Codependency Therapists in Seattle, WA

Photo of Matthew Monroe, LMHC, Counselor
Matthew Monroe
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98109  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in helping individuals and couples with ADHD, high-functioning autism, Nice Guy & Nice Gal Syndrome, codependency, addiction, complex post-traumatic stress disorder, and grief. If you feel stuck and want to create new patterns in your life, let's talk. We can schedule a free 15-minute consult video call to chat about what you're looking for in therapy and to see if we'd be a good fit.
I specialize in helping individuals and couples with ADHD, high-functioning autism, Nice Guy & Nice Gal Syndrome, codependency, addiction, complex post-traumatic stress disorder, and grief. If you feel stuck and want to create new patterns in your life, let's talk. We can schedule a free 15-minute consult video call to chat about what you're looking for in therapy and to see if we'd be a good fit.
(425) 842-7097 View (425) 842-7097
Photo of Anna Lise Carolan, LMHC, Counselor
Anna Lise Carolan
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98102  (Online Only)
Clients typically come to me with concerns regarding relationship difficulties, LBGTQ+ challenges, codependency, anxiety, depression, trauma, gender identity, sexual identity, self-esteem, interpersonal relationship challenges, breakups/divorce, career change, and grief and loss. My ideal client is someone looking to build a long-term therapeutic relationship that centers their wellbeing.
Clients typically come to me with concerns regarding relationship difficulties, LBGTQ+ challenges, codependency, anxiety, depression, trauma, gender identity, sexual identity, self-esteem, interpersonal relationship challenges, breakups/divorce, career change, and grief and loss. My ideal client is someone looking to build a long-term therapeutic relationship that centers their wellbeing.
(206) 672-1725 View (206) 672-1725
Photo of Dr. Goldie VanHeel, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Goldie VanHeel
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98104  (Online Only)
During the process of teaching you about codependency and identifying moderation goals, we may identify traumatic memories, which can be processed using Internal Family Systems.
There's a lot of talk these days about "boundaries," but what does that mean? Many are unsure. This is often part of a collection of symptoms, including self-esteem issues, getting lost in relationships, difficulty with moderation, and unrealistic goals of perfectionism, and more. I can help you understand these experiences, which are often related to codependency, resulting in anxiety, feelings of separation from others, problems with intimacy, and repeating parenting behaviors that you disliked growing up. Contributing factors can also be treated, including being raised by a narcissistic parent and other developmental traumas.
During the process of teaching you about codependency and identifying moderation goals, we may identify traumatic memories, which can be processed using Internal Family Systems.
There's a lot of talk these days about "boundaries," but what does that mean? Many are unsure. This is often part of a collection of symptoms, including self-esteem issues, getting lost in relationships, difficulty with moderation, and unrealistic goals of perfectionism, and more. I can help you understand these experiences, which are often related to codependency, resulting in anxiety, feelings of separation from others, problems with intimacy, and repeating parenting behaviors that you disliked growing up. Contributing factors can also be treated, including being raised by a narcissistic parent and other developmental traumas.
(206) 589-1555 View (206) 589-1555
Photo of Lisa C Knisely, PhD, LICSWA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lisa C Knisely
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LICSWA
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98101  (Online Only)
I specialize in working w/ anxious attachment, codependency, low self-esteem, chronic loneliness, trauma, & recovery from past emotional abuse.
I help adults (18+) find deeper satisfaction in their lives and relationships through awareness-based and attachment-based interventions. All of us need support as we move through our lives because living inevitably brings suffering as part of the process. If you're experiencing distress and dissatisfaction, I want you to know you're doing nothing wrong. Let's explore how you can experiment with shifting your fixed habits so you can have new experiences that restore your hope, vitality, and ease. I bring an anti-oppressive lens to my work that considers social identities and systems of power as integral to your psychic life.
I specialize in working w/ anxious attachment, codependency, low self-esteem, chronic loneliness, trauma, & recovery from past emotional abuse.
I help adults (18+) find deeper satisfaction in their lives and relationships through awareness-based and attachment-based interventions. All of us need support as we move through our lives because living inevitably brings suffering as part of the process. If you're experiencing distress and dissatisfaction, I want you to know you're doing nothing wrong. Let's explore how you can experiment with shifting your fixed habits so you can have new experiences that restore your hope, vitality, and ease. I bring an anti-oppressive lens to my work that considers social identities and systems of power as integral to your psychic life.
(206) 203-8322 View (206) 203-8322
Photo of Jonathan Coopersmith, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Jonathan Coopersmith
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98104  (Online Only)
I work with issues related to codependency, unwanted sexual behaviors, major life transitions, identity shifts, grief and loss, and sexual abuse.
Counseling is a space where we get to focus on helping you move towards a life that is more fulfilling, meaningful, and connected. I work with people struggling with anxious thoughts, depression, or challenging relationships. Some are trying to navigate dating, intimacy, and partnership. Some have experienced spiritual abuse or are coming out of religious systems that have left them confused and even traumatized. Some of the people I work with are unpacking their past and trying to be free of difficult patterns. Many people are just stuck and want some help figuring out why. Counseling helps you get unstuck.
I work with issues related to codependency, unwanted sexual behaviors, major life transitions, identity shifts, grief and loss, and sexual abuse.
Counseling is a space where we get to focus on helping you move towards a life that is more fulfilling, meaningful, and connected. I work with people struggling with anxious thoughts, depression, or challenging relationships. Some are trying to navigate dating, intimacy, and partnership. Some have experienced spiritual abuse or are coming out of religious systems that have left them confused and even traumatized. Some of the people I work with are unpacking their past and trying to be free of difficult patterns. Many people are just stuck and want some help figuring out why. Counseling helps you get unstuck.
(425) 215-0186 View (425) 215-0186
Photo of Ann Krajewski, PsyD, Psychologist
Ann Krajewski
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98102  (Online Only)
As a psychologist experienced in working with perfectionism, codependency and self-esteem, I believe in creating a space for you to finally let down your guard and begin the healing that you have been longing for.
Do you feel not good enough, no matter what you do? You may be fed up with nitpicking yourself, second guessing yourself, or constantly trying to please others. You might not remember when things didn’t feel this way. But one thing is for sure: you’re ready for some relief. You’re ready to prioritize your needs for once. You’re ready to feel safe in your own skin. And most of all, you’re ready to form a deeper connection with yourself and others. I can help you discover who you are underneath the mask you have created, because therapy should be a place where you understand and embrace your honest self.
As a psychologist experienced in working with perfectionism, codependency and self-esteem, I believe in creating a space for you to finally let down your guard and begin the healing that you have been longing for.
Do you feel not good enough, no matter what you do? You may be fed up with nitpicking yourself, second guessing yourself, or constantly trying to please others. You might not remember when things didn’t feel this way. But one thing is for sure: you’re ready for some relief. You’re ready to prioritize your needs for once. You’re ready to feel safe in your own skin. And most of all, you’re ready to form a deeper connection with yourself and others. I can help you discover who you are underneath the mask you have created, because therapy should be a place where you understand and embrace your honest self.
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Photo of Mary Lea, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Mary Lea
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98104  (Online Only)
I work often with clients on issues such as learning to set and hold boundaries, unpacking codependency, and understanding why they are unhappy in relationships. We all find ourselves repeating behaviors and patterns that once helped but begin to no longer work for us. Often my clients are in a stuck place, a life transition, grieving a loss, or wanting to change relational patterns. Other areas of interest and experience include identifying and addressing current patterns of abuse or healing from past abuse (emotional, sexual, physical, spiritual).
I work often with clients on issues such as learning to set and hold boundaries, unpacking codependency, and understanding why they are unhappy in relationships. We all find ourselves repeating behaviors and patterns that once helped but begin to no longer work for us. Often my clients are in a stuck place, a life transition, grieving a loss, or wanting to change relational patterns. Other areas of interest and experience include identifying and addressing current patterns of abuse or healing from past abuse (emotional, sexual, physical, spiritual).
(425) 470-6286 View (425) 470-6286
Photo of Rochelle Sundeen DiConti, LMHC, SUDP
Rochelle Sundeen DiConti
Mental Health Counselor, LMHC, SUDP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98119
My name is Rochelle DiConti and I'm a Licensed Mental Health and Addictions Counselor, with 10 years of experience. I am the owner of Happy Camper Counseling in Colville, WA. I provide in-person services at my Colville office, or telehealth for anyone in Washington or Montana. I am a Christian counselor and specialize in work with codependency, narcissistic abuse, problematic relationships, assertiveness/boundaries training, and addiction treatment with help from 12 Step principles. I use DBT and CBT therapies, but also use several other therapeutic approaches and I have an extensive history in working with military families.
My name is Rochelle DiConti and I'm a Licensed Mental Health and Addictions Counselor, with 10 years of experience. I am the owner of Happy Camper Counseling in Colville, WA. I provide in-person services at my Colville office, or telehealth for anyone in Washington or Montana. I am a Christian counselor and specialize in work with codependency, narcissistic abuse, problematic relationships, assertiveness/boundaries training, and addiction treatment with help from 12 Step principles. I use DBT and CBT therapies, but also use several other therapeutic approaches and I have an extensive history in working with military families.
(509) 516-1607 View (509) 516-1607
Photo of Jessica Butts, MA, LLC, MBTI
Jessica Butts
MA, LLC, MBTI
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98101
Now accepting new in person in Bellevue, Washington as well as online. I see individuals and couples. Are you struggling to understand why you are the way you are? I can help you to see it clearly and then provide tangible tools to get you tools to get to a new healed place. I help with family of origin issues, codependency, menopause, all relationship issues, and have experience with plant medicine. Seeing me is a little like seeing Gaby from Shrinking, I believe deeply in compassion while also telling it like it is. I am honored to do this important work with you.
Now accepting new in person in Bellevue, Washington as well as online. I see individuals and couples. Are you struggling to understand why you are the way you are? I can help you to see it clearly and then provide tangible tools to get you tools to get to a new healed place. I help with family of origin issues, codependency, menopause, all relationship issues, and have experience with plant medicine. Seeing me is a little like seeing Gaby from Shrinking, I believe deeply in compassion while also telling it like it is. I am honored to do this important work with you.
(425) 532-3167 View (425) 532-3167
Photo of Jenna Richardson, MSW, LSWAIC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jenna Richardson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSWAIC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98177
As a Christian counselor, I provide faith-based counseling for a variety of challenges including anxiety, depression, trauma, eating disorders, relationship issues, codependency and abandonment issues, and more.
My aim is for you to feel better about yourself after therapy than you did before our session. Through our time together, my goal is for you to experience increased self-esteem and confidence in yourself, as well as to gain a toolbelt full of skills to help you with interpersonal relationships and emotion regulation so you can continue to grow and have the best relationships with yourself and others. I will guide and support you as you learn how to use your skills and develop increased motivation to reduce the mental health symptoms you are experiencing.
As a Christian counselor, I provide faith-based counseling for a variety of challenges including anxiety, depression, trauma, eating disorders, relationship issues, codependency and abandonment issues, and more.
My aim is for you to feel better about yourself after therapy than you did before our session. Through our time together, my goal is for you to experience increased self-esteem and confidence in yourself, as well as to gain a toolbelt full of skills to help you with interpersonal relationships and emotion regulation so you can continue to grow and have the best relationships with yourself and others. I will guide and support you as you learn how to use your skills and develop increased motivation to reduce the mental health symptoms you are experiencing.
(425) 414-3563 View (425) 414-3563
Photo of Janice M Huston, MA, LMHC, LPCC, Counselor
Janice M Huston
Counselor, MA, LMHC, LPCC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98101  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I work with teens and adults who are in search of relief from stress, anxiety, panic, anger, low-self-esteem, depression, and relationship issues such as codependency. In my practice, I recognize that being human is complex. Big and small traumas can hold someone back from taking care of themselves, seeing their potential, forming meaningful relationships, taking aligned risks, and living an authentic life. If you are interested in getting to the root of lifelong patterns and emotional triggers that are keeping you from living your best life, then I would love to join you on your healing journey.
I work with teens and adults who are in search of relief from stress, anxiety, panic, anger, low-self-esteem, depression, and relationship issues such as codependency. In my practice, I recognize that being human is complex. Big and small traumas can hold someone back from taking care of themselves, seeing their potential, forming meaningful relationships, taking aligned risks, and living an authentic life. If you are interested in getting to the root of lifelong patterns and emotional triggers that are keeping you from living your best life, then I would love to join you on your healing journey.
(509) 778-5290 View (509) 778-5290
Photo of Christine Kay Cuhaciyan, MA, LMHC, MHP, Counselor
Christine Kay Cuhaciyan
Counselor, MA, LMHC, MHP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98103
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in working with women's issues including codependency, recovery from narcissistic abuse, self-esteem, transition to parenthood, and postpartum mood and anxiety disorders.
Are you currently in a relationship where you're not happy but can't seem to get yourself to leave? Maybe you feel emotionally stuck or confused and have tried leaving only to return to the same unhappy relationship where nothing seems to change. On the other hand, you might feel that you keep entering into relationships in which you are treated poorly but can't figure out why. Perhaps you're dating and finding "the one" seems impossible. You feel sad and disappointed, no one seems to understand, and you don't know what else to do to make things better. I'm here to tell you that things can change and I am here to help!
I specialize in working with women's issues including codependency, recovery from narcissistic abuse, self-esteem, transition to parenthood, and postpartum mood and anxiety disorders.
Are you currently in a relationship where you're not happy but can't seem to get yourself to leave? Maybe you feel emotionally stuck or confused and have tried leaving only to return to the same unhappy relationship where nothing seems to change. On the other hand, you might feel that you keep entering into relationships in which you are treated poorly but can't figure out why. Perhaps you're dating and finding "the one" seems impossible. You feel sad and disappointed, no one seems to understand, and you don't know what else to do to make things better. I'm here to tell you that things can change and I am here to help!
(206) 312-2649 View (206) 312-2649
Photo of Dr. Amaris Espinosa, PsyD, LMHC, ATR, Psychologist
Dr. Amaris Espinosa
Psychologist, PsyD, LMHC, ATR
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98118  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist with 12 years of experience treating people with PTSD, eating disorders, sexual abuse, interpersonal conflict, substance abuse, depression, anxiety, and codependency issues.
I encourage new clients to utilize a free 15-20 minute consultation with me to assure that we are a good match to embark on a therapeutic relationship together. Taking the first steps towards help is difficult and takes a great deal of courage. I work with great care and compassion through multiple modalities to provide my clients the most effective therapy for what is overwhelming them. Feeling more peace and understanding, with a clear pathway to a healthier relationship with yourself and others are the results I provide. Services offered are strength-based, evidenced-based, social justice oriented, and support mind-body-spirit.
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist with 12 years of experience treating people with PTSD, eating disorders, sexual abuse, interpersonal conflict, substance abuse, depression, anxiety, and codependency issues.
I encourage new clients to utilize a free 15-20 minute consultation with me to assure that we are a good match to embark on a therapeutic relationship together. Taking the first steps towards help is difficult and takes a great deal of courage. I work with great care and compassion through multiple modalities to provide my clients the most effective therapy for what is overwhelming them. Feeling more peace and understanding, with a clear pathway to a healthier relationship with yourself and others are the results I provide. Services offered are strength-based, evidenced-based, social justice oriented, and support mind-body-spirit.
(970) 458-7287 View (970) 458-7287
Photo of Sahra Perretz Rosales, LSWAIC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sahra Perretz Rosales
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSWAIC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98107  (Online Only)
There is some disagreement about the definition of codependency - I find it helpful as a roadmap toward developing healthy relationships with self and others.
I support clients in developing healthier relationships, whether it's couples, individuals who are currently partnered, or singles interested in better understanding their relational patterns. I specifically address codependency, low self worth and insecurity. I provide tools for clients to feel more empowered, confident, and at ease. I'm here to help you rediscover the joy and connection that is your birthright!
There is some disagreement about the definition of codependency - I find it helpful as a roadmap toward developing healthy relationships with self and others.
I support clients in developing healthier relationships, whether it's couples, individuals who are currently partnered, or singles interested in better understanding their relational patterns. I specifically address codependency, low self worth and insecurity. I provide tools for clients to feel more empowered, confident, and at ease. I'm here to help you rediscover the joy and connection that is your birthright!
(206) 593-4347 View (206) 593-4347
Photo of Elizabeth Olsen, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Elizabeth Olsen
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98115  (Online Only)
My approach is client-centered, working as your ally with the privilege of witnessing your life as you grow and live into your goals, becoming ever more yourself. We will look deeply into what has been, how to become more present and mentally and relationally healthy in your life, moving forward with new tools and ways of being. Commonly addressed issues include: depression, anxiety, identity development, self awareness/esteem, life transitions, work stress, relational struggles, people pleasing/ codependency, self-advocacy, emotional issues, grief, etc.
My approach is client-centered, working as your ally with the privilege of witnessing your life as you grow and live into your goals, becoming ever more yourself. We will look deeply into what has been, how to become more present and mentally and relationally healthy in your life, moving forward with new tools and ways of being. Commonly addressed issues include: depression, anxiety, identity development, self awareness/esteem, life transitions, work stress, relational struggles, people pleasing/ codependency, self-advocacy, emotional issues, grief, etc.
(206) 737-3990 View (206) 737-3990
Photo of Anjoli Aisenbrey, MSSW, LSWAIC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Anjoli Aisenbrey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LSWAIC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98119  (Online Only)
I have a special interest in C-PTSD, codependency, and attachment issues.
Feel stuck, anxious, or overwhelmed? Have issues in your relationships? More people than ever feel isolated and alone and struggle to manage daily life. If you need a safe space to process feelings, overcome unhelpful thinking patterns and behaviors, or improve your relationships, you have come to the right place. My ideal client is willing to look deeply within themselves and is focused on personal growth and self-development. My mission is to help you find clarity in your life and become the best version of yourself.
I have a special interest in C-PTSD, codependency, and attachment issues.
Feel stuck, anxious, or overwhelmed? Have issues in your relationships? More people than ever feel isolated and alone and struggle to manage daily life. If you need a safe space to process feelings, overcome unhelpful thinking patterns and behaviors, or improve your relationships, you have come to the right place. My ideal client is willing to look deeply within themselves and is focused on personal growth and self-development. My mission is to help you find clarity in your life and become the best version of yourself.
(206) 312-5113 View (206) 312-5113
Photo of Kay Zeiss, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kay Zeiss
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98104
I offer guidance and solutions that work, helping to support folks in healing from trauma, codependency, anxiety, depression, burnout, addiction, chronic stress, grief, obsession, and spiritual harm.
As a body-focused therapist with ten years of experience, I am here to help you uncover your intuition, identify and heal parts of us that feel stuck or hurt, while finding new paths toward wholeness, joy, and authenticity. I offer a therapeutic container built on trust to explore and release that which no longer serves you. Your inner strengths that we identify together will ultimately support and guide you toward balance and integrity, leading you into a more integrated and Self-led life. I am someone who's experienced chronic illness (POTS, Long-COVID), am in 12-step recovery, and identify as queer and non-binary.
I offer guidance and solutions that work, helping to support folks in healing from trauma, codependency, anxiety, depression, burnout, addiction, chronic stress, grief, obsession, and spiritual harm.
As a body-focused therapist with ten years of experience, I am here to help you uncover your intuition, identify and heal parts of us that feel stuck or hurt, while finding new paths toward wholeness, joy, and authenticity. I offer a therapeutic container built on trust to explore and release that which no longer serves you. Your inner strengths that we identify together will ultimately support and guide you toward balance and integrity, leading you into a more integrated and Self-led life. I am someone who's experienced chronic illness (POTS, Long-COVID), am in 12-step recovery, and identify as queer and non-binary.
(253) 525-1252 View (253) 525-1252
Photo of Laurel Lum, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Laurel Lum
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98102
I work with a range of issues including depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, abuse, codependency and relationship issues. I do not pathologize issues, challenges, problems or people. The soul is always seeking expression, not just with joy and happiness, but also through challenges and sorrows. When we honor all aspects of our life stories, healing pathways begin to open up for us.
I work with a range of issues including depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, abuse, codependency and relationship issues. I do not pathologize issues, challenges, problems or people. The soul is always seeking expression, not just with joy and happiness, but also through challenges and sorrows. When we honor all aspects of our life stories, healing pathways begin to open up for us.
(206) 496-0465 View (206) 496-0465
Photo of Aleta Annamarie Mattaino, MA, LMHC, NCC, Counselor
Aleta Annamarie Mattaino
Counselor, MA, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98103  (Online Only)
Client concerns include transitions in career, family, significant relationships, self-identity; stress management; loss/grief; after-effects of trauma (relational, familial, or environmental); early/sustained addiction recovery; or codependency.
Where does one begin their search for relief from a vague feeling of discomfort, the source of which is difficult to locate, or from emotional/physical pain that announces itself clearly and loudly, the source being well-known? Perhaps you've tried to think your way through the problem or to read self-help books, and neither have helped. You have the thought that if you reach out to someone, relief may follow as you move from isolation to connection and relationship. So you arrive here and I welcome your call. My therapy approach is collaborative and grounded in family systems, psychodynamic, and mindfulness meditation practices.
Client concerns include transitions in career, family, significant relationships, self-identity; stress management; loss/grief; after-effects of trauma (relational, familial, or environmental); early/sustained addiction recovery; or codependency.
Where does one begin their search for relief from a vague feeling of discomfort, the source of which is difficult to locate, or from emotional/physical pain that announces itself clearly and loudly, the source being well-known? Perhaps you've tried to think your way through the problem or to read self-help books, and neither have helped. You have the thought that if you reach out to someone, relief may follow as you move from isolation to connection and relationship. So you arrive here and I welcome your call. My therapy approach is collaborative and grounded in family systems, psychodynamic, and mindfulness meditation practices.
(206) 855-3471 View (206) 855-3471
Photo of Neusha Hejazinia, MSW, LICSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Neusha Hejazinia
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98115
I believe in healing the whole person. There are many factors that shape who we are and affect our understanding of ourselves and our environment. I believe in working with my client to work through these factors to reach true acceptance of one self. My specialties include Depression, Anxiety, Relationship Issues and Codependency. We are all unique, in our personalities and in the way we process our emotions and environment. Therefore, I focus on building unique relationships with my clients to work towards self-acceptance, self-love, and self-worth.
I believe in healing the whole person. There are many factors that shape who we are and affect our understanding of ourselves and our environment. I believe in working with my client to work through these factors to reach true acceptance of one self. My specialties include Depression, Anxiety, Relationship Issues and Codependency. We are all unique, in our personalities and in the way we process our emotions and environment. Therefore, I focus on building unique relationships with my clients to work towards self-acceptance, self-love, and self-worth.
(425) 276-6901 View (425) 276-6901
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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.