Did you know that “hurt people hurt people” is a dangerously vague, over-used, and under-substantiated claim that invites predatory behavior from dark personalities like narcissists, sociopaths, psychopaths, and other disordered personality types?

Dr. Peter Salerno in this lively interview explains how foundational beliefs behind this statement are embedded in our culture and most therapeutic practices, sometimes putting victims in harm’s way by leaving them open to weaponized empathy, exploitation, and manipulation.

Dr. Salerno is a licensed psychotherapist who specializes in trauma and personality pathology and has authored multiple books on these subjects including “Traumatic Cognitive Dissonance: Healing from a Relationship with a Disordered Personality” and “The Nature and Nurture of Narcissism”. 

He holds a Doctor of Psychology degree (PsyD), a Master of Science degree (MS) in Clinical Psychology, and a Bachelor of Arts (BA) degree in English Literature. Dr. Salerno is a trauma specialist, clinical supervisor, and consultant who utilizes empirically validated, science-based approaches to promote healing and self-empowerment. 

Dr. Salerno is trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR) and Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) and is certified in Family Trauma and Complex Trauma through the International Association of Trauma Professionals. He also holds certifications in Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy and Personality Disorder Treatment (C-PD) and is trained and qualified to administer and score the Hare Psychopathy Checklist-Revised (PCL-R). 

He has books, coaching programs, and individual services to help abuse survivors break out of trauma bonds inherent to abusive relationships.

Website: www.drpetersalerno.com

Instagram: @drpetersalerno 

YoutTube: @DrPeterSalerno