Photo of Nathanael Stephens - Lifepoint Counseling, PhD, LP, LPC, Psychologist
Lifepoint Counseling
Psychologist, PhD, LP, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Eaton Rapids, MI 48827
As a compassionate therapist, I specialize in grief, PTSD, anxiety, bipolar disorders, sleep disorders, and occupational burnout. With a Ph.D. in psychology, I have expertise in anxiety, PTSD, depression, relationship problems, and sleep disorders. I am fluent in American Sign Language, providing direct therapy to Deaf and Hard of Hearing populations. Choose me as your therapist for personalized support in overcoming challenges and fostering resilience.
As a compassionate therapist, I specialize in grief, PTSD, anxiety, bipolar disorders, sleep disorders, and occupational burnout. With a Ph.D. in psychology, I have expertise in anxiety, PTSD, depression, relationship problems, and sleep disorders. I am fluent in American Sign Language, providing direct therapy to Deaf and Hard of Hearing populations. Choose me as your therapist for personalized support in overcoming challenges and fostering resilience.
(517) 201-2942 View (517) 201-2942

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Amanda Rubelman, Pre-Licensed Professional
Amanda Rubelman
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, MI 48813
I know what it's like to feel lost, confused, and as though you're stuck at a crossroads with no directions. I also know how important connection and understanding are in those times. I believe the beauty of therapy is how it can disentangle the confusion, revealing profound change, empowerment, and freedom. I can work with individuals or couples encountering a variety of concerns. I am particularly experienced to help clients navigating through relationship issues such as codependency, boundaries, infidelity, mood disorders, and personality disorders. I am drawn to help women recovering from abusive relationships and trauma.
I know what it's like to feel lost, confused, and as though you're stuck at a crossroads with no directions. I also know how important connection and understanding are in those times. I believe the beauty of therapy is how it can disentangle the confusion, revealing profound change, empowerment, and freedom. I can work with individuals or couples encountering a variety of concerns. I am particularly experienced to help clients navigating through relationship issues such as codependency, boundaries, infidelity, mood disorders, and personality disorders. I am drawn to help women recovering from abusive relationships and trauma.
(517) 743-6709 View (517) 743-6709
Photo of Dr. Debra J. Farrell, PhD, MS, LPC, CAADC, CRC, CCMHC, Counselor
Dr. Debra J. Farrell
Counselor, PhD, MS, LPC, CAADC, CRC, CCMHC
Verified Verified
Charlotte, MI 48813
Compassionate, resourceful Ph.D level therapist assisting in areas of self, family, home, school, work, and community. Licensed Professional Counselor and Licensed Occupational Therapist in Michigan. Over 41 years of combined experience working in mental/behavioral health rehab, alcohol/drug rehab, medical/physical rehab, and industrial/vocational rehab. "Biopsychosocial-spiritual" approach to "heartache, loss, healing, recovery, and transformation" using conventional, non-traditional, and complementary approaches. I will help you tap into your personal resilience to overcome any barriers to your lifelong success and happiness.
Compassionate, resourceful Ph.D level therapist assisting in areas of self, family, home, school, work, and community. Licensed Professional Counselor and Licensed Occupational Therapist in Michigan. Over 41 years of combined experience working in mental/behavioral health rehab, alcohol/drug rehab, medical/physical rehab, and industrial/vocational rehab. "Biopsychosocial-spiritual" approach to "heartache, loss, healing, recovery, and transformation" using conventional, non-traditional, and complementary approaches. I will help you tap into your personal resilience to overcome any barriers to your lifelong success and happiness.
(517) 826-4891 View (517) 826-4891

Online Therapists

Photo of Gail A Brenton - Gail Brenton Counseling, LLC, LMSW, CCM, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Gail Brenton Counseling, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CCM
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hillsdale, MI 49242
I have over 30 years of counseling and case management experience, helping clients with a variety of concerns: depression, anxiety, stress, relationship issues, codependency, boundaries, self-esteem, life adjustments, grief/loss, work-related concerns, substance use disorders, health issues, caregiver stress, etc. I can assist someone with short-term solution focused counseling, or more chronic concerns such as abuse and trauma. I also offer completion of the Substance Use Evaluation for Driver License Appeal in Michigan. I am also Board Certified Case Manager, as my "day job" is a CM in medical family practice.
I have over 30 years of counseling and case management experience, helping clients with a variety of concerns: depression, anxiety, stress, relationship issues, codependency, boundaries, self-esteem, life adjustments, grief/loss, work-related concerns, substance use disorders, health issues, caregiver stress, etc. I can assist someone with short-term solution focused counseling, or more chronic concerns such as abuse and trauma. I also offer completion of the Substance Use Evaluation for Driver License Appeal in Michigan. I am also Board Certified Case Manager, as my "day job" is a CM in medical family practice.
(517) 398-8115 View (517) 398-8115
Photo of Benita Hutchinson - Integrity House Treatment Services, LMSW, CAADC, SAP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Integrity House Treatment Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CAADC, SAP
Verified Verified
Trenton, MI 48183  (Online Only)
Thank you for giving me the opportunity to assist you in your time of need. I will provide you with empathy, compassion and understanding, with recommendations, insight, hope and truth as necessary for recovery. I am proficient in addictions including drugs/alcohol, codependency, and religion. I have treated multitudes of people with these complex problems . I have also counseled numerous people with severe mental illness including Depression, Bipolar, Anxiety, Post Traumatic Stress, Schizophrenia, Personality Disorders, and others. Both addiction and mental illness are chronic, debilitating disorders that can be arrested and treated for you to live a life with hope.
Thank you for giving me the opportunity to assist you in your time of need. I will provide you with empathy, compassion and understanding, with recommendations, insight, hope and truth as necessary for recovery. I am proficient in addictions including drugs/alcohol, codependency, and religion. I have treated multitudes of people with these complex problems . I have also counseled numerous people with severe mental illness including Depression, Bipolar, Anxiety, Post Traumatic Stress, Schizophrenia, Personality Disorders, and others. Both addiction and mental illness are chronic, debilitating disorders that can be arrested and treated for you to live a life with hope.
(313) 334-7651 View (313) 334-7651
Photo of Michelle Marie Wohlfert, LMSW, CAADC, CCS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michelle Marie Wohlfert
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CAADC, CCS
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49534
I believe that because I have personal experience with mental health, codependency and trauma, and have seen what living a healthy recovery lifestyle can offer.
There is no one more put together than a person in recovery. Living in recovery is working a program of mental health, staying clean and sober, and living one day at a time. With that being said, each person’s specific program looks different, with the common factor of living a balanced life of being grateful, mindful, spiritual, and finding a sense of community among other recovering individuals. My specialty areas are addictions, mental health, trauma, codependency issues, and how these affect you and those who love you.
I believe that because I have personal experience with mental health, codependency and trauma, and have seen what living a healthy recovery lifestyle can offer.
There is no one more put together than a person in recovery. Living in recovery is working a program of mental health, staying clean and sober, and living one day at a time. With that being said, each person’s specific program looks different, with the common factor of living a balanced life of being grateful, mindful, spiritual, and finding a sense of community among other recovering individuals. My specialty areas are addictions, mental health, trauma, codependency issues, and how these affect you and those who love you.
(616) 404-3437 View (616) 404-3437
Photo of Ashley Pierzchala, MA, LPC, Counselor
Ashley Pierzchala
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Berkley, MI 48072  (Online Only)
I provide individual psychotherapy for young adults and millennials with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, low self-esteem, family of origin issues, codependency, and challenges related to neurodivergence (ADHD/autism/AuDHD).
Welcome! I'm so glad you've made the first step in your journey to healing by searching for a therapist. My job is to provide a safe space for you to discover, heal, and love yourself. The heart of therapy lies in the therapeutic relationship; a strong therapeutic relationship can help a client feel motivated, worthy, and accepted. I pride myself on my relatable personality, and welcome clients belonging to all gender identities, sexualities, religions, cultures, and races. I love to use humor (and pop culture references) to supplement my therapy sessions. I also like to collaborate to help my clients come up with their own goals.
I provide individual psychotherapy for young adults and millennials with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, low self-esteem, family of origin issues, codependency, and challenges related to neurodivergence (ADHD/autism/AuDHD).
Welcome! I'm so glad you've made the first step in your journey to healing by searching for a therapist. My job is to provide a safe space for you to discover, heal, and love yourself. The heart of therapy lies in the therapeutic relationship; a strong therapeutic relationship can help a client feel motivated, worthy, and accepted. I pride myself on my relatable personality, and welcome clients belonging to all gender identities, sexualities, religions, cultures, and races. I love to use humor (and pop culture references) to supplement my therapy sessions. I also like to collaborate to help my clients come up with their own goals.
(947) 224-7801 View (947) 224-7801
Photo of Kristina Kalaj Psyd Lp, PsyD, LP, Psychologist
Kristina Kalaj Psyd Lp
Psychologist, PsyD, LP
Verified Verified
Detroit, MI 48202
My clinical therapy experience includes clients struggling with trauma, codependency, depression, anxiety, and grief.
I am a fully licensed clinical psychologist with over 25 years of experience working with individuals and couples. My primary client base is adults of all ages where we address a wide variety of treatment issues, specifically utilizing a treatment style that caters to each client’s individual needs. I am currently accepting new clients for individual therapy and Psychoeducational/Psychological testing. Feel free to contact me for a free phone consultation if you have BCBS, Aetna, or are self-pay. I am also nationally licensed psychologist through PsyPact interjurisdictional license, able to provide therapy in over 40 US states.
My clinical therapy experience includes clients struggling with trauma, codependency, depression, anxiety, and grief.
I am a fully licensed clinical psychologist with over 25 years of experience working with individuals and couples. My primary client base is adults of all ages where we address a wide variety of treatment issues, specifically utilizing a treatment style that caters to each client’s individual needs. I am currently accepting new clients for individual therapy and Psychoeducational/Psychological testing. Feel free to contact me for a free phone consultation if you have BCBS, Aetna, or are self-pay. I am also nationally licensed psychologist through PsyPact interjurisdictional license, able to provide therapy in over 40 US states.
(313) 558-8729 View (313) 558-8729
Photo of Katherine A Pettit - The Cognitive Counseling Connection, LMSW, QMHP, CGP
The Cognitive Counseling Connection
Master Social Work, LMSW, QMHP, CGP
Verified Verified
Fenton, MI 48430  (Online Only)
Katherine Pettit is a mental health therapist licensed in Michigan with over 5 years of experience working with substance use and co-occurring disorders. I have assisted clients with depression and anxiety, relapse prevention, codependency and other mental health diagnoses. I believe that each client is the expert of their own life, and it is my job to assist them in achieving their goals through empowerment and self-determination.
Katherine Pettit is a mental health therapist licensed in Michigan with over 5 years of experience working with substance use and co-occurring disorders. I have assisted clients with depression and anxiety, relapse prevention, codependency and other mental health diagnoses. I believe that each client is the expert of their own life, and it is my job to assist them in achieving their goals through empowerment and self-determination.
(810) 888-7478 View (810) 888-7478
Photo of Mary DiPaolo, MA, LLP, Limited Licensed Psychologist
Mary DiPaolo
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MA, LLP
Verified Verified
Northville, MI 48167
Anxiety, Mood and Personality disorders, Life adjustment issues, Grief & Loss, Marital/Couples/Family, Codependency, Trauma Recovery/Survivor of Abuse, Homicide, Suicide, ADHD, LBGTQi2, Addictions/Phobias.
My online blog at www.yourweeklysession.blogspot.com is my calling card. Consider taking a look to understand how I roll and approach the healing, positive change, and personal growth process. You can learn how to live in peace and not in pieces anymore. Regardless of what your issue(s) and/or real-life and right now problems actually are, there is a way up and out from your circumstances. My job is to come up along side you and assist you in recognizing what you need to learn, do, and let go of. You are the sole author of your own book of life. Make sure it's a good one! Let me help you with that process.
Anxiety, Mood and Personality disorders, Life adjustment issues, Grief & Loss, Marital/Couples/Family, Codependency, Trauma Recovery/Survivor of Abuse, Homicide, Suicide, ADHD, LBGTQi2, Addictions/Phobias.
My online blog at www.yourweeklysession.blogspot.com is my calling card. Consider taking a look to understand how I roll and approach the healing, positive change, and personal growth process. You can learn how to live in peace and not in pieces anymore. Regardless of what your issue(s) and/or real-life and right now problems actually are, there is a way up and out from your circumstances. My job is to come up along side you and assist you in recognizing what you need to learn, do, and let go of. You are the sole author of your own book of life. Make sure it's a good one! Let me help you with that process.
(248) 513-8210 View (248) 513-8210
Photo of Charra Grist, MA, LPC, Counselor
Charra Grist
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Midland, MI 48640
Hi, my name is Charra. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), offering in-person and virtual (phone, telehealth) mental health services in Michigan. I provide support for those coping with childhood abuse, trauma, PTSD, codependency, mood disorders, personality disorders, neurodivergence, and grief and loss. I am also passionate about working with survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault.
Hi, my name is Charra. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), offering in-person and virtual (phone, telehealth) mental health services in Michigan. I provide support for those coping with childhood abuse, trauma, PTSD, codependency, mood disorders, personality disorders, neurodivergence, and grief and loss. I am also passionate about working with survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault.
(989) 683-4351 View (989) 683-4351
Photo of Madison Bryant, MA, TLLP, Limited Licensed Psychologist
Madison Bryant
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MA, TLLP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Commerce Township, MI 48382  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Hello! I have a passion for helping others heal from perfectionism, people-pleasing tendencies, and those feeling stuck in "flight or fight" mode." I regularly work with those with anxiety, depression, and complex trauma (e.g. abuse, neglect, etc.) I support clients on improving self-care, life satisfaction, and exploring their relationship to themselves and others. Other clinical areas I work with include grief, substances abuse, domestic violence, codependency, and life adjustments. We will work together to create a plan to address your specific concerns using evidence-based tools you can use in your everyday life.
Hello! I have a passion for helping others heal from perfectionism, people-pleasing tendencies, and those feeling stuck in "flight or fight" mode." I regularly work with those with anxiety, depression, and complex trauma (e.g. abuse, neglect, etc.) I support clients on improving self-care, life satisfaction, and exploring their relationship to themselves and others. Other clinical areas I work with include grief, substances abuse, domestic violence, codependency, and life adjustments. We will work together to create a plan to address your specific concerns using evidence-based tools you can use in your everyday life.
(248) 458-4822 View (248) 458-4822
Photo of Carol Van Kampen, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carol Van Kampen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Huntington Woods, MI 48070
Areas of concern I can assist with are depression, anxiety, trauma, health related issues, chronic disease, caregiver issues, grief and loss, stress management, codependency, relationships and divorce.
I love working with clients who want to improve their lives, relationships, coping skills, health, and self-confidence, and need some guidance and support to make new decisions or gain new insights. Whether you are dealing with a significant challenge in your life, or you have issues from the past that keep holding you back, I can help. As your therapist, my goal is to assist and support you in life transitions, and in learning healthy coping skills and healthy communication skills so you can begin to feel empowered, hopeful and emotionally healthy. I welcome your call-or email at cvankampen at marshpsychologygroup.com
Areas of concern I can assist with are depression, anxiety, trauma, health related issues, chronic disease, caregiver issues, grief and loss, stress management, codependency, relationships and divorce.
I love working with clients who want to improve their lives, relationships, coping skills, health, and self-confidence, and need some guidance and support to make new decisions or gain new insights. Whether you are dealing with a significant challenge in your life, or you have issues from the past that keep holding you back, I can help. As your therapist, my goal is to assist and support you in life transitions, and in learning healthy coping skills and healthy communication skills so you can begin to feel empowered, hopeful and emotionally healthy. I welcome your call-or email at cvankampen at marshpsychologygroup.com
(248) 712-1240 View (248) 712-1240
Photo of Cara Bickel, LMSW-C, CAADC, SAP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cara Bickel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW-C, CAADC, SAP
Verified Verified
Troy, MI 48084  (Online Only)
My greatest strength as a therapist is my past life experiences, having dealt with the challenges of anxiety, narcissistic abuse, overcoming codependency, and learning to create and maintain healthy boundaries.
I have a passion for helping clients who are struggling with all kinds of (or heal from past) relationship trauma from intimate partners or parents, including: narcissistic abuse and gaslighting, manipulation, emotional and physical abuse, codependency issues, people-pleasing, difficulty setting boundaries or having a pattern of staying in unhealthy relationships. I have helped many clients (men and women) with these struggles gain insight into how they ended up here and to learn the skills to develop new, healthier relationship patterns. Are you ready for healing, closure, increased self-worth and healthier relationships?
My greatest strength as a therapist is my past life experiences, having dealt with the challenges of anxiety, narcissistic abuse, overcoming codependency, and learning to create and maintain healthy boundaries.
I have a passion for helping clients who are struggling with all kinds of (or heal from past) relationship trauma from intimate partners or parents, including: narcissistic abuse and gaslighting, manipulation, emotional and physical abuse, codependency issues, people-pleasing, difficulty setting boundaries or having a pattern of staying in unhealthy relationships. I have helped many clients (men and women) with these struggles gain insight into how they ended up here and to learn the skills to develop new, healthier relationship patterns. Are you ready for healing, closure, increased self-worth and healthier relationships?
(989) 613-7638 View (989) 613-7638
Photo of Melissa Chivis, CAADC, ADS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melissa Chivis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, CAADC, ADS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Royal Oak, MI 48073  (Online Only)
Are you having issues with: managing moods, substance abuse/addiction, co-occurring disorders, relationship concerns, marital concerns, codependency, domestic abuse/interpersonal violence, Depression/Anxiety, PTSD/trauma? Do you wish to manage symptoms, and learn new and positive ways to cope with stressors in life?
Are you having issues with: managing moods, substance abuse/addiction, co-occurring disorders, relationship concerns, marital concerns, codependency, domestic abuse/interpersonal violence, Depression/Anxiety, PTSD/trauma? Do you wish to manage symptoms, and learn new and positive ways to cope with stressors in life?
(248) 453-2321 View (248) 453-2321
Photo of Amy D Kinner, LMSW, CAADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amy D Kinner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CAADC
Verified Verified
Huntington Woods, MI 48070
We all face difficult times in life but when it becomes harder to face life's challenges, depression or anxiety may be a factor. I view therapy as not only an opportunity to learn techniques to manage and cope with symptoms of depression and anxiety, but also as a journey of self exploration, awareness/understanding, and growth. While we can't change the past, we CAN heal contributing factors to depression/anxiety, such as family/relationship problems, trauma/abuse, substance abuse, codependency, and grief. My style is empathetic and supportive, providing a non-judgmental atmosphere for personal growth and change.
We all face difficult times in life but when it becomes harder to face life's challenges, depression or anxiety may be a factor. I view therapy as not only an opportunity to learn techniques to manage and cope with symptoms of depression and anxiety, but also as a journey of self exploration, awareness/understanding, and growth. While we can't change the past, we CAN heal contributing factors to depression/anxiety, such as family/relationship problems, trauma/abuse, substance abuse, codependency, and grief. My style is empathetic and supportive, providing a non-judgmental atmosphere for personal growth and change.
(313) 731-6464 View (313) 731-6464
Photo of Ashley Frendewey, LMSW, CAADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ashley Frendewey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CAADC
Verified Verified
Pinckney, MI 48169
Waitlist for new clients
Codependency, addiction, anxiety, depression, bipolar, life transitions, trauma, domestic violence and divorce are some of my specialities.
My goal as a therapist is to help you gain effective coping skills and strategies to achieve your wellness goals. Therapy is a very useful and effective tool to help you be successful in all areas of your life. Coming in for therapy can feel intimidating and scary, I work really hard to make this step as easy as possible. My dog, Hudson, is a certified therapy dog and he is in the office most days to cuddle on the couch and provide support during sessions.
Codependency, addiction, anxiety, depression, bipolar, life transitions, trauma, domestic violence and divorce are some of my specialities.
My goal as a therapist is to help you gain effective coping skills and strategies to achieve your wellness goals. Therapy is a very useful and effective tool to help you be successful in all areas of your life. Coming in for therapy can feel intimidating and scary, I work really hard to make this step as easy as possible. My dog, Hudson, is a certified therapy dog and he is in the office most days to cuddle on the couch and provide support during sessions.
(810) 207-6265 View (810) 207-6265
Photo of Peter Giles, MA, LPC, CAADC, CCTP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Peter Giles
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CAADC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Huntington Woods, MI 48070
Are you suffering from an addiction to alcohol, heroin, crack cocaine, methamphetamine, Xanax or other benzodiazepines, prescription pain killers, marijuana, ecstasy, molly, or any other substance? Are you suffering from an addiction to pornography, serial dating, promiscuous sex, affairs, prostitutes, or any other sexual addiction? Are you suffering from an addiction to gambling, food, relationships, shopping and spending, or to a person? Do you feel like you are excessively dependent on another person to the point of an unhealthy codependency?
Are you suffering from an addiction to alcohol, heroin, crack cocaine, methamphetamine, Xanax or other benzodiazepines, prescription pain killers, marijuana, ecstasy, molly, or any other substance? Are you suffering from an addiction to pornography, serial dating, promiscuous sex, affairs, prostitutes, or any other sexual addiction? Are you suffering from an addiction to gambling, food, relationships, shopping and spending, or to a person? Do you feel like you are excessively dependent on another person to the point of an unhealthy codependency?
(248) 965-0430 View (248) 965-0430
Photo of Kelli Kunec, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kelli Kunec
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Livonia, MI 48150
Waitlist for new clients
I have experience working with adolescents, adults and older adults treating depression, anxiety, substance use disorders, codependency, trauma and PTSD.
If you are feeling lost, hopeless, angry, or overwhelmed, working with a therapist you can trust can help. Finding the right therapist can be a daunting task, but searching for a good fit is the first step! I strive to create a warm and comfortable environment that facilitates growth. I aim to address your specific concerns with a custom-tailored, non-judgmental approach, and together we can build on your existing strengths to achieve the goals you set.
I have experience working with adolescents, adults and older adults treating depression, anxiety, substance use disorders, codependency, trauma and PTSD.
If you are feeling lost, hopeless, angry, or overwhelmed, working with a therapist you can trust can help. Finding the right therapist can be a daunting task, but searching for a good fit is the first step! I strive to create a warm and comfortable environment that facilitates growth. I aim to address your specific concerns with a custom-tailored, non-judgmental approach, and together we can build on your existing strengths to achieve the goals you set.
View
Photo of Jason R Greve, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jason R Greve
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Midland, MI 48640
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who works with adolescents, teens, and adults of all ages. I specialize in helping people with depression and anxiety, and have worked with individuals on the autism spectrum, those suffering from trauma and PTSD, and individuals struggling with codependency issues and substance abuse.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who works with adolescents, teens, and adults of all ages. I specialize in helping people with depression and anxiety, and have worked with individuals on the autism spectrum, those suffering from trauma and PTSD, and individuals struggling with codependency issues and substance abuse.
(989) 704-7240 View (989) 704-7240
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.