What happens when one of your parents is a covert narcissist? Behind their mask of charm and respectability lies a devastating truth that can destroy a child’s sense of self. In this video, Ross Rosenberg explains the unique dangers of covert narcissist parents, why they’re so hard to expose, and how their manipulation can leave lasting scars. These experiences often leave children questioning their reality and struggling with deep self-doubt well into adulthood. The damage may be invisible to outsiders, but for the child, it feels inescapable and overwhelming. Understanding these hidden patterns is the first step toward healing and breaking free from their grip.

Ross's 3.7 million viewed video, "When You Unmask a Covert Narcissist, RUN, But Quietly! Counterfeit Relationship."  https://bit.ly/Covert-Narcissist

Support the show

ABOUT ROSS ROSENBERG
Ross Rosenberg, M.Ed., LCPC, CADC, is a psychotherapist, educator, expert witness, and celebrated author. He is also a global thought leader and clinical expert in codependency, trauma, pathological narcissism, narcissistic abuse, and addictions.

Ross's pioneering contributions to codependency have provided sweeping theoretical and practical updates and developed a treatment program that permanently resolves the issue. Ross has been featured on national TV and radio and is a regular radio and podcast guest.

In addition, he has traveled the world, giving his one-of-a-kind keynote presentations and educational workshops. His global impact is best illustrated by his YouTube channel, with 30 million views and 297,000 subscribers, and the sale of 190,000 Human Magnet Syndrome books published in 12 languages. In 2013, Ross created The Self-Love Recovery Institute, a hub for his personal development, workshops, professional training, retreats, other programs, and services.

Learn more at www.SelfLoveRecovery.com.

Facebook.com/TheCodependencyCure)
Instagram (@rossrosenberg_slri)
Twitter (@RossRosenberg1)
and now…TikTok! (@RossRosenberg1)

Ross Rosenberg gives a mini movie review, but focuses on the concept of the complete loss of one's identity as it melds into that of the pathological narcissist. 

Years into their relationship, Tim and Millie abandon their old lives and move to the countryside, hoping to escape their problems. But when all you have left is each other, love can turn into something monstrous. After tensions between them reach a breaking point, a mysterious, unnatural force invades their lives—twisting their love into a nightmare. As their bodies and minds begin to fuse together, the film explores the terrifying extremes of codependency, narcissism, and toxic relationships.

In this video, I’ll break down:
✔ The film’s shocking body horror and psychological terror
✔ How it reflects real-life dysfunctional relationships (with insights from therapist Ross Rosenberg)
✔ The deeper meaning behind the ending—is this true love or pure horror?
✔ Why "becoming one" isn’t always romantic… sometimes, it’s a curse.

Is Together a metaphor for toxic love, or is there something even darker at play? Let’s analyze this underrated horror gem—before it’s too late.

NOW AVAILABLE: THE HUMAN MAGNET SYNDROME WORKBOOK. https://bit.ly/HMS_Workbook

Consider subscribing to Ross Rosenberg's/Self-Love Recovery Institute's new Patreon Subscription, where you can access exclusive content, insights, and services. https://www.patreon.com/RossRosenbergSLRIatreon 

Support the show

ABOUT ROSS ROSENBERG
Ross Rosenberg, M.Ed., LCPC, CADC, is a psychotherapist, educator, expert witness, and celebrated author. He is also a global thought leader and clinical expert in codependency, trauma, pathological narcissism, narcissistic abuse, and addictions.

Ross's pioneering contributions to codependency have provided sweeping theoretical and practical updates and developed a treatment program that permanently resolves the issue. Ross has been featured on national TV and radio and is a regular radio and podcast guest.

In addition, he has traveled the world, giving his one-of-a-kind keynote presentations and educational workshops. His global impact is best illustrated by his YouTube channel, with 30 million views and 297,000 subscribers, and the sale of 190,000 Human Magnet Syndrome books published in 12 languages. In 2013, Ross created The Self-Love Recovery Institute, a hub for his personal development, workshops, professional training, retreats, other programs, and services.

Learn more at www.SelfLoveRecovery.com.

Facebook.com/TheCodependencyCure)
Instagram (@rossrosenberg_slri)
Twitter (@RossRosenberg1)
and now…TikTok! (@RossRosenberg1)

In this powerful reunion, Ross Rosenberg sits down once again with life coach and author Rick Belden to revisit the profound topic of the mother wound. Their last discussion on this subject reached over 400,000 views, and for good reason — it's a topic that resonates deeply with so many. This time, they go even deeper, exploring how early relational injuries with a mother — whether due to neglect, enmeshment, or emotional absence — can lead to lifelong patterns of self-neglect, codependency, and a fractured sense of self. Rick shares his unique perspective working primarily with men, while Ross draws connections to his own Self-Love Deficit Disorder (SLDD) model and Human Magnet Syndrome, offering a broader lens on developmental trauma.

Together, they unpack the subtle yet devastating effects of being unseen, unsupported, or used to fulfill a parent's unmet needs — and how that trauma often leads adults into self-sacrificing roles and painful relationship cycles. From grief and body-based healing to reparenting one's younger self, this conversation is rich with insight, compassion, and hope for transformation. Whether you're struggling to understand your own past or working to support someone else, this episode offers the validation, tools, and language needed to take the next step toward healing.

NOW AVAILABLE: THE HUMAN MAGNET SYNDROME WORKBOOK. https://bit.ly/HMS_Workbook

Consider subscribing to Ross Rosenberg's/Self-Love Recovery Institute's new Patreon Subscription, where you can access exclusive content, insights, and services. https://www.patreon.com/RossRosenbergSLRIatreon 

Support the show

ABOUT ROSS ROSENBERG
Ross Rosenberg, M.Ed., LCPC, CADC, is a psychotherapist, educator, expert witness, and celebrated author. He is also a global thought leader and clinical expert in codependency, trauma, pathological narcissism, narcissistic abuse, and addictions.

Ross's pioneering contributions to codependency have provided sweeping theoretical and practical updates and developed a treatment program that permanently resolves the issue. Ross has been featured on national TV and radio and is a regular radio and podcast guest.

In addition, he has traveled the world, giving his one-of-a-kind keynote presentations and educational workshops. His global impact is best illustrated by his YouTube channel, with 30 million views and 297,000 subscribers, and the sale of 190,000 Human Magnet Syndrome books published in 12 languages. In 2013, Ross created The Self-Love Recovery Institute, a hub for his personal development, workshops, professional training, retreats, other programs, and services.

Learn more at www.SelfLoveRecovery.com.

Facebook.com/TheCodependencyCure)
Instagram (@rossrosenberg_slri)
Twitter (@RossRosenberg1)
and now…TikTok! (@RossRosenberg1)

In this episode, Ross Rosenberg breaks down one of the most emotionally disorienting and dangerous tactics used by narcissists: the Humanization Technique. This subtle yet deeply manipulative behavior emerges when a narcissist feels they're about to lose control — suddenly becoming vulnerable, tearful, or apologetic in ways that evoke intense sympathy from their codependent partner. But is it real… or a trap?

Ross shares how this tactic can trigger overwhelming empathy in those with Self-Love Deficit Disorder (codependency) and derail even the most prepared plans to leave. You'll learn how to recognize it, protect yourself emotionally, and avoid falling back into the cycle of abuse. If you’re navigating the complexities of narcissistic abuse recovery, this episode offers hard-earned insights that could help you finally break free.

NOW AVAILABLE: THE HUMAN MAGNET SYNDROME WORKBOOK. https://bit.ly/HMS_Workbook

Support the show

ABOUT ROSS ROSENBERG
Ross Rosenberg, M.Ed., LCPC, CADC, is a psychotherapist, educator, expert witness, and celebrated author. He is also a global thought leader and clinical expert in codependency, trauma, pathological narcissism, narcissistic abuse, and addictions.

Ross's pioneering contributions to codependency have provided sweeping theoretical and practical updates and developed a treatment program that permanently resolves the issue. Ross has been featured on national TV and radio and is a regular radio and podcast guest.

In addition, he has traveled the world, giving his one-of-a-kind keynote presentations and educational workshops. His global impact is best illustrated by his YouTube channel, with 30 million views and 297,000 subscribers, and the sale of 190,000 Human Magnet Syndrome books published in 12 languages. In 2013, Ross created The Self-Love Recovery Institute, a hub for his personal development, workshops, professional training, retreats, other programs, and services.

Learn more at www.SelfLoveRecovery.com.

Facebook.com/TheCodependencyCure)
Instagram (@rossrosenberg_slri)
Twitter (@RossRosenberg1)
and now…TikTok! (@RossRosenberg1)

In this episode, Ross Rosenberg breaks down the complex and often misunderstood concept of trauma bonding — the deep emotional ties that form between codependents (or those with Self-Love Deficit Disorder™) and pathological narcissists. Drawing from his Human Magnet Syndrome framework, Ross explains how early attachment trauma shapes our adult relationship patterns, why we stay in harmful relationships, and how trauma creates a powerful but toxic bond that feels like love. If you're stuck in painful patterns and don’t know why, this video may hold the answers.

Support the show

ABOUT ROSS ROSENBERG
Ross Rosenberg, M.Ed., LCPC, CADC, is a psychotherapist, educator, expert witness, and celebrated author. He is also a global thought leader and clinical expert in codependency, trauma, pathological narcissism, narcissistic abuse, and addictions.

Ross's pioneering contributions to codependency have provided sweeping theoretical and practical updates and developed a treatment program that permanently resolves the issue. Ross has been featured on national TV and radio and is a regular radio and podcast guest.

In addition, he has traveled the world, giving his one-of-a-kind keynote presentations and educational workshops. His global impact is best illustrated by his YouTube channel, with 30 million views and 297,000 subscribers, and the sale of 190,000 Human Magnet Syndrome books published in 12 languages. In 2013, Ross created The Self-Love Recovery Institute, a hub for his personal development, workshops, professional training, retreats, other programs, and services.

Learn more at www.SelfLoveRecovery.com.

Facebook.com/TheCodependencyCure)
Instagram (@rossrosenberg_slri)
Twitter (@RossRosenberg1)
and now…TikTok! (@RossRosenberg1)

Ross Rosenberg explains how pathological narcissism infects USA politics. 

NOW AVAILABLE: THE HUMAN MAGNET SYNDROME WORKBOOK. https://bit.ly/HMS_Workbook

Consider subscribing to Ross Rosenberg's/Self-Love Recovery Institute's new Patreon Subscription, where you can access exclusive content, insights, and services. https://www.patreon.com/RossRosenbergSLRIatreon 

Support the show

ABOUT ROSS ROSENBERG
Ross Rosenberg, M.Ed., LCPC, CADC, is a psychotherapist, educator, expert witness, and celebrated author. He is also a global thought leader and clinical expert in codependency, trauma, pathological narcissism, narcissistic abuse, and addictions.

Ross's pioneering contributions to codependency have provided sweeping theoretical and practical updates and developed a treatment program that permanently resolves the issue. Ross has been featured on national TV and radio and is a regular radio and podcast guest.

In addition, he has traveled the world, giving his one-of-a-kind keynote presentations and educational workshops. His global impact is best illustrated by his YouTube channel, with 30 million views and 297,000 subscribers, and the sale of 190,000 Human Magnet Syndrome books published in 12 languages. In 2013, Ross created The Self-Love Recovery Institute, a hub for his personal development, workshops, professional training, retreats, other programs, and services.

Learn more at www.SelfLoveRecovery.com.

Facebook.com/TheCodependencyCure)
Instagram (@rossrosenberg_slri)
Twitter (@RossRosenberg1)
and now…TikTok! (@RossRosenberg1)

In this episode I explain the term cognitive dissonance, and how it can be someone's friend, especially is they are suffering from codependency or what I call self-love deficit disorder.  The basic definition: it is the uncomfortable mental feeling you get when your thoughts, beliefs, or actions don't match. Your brain doesn’t like contradictions, so it tries to resolve the tension. For example, if you believe eating healthy is important but eat junk food, you might feel guilty or uneasy. To feel better, you might try to justify your actions by saying it was a special occasion. You might also downplay the importance of healthy eating or promise to eat better tomorrow. Cognitive dissonance often leads people to change their beliefs, actions, or excuses to reduce discomfort. 

NOW AVAILABLE: THE HUMAN MAGNET SYNDROME WORKBOOK. https://bit.ly/HMS_Workbook

Consider subscribing to Ross Rosenberg's/Self-Love Recovery Institute's new Patreon Subscription, where you can access exclusive content, insights, and services. https://www.patreon.com/RossRosenbergSLRIatreon 

ABOUT ROSS ROSENBERG 
Ross Rosenberg, M.Ed., LCPC, CADC, is a psychotherapist, educator, expert witness, and celebrated author. He is also a global thought leader and clinical expert in codependency, trauma, pathological narcissism, narcissistic abuse, and addictions.

Ross's pioneering contributions to codependency have provided sweeping theoretical and practical updates and developed a treatment program that permanently resolves the issue. Ross has been featured on national TV and radio and is a regular radio and podcast guest. 

In addition, he has traveled the world, giving his one-of-a-kind keynote presentations and educational workshops. His global impact is best illustrated by his YouTube channel, with 30 million views and 297,000 subscribers, and the sale of 190,000 Human Magnet Syndrome books published in 12 languages. In 2013, Ross created The Self-Love Recovery Institute, a hub for his personal development, workshops, professional training, retreats, other programs, and services.

Learn more at www.SelfLoveRecovery.com. 

Facebook.com/TheCodependencyCure) 
Instagram (@rossrosenberg_slri) 
Twitter (@RossRosenberg1) 
and now…TikTok! (@RossRosenberg1)

Support the show

ABOUT ROSS ROSENBERG
Ross Rosenberg, M.Ed., LCPC, CADC, is a psychotherapist, educator, expert witness, and celebrated author. He is also a global thought leader and clinical expert in codependency, trauma, pathological narcissism, narcissistic abuse, and addictions.

Ross's pioneering contributions to codependency have provided sweeping theoretical and practical updates and developed a treatment program that permanently resolves the issue. Ross has been featured on national TV and radio and is a regular radio and podcast guest.

In addition, he has traveled the world, giving his one-of-a-kind keynote presentations and educational workshops. His global impact is best illustrated by his YouTube channel, with 30 million views and 297,000 subscribers, and the sale of 190,000 Human Magnet Syndrome books published in 12 languages. In 2013, Ross created The Self-Love Recovery Institute, a hub for his personal development, workshops, professional training, retreats, other programs, and services.

Learn more at www.SelfLoveRecovery.com.

Facebook.com/TheCodependencyCure)
Instagram (@rossrosenberg_slri)
Twitter (@RossRosenberg1)
and now…TikTok! (@RossRosenberg1)

Ross Rosenberg created the metaphor of “The Surgeon General’s Warning” to prepare and protect individuals struggling with Self-Love Deficit Disorder (SLDD)—also known as codependency—for the emotional costs of their healing journey. Much like the health warnings on cigarette packaging that alert users to the dangers of smoking, Rosenberg’s metaphor serves as a cautionary message to those embarking on Self-Love Recovery: profound and often painful losses may be part of the process.

As Rosenberg explains, truly committing to recovery—choosing to prioritize self-love, emotional boundaries, and authentic living—often comes at the cost of longstanding relationships. These may include partners, friends, or family members who have been deeply embedded in dysfunctional or imbalanced relational dynamics. As the recovering individual grows stronger, more self-aware, and less willing to tolerate emotional manipulation or neglect, they may find that 50 to 85 percent of the people they once believed loved them either pull away, react negatively, or are no longer compatible with their healthier identity. This reality, if not anticipated, can feel shocking, isolating, and even traumatic.

However, Rosenberg emphasizes that while the losses are real and often deeply painful, they are not without purpose or reward. The void left by these relationships creates space for profound personal growth, deep emotional healing, and the development of new, mutually respectful, and emotionally fulfilling relationships. The transition from self-love deficit to self-love abundance not only empowers individuals to feel whole and worthy from within but also draws healthier people into their lives—those who are attracted to their newfound authenticity and self-respect.

As Rosenberg puts it, “Falling in love with yourself, and having people like you even more because of it, is a healing force.” This force becomes the emotional anchor that helps individuals withstand the painful but necessary losses that come with letting go of toxic relationships. The metaphorical warning is not meant to frighten, but to prepare and empower. It validates the grief that may arise while reinforcing the truth that what is gained—authentic self-love and deeply enriching relationships—is far more powerful than what is lost.

NOW AVAILABLE: THE HUMAN MAGNET SYNDROME WORKBOOK. https://bit.ly/HMS_Workbook

Consider subscribing to Ross Rosenberg's/Self-Love Recovery Institute's new Patreon Subscription, where you can access exclusive content, insights, and services. https://www.patreon.com/RossRosenbergSLRIatreon 

Support the show

ABOUT ROSS ROSENBERG
Ross Rosenberg, M.Ed., LCPC, CADC, is a psychotherapist, educator, expert witness, and celebrated author. He is also a global thought leader and clinical expert in codependency, trauma, pathological narcissism, narcissistic abuse, and addictions.

Ross's pioneering contributions to codependency have provided sweeping theoretical and practical updates and developed a treatment program that permanently resolves the issue. Ross has been featured on national TV and radio and is a regular radio and podcast guest.

In addition, he has traveled the world, giving his one-of-a-kind keynote presentations and educational workshops. His global impact is best illustrated by his YouTube channel, with 30 million views and 297,000 subscribers, and the sale of 190,000 Human Magnet Syndrome books published in 12 languages. In 2013, Ross created The Self-Love Recovery Institute, a hub for his personal development, workshops, professional training, retreats, other programs, and services.

Learn more at www.SelfLoveRecovery.com.

Facebook.com/TheCodependencyCure)
Instagram (@rossrosenberg_slri)
Twitter (@RossRosenberg1)
and now…TikTok! (@RossRosenberg1)

In this eye-opening episode, Ross Rosenberg introduces his groundbreaking Human Magnet Syndrome Workbook and unveils his powerful "Alpha Narcissist Theory."

Drawing from decades of clinical experience and deep psychological insight, Rosenberg explores the rarely discussed dynamic that occurs when two narcissists enter a relationship—a battle of control, manipulation, and dominance. He explains how, in these high-conflict partnerships, one narcissist inevitably emerges as the more dominant figure—the Alpha Narcissist—while the other assumes a more submissive, enabling role, even if both exhibit narcissistic traits.

This compelling theory sheds new light on how narcissistic relationships don't just implode—but can actually stabilize when a clear hierarchy is established.

Consider subscribing to Ross Rosenberg's/Self-Love Recovery Institute's new Patreon Subscription, where you can access exclusive content, insights, and services. https://www.patreon.com/RossRosenbergSLRIatreon 

Support the show

ABOUT ROSS ROSENBERG
Ross Rosenberg, M.Ed., LCPC, CADC, is a psychotherapist, educator, expert witness, and celebrated author. He is also a global thought leader and clinical expert in codependency, trauma, pathological narcissism, narcissistic abuse, and addictions.

Ross's pioneering contributions to codependency have provided sweeping theoretical and practical updates and developed a treatment program that permanently resolves the issue. Ross has been featured on national TV and radio and is a regular radio and podcast guest.

In addition, he has traveled the world, giving his one-of-a-kind keynote presentations and educational workshops. His global impact is best illustrated by his YouTube channel, with 30 million views and 297,000 subscribers, and the sale of 190,000 Human Magnet Syndrome books published in 12 languages. In 2013, Ross created The Self-Love Recovery Institute, a hub for his personal development, workshops, professional training, retreats, other programs, and services.

Learn more at www.SelfLoveRecovery.com.

Facebook.com/TheCodependencyCure)
Instagram (@rossrosenberg_slri)
Twitter (@RossRosenberg1)
and now…TikTok! (@RossRosenberg1)

Support the show

ABOUT ROSS ROSENBERG
Ross Rosenberg, M.Ed., LCPC, CADC, is a psychotherapist, educator, expert witness, and celebrated author. He is also a global thought leader and clinical expert in codependency, trauma, pathological narcissism, narcissistic abuse, and addictions.

Ross's pioneering contributions to codependency have provided sweeping theoretical and practical updates and developed a treatment program that permanently resolves the issue. Ross has been featured on national TV and radio and is a regular radio and podcast guest.

In addition, he has traveled the world, giving his one-of-a-kind keynote presentations and educational workshops. His global impact is best illustrated by his YouTube channel, with 30 million views and 297,000 subscribers, and the sale of 190,000 Human Magnet Syndrome books published in 12 languages. In 2013, Ross created The Self-Love Recovery Institute, a hub for his personal development, workshops, professional training, retreats, other programs, and services.

Learn more at www.SelfLoveRecovery.com.

Facebook.com/TheCodependencyCure)
Instagram (@rossrosenberg_slri)
Twitter (@RossRosenberg1)
and now…TikTok! (@RossRosenberg1)