In this episode, therapist and boundaries coach Torie Wiksell (and fellow cycle breaker) exposes the myth of “no contact as a fad” and validates the years—sometimes decades—of exhausting effort cycle breakers pour into maintaining relationships with narcissistic or emotionally immature parents before making the heartbreaking decision to step back.

We’ll cover:

• Why going no contact with a toxic parent is never taken lightly


• The hidden grief and guilt cycle breakers face when boundaries still aren’t respected


• How narcissistic parents weaponize the “estranged parent” narrative


• What it really takes to break the cycle of dysfunction without losing yourself

If you’ve ever questioned whether you’ve “tried hard enough” with your toxic parent, this episode will give you the validation and relief you need.

Want ad-free episodes, bonus episodes, and access to the full archive of You’re Not Crazy? Join the Private Feed for $5/month. It’s the easiest way to support the show and get more cycle-breaker support in your week.

Join here: https://www.confidentboundaries.com/private

And if you need more support with your own toxic parent, check out Confident Boundaries with Toxic Parents, Torie’s self-guided course that walks you step-by-step through setting boundaries, navigating guilt, and creating realistic strategies for dealing with toxic family dynamics.

When you enroll this week, you’ll also get her Holiday Survival Guide for free: a practical, trauma-informed roadmap for navigating the season with clarity and confidence.

Get immediate access at ConfidentBoundaries.com/course

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