Codependency Therapists in San Rafael, CA

Photo of Irma Rivera-Carlisle, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Rafael, CA
Irma Rivera-Carlisle
Marriage & Family Therapist, MDiv, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
San Rafael, CA 94903
Specializing in narcissism, depression, codependency, disordered eating, parent-adolescent conflict, foster care, and religion, I utilize an integrated theoretical approach; Attachment and Brain development, Family Systems, CBT and Psychodynamic.
Stress and worry can take its toll on our minds and bodies. If you experience high levels of these, or feel empty at the end of the day, I will provide a safe and caring environment with which to explore the causal factors. I enjoy working with codependency, Self-development, life transitions, and relational dynamics.
Specializing in narcissism, depression, codependency, disordered eating, parent-adolescent conflict, foster care, and religion, I utilize an integrated theoretical approach; Attachment and Brain development, Family Systems, CBT and Psychodynamic.
Stress and worry can take its toll on our minds and bodies. If you experience high levels of these, or feel empty at the end of the day, I will provide a safe and caring environment with which to explore the causal factors. I enjoy working with codependency, Self-development, life transitions, and relational dynamics.
(415) 851-3114 View (415) 851-3114
Photo of Jeannie Brown, Psychologist in San Rafael, CA
Jeannie Brown
Psychologist, PsyD, MA
Verified Verified
San Rafael, CA 94901
I have diverse experience working with different ages, backgrounds, sexual orientations, cultures, individuals, couples, Addictions, Trauma/abuse (PTSD),Anxiety, Depression, Codependency, Narcissist-Abuse, Relationships Problems.
Welcome to my in private practice (virtual and in person). Do you feel distressed and need more support? Many seek therapy to end or alleviate often life long or long term painful symptoms or patterns. They may be too complex to address on your own but be very treatable. I provide a safe, nonjudgmental, supportive place. I work collaboratively to help develop awareness and skills and through therapeutic modalities. This is to improve or eliminate distressing symptoms or problems and assist you in reaching your full potential. Education: UC Berkeley-BA in Psychology and a Doctorate from California School of Professional Psychology.
I have diverse experience working with different ages, backgrounds, sexual orientations, cultures, individuals, couples, Addictions, Trauma/abuse (PTSD),Anxiety, Depression, Codependency, Narcissist-Abuse, Relationships Problems.
Welcome to my in private practice (virtual and in person). Do you feel distressed and need more support? Many seek therapy to end or alleviate often life long or long term painful symptoms or patterns. They may be too complex to address on your own but be very treatable. I provide a safe, nonjudgmental, supportive place. I work collaboratively to help develop awareness and skills and through therapeutic modalities. This is to improve or eliminate distressing symptoms or problems and assist you in reaching your full potential. Education: UC Berkeley-BA in Psychology and a Doctorate from California School of Professional Psychology.
(415) 692-6331 View (415) 692-6331
Photo of Dr. Lauren Ogren, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Rafael, CA
Dr. Lauren Ogren
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT, PsyD
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
San Rafael, CA 94901
I specialize in adults and teens, and relational codependency - you can have the healthy connections you crave and calm that inner critic!.
Is the past haunting your present day relationships? You may be at your breaking point, wondering why old feelings and reactions are happening to you in your current day to day life. The brain and the body definitely keep the score - so its time to dive deep and re-wire that brain to better align with the you that you want to be today!
I specialize in adults and teens, and relational codependency - you can have the healthy connections you crave and calm that inner critic!.
Is the past haunting your present day relationships? You may be at your breaking point, wondering why old feelings and reactions are happening to you in your current day to day life. The brain and the body definitely keep the score - so its time to dive deep and re-wire that brain to better align with the you that you want to be today!
(415) 488-6650 View (415) 488-6650
Photo of Scott W. Menasco, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Rafael, CA
Scott W. Menasco
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Rafael, CA 94901  (Online Only)
What brings us to ask for help often becomes fuel for transformation. Here, our symptoms are sign-posts letting us know that healing and growth are possible. I support my clients in seeing whatever challenge they bring to therapy as a call to transformation. I specialize in working with adults who want to heal and grow deeply. I have expertise recovery from shame, low self-esteem, codependency and developing self-compassion. The potential of therapy is about growth and fulfillment over the long arc of our lives and I maintain that whatever our current conflicts, they pertain to that.
What brings us to ask for help often becomes fuel for transformation. Here, our symptoms are sign-posts letting us know that healing and growth are possible. I support my clients in seeing whatever challenge they bring to therapy as a call to transformation. I specialize in working with adults who want to heal and grow deeply. I have expertise recovery from shame, low self-esteem, codependency and developing self-compassion. The potential of therapy is about growth and fulfillment over the long arc of our lives and I maintain that whatever our current conflicts, they pertain to that.
(415) 449-7953 View (415) 449-7953
Photo of Cathy Della Valle, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Rafael, CA
Cathy Della Valle
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Rafael, CA 94903
I help clients struggling with life transitions, codependency, depression/anxiety, premarital counseling, addictions (alcohol/drug, sex/love, food, internet), overcoming pain from the past, parenting, bipolar disorder, low self esteem, and trauma.
I have many years of experience and training and feel fortunate to work with adults, couples and teens. I find that most clients come to me when their old ways of coping are no longer working (or they are unhealthy) and the stress is too much! Why do it alone? I hold the hope for my clients when they aren't able.
I help clients struggling with life transitions, codependency, depression/anxiety, premarital counseling, addictions (alcohol/drug, sex/love, food, internet), overcoming pain from the past, parenting, bipolar disorder, low self esteem, and trauma.
I have many years of experience and training and feel fortunate to work with adults, couples and teens. I find that most clients come to me when their old ways of coping are no longer working (or they are unhealthy) and the stress is too much! Why do it alone? I hold the hope for my clients when they aren't able.
(415) 813-5401 View (415) 813-5401
Photo of Tom Thurston, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Rafael, CA
Tom Thurston
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
San Rafael, CA 94901
Individually, I work with depression, grief, loss, self esteem and life transitions and the deeper issues behind substance use and other addictions and codependency.
I work with my clients to deeply discover and access new resources and potentials of "self at best" both for growth and as ways beyond obstacles. I believe the quality of the relationship between the therapist and client is essential for change. I have over 17 years of spiritual practice which I incorporate using mindfulness, inquiry and dream work.
Individually, I work with depression, grief, loss, self esteem and life transitions and the deeper issues behind substance use and other addictions and codependency.
I work with my clients to deeply discover and access new resources and potentials of "self at best" both for growth and as ways beyond obstacles. I believe the quality of the relationship between the therapist and client is essential for change. I have over 17 years of spiritual practice which I incorporate using mindfulness, inquiry and dream work.
(415) 742-1961 View (415) 742-1961
Photo of Jennifer Parlette, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Rafael, CA
Jennifer Parlette
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Rafael, CA 94901
I offer psychotherapy for Depression and Anxiety, Mood Instability, Relationship Problems, Chemical Dependency, Behavioral Addictions, Trauma/PTSD, ACOA (Adult Children of Alcoholics) and Codependency.
People come to therapy for all sorts of reasons: Relief from sadness or anxiety, to break patterns that cause pain, to get clarity when you just don't know why life feels like an uphill battle or to simply get an "emotional tune-up." With compassion, emotional safety, and a clear, candid therapeutic style, I help people work through life's challenges using effective, evidence-based treatments that target the underlying causes for painful feelings. I believe healing happens holistically; Mind-Body-Spirit are aligned when people feel "right" within themselves.
I offer psychotherapy for Depression and Anxiety, Mood Instability, Relationship Problems, Chemical Dependency, Behavioral Addictions, Trauma/PTSD, ACOA (Adult Children of Alcoholics) and Codependency.
People come to therapy for all sorts of reasons: Relief from sadness or anxiety, to break patterns that cause pain, to get clarity when you just don't know why life feels like an uphill battle or to simply get an "emotional tune-up." With compassion, emotional safety, and a clear, candid therapeutic style, I help people work through life's challenges using effective, evidence-based treatments that target the underlying causes for painful feelings. I believe healing happens holistically; Mind-Body-Spirit are aligned when people feel "right" within themselves.
(415) 843-6603 View (415) 843-6603
Photo of Jane Paul, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Rafael, CA
Jane Paul
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Rafael, CA 94903
Jane Paul (she/her), LMFT 25754. I believe it's a tremendous gift to witness people healing as they implement changes in their lives that bring satisfaction, serenity, and growth. I utilize a recovery model based on spiritual principles integrated with coping skills informed by mindfulness, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing, and a trauma-informed approach. I specialize in anxiety, ADHD, substance abuse and dependency recovery, family recovery, codependency, and personal transformation.
Jane Paul (she/her), LMFT 25754. I believe it's a tremendous gift to witness people healing as they implement changes in their lives that bring satisfaction, serenity, and growth. I utilize a recovery model based on spiritual principles integrated with coping skills informed by mindfulness, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing, and a trauma-informed approach. I specialize in anxiety, ADHD, substance abuse and dependency recovery, family recovery, codependency, and personal transformation.
(415) 417-2189 View (415) 417-2189
Photo of Julianne M Carroll, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Rafael, CA
Julianne M Carroll
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Rafael, CA 94901  (Online Only)
My work as a therapist is grounded in trauma-informed, feminist, and attachment based principles that highlight the importance of safe and trusting relationships. I am here to provide attuned feedback and guidance as you navigate sex and love, anxiety, grief and loss, the ongoing effects of childhood trauma, unlearning codependency and strengthening or softening boundaries. My goal is to help you develop tools for self-awareness, resiliency and intimacy building, and conflict resolution. I believe deeply in the power of healing work, and the great courage it takes to turn inward, to turn toward pain, and to face and love ourselves.
My work as a therapist is grounded in trauma-informed, feminist, and attachment based principles that highlight the importance of safe and trusting relationships. I am here to provide attuned feedback and guidance as you navigate sex and love, anxiety, grief and loss, the ongoing effects of childhood trauma, unlearning codependency and strengthening or softening boundaries. My goal is to help you develop tools for self-awareness, resiliency and intimacy building, and conflict resolution. I believe deeply in the power of healing work, and the great courage it takes to turn inward, to turn toward pain, and to face and love ourselves.
(707) 883-1364 View (707) 883-1364
Photo of Jessica Shank, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Rafael, CA
Jessica Shank
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Rafael, CA 94903
I work with a wide variety of challenges and symptoms including but not limited to; depression, anxiety, panic attacks, relationship struggles, body image, weight struggles, self esteem issues, addiction, life transitions, trauma, grief and loss, codependency, parenting challenges, infertility, pregnancy and postpartum difficulties, and caregiver support.
I am currently accepting new clients! It takes amazing strength and courage to share our insecurities, worries and pain. As a compassionate therapist, my goal is to provide a safe and trusting space where you can feel better and get relief. Finding the right therapist can feel overwhelming, I provide a free 15 minute consult to help make the process less overwhelming and to explore if working together is the right fit for you. I provide therapy for individuals, couples and families.
I work with a wide variety of challenges and symptoms including but not limited to; depression, anxiety, panic attacks, relationship struggles, body image, weight struggles, self esteem issues, addiction, life transitions, trauma, grief and loss, codependency, parenting challenges, infertility, pregnancy and postpartum difficulties, and caregiver support.
I am currently accepting new clients! It takes amazing strength and courage to share our insecurities, worries and pain. As a compassionate therapist, my goal is to provide a safe and trusting space where you can feel better and get relief. Finding the right therapist can feel overwhelming, I provide a free 15 minute consult to help make the process less overwhelming and to explore if working together is the right fit for you. I provide therapy for individuals, couples and families.
(707) 505-9584 View (707) 505-9584
Photo of Kenneth Perlmutter, Psychologist in San Rafael, CA
Kenneth Perlmutter
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Rafael, CA 94901
I have worked more than 30 years w individuals & families with serious psychological and relational problems including the mood, behavior and substance problems that tear families apart. I help individuals and families navigate the perilous course of finding solutions while we work to improve serenity and sanity for all. Individual work is relational w/psychodynamic and a Real World approach. I have developed the “Stress-Induced Impaired Coping" model for family system distress and recovery. See my 2019 book: “Freedom From Family Dysfunction: A Guide for Families Battling Addiction or Mental Illness.” http://bit.ly/FreedomFamHC
I have worked more than 30 years w individuals & families with serious psychological and relational problems including the mood, behavior and substance problems that tear families apart. I help individuals and families navigate the perilous course of finding solutions while we work to improve serenity and sanity for all. Individual work is relational w/psychodynamic and a Real World approach. I have developed the “Stress-Induced Impaired Coping" model for family system distress and recovery. See my 2019 book: “Freedom From Family Dysfunction: A Guide for Families Battling Addiction or Mental Illness.” http://bit.ly/FreedomFamHC
(415) 787-4610 View (415) 787-4610
Photo of Michelle Bonsignore, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Rafael, CA
Michelle Bonsignore
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Rafael, CA 94901
Waitlist for new clients
Are you feeling lonely, sad, angry, or unhappy in your relationships? Do you worry about your or someone else's alcohol or drug use? Substance Use Disorder often impacts individuals and families in painful + predictable ways that trap people in destructive patterns of anxiety, loneliness, anger, helplessness, and despair. You are not alone if your efforts to manage and move beyond the chaos in your relationships feel futile. Don't lose hope! People do get better, and relationships can be repaired!
Are you feeling lonely, sad, angry, or unhappy in your relationships? Do you worry about your or someone else's alcohol or drug use? Substance Use Disorder often impacts individuals and families in painful + predictable ways that trap people in destructive patterns of anxiety, loneliness, anger, helplessness, and despair. You are not alone if your efforts to manage and move beyond the chaos in your relationships feel futile. Don't lose hope! People do get better, and relationships can be repaired!
(628) 240-0812 View (628) 240-0812
Photo of Lorin Tierney, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Rafael, CA
Lorin Tierney
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Rafael, CA 94901  (Online Only)
YOU ARE DOING "ALL*THE*THINGS," but you’re emotionally and physically exhausted all the time. You're on autopilot, going through the daily motions, but not living your best life. You put your needs last, with caring for others first. You don’t want to burden or worry your friends or family, with your problems. You self sacrifice only to stay stressed and unfulfilled, with your life and relationships. There is no work-life balance and you don’t know where to start. You don't have to continue down this stressful path, you can gain back energy. CHANGE IS POSSIBLE. With getting the right help, you can create a life worth living!
YOU ARE DOING "ALL*THE*THINGS," but you’re emotionally and physically exhausted all the time. You're on autopilot, going through the daily motions, but not living your best life. You put your needs last, with caring for others first. You don’t want to burden or worry your friends or family, with your problems. You self sacrifice only to stay stressed and unfulfilled, with your life and relationships. There is no work-life balance and you don’t know where to start. You don't have to continue down this stressful path, you can gain back energy. CHANGE IS POSSIBLE. With getting the right help, you can create a life worth living!
View
Photo of Terry Rivera, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Rafael, CA
Terry Rivera
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Rafael, CA 94901
Healing, growth and change are possible. By coming here you've taken the first step toward feeling better. Whether you're gripped by anxiety or depression, yearning for more fulfillment in relationships, or hungry for purpose and meaning in life, I am here to support and uplift you. I feel intense gratitude for this work because of the profound changes I witness in my clients. Through guided self inquiry and direct, compassionate feedback you’ll develop your capacities to understand yourself and take action toward building a life in alignment with your values and dreams. I got you, let's do this.
Healing, growth and change are possible. By coming here you've taken the first step toward feeling better. Whether you're gripped by anxiety or depression, yearning for more fulfillment in relationships, or hungry for purpose and meaning in life, I am here to support and uplift you. I feel intense gratitude for this work because of the profound changes I witness in my clients. Through guided self inquiry and direct, compassionate feedback you’ll develop your capacities to understand yourself and take action toward building a life in alignment with your values and dreams. I got you, let's do this.
(415) 870-3422 View (415) 870-3422
Photo of Nicholas Coleman Plastiras, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Rafael, CA
Nicholas Coleman Plastiras
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
San Rafael, CA 94903
Navigating life can be difficult. Perhaps you find yourself stuck in problematic relational patterns, struggling to find a different way. Maybe you criticize and put limitations on yourself. Perhaps you have endless empathy for everyone but yourself. Maybe you’ve turned to alcohol or substances to avoid the pain. Maybe you don’t feel much of anything at all. Perhaps you are simply in a rut and you don’t know how to get yourself out of it. The good news is, by simply looking for help you are on your way to regaining confidence, agency, and a fuller, more authentic sense of self. A self that CAN navigate the difficulties of life.
Navigating life can be difficult. Perhaps you find yourself stuck in problematic relational patterns, struggling to find a different way. Maybe you criticize and put limitations on yourself. Perhaps you have endless empathy for everyone but yourself. Maybe you’ve turned to alcohol or substances to avoid the pain. Maybe you don’t feel much of anything at all. Perhaps you are simply in a rut and you don’t know how to get yourself out of it. The good news is, by simply looking for help you are on your way to regaining confidence, agency, and a fuller, more authentic sense of self. A self that CAN navigate the difficulties of life.
(415) 634-3407 View (415) 634-3407
Photo of Ginny Bahr, Counselor in San Rafael, CA
Ginny Bahr
Counselor, MA, LPCC, MAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Rafael, CA 94915  (Online Only)
Addiction is a complex illness that has a lasting impact on a person and their entire family. Everyone's best intentions to heal or change can often result in outcomes that perpetuate suffering. The addiction cycle can feel like a rollercoaster with fleeting to no progress, or worse. There is a way off this ride. At Marin Family Recovery, we believe that a person's ability to change their life story and fully live a satisfying life is possible no matter how dark the starting place feels. Addiction is 100% treatable. With life there is always opportunity.
Addiction is a complex illness that has a lasting impact on a person and their entire family. Everyone's best intentions to heal or change can often result in outcomes that perpetuate suffering. The addiction cycle can feel like a rollercoaster with fleeting to no progress, or worse. There is a way off this ride. At Marin Family Recovery, we believe that a person's ability to change their life story and fully live a satisfying life is possible no matter how dark the starting place feels. Addiction is 100% treatable. With life there is always opportunity.
(415) 969-3045 View (415) 969-3045
Photo of Maysie Tift, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Rafael, CA
Maysie Tift
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
San Rafael, CA 94901
Are you Super Loyal? An excellent listener, who perhaps doesn’t share much about yourself? The one everyone leans on for support, advice, money, or favors? Are you the glue in your family, and the one who puts out fires? Many of my clients who identify with these kinds of qualities struggle in characteristic ways. Many are uncomfortable acknowledging their own feelings & desires. They make too many sacrifices to avoid being "selfish". They fear confrontation and the possibility of upsetting or disappointing others. They often get drawn into imbalanced relationships... or worse, toxic ones with selfish or narcissistic people.
Are you Super Loyal? An excellent listener, who perhaps doesn’t share much about yourself? The one everyone leans on for support, advice, money, or favors? Are you the glue in your family, and the one who puts out fires? Many of my clients who identify with these kinds of qualities struggle in characteristic ways. Many are uncomfortable acknowledging their own feelings & desires. They make too many sacrifices to avoid being "selfish". They fear confrontation and the possibility of upsetting or disappointing others. They often get drawn into imbalanced relationships... or worse, toxic ones with selfish or narcissistic people.
(415) 799-9000 View (415) 799-9000
Photo of Victoria Whisman, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Rafael, CA
Victoria Whisman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Rafael, CA 94903
I work with people struggling with anxiety and relationships. You may not know what is getting in the way of feeling good in your life, but you know it's supposed to be better. You may be going through a rough patch and just need support or you may have a history that hurts, either way therapy can help.
I work with people struggling with anxiety and relationships. You may not know what is getting in the way of feeling good in your life, but you know it's supposed to be better. You may be going through a rough patch and just need support or you may have a history that hurts, either way therapy can help.
(415) 408-5013 View (415) 408-5013
Photo of Demetry Apostle, Psychologist in San Rafael, CA
Demetry Apostle
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
San Rafael, CA 94901
Searching for new meaning and exploring life’s possibilities often stems from painful experiences from our past or current situations. I aspire to cultivate a safe environment with my clients so that they may explore new possibilities and develop an enriching curiosity about themselves. Reaching out for help takes strength and courage. I believe that helping my clients identify and sort through their issues while fostering their strengths is the catalyst that brings about the regenerative change they seek.
Searching for new meaning and exploring life’s possibilities often stems from painful experiences from our past or current situations. I aspire to cultivate a safe environment with my clients so that they may explore new possibilities and develop an enriching curiosity about themselves. Reaching out for help takes strength and courage. I believe that helping my clients identify and sort through their issues while fostering their strengths is the catalyst that brings about the regenerative change they seek.
(415) 915-0403 View (415) 915-0403
Photo of Sue Kessner, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in San Rafael, CA
Sue Kessner
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MS, LPCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Rafael, CA 94901  (Online Only)
Welcome to Serenity Psychotherapy. Feeling Stressed? Overwhelmed by Challenges in your Life? Living life on life's terms is not always easy. The stresses of daily living often encroach on our happiness and serenity. Learning to have a solution focused and positive perspective on life's challenges through psychotherapy can change your life. If you're looking for extra support and guidance for you or your children, or you're ready to move in a new direction in your life, I can help you to free up your life!
Welcome to Serenity Psychotherapy. Feeling Stressed? Overwhelmed by Challenges in your Life? Living life on life's terms is not always easy. The stresses of daily living often encroach on our happiness and serenity. Learning to have a solution focused and positive perspective on life's challenges through psychotherapy can change your life. If you're looking for extra support and guidance for you or your children, or you're ready to move in a new direction in your life, I can help you to free up your life!
(415) 669-5836 View (415) 669-5836

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.