🪤The Mental Trap of Narcissistic Abuse with Dr. Kerry McAvoy

In this episode of Out of Crazytown: Your Guide to Divorcing a Narcissist, Jackie sits down with trauma therapist Jessica Dineen to talk about one of the hardest parts of healing after emotional abuse: learning to trust yourself again. After gaslighting, post-separation abuse, or years of living in a high-conflict relationship, many survivors are left questioning their instincts, decisions, and even their own reality. Jessica explains why leaving doesn’t always feel like freedom, how trauma can keep the nervous system stuck in survival mode, and what can help rebuild self-trust. They also explore EMDR, parts work, nervous system healing, and why recovery often begins when the focus shifts away from understanding the narcissist and back toward reconnecting with yourself. OC Trauma Therapy Website Jessica's Instagram No Bad Parts - The Book This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not a substitute for legal, medical, or mental health advice.  

What does it really mean to be the CEO of your own divorce? In this episode, Jackie talks with Amy Polacko, divorce coach, award-winning journalist, domestic abuse survivor, co-author of FRAMED: Women in the Family Court Underworld, and host of the Girl, Wake Up! podcast. Amy shares how her own high-conflict divorce led her to become an advocate for women and family-court reform, the mistakes she made along the way, and what she now helps her clients do differently. They also discuss Amy’s article, inspired by Belle Burden’s memoir Strangers, which explores how wealth can complicate divorce, how financial dependence can create vulnerability, and why money does not always protect someone from coercion, control, or prolonged conflict. You’ll hear practical insights on recognizing unhealthy patterns, becoming more financially aware, preparing strategically, and taking an active role in your own divorce without trying to manage everything alone. Freedom Warrior Divorce Coaching - Amy Polacko FRAMED: Women in the Family Court Underworld Girl Wake Up! Podcast Amy's article on Belle Burden's Amy's article on Belle Burden's Book: Strangers Amy's Strong Savvy Women Support Group   This conversation is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for legal, financial, medical, or mental-health advice.

Why is it so hard to leave a toxic relationship even when you know it's unhealthy? And why does the confusion often continue long after it's over? In this episode of Out of Crazytown, I'm joined by psychologist, author, and narcissistic abuse expert Dr. Kerry McAvoy to explore one of the most powerful concepts in abuse recovery: cognitive dissonance. We discuss why intelligent, capable people become trapped in unhealthy relationships, how gaslighting and manipulation create profound self-doubt, and why survivors often feel torn between what they know to be true and what they desperately hope is true. Together, we unpack the psychology behind narcissistic abuse, the mental fog that keeps so many people stuck, and the first steps toward rebuilding clarity, self-trust, and lasting freedom. If you've ever wondered, "Why couldn't I just leave?" or "Why do I still question myself?" this conversation will help you understand that your experience wasn't a sign of weakness, it was the result of a very real psychological process. In this episode, we discuss: • What cognitive dissonance is and why it keeps people stuck • The difference between cognitive dissonance, trauma bonding, and codependency • How gaslighting causes survivors to question their own reality • Why hope can become part of the psychological trap • What it looks like to "wake up" to the truth • How to begin rebuilding self-trust and moving forward Whether you're still in a toxic relationship, navigating the aftermath, or supporting someone who is, this episode offers insight, validation, and practical guidance for reclaiming your life.   Dr. McAvoy's Website Break Free From Narcissistic Abuse-Podcast Love You More-Book Surviving To Thriving: A Six-Step Blueprint to Narcissistic Abuse Healing and Recovery WINNING: Rewiring Your Brain and Reclaiming Your Life After Toxic Love

What is narcissistic abuse, really? And why is it so difficult to make sense of the behavior of a narcissist, especially during divorce? In this episode, I sit down with licensed psychotherapist, speaker, and best-selling author Chelsey Brooke Cole to unpack the realities of narcissistic abuse and the lasting impact it can have on your identity, self-worth, and ability to trust yourself. We discuss how a narcissist's need for control often escalates during divorce, the different types of narcissistic personalities, why survivors often blame themselves, and what it takes to rebuild confidence after years of manipulation, gaslighting, and emotional abuse. Chelsey also shares practical communication strategies for dealing with high-conflict personalities and offers guidance for protecting and supporting children when a narcissistic parent is involved. In this episode, you'll learn: What narcissistic abuse actually is Why narcissists think and behave differently How control and manipulation show up during divorce The different types of narcissism How to release shame and self-blame What rebuilding self-worth really looks like Communication strategies that can reduce conflict Ways to support your children during a high-conflict divorce Chelsey's Website If Only I'd Known-Chelsey's Book Restoring Resilience Podcast WINNING-Jackie Miller's Book

In this episode, I sit down with Dana Skaggs, licensed psychological examiner and known as the Queen of Boundaries, to unpack why boundary dysfunction is often at the root of anxiety, burnout, and emotional exhaustion. We talk about: Why saying “no” can trigger panic How narcissistic dynamics train you to over-function and keep the peace The connection between trauma and weak or collapsing boundaries Practical ways to set and defend boundaries during divorce Dana also shares her personal experience navigating a toxic parent relationship and how learning to hold boundaries changed her life. If you’re tired of being pulled in every direction and ready to reclaim your peace, this conversation will show you where to start. Dana Skaggs Website Phoenix & Flame Podcast **DISCLAIMER:**   THE INFORMATION PROVIDED IN THIS PODCAST IS FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND SHOULD NOT BE CONSIDERED LEGAL ADVICE OR A SUBSTITUTE FOR THE GUIDANCE OF A LICENSED MENTAL HEALTH PROFESSIONAL. EACH INDIVIDUAL’S CIRCUMSTANCES ARE UNIQUE, AND ANYONE SEEKING LEGAL ADVICE SHOULD CONSULT A QUALIFIED ATTORNEY. IF YOU ARE IN NEED OF MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORT, PLEASE REACH OUT TO A LICENSED THERAPIST OR COUNSELOR.  

High-conflict divorce isn’t just emotionally exhausting. It’s legally strategic. In this episode, I sit down with seasoned family law attorney John Schorsch to unpack a hard truth: many people unintentionally damage their own case without realizing it. We talk about the common ways parents sabotage themselves in custody battles, why overexplaining and reacting emotionally backfires, and what courts actually care about versus what clients think matters. We also dig into why labels like “narcissist” rarely help, how communication mistakes resurface later, and what “controlling the narrative” truly means in practice. If you’re navigating a high-conflict ex, legal threats, or long custody battles, this episode will help you shift from reactive behavior to strategic decision-making. Because in family court, winning isn’t loud. It’s disciplined. And sometimes, the smartest move is saying less. John Schorsch Website **DISCLAIMER:**   THE INFORMATION PROVIDED IN THIS PODCAST IS FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND SHOULD NOT BE CONSIDERED LEGAL ADVICE OR A SUBSTITUTE FOR THE GUIDANCE OF A LICENSED MENTAL HEALTH PROFESSIONAL. EACH INDIVIDUAL’S CIRCUMSTANCES ARE UNIQUE, AND ANYONE SEEKING LEGAL ADVICE SHOULD CONSULT A QUALIFIED ATTORNEY. IF YOU ARE IN NEED OF MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORT, PLEASE REACH OUT TO A LICENSED THERAPIST OR COUNSELOR.  

What does it take to truly win when you’re divorcing a narcissist? In this powerful episode of Out of Crazy Town, I sit down with Vicky Edwards—my longtime client and now dear friend—who went through one of the most intense divorce and custody battles I’ve witnessed. Vicky opens up about what really matters in family court, how to document everything, and the emotional toll of fighting someone who thrives on chaos. But more importantly, she shares how she reclaimed her peace, rebuilt her life, and found freedom on the other side of the madness. If you’re in the middle of your own high-conflict divorce, custody fight, or trying to break free from a toxic, narcissistic relationship… this episode is your guide. ✨ Topics We Cover: What the court actually looks at in custody cases The do’s and don’ts of documenting abuse and conflict How to protect your peace during legal warfare The mindset shift that helps you move forward Why your freedom is the real win 📌 Subscribe for more real, raw conversations that help you navigate life after narcissistic abuse—and take your power back. Jackie & Vicky Podcast **DISCLAIMER:**   THE INFORMATION PROVIDED IN THIS PODCAST IS FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND SHOULD NOT BE CONSIDERED LEGAL ADVICE OR A SUBSTITUTE FOR THE GUIDANCE OF A LICENSED MENTAL HEALTH PROFESSIONAL. EACH INDIVIDUAL’S CIRCUMSTANCES ARE UNIQUE, AND ANYONE SEEKING LEGAL ADVICE SHOULD CONSULT A QUALIFIED ATTORNEY. IF YOU ARE IN NEED OF MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORT, PLEASE REACH OUT TO A LICENSED THERAPIST OR COUNSELOR.  

In this episode, Jackie talks with Gianni Avalos, better known online as The Single Mom Attorney—a fierce Texas family law advocate who’s changing how single mothers experience the legal system. Gianni’s journey from studying for the bar exam with a newborn to running a powerhouse firm built on compassion and advocacy is nothing short of inspiring. Together, Jackie and Gianni dive into what really happens inside the family court system, how mothers can protect themselves through knowledge, and why prioritizing a child’s well-being is the ultimate win in high-conflict co-parenting. This episode is for every woman standing her ground in the courtroom and in life—proof that resilience and truth are stronger than intimidation and fear. Avalos Family Trial Attorneys Website TikTok Single Mom Attorney Instagram Single Mom Attorney YouTube Single Mom Attorney **DISCLAIMER:**   THE INFORMATION PROVIDED IN THIS PODCAST IS FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND SHOULD NOT BE CONSIDERED LEGAL ADVICE OR A SUBSTITUTE FOR THE GUIDANCE OF A LICENSED MENTAL HEALTH PROFESSIONAL. EACH INDIVIDUAL’S CIRCUMSTANCES ARE UNIQUE, AND ANYONE SEEKING LEGAL ADVICE SHOULD CONSULT A QUALIFIED ATTORNEY. IF YOU ARE IN NEED OF MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORT, PLEASE REACH OUT TO A LICENSED THERAPIST OR COUNSELOR.  

Catherine Shanahan and Karen Chellew are shaking up the divorce industry with My Divorce Solution—a groundbreaking process that makes divorce more equitable, cost-effective, and drama-free. Catherine, a financial planner turned advocate, and Karen, a seasoned legal liaison, share wild stories from the trenches, hard-won wisdom, and a powerful message: when you understand your money, you reclaim your power—and your peace.   My Divorce Solution Website My Divorce Solution Instagram **DISCLAIMER:**   THE INFORMATION PROVIDED IN THIS PODCAST IS FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND SHOULD NOT BE CONSIDERED LEGAL ADVICE OR A SUBSTITUTE FOR THE GUIDANCE OF A LICENSED MENTAL HEALTH PROFESSIONAL. EACH INDIVIDUAL’S CIRCUMSTANCES ARE UNIQUE, AND ANYONE SEEKING LEGAL ADVICE SHOULD CONSULT A QUALIFIED ATTORNEY. IF YOU ARE IN NEED OF MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORT, PLEASE REACH OUT TO A LICENSED THERAPIST OR COUNSELOR.  

In this powerful and anonymous conversation, “Gina” shares what it’s really like to leave a narcissist—only to discover the abuse doesn’t stop, it just changes form. From custody battles and endless court motions to collusion between exes and the crushing failures of the system, Gina opens up about the psychological warfare of co-parenting, the Bermuda Triangle of “help,” and why “just leaving” is never as simple as people think. As a mother, a survivor, and a 911 dispatcher, she offers a rare perspective: one that blends lived experience with frontline exposure to abuse in real time. Most importantly, she shares how she stopped chasing court wins and started modeling peace for her children. If you’ve ever felt unheard, discredited, or exhausted by the system, Gina’s story is proof that you’re not alone—and that you can still create safety and peace, even in the chaos.   **DISCLAIMER:**   THE INFORMATION PROVIDED IN THIS PODCAST IS FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND SHOULD NOT BE CONSIDERED LEGAL ADVICE OR A SUBSTITUTE FOR THE GUIDANCE OF A LICENSED MENTAL HEALTH PROFESSIONAL. EACH INDIVIDUAL’S CIRCUMSTANCES ARE UNIQUE, AND ANYONE SEEKING LEGAL ADVICE SHOULD CONSULT A QUALIFIED ATTORNEY. IF YOU ARE IN NEED OF MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORT, PLEASE REACH OUT TO A LICENSED THERAPIST OR COUNSELOR.