Codependency Counselling in Greater London

Photo of Liz Martin, Psychotherapist in Greater London, England
Liz Martin
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP
Verified Verified
I am an accomplished and experienced therapist, having worked in the addiction and mental health field since 2004. I have worked with a wonderful variety of clients during this time, in both private and criminal justice settings. I have extensive knowledge of addiction, alcoholism, codependency, love addiction, trauma and eating disorders. I am a compassionate, understanding, and reflective therapist. I adopt a calm and positive outlook upon life, and create a non-judgmental connection with my clients. I will help you explore unhelpful patterns of thinking or behaviour, and support you as you make positive changes in your life.
I am an accomplished and experienced therapist, having worked in the addiction and mental health field since 2004. I have worked with a wonderful variety of clients during this time, in both private and criminal justice settings. I have extensive knowledge of addiction, alcoholism, codependency, love addiction, trauma and eating disorders. I am a compassionate, understanding, and reflective therapist. I adopt a calm and positive outlook upon life, and create a non-judgmental connection with my clients. I will help you explore unhelpful patterns of thinking or behaviour, and support you as you make positive changes in your life.
020 8016 2874 View 020 8016 2874
Photo of Charlie Maguire-King, Counsellor in Greater London, England
Charlie Maguire-King
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
London SW18
I help people who are feeling lost, in pain and increasingly unable to cope. I work with people who suffer from debilitating anxiety, depression and trauma and all of the many manifestations these can have in your life such as alcohol and drug abuse, eating disorders and self harm, relationship difficulties, social anxiety, codependency and suicidal thoughts and feelings. Clients I see often, above all else, just want some peace of mind. This often comes alongside self acceptance, healthy relationships with friends and family and a satisfying work life balance.
I help people who are feeling lost, in pain and increasingly unable to cope. I work with people who suffer from debilitating anxiety, depression and trauma and all of the many manifestations these can have in your life such as alcohol and drug abuse, eating disorders and self harm, relationship difficulties, social anxiety, codependency and suicidal thoughts and feelings. Clients I see often, above all else, just want some peace of mind. This often comes alongside self acceptance, healthy relationships with friends and family and a satisfying work life balance.
020 8059 2172 View 020 8059 2172
Photo of Bristena Mantu, Counsellor in Greater London, England
Bristena Mantu
Counsellor, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
London SE15
I specialize in low self-worth, codependency, high sensitivity, depression, anxiety, interpersonal conflict, attachment trauma & abuse recovery.
Relationship struggles can leave lasting imprints, but they also open doors to self-renewal. As a psychosynthesis therapist, I specialize in helping individuals rebuild self-esteem, heal emotional wounds, and gently navigate the path to fulfilling relationships and lives. Over many years I've witnessed the profound truth that humans are inherently wired for meaningful and supportive connections. Yet, when faced with relational crises, the resulting experiences can be both dramatic and unexpectedly painful to navigate alone. The instinct to seek a safe space for healing and recovery becomes a natural and essential step forward.
I specialize in low self-worth, codependency, high sensitivity, depression, anxiety, interpersonal conflict, attachment trauma & abuse recovery.
Relationship struggles can leave lasting imprints, but they also open doors to self-renewal. As a psychosynthesis therapist, I specialize in helping individuals rebuild self-esteem, heal emotional wounds, and gently navigate the path to fulfilling relationships and lives. Over many years I've witnessed the profound truth that humans are inherently wired for meaningful and supportive connections. Yet, when faced with relational crises, the resulting experiences can be both dramatic and unexpectedly painful to navigate alone. The instinct to seek a safe space for healing and recovery becomes a natural and essential step forward.
020 3856 3475 View 020 3856 3475
Photo of Adriana Giotta, Psychologist in Greater London, England
Adriana Giotta
Psychologist, PhD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
London SW1X
I specialise in anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, relationship issues, codependency, eating disorders, body image discontent, executive coaching and I love helping my clients achieve fulfilment and authenticity.
I am an experienced Consultant Clinical Psychologist, psychotherapist and Certified Schema Therapist providing clients with an integrative, powerful and pioneering approach to personal transformation from the inside out. I am incredibly passionate about understanding people and human motivation. I have been engaged in research, training and therapy for over two decades to explore the most effective ways of helping people heal and thrive in life.
I specialise in anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, relationship issues, codependency, eating disorders, body image discontent, executive coaching and I love helping my clients achieve fulfilment and authenticity.
I am an experienced Consultant Clinical Psychologist, psychotherapist and Certified Schema Therapist providing clients with an integrative, powerful and pioneering approach to personal transformation from the inside out. I am incredibly passionate about understanding people and human motivation. I have been engaged in research, training and therapy for over two decades to explore the most effective ways of helping people heal and thrive in life.
020 3893 3542 View 020 3893 3542
Photo of CAPSYR Counselling, Counsellor in Greater London, England
CAPSYR Counselling
Counsellor, MSc, MBACP
Verified Verified
Specialities: Relapse Prevention, Dual Diagnosis ( mental health problems and addiction), Codependency, Cultural issues, Trauma, Abuse, Anxiety, Depression, Bereavement, Isolation, Self-esteem issues, relationships/families problems.
Hi, welcome to CAPSYR Counselling. This is a face to face counselling and groups support. I have over 11 years experience in providing counselling and psychotherapy to help individuals to manage and cope with problems or challenges such as recovering from Addictions, Mental Health, Trauma, Abuse from childhood, Stress, PTSD, Bereavement; Loss of a Job; Change of Career; Return to Work. If you are experiencing any of these challenges or you are close to someone who is suffering from addiction problems, mental health and/or abuse and you don't know how to deal with it, please, do not hesitate to contact me. RegisteredMBPS
Specialities: Relapse Prevention, Dual Diagnosis ( mental health problems and addiction), Codependency, Cultural issues, Trauma, Abuse, Anxiety, Depression, Bereavement, Isolation, Self-esteem issues, relationships/families problems.
Hi, welcome to CAPSYR Counselling. This is a face to face counselling and groups support. I have over 11 years experience in providing counselling and psychotherapy to help individuals to manage and cope with problems or challenges such as recovering from Addictions, Mental Health, Trauma, Abuse from childhood, Stress, PTSD, Bereavement; Loss of a Job; Change of Career; Return to Work. If you are experiencing any of these challenges or you are close to someone who is suffering from addiction problems, mental health and/or abuse and you don't know how to deal with it, please, do not hesitate to contact me. RegisteredMBPS
020 8059 9437 View 020 8059 9437
Photo of Jessica Drake, Psychotherapist in Greater London, England
Jessica Drake
Psychotherapist, MSc
Verified Verified
London EC2Y  (Online Only)
I work with anxiety (in particular OCD), addiction, trauma and codependency, using Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Exposure and response prevention (ERP) for OCD, CBT, Transactional Analysis (TA), eastern and Jungian psychology and the 12 step model. Over a decade working as a therapist and recovering from addiction, anxiety and OCD/ADHD, I know first hand how hard it can be to deal with these mental health conditions. I also know the strategies that have helped me come through some of the darkest times in my life, which I apply in the therapy room.
I work with anxiety (in particular OCD), addiction, trauma and codependency, using Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Exposure and response prevention (ERP) for OCD, CBT, Transactional Analysis (TA), eastern and Jungian psychology and the 12 step model. Over a decade working as a therapist and recovering from addiction, anxiety and OCD/ADHD, I know first hand how hard it can be to deal with these mental health conditions. I also know the strategies that have helped me come through some of the darkest times in my life, which I apply in the therapy room.
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Photo of Lynn Hyde, Counsellor in Greater London, England
Lynn Hyde
Counsellor, MSc, MBACP
Verified Verified
London WC1N
I have expertise in the field of sexuality, relationship issues, trust and affairs, Narcissistic Personality Disorder(NPD), Codependency, addiction, attachment styles, self esteem issues.
I have been counselling individuals and couples for over 15 years in Bristol, London and online. My passion lies in working with people to improve the quality of their life experience, helping people to relate better, gain confidence to have a more prosperous life, look at blocks in their lives which may be a result of unresolved childhood issues, resolving conflict in relationships, and recovery from traumatic relationships.
I have expertise in the field of sexuality, relationship issues, trust and affairs, Narcissistic Personality Disorder(NPD), Codependency, addiction, attachment styles, self esteem issues.
I have been counselling individuals and couples for over 15 years in Bristol, London and online. My passion lies in working with people to improve the quality of their life experience, helping people to relate better, gain confidence to have a more prosperous life, look at blocks in their lives which may be a result of unresolved childhood issues, resolving conflict in relationships, and recovery from traumatic relationships.
020 4538 3299 View 020 4538 3299
Photo of Jane Major, Psychologist in Greater London, England
Jane Major
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
London SW11  (Online Only)
Relationships affect us from the cradle to the grave and can significantly shape how we value ourselves and how able we feel to trust others and to be vulnerable - opening up or shutting down connections.  The Room Between is a clinical psychology service that specialises in working with trauma and relationship issues - with individuals, couples and families .We work with a variety of relationship issues including childhood trauma, abuse, infertility, miscarriage, bereavement, adjusting to parenthood, codependency, divorce and separation, lack of desire, neurodiversity, the aftermath of an affair and conflict.
Relationships affect us from the cradle to the grave and can significantly shape how we value ourselves and how able we feel to trust others and to be vulnerable - opening up or shutting down connections.  The Room Between is a clinical psychology service that specialises in working with trauma and relationship issues - with individuals, couples and families .We work with a variety of relationship issues including childhood trauma, abuse, infertility, miscarriage, bereavement, adjusting to parenthood, codependency, divorce and separation, lack of desire, neurodiversity, the aftermath of an affair and conflict.
0114 303 2341 View 0114 303 2341
Photo of Stephanie Mackenzie, Counsellor in Greater London, England
Stephanie Mackenzie
Counsellor, BACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Waitlist for new clients
Specialising in shame, trauma, addictions, codependency, eating disorders, spiritual issues and relationships, I desire to help others start their healing journey and find more serenity in their lives.
I work with individuals to help them work through difficulties and challenges that are stopping them from flourishing and living the life they really want. I am an integrative counsellor and my approach is characterised by deep acceptance, warmth and non-judgement. My work is particularly informed by trauma theory, attachment theory, and transactional analysis. I am experienced in working with depression, anxiety, addictions, relationship issues and disordered eating/eating disorders.
Specialising in shame, trauma, addictions, codependency, eating disorders, spiritual issues and relationships, I desire to help others start their healing journey and find more serenity in their lives.
I work with individuals to help them work through difficulties and challenges that are stopping them from flourishing and living the life they really want. I am an integrative counsellor and my approach is characterised by deep acceptance, warmth and non-judgement. My work is particularly informed by trauma theory, attachment theory, and transactional analysis. I am experienced in working with depression, anxiety, addictions, relationship issues and disordered eating/eating disorders.
020 3835 4259 View 020 3835 4259
Photo of Zoe Aston, Psychotherapist in Greater London, England
Zoe Aston
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
London W1D  (Online Only)
Her MSc in Addiction Psychology and Counselling has enabled her to effectively work with clients suffering from addictive disorders and codependency.
Zoë specialises in working with addiction, eating disorders and trauma and has extensive experience of helping people through difficult life transitions. Zoë’s personal experience of healing, along side her professional experience, enables a warm and compassionate approach to helping you live a happier, healthier life. She has a particular interest in self defeating thoughts and shame based beliefs get in the way of you achieving your goals and fulfilling your potential.
Her MSc in Addiction Psychology and Counselling has enabled her to effectively work with clients suffering from addictive disorders and codependency.
Zoë specialises in working with addiction, eating disorders and trauma and has extensive experience of helping people through difficult life transitions. Zoë’s personal experience of healing, along side her professional experience, enables a warm and compassionate approach to helping you live a happier, healthier life. She has a particular interest in self defeating thoughts and shame based beliefs get in the way of you achieving your goals and fulfilling your potential.
020 4538 4124 View 020 4538 4124
Photo of Stefani Ross-Steen, Psychotherapist in Greater London, England
Stefani Ross-Steen
Psychotherapist, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Like all accredited therapists, I work with a wide spectrum of issues, but I specialise in Anxiety, Addiction, OCD & Codependency (key characteristics are: people pleasing, taking too much responsibility in any relationship, unhealthy boundaries, low self worth, over dependancy, poor self care, minimising or being unable to identify your needs.
I am a warm, intuitive & dynamic Transpersonal Integrative Therapist with a special interest in creative practice. Working integratively means I draw on a variety of therapeutic techniques, from exploring the impact of early life dynamics on the present, to CBT (cognitive behaviour therapy). The Transpersonal element adds depth and creativity to the process, examples of this are: helping you find wisdom and meaning in your struggles, using creative tools (e.g. bodywork, drawing, sound, the written word) and most importantly, offering space for your authentic self, who you are under the wounding and conditioning, to flourish.
Like all accredited therapists, I work with a wide spectrum of issues, but I specialise in Anxiety, Addiction, OCD & Codependency (key characteristics are: people pleasing, taking too much responsibility in any relationship, unhealthy boundaries, low self worth, over dependancy, poor self care, minimising or being unable to identify your needs.
I am a warm, intuitive & dynamic Transpersonal Integrative Therapist with a special interest in creative practice. Working integratively means I draw on a variety of therapeutic techniques, from exploring the impact of early life dynamics on the present, to CBT (cognitive behaviour therapy). The Transpersonal element adds depth and creativity to the process, examples of this are: helping you find wisdom and meaning in your struggles, using creative tools (e.g. bodywork, drawing, sound, the written word) and most importantly, offering space for your authentic self, who you are under the wounding and conditioning, to flourish.
020 3962 0406 View 020 3962 0406
Photo of Working Through, Counsellor in Greater London, England
Working Through
Counsellor, MA, COSRT General
Verified Verified
London EC2M
I work with people who might be struggling with sexual or relationship difficulties such as erectile dysfunction, rapid or delayed ejaculation, anxiety around sex, relationships and intimacy issues, sexual abuse or assault, sexual health issues, compulsive sexual behaviours, vulval pain conditions, vaginismus, dyspareunia (pain during intercourse), sexual orientation questions or insecurities, pornography issues, orgasmic or anorgasmic problems, sexual phobias or aversions, fears around lack of sexual experience, loss of desire, affairs, marital break ups, open relationships, kinks, bdsm, polyamory, addictions, codependency, trauma.
I work with people who might be struggling with sexual or relationship difficulties such as erectile dysfunction, rapid or delayed ejaculation, anxiety around sex, relationships and intimacy issues, sexual abuse or assault, sexual health issues, compulsive sexual behaviours, vulval pain conditions, vaginismus, dyspareunia (pain during intercourse), sexual orientation questions or insecurities, pornography issues, orgasmic or anorgasmic problems, sexual phobias or aversions, fears around lack of sexual experience, loss of desire, affairs, marital break ups, open relationships, kinks, bdsm, polyamory, addictions, codependency, trauma.
020 8103 5619 View 020 8103 5619
Photo of Louise Styles, Psychologist in Greater London, England
Louise Styles
Psychologist, PhD, CPsychol
Verified Verified
I can help with relationship issues including romantic, platonic, family and work colleagues; I can advise upon sexual difficulties, exploring sexuality, alternative relationships, kink, shame, jealousy, controlling behaviour, codependency; and I can help clients to process and reframe their own negative core beliefs and change unhelpful coping strategies.
Clients come to me when they are experiencing distress in their relationships, with their sex lives or within themselves. Whether they are seeking help in processing a string of messy break-ups, exploring alternative relationship such as polyamory or intimacy styles such as kink and BDSM, dealing with cheating, shame or regret, or suffering from low self-esteem and feeling stuck, I listen, reflect, and support my clients, using positive regard without judgement. I can also help with identifying unhelpful thought and behaviour patterns, eating disorders and self-harm recovery.
I can help with relationship issues including romantic, platonic, family and work colleagues; I can advise upon sexual difficulties, exploring sexuality, alternative relationships, kink, shame, jealousy, controlling behaviour, codependency; and I can help clients to process and reframe their own negative core beliefs and change unhelpful coping strategies.
Clients come to me when they are experiencing distress in their relationships, with their sex lives or within themselves. Whether they are seeking help in processing a string of messy break-ups, exploring alternative relationship such as polyamory or intimacy styles such as kink and BDSM, dealing with cheating, shame or regret, or suffering from low self-esteem and feeling stuck, I listen, reflect, and support my clients, using positive regard without judgement. I can also help with identifying unhelpful thought and behaviour patterns, eating disorders and self-harm recovery.
01489 357115 View 01489 357115
Photo of Jacky Power, Psychotherapist in Greater London, England
Jacky Power
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP
Verified Verified
I specialise in codependency, all addictions, relationship issues, adult child of addict issues, dealing with estrangement from family members and developmental trauma.
Feeling the fallout of a loved one’s addiction? Addiction affects the whole family. It affects how you communicate, how you behave and how you feel. Trust is often broken - so knowing who to reach out to can feel risky. Turning to family and friends only leave you feeling more isolated and misunderstood. Maybe you have tried self help groups but they haven’t quite ‘hit the mark’. Turning to the person you love with an addiction only leaves you feeling frustrated and mistrusting. But… Relax. Here, you don’t have to do it alone. Download my free guide for those dealing with a loved one's addiction here on my website.
I specialise in codependency, all addictions, relationship issues, adult child of addict issues, dealing with estrangement from family members and developmental trauma.
Feeling the fallout of a loved one’s addiction? Addiction affects the whole family. It affects how you communicate, how you behave and how you feel. Trust is often broken - so knowing who to reach out to can feel risky. Turning to family and friends only leave you feeling more isolated and misunderstood. Maybe you have tried self help groups but they haven’t quite ‘hit the mark’. Turning to the person you love with an addiction only leaves you feeling frustrated and mistrusting. But… Relax. Here, you don’t have to do it alone. Download my free guide for those dealing with a loved one's addiction here on my website.
01306 775953 View 01306 775953
Photo of Robert McNeil Geelan in Greater London, England
Robert McNeil Geelan
Verified Verified
This culminated in codependency with a narcissist, losing my wealth, sense of self-worth and my career.
I am pleased to announce that I am now (dec, 2023) also a Solution-Focussed Hypnotherapist as well as a Certified Master Practitioner of NLP, Mental and Emotional Release Therapy. I am also Certified in Counselling Skills thro COSCA. Currently, I help clients with a range of issues from anxiety, feeling low, emotional regulation and phobias, and also to quit smoking. My journey began after hitting pretty much rock bottom after a co-dependency relationship with a narcissist. My search for answers took me to Canada and USA as well as my beautiful native Scotland.
This culminated in codependency with a narcissist, losing my wealth, sense of self-worth and my career.
I am pleased to announce that I am now (dec, 2023) also a Solution-Focussed Hypnotherapist as well as a Certified Master Practitioner of NLP, Mental and Emotional Release Therapy. I am also Certified in Counselling Skills thro COSCA. Currently, I help clients with a range of issues from anxiety, feeling low, emotional regulation and phobias, and also to quit smoking. My journey began after hitting pretty much rock bottom after a co-dependency relationship with a narcissist. My search for answers took me to Canada and USA as well as my beautiful native Scotland.
0141 280 4176 View 0141 280 4176
Photo of Yveline Cécile Arnaud in Greater London, England
Yveline Cécile Arnaud
MSc
Verified Verified
The people I work with come from dysfunctional families where their needs, physical or emotional, were neglected or abused. This may result in addictions, and relationships difficulties. Codependents might try to support another or others while lacking the support they themselves need. A client wrote about our work together: "Yveline really helped me look at things that were holding me back in my life, & in a supportive way, helped me process them and understand how they impacted my life. I didn't know how much I needed this till I made a breakthrough and things made sense. I feel much better, with a clearer vision of my future."
The people I work with come from dysfunctional families where their needs, physical or emotional, were neglected or abused. This may result in addictions, and relationships difficulties. Codependents might try to support another or others while lacking the support they themselves need. A client wrote about our work together: "Yveline really helped me look at things that were holding me back in my life, & in a supportive way, helped me process them and understand how they impacted my life. I didn't know how much I needed this till I made a breakthrough and things made sense. I feel much better, with a clearer vision of my future."
020 3984 8579 View 020 3984 8579
Ian Richardson
Psychotherapist, MUKCP
Verified Verified
London SW1E
I am a clinically trainied Attachment based Psychoanalyst . I am also a trained Integrative Counsellor. My clinical focus is expansive and generic. Focusing on issues related to attachment/relational disruptions, trauma and loss.Understanding these issues is an important part of what Psychotherapy can offer. Working collaboratively with clients, I explore a wide range of emotional and relational problems.Some of these problems include depression, domestic violence, anger, anxiety, obsession and compulsion, addiction including narcotics, sex, food, gambling and alcohol.
I am a clinically trainied Attachment based Psychoanalyst . I am also a trained Integrative Counsellor. My clinical focus is expansive and generic. Focusing on issues related to attachment/relational disruptions, trauma and loss.Understanding these issues is an important part of what Psychotherapy can offer. Working collaboratively with clients, I explore a wide range of emotional and relational problems.Some of these problems include depression, domestic violence, anger, anxiety, obsession and compulsion, addiction including narcotics, sex, food, gambling and alcohol.
020 3893 2804 View 020 3893 2804
Photo of Ewelina Rakowska, Counsellor in Greater London, England
Ewelina Rakowska
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
London SW19
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, or low self-esteem? I understand how challenging it can be to navigate life's complexities, and I'm here to offer you a safe and compassionate space where you can explore your inner world and embark on a journey of healing and self-discovery. My name is Ewelina (Eh-vuh-lee-nuh) and I'm an Integrative therapist and a registered member of the BACP, with a deep commitment to support individuals through their toughest challenges. I specialize in working with adults facing a wide range of issues, from grief and loss to relationship struggles, health issues, trauma, and beyond.
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, or low self-esteem? I understand how challenging it can be to navigate life's complexities, and I'm here to offer you a safe and compassionate space where you can explore your inner world and embark on a journey of healing and self-discovery. My name is Ewelina (Eh-vuh-lee-nuh) and I'm an Integrative therapist and a registered member of the BACP, with a deep commitment to support individuals through their toughest challenges. I specialize in working with adults facing a wide range of issues, from grief and loss to relationship struggles, health issues, trauma, and beyond.
020 3872 2516 View 020 3872 2516
Photo of David Pena-Charlon, Psychotherapist in Greater London, England
David Pena-Charlon
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
London SE11  (Online Only)
As a therapist, I believe in the ability of individuals to heal and better their lives, transforming difficulties, trauma, and anxiety into personal insight. If you or you and your partner are experiencing relationship or sex difficulties, feel at loss, and wish to transform them into growth and understanding, I am here to help you.
As a therapist, I believe in the ability of individuals to heal and better their lives, transforming difficulties, trauma, and anxiety into personal insight. If you or you and your partner are experiencing relationship or sex difficulties, feel at loss, and wish to transform them into growth and understanding, I am here to help you.
020 3962 0540 View 020 3962 0540
Photo of Katy Byrne, Counsellor in Greater London, England
Katy Byrne
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
You may be looking for a counsellor at the moment because there is a particular feeling or issue that is troubling you, or you may want to understand aspects of your personality, or relationships, a little better. You might be feeling stuck, or anxious, overwhelmed perhaps. I will provide a warm, receptive environment where you can talk about what is going on for you, and also explore how it is affecting you. Through this exploration, you will come to a deeper understanding of yourself and how you manage your life. It is through this deeper understanding of ourselves, that we are able to develop and move forward positively.
You may be looking for a counsellor at the moment because there is a particular feeling or issue that is troubling you, or you may want to understand aspects of your personality, or relationships, a little better. You might be feeling stuck, or anxious, overwhelmed perhaps. I will provide a warm, receptive environment where you can talk about what is going on for you, and also explore how it is affecting you. Through this exploration, you will come to a deeper understanding of yourself and how you manage your life. It is through this deeper understanding of ourselves, that we are able to develop and move forward positively.
020 3948 6992 View 020 3948 6992

See more therapy options for Greater London


Codependency Counsellors

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.