Codependency Therapists in Pinellas County, FL
Maria M Erickson
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Seminole, FL 33772
Your challenges may be the result of trauma, life adjustments, grief/loss, divorce, addiction, age, anxiety and fear, depression, significant others, elderly parents, children, codependency, ineffective boundary setting, inadequate coping skills, inadequate conflict resolution, and confusion/difficulty in goal setting, and career development to name a few.
There are times in our lives when we find ourselves "stuck" and/or feeling like we are wading through quicksand to move forward. Our situations appear hopeless and sometimes overwhelming. They can be due to difficulties beyond our control, unresolved issues from our past that have resurfaced, or the consequence of wrong choices. We seek alternative methods for looking at ourselves, managing our situations, as well as the outside influences in our lives, but we don't know how to access them. We need someone to help us discover who we have become and how to move forward in a healthy manner mentally, spiritually, and physically.
Your challenges may be the result of trauma, life adjustments, grief/loss, divorce, addiction, age, anxiety and fear, depression, significant others, elderly parents, children, codependency, ineffective boundary setting, inadequate coping skills, inadequate conflict resolution, and confusion/difficulty in goal setting, and career development to name a few.
There are times in our lives when we find ourselves "stuck" and/or feeling like we are wading through quicksand to move forward. Our situations appear hopeless and sometimes overwhelming. They can be due to difficulties beyond our control, unresolved issues from our past that have resurfaced, or the consequence of wrong choices. We seek alternative methods for looking at ourselves, managing our situations, as well as the outside influences in our lives, but we don't know how to access them. We need someone to help us discover who we have become and how to move forward in a healthy manner mentally, spiritually, and physically.
Family Counseling Center / TeleCounseling Florida
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSA, LCSW, LISW S
Verified Verified
18 Endorsed
South Pasadena, FL 33707 (Online Only)
If your life is in transition, get encouragement,validation and STOP The Emotional Hangover! Women's life cycle, Codependency and boundary development, Self Esteem Improvement, Life coaching, Stress reduction techniques for your tool box.
Welcome to partnering with yourself in our work together. You are invited to create your best selfie! For over 25 years, I have had the honor of collaborating with clients to provide tools for strengthening self esteem , introduce strategies to cope with life transitions, improve boundaries, increase work / life balance flow, reduce stress . In a relaxed , kind dialogue, you obtain quick results. Clients comment on how effectively this approach works in finding solutions. Showing up for and anchoring yourself is a whole new freer way of living !
If your life is in transition, get encouragement,validation and STOP The Emotional Hangover! Women's life cycle, Codependency and boundary development, Self Esteem Improvement, Life coaching, Stress reduction techniques for your tool box.
Welcome to partnering with yourself in our work together. You are invited to create your best selfie! For over 25 years, I have had the honor of collaborating with clients to provide tools for strengthening self esteem , introduce strategies to cope with life transitions, improve boundaries, increase work / life balance flow, reduce stress . In a relaxed , kind dialogue, you obtain quick results. Clients comment on how effectively this approach works in finding solutions. Showing up for and anchoring yourself is a whole new freer way of living !
Angela Fitch
Counselor, MA, LCPC, NCC, CCTP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Saint Petersburg, FL 33702
Helping people heal from narcissistic abuse and resolve codependency is a speciality.
Your relationship with family, friends, and, of course, yourself is of the most importance. I believe there is no good reason for you to be alone with grief, insecurity, low self-esteem, shame, loneliness, fear, worry, and anxiety. Reaching-out for help could be the most courageous gift you could give yourself. I would be honored to help you through these struggles. I would like to give you the very best individual psychotherapy or couples counseling. I do not offer a "band aid" approach to therapy, meaning, the process to feeling better is one that requires a confidential, authentic, and meaningful relationship with me.
Helping people heal from narcissistic abuse and resolve codependency is a speciality.
Your relationship with family, friends, and, of course, yourself is of the most importance. I believe there is no good reason for you to be alone with grief, insecurity, low self-esteem, shame, loneliness, fear, worry, and anxiety. Reaching-out for help could be the most courageous gift you could give yourself. I would be honored to help you through these struggles. I would like to give you the very best individual psychotherapy or couples counseling. I do not offer a "band aid" approach to therapy, meaning, the process to feeling better is one that requires a confidential, authentic, and meaningful relationship with me.
Sarah Gibbons
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Saint Petersburg, FL 33702 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Florida, Maryland, Washington D.C., and California, as well as a dedicated Reiki healer. I'm currently offering my services exclusively through telehealth. My approach is rooted in empathy and a strong commitment to aiding others, driven by an unyielding passion for personal development. Specializing in supporting young adult women, I focus on various challenges including codependency, anxiety, ADHD, highly sensitive people, depression, panic attacks, life transitions, relationship strains, college planning, self-esteem, family of origin, and attachment.
Waitlist for new clients! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Florida, Maryland, Washington D.C., and California, as well as a dedicated Reiki healer. I'm currently offering my services exclusively through telehealth. My approach is rooted in empathy and a strong commitment to aiding others, driven by an unyielding passion for personal development. Specializing in supporting young adult women, I focus on various challenges including codependency, anxiety, ADHD, highly sensitive people, depression, panic attacks, life transitions, relationship strains, college planning, self-esteem, family of origin, and attachment.
Daniella Jackson
Counselor, PhD, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Clearwater, FL 33760
Our philosophy is to promote various aspects of health based on the strengths of each individual by thoughtfully acknowledging each person's unique talents and abilities. I have 20 years of experience in working with adolescents and adults with mental health problems, dual disorders, and substance abuse issues. For the past 16 years, I have directly worked with adults who had these problems. I offer mental health counseling for dual disorders, substance abuse, addictive behaviors (i.e., food, gambling, technology), the impact of family members' addiction, adult children of addicts (i.e., ACOAs), codependency, and more.
Our philosophy is to promote various aspects of health based on the strengths of each individual by thoughtfully acknowledging each person's unique talents and abilities. I have 20 years of experience in working with adolescents and adults with mental health problems, dual disorders, and substance abuse issues. For the past 16 years, I have directly worked with adults who had these problems. I offer mental health counseling for dual disorders, substance abuse, addictive behaviors (i.e., food, gambling, technology), the impact of family members' addiction, adult children of addicts (i.e., ACOAs), codependency, and more.
Bernard And Priscilla Chen
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Saint Petersburg, FL 33702
Our clinical specialties: • Attachment focused dating & breakup recovery • Family of origin & generational issues • Emotional self awareness for parents • Codependency & emotional maturity • Therapists and healthcare workers (doctors, nurses) • Grief & loss, life stage transitions • Trauma & EMDR therapy • Eating disorders, anorexia, bulimia, & binge eating • Adult children of alcoholics & addicts • Entrepreneurs and business owners • Money mindset and financial values
Our clinical specialties: • Attachment focused dating & breakup recovery • Family of origin & generational issues • Emotional self awareness for parents • Codependency & emotional maturity • Therapists and healthcare workers (doctors, nurses) • Grief & loss, life stage transitions • Trauma & EMDR therapy • Eating disorders, anorexia, bulimia, & binge eating • Adult children of alcoholics & addicts • Entrepreneurs and business owners • Money mindset and financial values
Peaks and Valleys Counseling Services, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Clearwater, FL 33757
), severe anxiety, alcoholism, and coping with serious illness, chronic pain/illness, terminal illness (hospice), care giver issues, and codependency.
We are so grateful to be able to make a difference in the lives of others! We are clinical social workers assisting clients of ages 13 years to 70+ clients. We work with clients from a strengths perspective, encouraging them become aware and curious of their thinking, behavior and actions to empower them to improve the quality of their lives. Now offering EMDR therapy and couples/marriage counseling. WAIT list for clients in the state of Delaware.
), severe anxiety, alcoholism, and coping with serious illness, chronic pain/illness, terminal illness (hospice), care giver issues, and codependency.
We are so grateful to be able to make a difference in the lives of others! We are clinical social workers assisting clients of ages 13 years to 70+ clients. We work with clients from a strengths perspective, encouraging them become aware and curious of their thinking, behavior and actions to empower them to improve the quality of their lives. Now offering EMDR therapy and couples/marriage counseling. WAIT list for clients in the state of Delaware.
Cathy C Hart
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Palm Harbor, FL 34683
Cathy focuses on helping individuals with anxiety, grief, codependency, and life transitions.
For more than 16 years, Cathy has served people in Pinellas County, FL by providing a safe, compassionate space for therapy. The role of a counselor is “one who walks alongside and listens.” Cathy will walk alongside you on a healing journey. Prior to becoming a therapist, she was a teacher for 20 years. She received her Master’s Degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Amridge University.
Cathy focuses on helping individuals with anxiety, grief, codependency, and life transitions.
For more than 16 years, Cathy has served people in Pinellas County, FL by providing a safe, compassionate space for therapy. The role of a counselor is “one who walks alongside and listens.” Cathy will walk alongside you on a healing journey. Prior to becoming a therapist, she was a teacher for 20 years. She received her Master’s Degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Amridge University.
Samantha Ammann, RN, LCSW, RYT
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, RN, LCSW, RYT
Verified Verified
Saint Petersburg, FL 33710
My passion is working with clients who have sexual compulsive issues, sexual addictions, internet pornography, and their partners including partners of those who offend sexually. I provide a non judgmental, confidential, and safe environment for clients to explore the areas of their lives where they may struggle. I also specialize in working with clients who have substance abuse issues, dual diagnosis, depression, anxiety, self-esteem issues, relationship concerns and codependency. I also assist clients with chronic pain and tinnitus. I am actively licensed in Florida, New York, and Tennessee and serve clients in those states.
My passion is working with clients who have sexual compulsive issues, sexual addictions, internet pornography, and their partners including partners of those who offend sexually. I provide a non judgmental, confidential, and safe environment for clients to explore the areas of their lives where they may struggle. I also specialize in working with clients who have substance abuse issues, dual diagnosis, depression, anxiety, self-esteem issues, relationship concerns and codependency. I also assist clients with chronic pain and tinnitus. I am actively licensed in Florida, New York, and Tennessee and serve clients in those states.
Cassandra Varner
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, RMHCI
Verified Verified
Saint Petersburg, FL 33707
I also treat low self esteem, life transitions, codependency, emotional disturbances, and development of healthy coping skills.
Seeking help while navigating life's challenge is not easy, but it is truly a sign of strength, and I am grateful that you are taking this step. I am dedicated to providing a safe space instilled with compassion, trust, and empathy for each of my clients. I believe that therapy is not a “one size fits all." My approach is tailored to fit the needs of the client and assist them in identifying patterns of thought and behavior that could be limiting or negative. This ultimately leads to gained insight, fulfillment, and deeper connection in their relationships.
I also treat low self esteem, life transitions, codependency, emotional disturbances, and development of healthy coping skills.
Seeking help while navigating life's challenge is not easy, but it is truly a sign of strength, and I am grateful that you are taking this step. I am dedicated to providing a safe space instilled with compassion, trust, and empathy for each of my clients. I believe that therapy is not a “one size fits all." My approach is tailored to fit the needs of the client and assist them in identifying patterns of thought and behavior that could be limiting or negative. This ultimately leads to gained insight, fulfillment, and deeper connection in their relationships.
Megan Carey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Petersburg, FL 33702 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in working with concerns related to ADHD, codependency, and trauma.
Are you a "people pleaser"? Are you feeling weighed down by life? Does it feel like you are stuck, when everyone else has it figured out? Are you tired of giving to others, leaving nothing for yourself? If this feels familiar and you are ready to get to the bottom of what has gotten you here, know that help is here. I work with clients to work through what's hurting, develop strength in the face of life's stressors, and build a life that feels right for them.
I specialize in working with concerns related to ADHD, codependency, and trauma.
Are you a "people pleaser"? Are you feeling weighed down by life? Does it feel like you are stuck, when everyone else has it figured out? Are you tired of giving to others, leaving nothing for yourself? If this feels familiar and you are ready to get to the bottom of what has gotten you here, know that help is here. I work with clients to work through what's hurting, develop strength in the face of life's stressors, and build a life that feels right for them.
15 Second Videos
Daniella Jackson
Bernard And Priscilla Chen
Megan Carey
Lou Bardach
Deborah Day
Lynne Spinney-Lmhc
Lauren Mishkin
Michalla Brianna Bohon
Jenn Zatopek
Allison Jeanette Briggs
Letha F Miller
Dr Bren | Jungian Psychotherapy
Alexandra Geiger
The Image of You Counseling, LLC
Holistic Mental Health Clinic
Rainier Wells
David Kent, LMHC
Shawna Byrd
Melissa Figley
Kristie Powell
Michael Moreschi
Madison Magnus
Darly Sebastian
Shannon Knight
Amanda C. Shaw
Melanie Ryerson
Heather Shannon | Certified Sex Therapist
Better Vibes Therapy, LLC
Love You More Counseling
Ramon Maisonet
Kiesa DeSimone
Nathaniel Wagner
Angela Fisher
Amy L. Johnson
Chelsea Morris
Integrative Counsel
Therapy Calling by Gabriele Cash
Ken Donaldson
Michelle Garcia
Autumn Soliz
Cindy Athey
Nyamekye Laird
Andrew Carini
Blake Williamson
Mindful Vision Counseling
Mama Tout Puissant
Stephanie Ganoe
Miko Jones
Pivotal Moments Wellness
Denisha Smith
Lou Bardach
Registered Clinical Social Worker Intern, MSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Saint Petersburg, FL 33707
I am a Registered Clinical Social Work Intern (RCSWI) working primarily with adults to heal the effects of childhood trauma & other adverse childhood experiences. Being raised in abusive, chaotic, or neglectful environments can result in anxiety, depression, panic attacks, self-esteem issues, relationship/codependency issues, addictions & compulsions, and critical judgment toward oneself and others. I see a wide diversity of clients, but as a gay man experienced in working with LGBTQ+ individuals, I'm particularly interested in helping others heal from the compounding wounds of homophobia and other social oppression.
I am a Registered Clinical Social Work Intern (RCSWI) working primarily with adults to heal the effects of childhood trauma & other adverse childhood experiences. Being raised in abusive, chaotic, or neglectful environments can result in anxiety, depression, panic attacks, self-esteem issues, relationship/codependency issues, addictions & compulsions, and critical judgment toward oneself and others. I see a wide diversity of clients, but as a gay man experienced in working with LGBTQ+ individuals, I'm particularly interested in helping others heal from the compounding wounds of homophobia and other social oppression.
Russell Porter
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Largo, FL 33770
So if you find yourself stuck in depression or anxiety, addictions or codependency, or other destructive habits and relationships, or you need help parenting your child or teen let me help you live, love, and function more effectively.
EVENING AND WEEKEND APPOINTMENTS. I work to help people break out of the stuck places in their lives to experience wholeness, growth, and freedom. The freedom to create the lives they want. Freedom to heal from past wounds and failures. The power to overcome. The ability to give more to the people you love. As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with 30 years of experience in the Tampa Bay area I have had the privilege to work with people of all ages in the St. Petersburg, Pinellas Park, Largo, and Clearwater communities. With the use of videoconferencing counseling is no limited to geographic areas.
So if you find yourself stuck in depression or anxiety, addictions or codependency, or other destructive habits and relationships, or you need help parenting your child or teen let me help you live, love, and function more effectively.
EVENING AND WEEKEND APPOINTMENTS. I work to help people break out of the stuck places in their lives to experience wholeness, growth, and freedom. The freedom to create the lives they want. Freedom to heal from past wounds and failures. The power to overcome. The ability to give more to the people you love. As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with 30 years of experience in the Tampa Bay area I have had the privilege to work with people of all ages in the St. Petersburg, Pinellas Park, Largo, and Clearwater communities. With the use of videoconferencing counseling is no limited to geographic areas.
Laura Anne Pasker
Counselor, LMHC, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Palm Harbor, FL 34684
Waitlist for new clients
Areas of clinical experience include addiction, anxiety, codependency, communication, coping skills, depression/mood disorders, grief, life-transitions, self-harm, self-esteem/self-confidence, trauma/abuse and work place challenges.
Seeking help can be one of the most rewarding decisions you can make. It is your challenges that help you to facilitate change, and through that change you come closer to your most authentic self. Laura believes in partnering with you during the course of therapy, as building trust and rapport is essential to the therapeutic process. Developing treatment goals, while on your journey of self-discovery, is a collaborative effort. With over 14 years of experience in mental health, Laura is experienced in working with individuals, couples, and families in a variety of treatment settings.
Areas of clinical experience include addiction, anxiety, codependency, communication, coping skills, depression/mood disorders, grief, life-transitions, self-harm, self-esteem/self-confidence, trauma/abuse and work place challenges.
Seeking help can be one of the most rewarding decisions you can make. It is your challenges that help you to facilitate change, and through that change you come closer to your most authentic self. Laura believes in partnering with you during the course of therapy, as building trust and rapport is essential to the therapeutic process. Developing treatment goals, while on your journey of self-discovery, is a collaborative effort. With over 14 years of experience in mental health, Laura is experienced in working with individuals, couples, and families in a variety of treatment settings.
Shannon Atherton
Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Petersburg, FL 33702 (Online Only)
I specialize in preteens/teens, self-esteem, identity issues, self-harm, social anxiety, confidence building, rebuilding/healing relationships, divorce, survivors of abuse, codependency, gifted/highly intelligent children, substance abuse, depression, and couples counseling.
I believe counseling is a partnership in which we work together in developing and implementing a plan to reach the clients treatment goals. Each client is unique and different, and I adjust according to the clients needs. I work well with clients who are ready to do the work to heal and grow. The client and I are active throughout the counseling process. I have found that this process is a journey towards healing and thriving in all areas of life.
I specialize in preteens/teens, self-esteem, identity issues, self-harm, social anxiety, confidence building, rebuilding/healing relationships, divorce, survivors of abuse, codependency, gifted/highly intelligent children, substance abuse, depression, and couples counseling.
I believe counseling is a partnership in which we work together in developing and implementing a plan to reach the clients treatment goals. Each client is unique and different, and I adjust according to the clients needs. I work well with clients who are ready to do the work to heal and grow. The client and I are active throughout the counseling process. I have found that this process is a journey towards healing and thriving in all areas of life.
Debra M Kraus
Counselor, MA, LMHC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Saint Petersburg, FL 33701
I work with individuals dealing with trauma/PTSD, anxiety, depression, anger, abuse, grief/loss, self-esteem, codependency, relationship issues, phobias, OCD and substance abuse to name just a few.
We all at some point in our life need help managing a stressful, challenging situation. I am here to help you process issues compassionately and collaboratively and dedicated to providing you with exceptional quality care so you can achieve your personal goals and objectives. I am a Certified Master-Level practitioner of Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) which is a drug-free therapy that can accomplish emotional healing, on average, in just one to three sessions which otherwise can take months or years of therapy.
I work with individuals dealing with trauma/PTSD, anxiety, depression, anger, abuse, grief/loss, self-esteem, codependency, relationship issues, phobias, OCD and substance abuse to name just a few.
We all at some point in our life need help managing a stressful, challenging situation. I am here to help you process issues compassionately and collaboratively and dedicated to providing you with exceptional quality care so you can achieve your personal goals and objectives. I am a Certified Master-Level practitioner of Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) which is a drug-free therapy that can accomplish emotional healing, on average, in just one to three sessions which otherwise can take months or years of therapy.
Priscilla B. Chen
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Saint Petersburg, FL 33702
⯌Attachment focused dating & parenting ⯌Codependency & emotional maturity ⯌Personal processing for healthcare workers (therapists, doctors, nurses, etc.) ⯌Grief & loss, life stage transitions ⯌Trauma & EMDR therapy ⯌Eating disorders, anorexia, bulimia, & binge eating / / / / Welcome! I currently provide therapy through telehealth only. My clinical focus is on how difficult issues like mental illness and relationship conflict are influenced by your family of origin and early attachment experiences. My therapy approach is discussion based, with the goal of improving your understanding of yourself and becoming emotionally independent.
⯌Attachment focused dating & parenting ⯌Codependency & emotional maturity ⯌Personal processing for healthcare workers (therapists, doctors, nurses, etc.) ⯌Grief & loss, life stage transitions ⯌Trauma & EMDR therapy ⯌Eating disorders, anorexia, bulimia, & binge eating / / / / Welcome! I currently provide therapy through telehealth only. My clinical focus is on how difficult issues like mental illness and relationship conflict are influenced by your family of origin and early attachment experiences. My therapy approach is discussion based, with the goal of improving your understanding of yourself and becoming emotionally independent.
Psychotherapy By Stella
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, CST
Verified Verified
Saint Petersburg, FL 33702 (Online Only)
My clients include individuals, couples, and those in relationships that struggle with intimacy, conflict, communication, codependency, sexual problems, bipolar, trauma, mental health problems, self-esteem, substance abuse, divorce, polyamory, and infidelity.
Do you have issues in your relationship? Feeling stuck, unhappy, and unsure of what steps to take to resolve those challenges? Do you find it difficult to be intimate with your partner? Afraid to be honest about your needs and feelings or worried about the future of your relationship? Contact me and we will work together to explore your emotions, identify the problem, and develop a strategic plan for change. I am a AASECT certified sex therapist and licensed clinical social worker with a specialty and training in treating sexual health issues and on track in obtaining a PhD in Sexology.
My clients include individuals, couples, and those in relationships that struggle with intimacy, conflict, communication, codependency, sexual problems, bipolar, trauma, mental health problems, self-esteem, substance abuse, divorce, polyamory, and infidelity.
Do you have issues in your relationship? Feeling stuck, unhappy, and unsure of what steps to take to resolve those challenges? Do you find it difficult to be intimate with your partner? Afraid to be honest about your needs and feelings or worried about the future of your relationship? Contact me and we will work together to explore your emotions, identify the problem, and develop a strategic plan for change. I am a AASECT certified sex therapist and licensed clinical social worker with a specialty and training in treating sexual health issues and on track in obtaining a PhD in Sexology.
Whitney Wellness Center
Counselor, MS, CPC, NBCC
Verified Verified
Saint Pete Beach, FL 33706
Whitney specializes in Parts & Memory Therapy, an evidence-based technique, proven to foster healing and rapid relief to from PTSD, Depression, Anxiety, Grief, and Codependency. Whitney is passionate and committed to empowering and supporting others to heal, and rise above suffering, fear & feeling stuck or indecisive.
Whitney specializes in Parts & Memory Therapy, an evidence-based technique, proven to foster healing and rapid relief to from PTSD, Depression, Anxiety, Grief, and Codependency. Whitney is passionate and committed to empowering and supporting others to heal, and rise above suffering, fear & feeling stuck or indecisive.
Marisa Knight
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Saint Petersburg, FL 33702 (Online Only)
What have you been noticing lately that you'd like to change? Perhaps concerns with stress levels, relationships, or your general mood. Maybe your relationships are not feeling as connected as they once were. Perhaps your level of patience is hanging on by a delicate thread. Maybe it's hard to put into words how you're feeling, and you want someone to help you navigate that. Let's talk about what you're experiencing, and create a map for change together.
What have you been noticing lately that you'd like to change? Perhaps concerns with stress levels, relationships, or your general mood. Maybe your relationships are not feeling as connected as they once were. Perhaps your level of patience is hanging on by a delicate thread. Maybe it's hard to put into words how you're feeling, and you want someone to help you navigate that. Let's talk about what you're experiencing, and create a map for change together.
See more therapy options for Pinellas County
Codependency Therapists
What therapy types help with codependency problems?
Both couples and family therapy and cognitive and behavioral therapy (CBT) can help with the relationship difficulties referred to as codependency. Such problems typically include inappropriate feelings of responsibility for a loved one’s destructive behavior, irrational patterns of thinking about such behavior, and family interaction patterns in which the needs of one troubled member override the needs of others in a household.
What happens in therapy for codependency?
Spouses and family members learn and practice how to interact and support each other in a healthy way without sacrificing their own needs or well-being. They learn the limits of their responsibility for their loved ones and correct faulty patterns of thinking and feeling that underlie codependent behavior. Individuals may be encouraged to nurture an array of social relationships and to cultivate their own talents and interests so that they develop a healthy sense of self outside the family.
How does therapy help a person or couple overcome codependency?
Therapy helps people establish healthy ways of being in a relationship. Spouses and family members learn how to nurture and support one another without sacrificing their own needs or allowing the needs of one person to dominate the dynamic. Individuals learn how to say no and set boundaries, and how to maintain their own identity and self-esteem. Therapy helps people understand that they are not responsible for the feelings and actions of others. It also helps individuals deal with the turbulence that can come from living with a person suffering from such conditions as substance abuse and mental illness.
What is the goal of therapy for codependency?
One goal of therapy for codependency is to alleviate feelings of responsibility for and correct irrational patterns of thinking about loved ones whose behavioral problems override the needs of others in a household. Therapy helps people establish healthy boundaries of behavior and speak up for their own needs in a relationship. In addition, people learn how to maintain a healthy relationship, one in which both parties give and receive equally and are able to retain their own identity.