Are They Really Sorry? The Empty Apology Trap

You're Not Crazy: A Podcast for Cycle Breakers with Toxic Parents

Is your toxic parent’s “I’m sorry” leaving you more confused than comforted? In this episode of You’re Not Crazy, we unpack why apologies from narcissistic or otherwise toxic parents rarely feel like closure—and often reopen old wounds.

You’ll learn:

• The signs of a real apology (and what performative regret looks like)
• How to stop spiraling when they say “sorry” but nothing changes
• A mindset shift that will help you decide whether or not to forgive

If you’ve ever thought “maybe I’m being too harsh…” this episode is the clarity you’ve been needing.

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Torie Wiksell is a therapist and coach who specializes in helping adult children of narcissistic and borderline parents break toxic cycles and reclaim their peace. She combines clinical experience with personal insight as a cycle breaker raised by a mother with suspected NPD and BPD traits. Torie provides online ther...

Chapters

1. Are They Really Sorry? The Empty Apology Trap (00:00:00)

2. Welcome and Podcast Updates (00:00:48)

3. Understanding Toxic Parent Apologies (00:01:58)

4. What Makes an Apology Genuine (00:04:04)

5. Evaluating Parent Accountability (00:06:49)

6. Resources and Membership Information (00:09:06)

7. Closing and Call to Action (00:11:48)