bio Book: Bad Taste. Self-Care and Financial planning when You Have Bad Taste In Men: https://amzn.to/3RYq9jl  **************************************** Stay in Touch Dr. Kerry! YoutubeInstagramTikTokFacebookMore About Dr. Kerry Kerry Kerr McAvoy, Ph.D, a retired psychologist and author, is an expert on cultivating healthy relationships and deconstructing narcissism. Her blogs have been featured in Mamami, YourTango, Scary Mommy, and The Good Men Project. In Love You More, Dr. McAvoy gives an uncensored glimpse into her survival of narcissistic abuse, and her workbook, First Steps to Leaving a Narcissist, helps victims break free from the confusion common in abusive relationships. She hosts the Breaking Free from Narcissistic Abuse podcast and offers trauma-related advice on social media. Battling a Narcissist in Court: A Live Q&A with Judge Michele Locke 📅 June 10th at 6:30 p.m. CT | ⏰ 90 minutes | 💬 Survivor-Focused Guidance Not a member yet? Upgrade now to get access to exclusive events like this! 👉 Learn more here: kerrymcavoyphd.com/club Support the show

    26 min
  4. How Your Relationship Changes When Your Partner Has Narcissism and ADHD

    12 MAY

    How Your Relationship Changes When Your Partner Has Narcissism and ADHD

    Send us a text Can someone be both narcissistic and neurodivergent? This week, ADHD coach and neurodiversity educator Sheila Henson joins Dr. Kerry to explore the nuanced overlap between narcissistic traits and ADHD. Together, they unpack how these two very different dynamics can sometimes co-exist—and what that means for the health of your relationship. Looking for the Podcast Extra Interview with Sheila Henson? 🔹 Are you wondering if your narcissistic partner who’s struggling with ADHD can change? Sheila shares some powerful no-nonsense advice on how to assess the viability of your relationship. Subscribe to our Podcast Exclusive newsletter to hear the extended interview.   Get immediate access to the interview with Sheila Henson along with expert tools and support to help you reclaim your peace. 👉 Join today: https://substack.com/@breakingfreenarcabuse To learn more about Sheila Henson: Website: https://www.sheilahenson.com TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@adhdcoachsheila Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/adhdcoachsheila   **************************************** Stay in Touch Dr. Kerry! YoutubeInstagramTikTokFacebookMore About Dr. Kerry Kerry Kerr McAvoy, Ph.D, a retired psychologist and author, is an expert on cultivating healthy relationships and deconstructing narcissism. Her blogs have been featured in Mamami, YourTango, Scary Mommy, and The Good Men Project. In Love You More, Dr. McAvoy gives an uncensored glimpse into her survival of narcissistic abuse, and her workbook, First Steps to Leaving a Narcissist, helps victims break free from the confusion common in abusive relationships. She hosts the Breaking Free from Narcissistic Abuse podcast and offers trauma-related advice on social media. Battling a Narcissist in Court: A Live Q&A with Judge Michele Locke 📅 June 10th at 6:30 p.m. CT | ⏰ 90 minutes | 💬 Survivor-Focused Guidance Not a member yet? Upgrade now to get access to exclusive events like this! 👉 Learn more here: kerrymcavoyphd.com/club Support the show

    27 min
  5. When Is It Really Over? The Top Signs a Dying Relationship

    5 MAY

    When Is It Really Over? The Top Signs a Dying Relationship

    Send us a text Is your relationship displaying signs that it’s over? Maybe it’s on its last legs, and you wonder if it can be saved? In this episode, Dr. Becky Whetstone delves into the complexities of relationships, particularly focusing on the challenges faced during marriage crises. She shares her experiences and insights as a marriage therapist, emphasizing the importance of self-awareness and recognizing the signs of an unhealthy relationship. Looking for the Podcast Extra Interview with Dr. Becky Whetstone?  🔹 What do you know that your relationship is no longer salvageable? Dr. Whetstone shares practical indicators of a dying relationship. Subscribe to our Podcast Exclusive newsletter to hear the extended interview.   Get immediate access to the interview with Dr. Becky Whetstone, along with expert tools and support to help you reclaim your peace. 👉 Join today: https://substack.com/@breakingfreenarcabuse Learn more about Dr. Whetstone: Website Dr. Becky's Blog Book: I (Think) I Want Out: What to Do When One of You Want to End Your Marriage  **************************************** Stay in Touch with Dr. Kerry! YoutubeInstagramTikTokFacebookMore About Dr. Kerry Kerry Kerr McAvoy, Ph.D, a retired psychologist and author, is an expert on cultivating healthy relationships and deconstructing narcissism. Her blogs have been featured in Mamami, YourTango, Scary Mommy, and The Good Men Project. In Love You More, Dr. McAvoy gives an uncensored glimpse into her survival of narcissistic abuse, and her workbook, First Steps to Leaving a Narcissist, helps victims break free from the confusion common in abusive relationships. She hosts the Breaking Free from Narcissistic Abuse podcast and offers trauma-related advice on social media. Battling a Narcissist in Court: A Live Q&A with Judge Michele Locke 📅 June 10th at 6:30 p.m. CT | ⏰ 90 minutes | 💬 Survivor-Focused Guidance Not a member yet? Upgrade now to get access to exclusive events like this! 👉 Learn more here: kerrymcavoyphd.com/club Support the show

    31 min
  6. Are You an Over-Functioner? The Problem of Doing Too Much

    28 APR

    Are You an Over-Functioner? The Problem of Doing Too Much

    Send us a text Are you living with a narcissist or a stressfully demanding person? These types of relationships often require us to step up with extra emotional labor without us even realizing it.  This week, psychotherapist and author Terri Cole joins us to explore the hidden costs of high-functioning codependency. Learn why over-helping is often a trauma response, not a personality trait—and what to do if you're living with a boundary bully. Looking for the Podcast Extra Interview with Terri Cole?  🔹What should you do if you can’t leave a toxic relationship yet? Terri shares practical boundary strategies for surviving emotionally while you’re still in it. Subscribe to our Podcast Exclusive newsletter to hear the extended interview.   Get immediate access to the interview with Terri Cole along with expert tools and support to help you reclaim your peace. 👉 Join today: https://substack.com/@breakingfreenarcabuse Learn more about Terri: Website: https://www.terricole.com Books:  Too Much: A Guide to Breaking the Cycle of High-Functioning Codependency - https://amzn.to/4jeqIRH Boundary Boss: The Essential Guide to Talk True, Be Seen, and (Finally) Live Free - https://amzn.to/4i2yvB6                                       **************************************** Stay in Touch Dr. Kerry! YoutubeInstagramTikTokFacebookMore About Dr. Kerry Kerry Kerr McAvoy, Ph.D, a retired psychologist and author, is an expert on cultivating healthy relationships and deconstructing narcissism. Her blogs have been featured in Mamami, YourTango, Scary Mommy, and The Good Men Project. In Love You More, Dr. McAvoy gives an uncensored glimpse into her survival of narcissistic abuse, and her workbook, First Steps to Leaving a Narcissist, helps victims break free from the confusion common in abusive relationships. She hosts the Breaking Free from Narcissistic Abuse podcast and offers trauma-related advice on social media. Support the show

    24 min
  7. When Your Best Friend is a Narcissist: Cost of Toxic Female Relationships

    21 APR

    When Your Best Friend is a Narcissist: Cost of Toxic Female Relationships

    Send us a text Are female friendships just as damaging as pathological love relationships? This week, Sabrina Kirberg, author of We Used to be Best Friends, joins us to discuss the harmful consequences of toxic women friendships. Learn why we often miss spotting toxic female relationships and their common harmful dynamics. Looking for the Podcast Extra Interview with Sabrina Kirberg? 🔹Does your best friend fit one of the toxic female stereotypes? Learn the most common toxic women relationships when you subscribe to our Podcast Exclusive newsletter.  Gain immediate access to a growing archive of expert insights designed to help you move forward. 👉 Join today: https://substack.com/@breakingfreenarcabuse To Learn More About Sabrina: Website: The3rdSide TikTok Instagram Book: We Used to Be Best Friends: A Friendship Breakup Workbook            **************************************** Stay in Touch Dr. Kerry! YoutubeInstagramTikTokFacebookMore About Dr. Kerry Kerry Kerr McAvoy, Ph.D, a retired psychologist and author, is an expert on cultivating healthy relationships and deconstructing narcissism. Her blogs have been featured in Mamami, YourTango, Scary Mommy, and The Good Men Project. In Love You More, Dr. McAvoy gives an uncensored glimpse into her survival of narcissistic abuse, and her workbook, First Steps to Leaving a Narcissist, helps victims break free from the confusion common in abusive relationships. She hosts the Breaking Free from Narcissistic Abuse podcast and offers trauma-related advice on social media. Support the show

    24 min
  8. The Shocking Psychological Cost of Living with a Narcissist: Interview with Lynn Strathdee

    14 APR

    The Shocking Psychological Cost of Living with a Narcissist: Interview with Lynn Strathdee

    Send us a text Living with a narcissistic or emotionally toxic person will wreak havoc on your personality or sense of self.   This week, Lynn Strathdee, mental health therapist and expert, joins us today to discuss the effects of chronic exposure to narcissistic abuse. Learn how dysfunctional relationship shapes your personality, giving “echoistic” tendencies.   Looking for the Podcast Extra Interview with Lynn Strathdee?     🔹Can the psychological damage done to our personality be repaired? Learn the practical steps Lynn recommends we take to heal from narcissistic abuse when you subscribe to our Podcast Exclusive newsletter.   Gain immediate access to a growing archive of expert insights designed to help you move forward.      👉 Join today: https://substack.com/@breakingfreenarcabuse More About Lynn:  Website Instagram YouTube 🌿 Ready to Break Free from Toxic Relationships? 🌿 When you join Dr. Kerry's membership, you'll get the support, guidance, and community you need to heal and thrive! 💬 What’s Inside? ✅ Live Group Coaching – Five sessions per week for real-time support. 📚 Book Club Discussions – Dive deep into transformative reads. 🎥 Extensive Video Library – Access powerful recovery tools anytime. 💡 Direct Access to Dr. Kerry – Get expert insights & answers. 🔗 Start your healing journey today!  Stay in Touch with Dr. Kerry! YoutubeInstagramTikTokFacebookMore About Dr. Kerry Kerry Kerr McAvoy, Ph.D, a retired psychologist and author, is an expert on cultivating healthy relationships and deconstructing narcissism. Her blogs have been featured in Mamami, YourTango, Scary Mommy, and The Good Men Project. In Love You More, Dr. McAvoy gives an uncensored glimpse into her survival of narcissistic abuse, and her workbook, First Steps to Leaving a Narcissist, helps victims break free from the confusion common in abusive relationships. She hosts the Breaking Free from Narcissistic Abuse podcast and offers trauma-related advice on social media. Support the show

    29 min
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About

Confused by your relationship? Constantly second-guessing yourself, walking on eggshells, or feeling emotionally drained? Whether you’re still in the chaos or finding your footing after leaving, this podcast is your lifeline. Join mental health experts Dr. Kerry McAvoy and Lisa Sonni as they uncover the hidden dynamics of toxic relationships. From understanding destructive personalities and their manipulative tactics to exploring the stages of abuse and how to rebuild after the damage, you’ll gain the clarity and tools needed to break free and heal. If you’re ready to reclaim your self-worth and discover the path to emotional freedom, hit play and start your recovery journey today.

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