About Dr. Peter Salerno

I’m Dr. Peter Salerno, a licensed psychotherapist in California, educator, and author. I hold a Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) and a Master of Science (MS) in Clinical Psychology, and I have specialized in personality disorders and pathological abuse across a wide range of clinical and forensic settings. I have advanced training in complex trauma and was trained to administer the Hare Psychopathy Checklist–Revised (PCL-R), the international gold standard for the assessment of psychopathy.

Today, my work focuses on helping people make sense of the confusing, painful, and deeply invalidating dynamics that arise in relationships with pathological personalities. I do this through education, writing, private consultations, and trauma-informed therapy, including EMDR and Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART). My aim is to provide clear, evidence-based insight and effective interventions for those who feel lost, blamed, or dismissed by conventional mental-health narratives.

I am the author of several books, including:

• The Nature and Nurture of Narcissism — #1 Amazon New Release

• Traumatic Cognitive Dissonance — Top New Release in seven categories on Amazon

• Cruelty by Nature — Top New Release on Amazon

• Fit for Off Duty — Has been required reading at the FBI Academy, Quantico

But professional expertise is not the only reason I do this work—I’ve lived it as well.

I have personally experienced the kind of psychological abuse that is difficult to name, often misunderstood, and rarely validated. That lived experience informs my commitment to helping others reclaim clarity, restore agency, and rebuild their lives—without being pulled back into manipulation disguised as love.

If you’re ready to understand what’s really happening in your relationship—and how to move forward with clarity and confidence—I’m here to help.