Codependency Therapists in Long Beach, CA

Photo of Ashley Kretzschmar, Marriage & Family Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Ashley Kretzschmar
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90807
Welcome! I help my clients find hope and purpose, resolve current emotional struggles, and create an abundant, thriving life. Anxiety, depression, marital distress and disconnection; worries, confusion, exhaustion, hopelessness...these are a few of the concerns that bring clients into my office. Together, we can understand these problems and find solutions to create a life of joy and meaning. My training has been in mood disorders, marital therapy, substance use and codependency, and trauma. I love helping clients reach their goals - great mental health, successful relationships, healthy boundaries, you name it!
Welcome! I help my clients find hope and purpose, resolve current emotional struggles, and create an abundant, thriving life. Anxiety, depression, marital distress and disconnection; worries, confusion, exhaustion, hopelessness...these are a few of the concerns that bring clients into my office. Together, we can understand these problems and find solutions to create a life of joy and meaning. My training has been in mood disorders, marital therapy, substance use and codependency, and trauma. I love helping clients reach their goals - great mental health, successful relationships, healthy boundaries, you name it!
(310) 307-3627 View (310) 307-3627
Photo of Alyse Eldred, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Alyse Eldred, LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90804
I also work with people on self esteem, codependency and feeling stuck in life and relationships.
Finding a therapist for your specific goal is just as important as finding one you can connect with. I believe that a therapist that just listens isn't enough. I am an interactive therapist that listens to and collaborates with you. I provide guidance to help you understand the underlying issues that are negatively affecting your life and contributing to your problems. It is my goal to create a genuine and positive experience so you can develop the skills necessary to succeed, be happy and thrive. If you are not in CA and are searching for an OCD specialist, reach out to me about coaching to discuss if this would be a good fit.
I also work with people on self esteem, codependency and feeling stuck in life and relationships.
Finding a therapist for your specific goal is just as important as finding one you can connect with. I believe that a therapist that just listens isn't enough. I am an interactive therapist that listens to and collaborates with you. I provide guidance to help you understand the underlying issues that are negatively affecting your life and contributing to your problems. It is my goal to create a genuine and positive experience so you can develop the skills necessary to succeed, be happy and thrive. If you are not in CA and are searching for an OCD specialist, reach out to me about coaching to discuss if this would be a good fit.
(562) 280-2881 View (562) 280-2881
Photo of Colleen Krinard, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Colleen Krinard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90813
Hi my name is Colleen Krinard, LCSW, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker psychotherapist. My approach to therapy is one of partnering with you on your learning wellness journey. My goal is to meet you in your learning style and support you in making meaning out of what is unfolding in your life, to learn and practice skills and tools together, and assist you to form a deeper connection with yourself. My primary focus is working with adult women's issues including anxiety, depression, empowerment, codependency and trauma, with a sensitivity for how these are playing out in your everyday life experiences.
Hi my name is Colleen Krinard, LCSW, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker psychotherapist. My approach to therapy is one of partnering with you on your learning wellness journey. My goal is to meet you in your learning style and support you in making meaning out of what is unfolding in your life, to learn and practice skills and tools together, and assist you to form a deeper connection with yourself. My primary focus is working with adult women's issues including anxiety, depression, empowerment, codependency and trauma, with a sensitivity for how these are playing out in your everyday life experiences.
(916) 299-6343 View (916) 299-6343
Photo of Kenneth M. Sabel, Psychologist in Long Beach, CA
Kenneth M. Sabel
Psychologist, PsyD , SEP
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90814
I have worked in clinical settings for 12 years working with anxiety, mood disorders, codependency, depression, addiction, and trauma.
I understand the importance of needing to feel understood and seen. When therapy is successful, we often will experience a greater sense of spaciousness inside ourselves, freedom from our own judgments, and are reminded that confronting our pain won’t destroy us. The goal is not a short-term fix but instead a long-term shift that brings forth feelings of empowerment, resiliency, and a confidence that our brains and our lives can change. As a consequence of shifting our relationship to ourselves and to our pain, the uncomfortable symptoms often associated with anxiety, trauma, and depression begin to dissolve and loosen their grip.
I have worked in clinical settings for 12 years working with anxiety, mood disorders, codependency, depression, addiction, and trauma.
I understand the importance of needing to feel understood and seen. When therapy is successful, we often will experience a greater sense of spaciousness inside ourselves, freedom from our own judgments, and are reminded that confronting our pain won’t destroy us. The goal is not a short-term fix but instead a long-term shift that brings forth feelings of empowerment, resiliency, and a confidence that our brains and our lives can change. As a consequence of shifting our relationship to ourselves and to our pain, the uncomfortable symptoms often associated with anxiety, trauma, and depression begin to dissolve and loosen their grip.
(562) 372-6484 View (562) 372-6484
Photo of Daniel W McQuoid, Psychologist in Long Beach, CA
Daniel W McQuoid
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90803
I work with individuals, couples, and families with a focus on healing past trauma, compulsive addictive behaviors (alcoholism, codependency, sexual addiction, etc.
I have over 30 years experience in individual, marital, family, and group counseling, working with those who have faced a variety of issues in life. Counseling will guide you through a healing process to find a profound sense of your purpose. You will find a warm, healing environment that will impact you intellectually, emotionally, relationally and spiritually. Tools will be provided to increase your sense of well being, your ability to cope with adversity, and your understanding of your brain chemistry as it relates to your emotional struggles along with exploring how one's faith can impact their transformation.
I work with individuals, couples, and families with a focus on healing past trauma, compulsive addictive behaviors (alcoholism, codependency, sexual addiction, etc.
I have over 30 years experience in individual, marital, family, and group counseling, working with those who have faced a variety of issues in life. Counseling will guide you through a healing process to find a profound sense of your purpose. You will find a warm, healing environment that will impact you intellectually, emotionally, relationally and spiritually. Tools will be provided to increase your sense of well being, your ability to cope with adversity, and your understanding of your brain chemistry as it relates to your emotional struggles along with exploring how one's faith can impact their transformation.
(714) 769-6986 View (714) 769-6986
Photo of Janelle De Veyra, Marriage & Family Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Janelle De Veyra
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90814
We can identify coping skills that can assist in codependency, relationship anxiety, and avoidance of intimacy.
Do you struggle with depression, anxiety, and trauma? Do you experience difficulties managing family and relationship issues? I believe that healing happens when we pay attention to all the parts that make us whole—our mind, body, and soul. The subconscious mind controls most of our reality and choices, so building awareness and active presence can improve the quality of daily living and assist in not only surviving but thriving through life. As an intuitive & holistic therapist, I will assist you in strengthening your inner psyche and developing new tools to manage negative feelings and thoughts.
We can identify coping skills that can assist in codependency, relationship anxiety, and avoidance of intimacy.
Do you struggle with depression, anxiety, and trauma? Do you experience difficulties managing family and relationship issues? I believe that healing happens when we pay attention to all the parts that make us whole—our mind, body, and soul. The subconscious mind controls most of our reality and choices, so building awareness and active presence can improve the quality of daily living and assist in not only surviving but thriving through life. As an intuitive & holistic therapist, I will assist you in strengthening your inner psyche and developing new tools to manage negative feelings and thoughts.
(562) 362-4373 View (562) 362-4373
Photo of Laurel Lass, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Laurel Lass
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90807  (Online Only)
I use GIM to address women's issues, parenting, codependency, grief and loss, and women in recovery.
I am excited about clients who want to enrich both their inner and outer lives. You may find yourself at times confused, angry, depressed, or anxious, when what you want is greater clarity, more joy and happiness, and greater peace of mind both in relationship to self and others. I use Guided Imagery and Music (GIM) in my work with clients to tap into their own deep knowing and healing nature, which sometimes gets buried deep within. With music and imagery, a gentle recovery of self in initiated and stimulated. I love working with female adolescents, young college students, parents, and women of all ages.
I use GIM to address women's issues, parenting, codependency, grief and loss, and women in recovery.
I am excited about clients who want to enrich both their inner and outer lives. You may find yourself at times confused, angry, depressed, or anxious, when what you want is greater clarity, more joy and happiness, and greater peace of mind both in relationship to self and others. I use Guided Imagery and Music (GIM) in my work with clients to tap into their own deep knowing and healing nature, which sometimes gets buried deep within. With music and imagery, a gentle recovery of self in initiated and stimulated. I love working with female adolescents, young college students, parents, and women of all ages.
(949) 556-9846 View (949) 556-9846
Photo of Megan Shewmaker (Wurtz), Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Megan Shewmaker (Wurtz)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90813
Hello, my name is Megan Wurtz. I have been a licensed clinical social worker since 2018. I believe that we are all own our guide in our healing journey. I am here to provide support as you discover a deeper sense of self. I am trained in EMDR, CBT, DBT, comprehensive resource model, and parts work. I work with clients of all ages, genders, sexual orientation, and race. I am well trained in treating anxiety, depression, self-esteem, trauma (PTSD), peer relationships, codependency, family conflict, and life transitions.
Hello, my name is Megan Wurtz. I have been a licensed clinical social worker since 2018. I believe that we are all own our guide in our healing journey. I am here to provide support as you discover a deeper sense of self. I am trained in EMDR, CBT, DBT, comprehensive resource model, and parts work. I work with clients of all ages, genders, sexual orientation, and race. I am well trained in treating anxiety, depression, self-esteem, trauma (PTSD), peer relationships, codependency, family conflict, and life transitions.
(562) 539-4224 View (562) 539-4224
Charles E Bastedo
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90804
I work with Codependency and ACA issues and their application to the client's personal relationships and mental state of mind. My goal is to improve your overall relationships at work and in your personal life. I work from a Christian frame of reference (Biola Univ./Thru the Bible Radio) emphasizing the need for God in your life as the source of strength, comfort and in understanding behavior and symptoms. I utilize 12 Step Work and embrace this method of recovery. Establishing your goals and outcomes is essential to making your time and money count for significant changes in life.
I work with Codependency and ACA issues and their application to the client's personal relationships and mental state of mind. My goal is to improve your overall relationships at work and in your personal life. I work from a Christian frame of reference (Biola Univ./Thru the Bible Radio) emphasizing the need for God in your life as the source of strength, comfort and in understanding behavior and symptoms. I utilize 12 Step Work and embrace this method of recovery. Establishing your goals and outcomes is essential to making your time and money count for significant changes in life.
(562) 354-8720 View (562) 354-8720
Photo of Alayn Ortiz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Alayn Ortiz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90807
I specialize in teens and adults who have experienced relational trauma and as a result may struggle with making decisions, self-esteem, perfectionism, boundaries, & codependency.
You're experiencing anxiety and relationship issues due to past traumatic experiences. You fear getting close and being hurt again. Or perhaps you are told you are too controlling. You are tired of being in this cycle and ready to make a change. Together we can explore where this all began, the impact of your fears on your relationships and learn what to do when these fears are getting the best of you, so you can have the relationship you deserve.
I specialize in teens and adults who have experienced relational trauma and as a result may struggle with making decisions, self-esteem, perfectionism, boundaries, & codependency.
You're experiencing anxiety and relationship issues due to past traumatic experiences. You fear getting close and being hurt again. Or perhaps you are told you are too controlling. You are tired of being in this cycle and ready to make a change. Together we can explore where this all began, the impact of your fears on your relationships and learn what to do when these fears are getting the best of you, so you can have the relationship you deserve.
(562) 268-4695 View (562) 268-4695
Photo of Ella Jackson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Ella Jackson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90805
I specialize in relationship issues, couples work, codependency, addiction, narcissistic abuse, and issues stemming from depression, anxiety, and trauma. I create an environment in therapy that makes it easy to explore the issues a person is wanting to talk about. I believe humor, playfulness, and understanding are key ingredients to helping a person heal and feel better. I am not a therapist who sits quietly and nods my head. I believe in getting into the work with a client and am involved and engaged throughout the process.
I specialize in relationship issues, couples work, codependency, addiction, narcissistic abuse, and issues stemming from depression, anxiety, and trauma. I create an environment in therapy that makes it easy to explore the issues a person is wanting to talk about. I believe humor, playfulness, and understanding are key ingredients to helping a person heal and feel better. I am not a therapist who sits quietly and nods my head. I believe in getting into the work with a client and am involved and engaged throughout the process.
(323) 861-3136 View (323) 861-3136
Photo of Sunny Sun Young Lim, Pre-Licensed Professional in Long Beach, CA
Sunny Sun Young Lim
Pre-Licensed Professional, ACSW
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90807
If you're looking for insight into who you are and why you find yourself stuck, I'm here to help you notice patterns and figure out which changes you can actively make in your life. Together, we'll work on helping you figure out your personal goals, progress, and gain clarity. I specialize in working with people who have C-PTSD (childhood trauma because of abuse and neglect) and struggle with people-pleasing/codependency.
If you're looking for insight into who you are and why you find yourself stuck, I'm here to help you notice patterns and figure out which changes you can actively make in your life. Together, we'll work on helping you figure out your personal goals, progress, and gain clarity. I specialize in working with people who have C-PTSD (childhood trauma because of abuse and neglect) and struggle with people-pleasing/codependency.
(626) 709-2275 View (626) 709-2275
Photo of SistahPeace(tm) ReShaping(tm) WellBalance(tm), Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Long Beach, CA
SistahPeace(tm) ReShaping(tm) WellBalance(tm)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MFA, MSW, CAODC, CLPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90807  (Online Only)
"While not limited to these areas, I'm interested in working with adolescents, adults, & families from a diverse range of backgrounds, in the areas of Stress; Being Too Introverted; Codependency; Trauma and Abuse; Burnout; LBGQ-Couples/Individuals; Ethnic /Cultural Issues; Academic Stress; Female Sexuality; Mother-Daughter Conflict; Substance Abuse, Harm Reduction.
Are YOU Ready For SistahPeaceful Change ?(tm) . . . Facing A Distressing Dilemma ?. . . We Can Help You Find Peace Of Mind Again(tm) . . . Helping Unconventional, Artistic, Lesbian, Bi, Questioning, WOC, & Imaginative wimmin regain and maintain their Peace of Mind . . . Want to have a greater, more authentic, and meaningful sense of Self-regard, Self-accomplishment, Self-satisfaction and real happiness in those essential areas of your life? . . . SHEINSPIRED(tm) Innovative & Holistic Counseling & Coaching For Wimmin . . . ! ~ AfraShe is LGBTQI-Affirmative, Psychospiritual, Solution-Focused, SpiraCulturally(tm) based, holistic and uses synergistic Eastern, Afrikan & Western, results-oriented approaches optimized to assist you to make Meaningful, Achievable SistahPeaceful(tm) Life-Style Changes.
"While not limited to these areas, I'm interested in working with adolescents, adults, & families from a diverse range of backgrounds, in the areas of Stress; Being Too Introverted; Codependency; Trauma and Abuse; Burnout; LBGQ-Couples/Individuals; Ethnic /Cultural Issues; Academic Stress; Female Sexuality; Mother-Daughter Conflict; Substance Abuse, Harm Reduction.
Are YOU Ready For SistahPeaceful Change ?(tm) . . . Facing A Distressing Dilemma ?. . . We Can Help You Find Peace Of Mind Again(tm) . . . Helping Unconventional, Artistic, Lesbian, Bi, Questioning, WOC, & Imaginative wimmin regain and maintain their Peace of Mind . . . Want to have a greater, more authentic, and meaningful sense of Self-regard, Self-accomplishment, Self-satisfaction and real happiness in those essential areas of your life? . . . SHEINSPIRED(tm) Innovative & Holistic Counseling & Coaching For Wimmin . . . ! ~ AfraShe is LGBTQI-Affirmative, Psychospiritual, Solution-Focused, SpiraCulturally(tm) based, holistic and uses synergistic Eastern, Afrikan & Western, results-oriented approaches optimized to assist you to make Meaningful, Achievable SistahPeaceful(tm) Life-Style Changes.
(562) 507-1904 View (562) 507-1904
Photo of Katie Hagen, Marriage & Family Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Katie Hagen
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90814  (Online Only)
Hi there! I personally appreciate brevity and directness in advertising, so no razzle dazzle here (although it's a fun phrase!). I work with adults struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, dating/relationship issues, life transitions, women’s issues, grief/loss, and codependency. My top priority as your therapist is to create a safe space for you to heal. I provide warm, gentle, and open communication using reflective listening, empathy, and validation. Levity and lightheartedness will be present (as appropriate) too!
Hi there! I personally appreciate brevity and directness in advertising, so no razzle dazzle here (although it's a fun phrase!). I work with adults struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, dating/relationship issues, life transitions, women’s issues, grief/loss, and codependency. My top priority as your therapist is to create a safe space for you to heal. I provide warm, gentle, and open communication using reflective listening, empathy, and validation. Levity and lightheartedness will be present (as appropriate) too!
(562) 247-4428 View (562) 247-4428
Photo of Dr. William E Feuerborn, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Dr. William E Feuerborn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSW, CSAT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90803
I believe that much of addiction and codependency can be traced to childhood trauma.
Are you afraid your wife or partner is going to break up with you? Are you worried that people will find out about your online or in-person sexual activity? My specialty is helping men who are spending too much time viewing pornography or engaged in cybersex, keep going to prostitutes or massage parlors even when they try to stop, or cruise for sex online or in person and have trouble stopping. No matter what, I will help you succeed. It may be hard work; but you have so much to gain--your relationships and your life.
I believe that much of addiction and codependency can be traced to childhood trauma.
Are you afraid your wife or partner is going to break up with you? Are you worried that people will find out about your online or in-person sexual activity? My specialty is helping men who are spending too much time viewing pornography or engaged in cybersex, keep going to prostitutes or massage parlors even when they try to stop, or cruise for sex online or in person and have trouble stopping. No matter what, I will help you succeed. It may be hard work; but you have so much to gain--your relationships and your life.
(949) 216-0245 View (949) 216-0245
Photo of Cynthia Zolner, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Cynthia Zolner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90803  (Online Only)
NEW Clients Accepted. 30 years of experience as a psychotherapist. Specializations: Couples/Marital counseling, Codependency, Stress Management, Depression, Anxiety, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD). Utilizing Solution-Focused therapy.
NEW Clients Accepted. 30 years of experience as a psychotherapist. Specializations: Couples/Marital counseling, Codependency, Stress Management, Depression, Anxiety, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD). Utilizing Solution-Focused therapy.
(760) 428-1397 View (760) 428-1397
Photo of Soultenders, Inc., Psychologist in Long Beach, CA
Soultenders, Inc.
Psychologist, PhD, LMFT, LCSW, MFTI
Not Verified Not Verified
Long Beach, CA 90755
The licensed providers in our network can help with: Adolescents , Anxiety , Child , Codependency , Depression , Divorce , Domestic Violence , Family Conflict , Infidelity , Marital and Premarital Parenting Pregnancy , Prenatal , Postpartum , Self Esteem , Sexual Abuse , Stress , Trauma , and PTSD , EMDR, and many more.
The licensed providers in our network can help with: Adolescents , Anxiety , Child , Codependency , Depression , Divorce , Domestic Violence , Family Conflict , Infidelity , Marital and Premarital Parenting Pregnancy , Prenatal , Postpartum , Self Esteem , Sexual Abuse , Stress , Trauma , and PTSD , EMDR, and many more.
(626) 587-2663 View (626) 587-2663
Photo of Yvonne Rodriguez, Marriage & Family Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Yvonne Rodriguez
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90803
I have experience with anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, PTSD, ADHD, codependency, alcohol abuse & recovery.
We all have our own unique stories. However, we all share the human experience of facing challenges, difficulties, even trauma, in our lives. It is normal to feel fear, worry, sadness, or grief. But when overwhelming emotions or maladaptive behaviors interfere with our functioning, relationships and general well-being, seeking professional help can be the most significant step toward transforming your life. If you are struggling, know that you are not alone nor must you do so on your own. There is no shame in prioritizing mental health. It takes strength and courage to make this investment and commitment to yourself.
I have experience with anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, PTSD, ADHD, codependency, alcohol abuse & recovery.
We all have our own unique stories. However, we all share the human experience of facing challenges, difficulties, even trauma, in our lives. It is normal to feel fear, worry, sadness, or grief. But when overwhelming emotions or maladaptive behaviors interfere with our functioning, relationships and general well-being, seeking professional help can be the most significant step toward transforming your life. If you are struggling, know that you are not alone nor must you do so on your own. There is no shame in prioritizing mental health. It takes strength and courage to make this investment and commitment to yourself.
(562) 262-8815 View (562) 262-8815
Photo of Melissa Villanueva, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Melissa Villanueva
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90808
Reaching out for help and support takes courage. Finding a therapist, you trust and feel comfortable with is the first step to making positive changes in your life. I value and respect the differences in people and use a collaborative and non-judgmental approach when working with individuals. I work with adults, teens, children, and families dealing with a wide variety of issues such as trauma, depression, anxiety, codependency, attachment, and other life transitions/adjustments.
Reaching out for help and support takes courage. Finding a therapist, you trust and feel comfortable with is the first step to making positive changes in your life. I value and respect the differences in people and use a collaborative and non-judgmental approach when working with individuals. I work with adults, teens, children, and families dealing with a wide variety of issues such as trauma, depression, anxiety, codependency, attachment, and other life transitions/adjustments.
(747) 281-3723 View (747) 281-3723
Photo of Carly Stern, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Carly Stern
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90802  (Online Only)
I liken my approach to talking to a trusted friend with a professional edge. I am assertive and kind. The goal is to listen and provide constructive feedback that you're ready to accept. I work best with adolescents and adults. I have worked with all types of mental health diagnoses. The issues I work with on a virtual platform are related to anxiety, OCD, ADHD, Autism, relationship challenges, self-esteem, codependency, parenting, and more.
I liken my approach to talking to a trusted friend with a professional edge. I am assertive and kind. The goal is to listen and provide constructive feedback that you're ready to accept. I work best with adolescents and adults. I have worked with all types of mental health diagnoses. The issues I work with on a virtual platform are related to anxiety, OCD, ADHD, Autism, relationship challenges, self-esteem, codependency, parenting, and more.
(760) 852-7081 View (760) 852-7081
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.