Kerry McAvoy

S2 EP13: Aren’t narcissists fantastic lovers? Tackling the myth of great sex in abusive relationships

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…

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S2 E12: Why do I feel so confused and feeling awful? Are these signs of cognitive dissonance?

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. Breaking Free from Narcissistic Abuse season 1, episode 24: If it’s…

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S2 EP11: Are you a gaslighter? How we might unintentionally gaslight in even healthy relationships

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. Breaking Free from Narcissistic Abuse season 1 episode 30: Something is really wrong…

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S2 EP10: Is Codependency a Bad Word? Should it be Used to Describe Narcissistic Abuse Victims?

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. Repeat After Me by Claudia Black Codependent No More by Melody…

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S2 EP9: Why do I love my abuser? The power of a trauma bond explained

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 psychological dependence on the abuser. And the self-help tip is on the importance of identifying and protecting non-negotiable boundaries. Breaking Free from Narcissistic Abuse season 1, episode 58: Why…

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S2 EP8: What’s best for the kids, leaving or staying in a toxic relationship?

In this week’s episode, Kerry and Tara discuss co-parenting challenges when you have a toxic ex. How do you stay regulated when kids are involved, and what do you do when the kids are being used as pawns? Today’s self-help tip is learning to talk to yourself as if you were a friend. Breaking Free…

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S2 EP7: Can we still be friends? How to handle the toxic post-split love bomb request

In this week’s episode, Kerry and Tara discuss why your toxic ex might come back and try to lovebomb you after the break-up through, what may seem like, innocent requests of friendship. We agree that while their offer may seem tantalizing, DON’T do it! Today’s self-help tip is a different way to approach communicating with…

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S2 EP6: Do I really need to go no contact with my narcissistic ex?

In this week’s episode, Kerry and Tara discuss following through with limited contact or no contact after a break-up. What is limited vs. no contact? How long should you do it for? And WHY should you do it? Today’s self-help tip is one way to self-soothe during reactive abuse. Follow Kerry and Tara on Tiktok,…

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S2 EP5: What is financial abuse, and have you been a victim of it?

In this week’s episode, Kerry and Tara discuss financial abuse. When researchers analyzed abusive relationships, they found over 99% of victims were also financially abused. Can you be abused financially? We’re going to identify the signs you might be financially abused as well as some suggestions on how to overcome it. Today’s self-help tip is…

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S2 EP 4: What to do when your narcissistically abusive ex tries to come back