The Truth About Narcissism: Dr. Jaime Zuckerman on Abuse, Gaslighting & Healing (The Velvet)

Licensed clinical psychologist and relationship coach Dr. Jaime Zuckerman (Dr. Z) unpacks today’s cultural obsession with narcissism and explains why the term has become one of the most overused buzzwords of modern psychology. She clarifies the difference between narcissistic traits and Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD), offering insight into the clinical reality behind the label.The episode explores the insidious nature of narcissistic abuse—how confusion, gaslighting, and trauma bonding can leave victims doubting themselves long after the relationship ends. Dr. Z discusses who may be more susceptible to these dynamics, the connection between narcissism and addiction, and the psychological mechanisms that keep people stuck in toxic relationships.Practical strategies for recovery and healing are also addressed, including reclaiming boundaries, rebuilding self-trust, and taking back personal power. This conversation provides clarity for anyone seeking to understand narcissism more deeply and insight for those navigating the lasting impact of narcissistic abuse.Website: drjaimezuckerman.com Podcast: Next Up Narcissism  Socials: @dr.z_psychologist Check out Dr. Z's Books HERE!   Watch us on YouTube! (By clicking this) Email us: theedge@velvetsedge.com Follow the podcast on Instagram: @VelvetsEdgePodcast HOSTS: Kelly Henderson // @velvetsedge // velvetsedge.comFollow Velvet's Edge on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/velvetsedge/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Om Podcasten

The Velvet's Edge Podcast is an invitation to explore the beautiful, messy truth that real growth is an inside job. Hosted by Kelly Henderson—a celebrity stylist and men's groomer who has learned firsthand that "looking good" on the outside only gets you so far—this podcast is a space for the conversations you don't always hear out loud. Life has a way of knocking us flat, and Kelly believes there is purpose in that pain. She uses her own journey of plot twists to show that true beauty is found by going inward. On some days, you'll hear deep dives with therapists, healers, and other people who have turned their pain into something beautiful. On other days, Kelly and Chip Dorsch laugh their way through the weird, messy "WTF is this life?" moments, because growth is easier when you and your bestie can laugh through it together. This podcast is for you if you've ever felt empty despite doing everything you were "supposed to" do. It's for you if you're stuck in a toxic relationship cycle and don't know how to get out. It's for you if you're in the middle of a total life plot twist and have no idea where to start. You aren't broken beyond repair. You are simply a human on a soul's journey, and even though we each have our own path, it's a lot easier when we have a little help from our friends.