Codependency Therapists in Arboretum, Austin, TX

Photo of Margot Goralczyk, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Arboretum, Austin, TX
Margot Goralczyk
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Arboretum, Austin, TX 78759  (Online Only)
I specialize in treating individuals with depression, anxiety, trauma, codependency, & healing from contentious relationships.
Do you feel alone, confused, or that no one understands you? Do you feel like your life is out of balance? Perhaps you are experiencing mood swings? Are disturbing memories from the past or worries about your future impacting your present? You deserve to live in a state of being where you feel seen, heard, supported, and understood. By talking out your problems, learning new coping tools, and developing a deeper awareness of your needs, you will be more equipped to manage difficult days. In time, you will experience a deeper connection with yourself and with others.The benefits of therapy are life changing.I can help get you there.
I specialize in treating individuals with depression, anxiety, trauma, codependency, & healing from contentious relationships.
Do you feel alone, confused, or that no one understands you? Do you feel like your life is out of balance? Perhaps you are experiencing mood swings? Are disturbing memories from the past or worries about your future impacting your present? You deserve to live in a state of being where you feel seen, heard, supported, and understood. By talking out your problems, learning new coping tools, and developing a deeper awareness of your needs, you will be more equipped to manage difficult days. In time, you will experience a deeper connection with yourself and with others.The benefits of therapy are life changing.I can help get you there.
(512) 229-9678 View (512) 229-9678
Photo of Martha Ballesteros, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Arboretum, Austin, TX
Martha Ballesteros
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Arboretum, Austin, TX 78759
My name is Martha Ballesteros. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. My focus in practice is primarily on substance use, addiction, codependency, co-occurring disorders, cultural identity, and family systems. My clinical practice experience is primarily with individuals dealing with substance abuse issues and with mental health issues such as depression and anxiety. My approach in proving therapy is to provide a judgement-free and safe zone for others. Seeking therapy can be a challenging step and I would like for you to feel comfortable. I primarily focus on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Motivational Interviewing.
My name is Martha Ballesteros. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. My focus in practice is primarily on substance use, addiction, codependency, co-occurring disorders, cultural identity, and family systems. My clinical practice experience is primarily with individuals dealing with substance abuse issues and with mental health issues such as depression and anxiety. My approach in proving therapy is to provide a judgement-free and safe zone for others. Seeking therapy can be a challenging step and I would like for you to feel comfortable. I primarily focus on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Motivational Interviewing.
(737) 250-6596 View (737) 250-6596
Photo of Scott D Altamirano, Marriage & Family Therapist in Arboretum, Austin, TX
Scott D Altamirano
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Arboretum, Austin, TX 78759  (Online Only)
Accepting clients Apr 2024. I help couples work their way through crisis events by helping them find their feet amist the chaos. My role is to help couples have difficult conversations. With my background is in probation/parole therapy, I bring strong elements of fairness, repair, and rehabilitation to couples who have faced injuries. Some topics I have strong experience in are: infidelity, bisexuality, addiction, codependency, anger management, emotional availability, parenting approach, and lack of sexual intimacy.
Accepting clients Apr 2024. I help couples work their way through crisis events by helping them find their feet amist the chaos. My role is to help couples have difficult conversations. With my background is in probation/parole therapy, I bring strong elements of fairness, repair, and rehabilitation to couples who have faced injuries. Some topics I have strong experience in are: infidelity, bisexuality, addiction, codependency, anger management, emotional availability, parenting approach, and lack of sexual intimacy.
(442) 203-6839 View (442) 203-6839
Photo of Audry Steele, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arboretum, Austin, TX
Audry Steele
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Arboretum, Austin, TX 78759
I specialize in a broad spectrum of psychological issues including anxiety, stress, depression, relationship complexities, codependency, narcissism, parenting, grief, post-partum challenges, self-esteem, bipolar symptoms, anger, and trauma.
Accepting new clients – Welcome, I've practiced psychotherapy for over 20 years and invite you to explore more about my approach here. If you find that you're interested in working together, please send an email. Perhaps you're reaching out because life's stressors have become overwhelming, relationships are challenging, or symptoms are too intense to handle alone. I specialize in depth-oriented therapy for adults facing personal, professional, or family challenges. I also support those who feel generally resilient and successful but are navigating significant stress.
I specialize in a broad spectrum of psychological issues including anxiety, stress, depression, relationship complexities, codependency, narcissism, parenting, grief, post-partum challenges, self-esteem, bipolar symptoms, anger, and trauma.
Accepting new clients – Welcome, I've practiced psychotherapy for over 20 years and invite you to explore more about my approach here. If you find that you're interested in working together, please send an email. Perhaps you're reaching out because life's stressors have become overwhelming, relationships are challenging, or symptoms are too intense to handle alone. I specialize in depth-oriented therapy for adults facing personal, professional, or family challenges. I also support those who feel generally resilient and successful but are navigating significant stress.
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Photo of Cassidy Conway, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arboretum, Austin, TX
Cassidy Conway
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, AADC, LCAS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Arboretum, Austin, TX 78759  (Online Only)
We as humans develop belief systems that influence how we operate in our day to day. You may be noticing some ways you operate no longer serve you purpose and you desire change, especially if the way you have coped is causing more harm than help. Together we will develop understanding as to why and how you operate to help work towards realistic steps in making desired shifts in your life. This process brings both emotional and mental growing pains. The hope is that by working through those growing pains, you begin to believe in and live out your growth.
We as humans develop belief systems that influence how we operate in our day to day. You may be noticing some ways you operate no longer serve you purpose and you desire change, especially if the way you have coped is causing more harm than help. Together we will develop understanding as to why and how you operate to help work towards realistic steps in making desired shifts in your life. This process brings both emotional and mental growing pains. The hope is that by working through those growing pains, you begin to believe in and live out your growth.
(512) 580-9364 View (512) 580-9364
Photo of Jenn Zatopek, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arboretum, Austin, TX
Jenn Zatopek
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, EMDR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Arboretum, Austin, TX 78759  (Online Only)
You deal with so much anxiety you wonder how you can keep going. The guilt and pain are too much to carry on your own. Imagine feeling more relaxed in your own skin. Spend time with your people and feel a deep sense of connection. Learn to set healthy limits and ask for what you need. Have the confidence and calm to face your fears and treat yourself with radical self-love. Allow me to create a safe and sacred space for your beautiful brain to heal. You are worth the work and deserve to feel better today. As a trauma-informed counselor, I would be honored to hear your story, feel your pain, and help you feel better right now!
You deal with so much anxiety you wonder how you can keep going. The guilt and pain are too much to carry on your own. Imagine feeling more relaxed in your own skin. Spend time with your people and feel a deep sense of connection. Learn to set healthy limits and ask for what you need. Have the confidence and calm to face your fears and treat yourself with radical self-love. Allow me to create a safe and sacred space for your beautiful brain to heal. You are worth the work and deserve to feel better today. As a trauma-informed counselor, I would be honored to hear your story, feel your pain, and help you feel better right now!
(682) 243-4192 View (682) 243-4192
Photo of Ryan Hester, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Arboretum, Austin, TX
Ryan Hester
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LMFT-A
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Arboretum, Austin, TX 78759
Hello, and welcome! I am delighted to share a glimpse into my work to support individuals and couples in their pursuit of healthy, fulfilling relationships. I am a dedicated therapist with a passion for utilizing evidence-based methods such as PACT, EFT, Gottman, and Attachment Theory to promote lasting change and growth. Our work will address the unique challenges and dynamics that arise within your relationships. I also specialize in working with individuals and couples who are impacted by ADHD. As a therapist with ADHD, I understand the intricate ways in which it can impact relationships, communication, and daily life.
Hello, and welcome! I am delighted to share a glimpse into my work to support individuals and couples in their pursuit of healthy, fulfilling relationships. I am a dedicated therapist with a passion for utilizing evidence-based methods such as PACT, EFT, Gottman, and Attachment Theory to promote lasting change and growth. Our work will address the unique challenges and dynamics that arise within your relationships. I also specialize in working with individuals and couples who are impacted by ADHD. As a therapist with ADHD, I understand the intricate ways in which it can impact relationships, communication, and daily life.
(512) 641-5404 View (512) 641-5404
Photo of Michelle Ortiz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Arboretum, Austin, TX
Michelle Ortiz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Arboretum, Austin, TX 78759  (Online Only)
Has your sense of safety and security been compromised by trauma or adverse childhood experiences? Or perhaps lately you have been feeling “off” and are unsure what is wrong. Whether the issue you are experiencing is big or small, my objective is to create a safe space where we can collaborate to resolve any obstacles in the way of living the life you want. I specialize in working with individuals who have lived through traumatic experiences and/or struggle with depression, anxiety, stress or chronic pain that affects their well-being.
Has your sense of safety and security been compromised by trauma or adverse childhood experiences? Or perhaps lately you have been feeling “off” and are unsure what is wrong. Whether the issue you are experiencing is big or small, my objective is to create a safe space where we can collaborate to resolve any obstacles in the way of living the life you want. I specialize in working with individuals who have lived through traumatic experiences and/or struggle with depression, anxiety, stress or chronic pain that affects their well-being.
(512) 607-7611 View (512) 607-7611
Photo of Ashley Hogan, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arboretum, Austin, TX
Ashley Hogan
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Arboretum, Austin, TX 78759
Thank you for considering me to be a part of your mental health journey. Reaching out for help as an individual or a parent can be anxiety provoking and it is my goal to be as transparent about therapy and mental health treatment as possible to ensure you feel comfortable with choosing me to be your therapist. My background consists of working for a Crisis Hotline, a residential treatment center, an emergency foster care shelter, and the Local Mental Health Authority. I have experience working with trauma and abuse survivors, LGBTQIA+ clients, foster and adoption, Borderline Personality Disorder, and other communities.
Thank you for considering me to be a part of your mental health journey. Reaching out for help as an individual or a parent can be anxiety provoking and it is my goal to be as transparent about therapy and mental health treatment as possible to ensure you feel comfortable with choosing me to be your therapist. My background consists of working for a Crisis Hotline, a residential treatment center, an emergency foster care shelter, and the Local Mental Health Authority. I have experience working with trauma and abuse survivors, LGBTQIA+ clients, foster and adoption, Borderline Personality Disorder, and other communities.
(512) 890-2577 View (512) 890-2577
Photo of Daniela De Los Angeles, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Arboretum, Austin, TX
Daniela De Los Angeles
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
Arboretum, Austin, TX 78759  (Online Only)
Hi there! I'm passionate about working with folks who deal with high functioning depression & anxiety, experienced childhood trauma and/or complex trauma, or who struggle with body image, disordered eating, and self esteem concerns. My goal is to help folks stuck in a cycle of over functioning, people pleasing, disconnection and overwhelm learn to break this cycle and get to a place of grounding, clarity and connection. I strive to provide a warm, supportive and judgment-free space that is culture affirming and trauma informed, with an understanding that you are the expert on your life.
Hi there! I'm passionate about working with folks who deal with high functioning depression & anxiety, experienced childhood trauma and/or complex trauma, or who struggle with body image, disordered eating, and self esteem concerns. My goal is to help folks stuck in a cycle of over functioning, people pleasing, disconnection and overwhelm learn to break this cycle and get to a place of grounding, clarity and connection. I strive to provide a warm, supportive and judgment-free space that is culture affirming and trauma informed, with an understanding that you are the expert on your life.
(737) 530-7394 View (737) 530-7394
Photo of Satu Korby, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arboretum, Austin, TX
Satu Korby
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arboretum, Austin, TX 78759
Do you want to feel happier, do you feel stuck, want to move past recurring issues to feel more satisfied and fulfilled? Are you feeling unhappy in your current relationships, going through a life transition, divorce or break-up, have anxiety, stress, ADHD or feel depressed? Dealing with these issues on our own can feel overwhelming. Life can feel more hopeful and challenges seem easier to manage when you have someone who will truly listen and help guide you along the way. I am here to help you realize you are not alone, you can truly get through anything, that you are enough, and you can live the life you want and love.
Do you want to feel happier, do you feel stuck, want to move past recurring issues to feel more satisfied and fulfilled? Are you feeling unhappy in your current relationships, going through a life transition, divorce or break-up, have anxiety, stress, ADHD or feel depressed? Dealing with these issues on our own can feel overwhelming. Life can feel more hopeful and challenges seem easier to manage when you have someone who will truly listen and help guide you along the way. I am here to help you realize you are not alone, you can truly get through anything, that you are enough, and you can live the life you want and love.
(512) 879-9733 View (512) 879-9733
Photo of Monti Pal, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arboretum, Austin, TX
Monti Pal
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Arboretum, Austin, TX 78759  (Online Only)
Please note that I am private pay only and my sliding scale spots are full. I focus on helping clients identify and attain their own personal goals in therapy. I believe in empowering clients while compassionately guiding them through the therapy process with a mind-body approach to healing. I have worked with a broad and diverse groups of people with issues related to academics, career development, trauma, family relationships, lgbtqia specific issues, domestic violence, romantic relationships, anxiety, depression, and grief. I look forward to hearing from you! Please note that I am not paneled with any insurance companies.
Please note that I am private pay only and my sliding scale spots are full. I focus on helping clients identify and attain their own personal goals in therapy. I believe in empowering clients while compassionately guiding them through the therapy process with a mind-body approach to healing. I have worked with a broad and diverse groups of people with issues related to academics, career development, trauma, family relationships, lgbtqia specific issues, domestic violence, romantic relationships, anxiety, depression, and grief. I look forward to hearing from you! Please note that I am not paneled with any insurance companies.
(512) 337-4472 View (512) 337-4472
Photo of Kristin Vaughn, Psychologist in Arboretum, Austin, TX
Kristin Vaughn
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arboretum, Austin, TX 78759
Therapy has been proven effective for anxiety and depression. Talking about what is troubling you in a safe, supportive atmosphere has the potential to transform almost every mental health problem. In our work together, I will join you in a process of looking at what is happening, and seeing how you got to this difficult place. We will identify new ways of approaching issues in your life, and I will help you to develop more effective tools for dealing with what you are currently experiencing, as well as for getting you to where you want to be. If you are ready to start on path toward psychological freedom, I am ready to help you.
Therapy has been proven effective for anxiety and depression. Talking about what is troubling you in a safe, supportive atmosphere has the potential to transform almost every mental health problem. In our work together, I will join you in a process of looking at what is happening, and seeing how you got to this difficult place. We will identify new ways of approaching issues in your life, and I will help you to develop more effective tools for dealing with what you are currently experiencing, as well as for getting you to where you want to be. If you are ready to start on path toward psychological freedom, I am ready to help you.
(512) 640-2330 View (512) 640-2330
Photo of Miriam Weeden, Marriage & Family Therapist in Arboretum, Austin, TX
Miriam Weeden
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Arboretum, Austin, TX 78759  (Online Only)
احسنت فى بحثك عن معالج....انت اتخذت خطوه كبيره فى طريق النمو اذا كنت تختبرتحديات فى حياتك الشخصيه او مشاكل فى علاقاتك مع الاخرين او تشعربحمل الحياه و ظروفك الخارجيه..اطمئن فانت لست وحدك..انا متحمسه جدا اقف بجانبك و امشى المشوارمعاك. هدفى الاساسى انى اساعدك للتغلب على الاكتئاب او التوتراو القلق او تقويه الثقه بالنفس.
احسنت فى بحثك عن معالج....انت اتخذت خطوه كبيره فى طريق النمو اذا كنت تختبرتحديات فى حياتك الشخصيه او مشاكل فى علاقاتك مع الاخرين او تشعربحمل الحياه و ظروفك الخارجيه..اطمئن فانت لست وحدك..انا متحمسه جدا اقف بجانبك و امشى المشوارمعاك. هدفى الاساسى انى اساعدك للتغلب على الاكتئاب او التوتراو القلق او تقويه الثقه بالنفس.
(817) 736-1117 View (817) 736-1117
Photo of Aymen Osmani Pasha, LPC Associate in Arboretum, Austin, TX
Aymen Osmani Pasha
LPC Associate, MA, LPC-A, NCC
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Arboretum, Austin, TX 78759
As someone who has a passion for working with people from diverse communities, I want you to know that your unique story and background are important to me. As a first-generation South Asian American, I have a deep understanding of the impact that cultural differences can have on couples, families, and individuals. I am here to support you on your journey towards greater intimacy, connection, and security. I use a trauma-informed approach and enjoy bringing in aspects from childhood, adolescence, and adulthood for a well-rounded healing experience.
As someone who has a passion for working with people from diverse communities, I want you to know that your unique story and background are important to me. As a first-generation South Asian American, I have a deep understanding of the impact that cultural differences can have on couples, families, and individuals. I am here to support you on your journey towards greater intimacy, connection, and security. I use a trauma-informed approach and enjoy bringing in aspects from childhood, adolescence, and adulthood for a well-rounded healing experience.
(469) 382-5760 View (469) 382-5760
Photo of Susan Bullock Zohn, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arboretum, Austin, TX
Susan Bullock Zohn
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CCTP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Arboretum, Austin, TX 78759  (Online Only)
I am a native Texan who has lived and worked in the Houston area most of my career. I have a background in mental health providing services to individuals struggling with trauma, anxiety, depression, grief any issues which cause distress.
I am a native Texan who has lived and worked in the Houston area most of my career. I have a background in mental health providing services to individuals struggling with trauma, anxiety, depression, grief any issues which cause distress.
(281) 377-0756 View (281) 377-0756
Photo of Nallely Martinez, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arboretum, Austin, TX
Nallely Martinez
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Arboretum, Austin, TX 78759  (Online Only)
Progress towards our goals is not always linear, and that’s ok! It’s part of what makes us beautifully flawed and human - progress goes in every direction and in all kinds of paces. It's uniquely your goal and your progress with it, no right or wrong, the value is in the journey and experience that make us learn and grow. Along side with that I will incorporate different techniques and tools that will support your journey through counseling and the goal is to incorporate those tools in your day to day living.
Progress towards our goals is not always linear, and that’s ok! It’s part of what makes us beautifully flawed and human - progress goes in every direction and in all kinds of paces. It's uniquely your goal and your progress with it, no right or wrong, the value is in the journey and experience that make us learn and grow. Along side with that I will incorporate different techniques and tools that will support your journey through counseling and the goal is to incorporate those tools in your day to day living.
(512) 729-5369 View (512) 729-5369
Photo of Teresa Gross, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arboretum, Austin, TX
Teresa Gross
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arboretum, Austin, TX 78759
Deep breath. Are you ready to try something different? Struggling in a relationship? Challenged by a major transition? Burdened by anxiety? Derailed by depression? Craving a career pivot? Devastated by a loss? Or, do you have a desire to spark your creativity or follow your heart? I've been there too. Whether you aspire to learn, heal, or grow, I can offer a safe, comforting place along with gentle guidance using what I have learned from my own life lessons and experiences to help you pause, reflect, and engage your strengths, wisdom, and deep-rooted resilience in the pursuit of positive change, inner peace, and passionate living.
Deep breath. Are you ready to try something different? Struggling in a relationship? Challenged by a major transition? Burdened by anxiety? Derailed by depression? Craving a career pivot? Devastated by a loss? Or, do you have a desire to spark your creativity or follow your heart? I've been there too. Whether you aspire to learn, heal, or grow, I can offer a safe, comforting place along with gentle guidance using what I have learned from my own life lessons and experiences to help you pause, reflect, and engage your strengths, wisdom, and deep-rooted resilience in the pursuit of positive change, inner peace, and passionate living.
(512) 572-3309 View (512) 572-3309
Photo of Wendy L. Smith, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Arboretum, Austin, TX
Wendy L. Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S, LICSW, MA
Verified Verified
Arboretum, Austin, TX 78759  (Online Only)
Entering therapy can be both daunting and exciting. It usually means something in your life isn’t working quite right, and it also means you are ready to make a change. My goal is to help you discover your own strengths and resources in order to live a life of greater purpose, connection, and joy. We all have a natural tendency to move toward healing and growth, but sometimes painful emotions, negative thoughts, or stressful life events interfere with this natural process. Working together, we can process and release painful emotions and experiences that have kept you stuck.
Entering therapy can be both daunting and exciting. It usually means something in your life isn’t working quite right, and it also means you are ready to make a change. My goal is to help you discover your own strengths and resources in order to live a life of greater purpose, connection, and joy. We all have a natural tendency to move toward healing and growth, but sometimes painful emotions, negative thoughts, or stressful life events interfere with this natural process. Working together, we can process and release painful emotions and experiences that have kept you stuck.
(512) 400-2781 View (512) 400-2781
Photo of Valerie Slutz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Arboretum, Austin, TX
Valerie Slutz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Arboretum, Austin, TX 78705  (Online Only)
Are you ready to take control of your life and achieve your unique goals? As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and therapist at Ashe’ Counseling and Coaching, I am passionate about helping individuals like you find the path to healing and growth. With a compassionate, loyal, and funny approach, my clients have noted my reliability and thoughtfulness in providing the support they need.
Are you ready to take control of your life and achieve your unique goals? As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and therapist at Ashe’ Counseling and Coaching, I am passionate about helping individuals like you find the path to healing and growth. With a compassionate, loyal, and funny approach, my clients have noted my reliability and thoughtfulness in providing the support they need.
(512) 877-5476 View (512) 877-5476

See more therapy options for Arboretum, Austin

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.