Codependency Therapists in Chicago, IL

Photo of Wendy Haas, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Wendy Haas
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
Areas of emphasis include depression and anxiety/panic, codependency, disordered eating, body image, substance abuse and process addictions, relationship & career challenges, and supporting transitions from higher levels of care.
How are various choices, self-beliefs, coping styles, and relationships combined with any mental health challenges in your life impacting you? Are they moving you toward your personal values and goals? Can you readily identify what those even are? By seeking to understand past influences, non-functional coping behaviors and core beliefs, and building helpful skills and boundaries, we'll work together towards self-acceptance and forward movement. My approach draws from behavioral change approaches of CBT and DBT modalities as well as person-centered and Adlerian therapies, and am trained in EMDR.
Areas of emphasis include depression and anxiety/panic, codependency, disordered eating, body image, substance abuse and process addictions, relationship & career challenges, and supporting transitions from higher levels of care.
How are various choices, self-beliefs, coping styles, and relationships combined with any mental health challenges in your life impacting you? Are they moving you toward your personal values and goals? Can you readily identify what those even are? By seeking to understand past influences, non-functional coping behaviors and core beliefs, and building helpful skills and boundaries, we'll work together towards self-acceptance and forward movement. My approach draws from behavioral change approaches of CBT and DBT modalities as well as person-centered and Adlerian therapies, and am trained in EMDR.
(872) 241-1360 View (872) 241-1360
Photo of Jeanette Mazeikis, Counselor, LCPC
Jeanette Mazeikis
Counselor, LCPC
Online Only
I commonly treat anxiety, depression, mood disorders, trauma, intrusive thoughts, anger problems, codependency/personal boundary issues, and interpersonal distress.
I use warmth, safety, and a non-judgmental environment to help you explore what is causing you distress. I am a patient listener and will be thoughtful in my feedback to you. I also employ a variety of evidence-based techniques and skills that will help you overcome your obstacles and set goals for your treatment.
I commonly treat anxiety, depression, mood disorders, trauma, intrusive thoughts, anger problems, codependency/personal boundary issues, and interpersonal distress.
I use warmth, safety, and a non-judgmental environment to help you explore what is causing you distress. I am a patient listener and will be thoughtful in my feedback to you. I also employ a variety of evidence-based techniques and skills that will help you overcome your obstacles and set goals for your treatment.
(773) 923-0588 View (773) 923-0588
Photo of Jake Rose, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Jake Rose
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60601
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with experience working with codependency, relationship issues, substance use, shame, grief/loss, and disordered eating.
Change and growth occur through a collaborative, supportive therapeutic relationship. This relationship can be a catalyst for increased self-awareness, gained insight, and values-based change. In a compassionate and non-judgmental environment, we will work together to address and process unresolved issues, and learn healthier, more effective ways to cope.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with experience working with codependency, relationship issues, substance use, shame, grief/loss, and disordered eating.
Change and growth occur through a collaborative, supportive therapeutic relationship. This relationship can be a catalyst for increased self-awareness, gained insight, and values-based change. In a compassionate and non-judgmental environment, we will work together to address and process unresolved issues, and learn healthier, more effective ways to cope.
(312) 262-5795 View (312) 262-5795
Photo of Jeanette Mazeikis, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Jeanette Mazeikis
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Online Only
I commonly treat anxiety, depression, mood disorders, trauma, intrusive thoughts, anger problems, codependency/personal boundary issues, and interpersonal distress.
I use warmth, safety, and a non-judgmental environment to help you explore what is causing you distress. I am a patient listener and will be thoughtful in my feedback to you. I also employ a variety of evidence-based techniques and skills that will help you overcome your obstacles and set goals for your treatment.
I commonly treat anxiety, depression, mood disorders, trauma, intrusive thoughts, anger problems, codependency/personal boundary issues, and interpersonal distress.
I use warmth, safety, and a non-judgmental environment to help you explore what is causing you distress. I am a patient listener and will be thoughtful in my feedback to you. I also employ a variety of evidence-based techniques and skills that will help you overcome your obstacles and set goals for your treatment.
(872) 244-6807 View (872) 244-6807
Photo of Kei Izumi, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC, NCC, EMDR-C, CCPT-II
Kei Izumi
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC, NCC, EMDR-C, CCPT-II
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in C-PTSD/PTSD, childhood trauma, Panic Disorder, Anxiety, Dissociation, and Codependency.
Is your heart heavy from various forms of trauma, resulting in C-PTSD/PTSD, panic attacks, anxiety, addiction, or dissociation? Do you feel alone and stuck? Do you always end up in similar toxic relationships? Do you always feel psychologically unsafe or powerless even when there is no more abuse? Do you feel overwhelmed and use external resource to try to forget or numb the pain? I understand how trauma can lead to mental and behavioral challenges. Trauma can prevent you from living authentically, triggering fear-based reactions and self-defeating thoughts. I'm here to help you unravel some of these thoughts and find inner peace.
I specialize in C-PTSD/PTSD, childhood trauma, Panic Disorder, Anxiety, Dissociation, and Codependency.
Is your heart heavy from various forms of trauma, resulting in C-PTSD/PTSD, panic attacks, anxiety, addiction, or dissociation? Do you feel alone and stuck? Do you always end up in similar toxic relationships? Do you always feel psychologically unsafe or powerless even when there is no more abuse? Do you feel overwhelmed and use external resource to try to forget or numb the pain? I understand how trauma can lead to mental and behavioral challenges. Trauma can prevent you from living authentically, triggering fear-based reactions and self-defeating thoughts. I'm here to help you unravel some of these thoughts and find inner peace.
(312) 820-9205 View (312) 820-9205
Photo of Amanda Collins, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Amanda Collins
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60657
Experiencing relationship stress—whether in the form of codependency, gaslighting, intimate partner violence, or substance use/addiction—can significantly impact your everyday life.
Individuals who are codependent often exhibit deep empathy and compassion for others, sometimes to the detriment of their own self-worth. Repetitive gaslighting can lead to self-doubt, shame, and a loss of identity. Together, we can examine your unique situation, rebuild confidence, and establish firm boundaries.
Experiencing relationship stress—whether in the form of codependency, gaslighting, intimate partner violence, or substance use/addiction—can significantly impact your everyday life.
Individuals who are codependent often exhibit deep empathy and compassion for others, sometimes to the detriment of their own self-worth. Repetitive gaslighting can lead to self-doubt, shame, and a loss of identity. Together, we can examine your unique situation, rebuild confidence, and establish firm boundaries.
(872) 259-5174 View (872) 259-5174
Photo of Jennifer L. Jackson, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Jennifer L. Jackson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Hello, my name is Jennifer Lee Jackson, and I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with over 14 years of clinical experience working with clients living with depression, anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, ADHD, Excoriation Disorder, addiction, unhelpful thinking styles, low self-esteem, codependency, poor boundary setting, PMDD, and trauma.
I will collaborate with you to develop goals that are important and unique to you, realistic, reachable, and measurable. I will guide you and teach you how to manage your thoughts, feelings, and experiences to achieve your goals personally and professionally. I like helping to break the stigma around living with mental illness.
Hello, my name is Jennifer Lee Jackson, and I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with over 14 years of clinical experience working with clients living with depression, anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, ADHD, Excoriation Disorder, addiction, unhelpful thinking styles, low self-esteem, codependency, poor boundary setting, PMDD, and trauma.
I will collaborate with you to develop goals that are important and unique to you, realistic, reachable, and measurable. I will guide you and teach you how to manage your thoughts, feelings, and experiences to achieve your goals personally and professionally. I like helping to break the stigma around living with mental illness.
(618) 205-9340 View (618) 205-9340
Photo of Nada C Pavlovic - Healing Tea Therapy Pllc, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, CCFP
Nada C Pavlovic - Healing Tea Therapy Pllc
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, CCFP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I specialize in the treatment of trauma, addiction, mood disorders, and codependency.
Welcome! Thanks for checking me out. I offer a casual and safe virtual environment (virtual only at this time). I see individuals, couples and families. I believe in recovery oriented living and offer therapy to develop what this might look like for each individual, whether it's recovery from trauma, addiction or other mental illness. Often life can feel out of balance and my goal is to collaborate with clients in putting their life back in balance by addressing emotional, cognitive and behavioral imbalances.
I specialize in the treatment of trauma, addiction, mood disorders, and codependency.
Welcome! Thanks for checking me out. I offer a casual and safe virtual environment (virtual only at this time). I see individuals, couples and families. I believe in recovery oriented living and offer therapy to develop what this might look like for each individual, whether it's recovery from trauma, addiction or other mental illness. Often life can feel out of balance and my goal is to collaborate with clients in putting their life back in balance by addressing emotional, cognitive and behavioral imbalances.
(773) 692-9511 View (773) 692-9511
Photo of Jennifer L Jackson, Counselor, MA, LCPC
Jennifer L Jackson
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Online Only
Hello, my name is Jennifer Lee Jackson, and I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with over 14 years of clinical experience working with clients living with depression, anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, ADHD, Excoriation Disorder, addiction, unhelpful thinking styles, low self-esteem, codependency, poor boundary setting, PMDD, and trauma.
I will collaborate with you to develop goals that are important and unique to you, realistic, reachable, and measurable. I will guide you and teach you how to manage your thoughts, feelings, and experiences to achieve your goals personally and professionally. I like helping to break the stigma around living with mental illness.
Hello, my name is Jennifer Lee Jackson, and I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with over 14 years of clinical experience working with clients living with depression, anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, ADHD, Excoriation Disorder, addiction, unhelpful thinking styles, low self-esteem, codependency, poor boundary setting, PMDD, and trauma.
I will collaborate with you to develop goals that are important and unique to you, realistic, reachable, and measurable. I will guide you and teach you how to manage your thoughts, feelings, and experiences to achieve your goals personally and professionally. I like helping to break the stigma around living with mental illness.
(312) 626-7594 View (312) 626-7594
Photo of Christine Vacin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Christine Vacin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Chicago, IL 60614
For over 15 years of providing therapy, Christine enjoys helping individuals recover from issues concerning self-esteem, anxiety, addiction, trauma, codependency, adjustments to motherhood, life transitions, self-identity, and relationship dynamics.
Christine is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with dual licensure in Illinois and Nevada. She utilizes a psychodynamic and strength-based approach to explore and work through unresolved issues. She views issues and obstacles through a solution-focused perspective to help empower her clients while they make progress towards healing and growing.
For over 15 years of providing therapy, Christine enjoys helping individuals recover from issues concerning self-esteem, anxiety, addiction, trauma, codependency, adjustments to motherhood, life transitions, self-identity, and relationship dynamics.
Christine is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with dual licensure in Illinois and Nevada. She utilizes a psychodynamic and strength-based approach to explore and work through unresolved issues. She views issues and obstacles through a solution-focused perspective to help empower her clients while they make progress towards healing and growing.
(702) 500-1252 View (702) 500-1252
Photo of Carrie Carren, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC
Carrie Carren
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC
4 Endorsed
Online Only
I specialize in working with divorced or divorcing women, codependency, addiction, and empowering women to build confidence.
Finding the right therapist is essential in one's journey toward overcoming obstacles. I believe counseling is a collaborative and creative process where we join together to establish the change you desire. I utilize a direct, honest, and genuine communication style in our relationship. My approach combines psychotherapy and the use of experiential therapy as a means of building communication, trust, and decision-making through individual and family treatment. My treatment also involves the partnership of animal assisted therapy with my Labrador Retriever.
I specialize in working with divorced or divorcing women, codependency, addiction, and empowering women to build confidence.
Finding the right therapist is essential in one's journey toward overcoming obstacles. I believe counseling is a collaborative and creative process where we join together to establish the change you desire. I utilize a direct, honest, and genuine communication style in our relationship. My approach combines psychotherapy and the use of experiential therapy as a means of building communication, trust, and decision-making through individual and family treatment. My treatment also involves the partnership of animal assisted therapy with my Labrador Retriever.
(847) 786-2659 View (847) 786-2659
Photo of Esther J Kim, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Esther J Kim
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
I come from a trauma-informed background with training in various areas of treatment including Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Anxiety, Grief, Codependency, Mindfulness, Restorative Practices, Race/Culture, Spirituality/Faith, as well as supporting individuals in transitional phases of life.
Do you feel restless, sad, anxious? Do you find it difficult to let go of past hurts and regrets? Are you filled with worry and self-doubt? Do these struggles have you feeling overwhelmed, unfocused, and interfere with your current life circumstances and relationships? Are you ready and willing to take the steps toward healing and peace of mind?
I come from a trauma-informed background with training in various areas of treatment including Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Anxiety, Grief, Codependency, Mindfulness, Restorative Practices, Race/Culture, Spirituality/Faith, as well as supporting individuals in transitional phases of life.
Do you feel restless, sad, anxious? Do you find it difficult to let go of past hurts and regrets? Are you filled with worry and self-doubt? Do these struggles have you feeling overwhelmed, unfocused, and interfere with your current life circumstances and relationships? Are you ready and willing to take the steps toward healing and peace of mind?
(630) 590-0659 View (630) 590-0659
Photo of Eileen Woltman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Eileen Woltman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
After a decade of working with families and individuals battling addiction and issues of codependency I have expanded my focus to also work with individuals struggling to manage people pleasing due to past trauma, substance misuse and generational abuse.
Ready to get rid of those feelings that keep you up all night? Ready to get rid of the feeling that something bad is going to happen, but it was years ago and you still can’t move forward? Still carrying the heaviness of something that happened in the past and feel like it is still controlling your life? Then it’s time to try Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART). Since 2008 ART, has been helping people move on from trauma and enjoy life without the burden of that trauma. ART has been successful in helping people move on from trauma more quickly than traditional talk therapy alone. Imagine life free of trauma. Let's get started.
After a decade of working with families and individuals battling addiction and issues of codependency I have expanded my focus to also work with individuals struggling to manage people pleasing due to past trauma, substance misuse and generational abuse.
Ready to get rid of those feelings that keep you up all night? Ready to get rid of the feeling that something bad is going to happen, but it was years ago and you still can’t move forward? Still carrying the heaviness of something that happened in the past and feel like it is still controlling your life? Then it’s time to try Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART). Since 2008 ART, has been helping people move on from trauma and enjoy life without the burden of that trauma. ART has been successful in helping people move on from trauma more quickly than traditional talk therapy alone. Imagine life free of trauma. Let's get started.
(224) 298-7822 View (224) 298-7822
Photo of David H. Johnson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
David H. Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Serves Area
I also address codependency issues, including self-care and all types of relational issues.
David H. Johnson, L.C.S.W. Are you in pain either emotionally or relationally or both? Psychotherapy is a way to stop the suffering and live life more fully both personally and relationally. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, and am certified and have training in the following disciplines: Addictions, Hypnotherapy, and Gestalt Therapy. I hold a M.A. degree in Social Work from the University of Chicago. For over 20 years, I have been counseling with individuals, couples, and has a specialty in mixed gender groups. I utilize a holistic approach, emphasizing healing of mind, body, spirit.
I also address codependency issues, including self-care and all types of relational issues.
David H. Johnson, L.C.S.W. Are you in pain either emotionally or relationally or both? Psychotherapy is a way to stop the suffering and live life more fully both personally and relationally. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, and am certified and have training in the following disciplines: Addictions, Hypnotherapy, and Gestalt Therapy. I hold a M.A. degree in Social Work from the University of Chicago. For over 20 years, I have been counseling with individuals, couples, and has a specialty in mixed gender groups. I utilize a holistic approach, emphasizing healing of mind, body, spirit.
(224) 334-3104 View (224) 334-3104
Photo of Michelle Krc, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW
Michelle Krc
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Many of my clients struggle with big emotions and reactions, relationship issues, codependency, anxiety, shame, and low self-esteem.
I utilize CBT, DBT, person-centered, psychodynamic, and compassion-focused therapy. I come from an attachment-based background, and am also certified in EMDR, which is a great tool to use if talking feels daunting. I tailor my therapeutic approach to best meet your needs, but most importantly I want to foster a meaningful and trusting connection.
Many of my clients struggle with big emotions and reactions, relationship issues, codependency, anxiety, shame, and low self-esteem.
I utilize CBT, DBT, person-centered, psychodynamic, and compassion-focused therapy. I come from an attachment-based background, and am also certified in EMDR, which is a great tool to use if talking feels daunting. I tailor my therapeutic approach to best meet your needs, but most importantly I want to foster a meaningful and trusting connection.
(847) 242-2369 View (847) 242-2369
Photo of Alesia Lacy, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Alesia Lacy
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Online Only
I have worked with all age groups in the areas of anxiety, depression, codependency, addiction, self-harming, chronic pain, relationship issues, anger management, and life transitions.
Hello and welcome. Have you been thinking about starting therapy for a while but feel overwhelmed by the idea of where to start? At whatever pace you are comfortable I am here to help you identify and prioritize your issues to begin managing and/or resolving the problems that are holding you back from thriving as your best self. My goal is to provide a welcoming and non-judgmental platform to help you become your own catalyst for self-empowerment. My counseling style is a client-centered strength-based approach that includes various treatment modalities depending on the client's needs and expectations.
I have worked with all age groups in the areas of anxiety, depression, codependency, addiction, self-harming, chronic pain, relationship issues, anger management, and life transitions.
Hello and welcome. Have you been thinking about starting therapy for a while but feel overwhelmed by the idea of where to start? At whatever pace you are comfortable I am here to help you identify and prioritize your issues to begin managing and/or resolving the problems that are holding you back from thriving as your best self. My goal is to provide a welcoming and non-judgmental platform to help you become your own catalyst for self-empowerment. My counseling style is a client-centered strength-based approach that includes various treatment modalities depending on the client's needs and expectations.
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Photo of Marisa Lewis, Counselor, MA, NCC, LCPC, CADC
Marisa Lewis
Counselor, MA, NCC, LCPC, CADC
4 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60625
Although I am comfortable working with many concerns, I am most passionate about providing therapy in areas related to anxiety, depression, codependency, addiction, life transitions, grief/loss, and relationships.
I provide tangible skills as tools to provide change, and then guide my clients to understand a deeper level of themselves, answering those "why" questions in order to encourage acceptance and self-compassion. This helps aid in long-term healing and change. This is through the lens of Internal Family Systems.
Although I am comfortable working with many concerns, I am most passionate about providing therapy in areas related to anxiety, depression, codependency, addiction, life transitions, grief/loss, and relationships.
I provide tangible skills as tools to provide change, and then guide my clients to understand a deeper level of themselves, answering those "why" questions in order to encourage acceptance and self-compassion. This helps aid in long-term healing and change. This is through the lens of Internal Family Systems.
(312) 467-7666 View (312) 467-7666
Photo of Kim Alberts, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LCPC
Kim Alberts
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LCPC
Online Only
I work with people experiencing depression, anxiety, effects of traumatic experiences, addictions and codependency, relationships, and life!
I work with clients aged 17 + experiencing issues of trauma, depression, addictions, anxiety, relationship issues, and life issues! Clients often need to discuss options and ways to change their reactions to situations.
I work with people experiencing depression, anxiety, effects of traumatic experiences, addictions and codependency, relationships, and life!
I work with clients aged 17 + experiencing issues of trauma, depression, addictions, anxiety, relationship issues, and life issues! Clients often need to discuss options and ways to change their reactions to situations.
(217) 207-3025 View (217) 207-3025
Photo of Aixa Dones, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Aixa Dones
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60613
I work with emerging and young adults to navigate anxiety, depression, family and generational trauma, inner child and shadow work, codependency, boundaries, self-esteem, relationships, and cultural identity.
Do you feel overwhelmed by emotions but struggle to put them into words? Maybe you cry or panic instead of expressing what’s truly inside. Perhaps you replay the past, wishing you could do things differently with the wisdom you have now. You might feel unheard or invalidated because communication feels difficult or even unsafe. As a POC therapist, I understand what it means to suppress emotions for family’s sake and follow silent, suffocating expectations. Together, we’ll explore how these unspoken rules shaped you and develop tools to express emotions that once felt impossible to name.
I work with emerging and young adults to navigate anxiety, depression, family and generational trauma, inner child and shadow work, codependency, boundaries, self-esteem, relationships, and cultural identity.
Do you feel overwhelmed by emotions but struggle to put them into words? Maybe you cry or panic instead of expressing what’s truly inside. Perhaps you replay the past, wishing you could do things differently with the wisdom you have now. You might feel unheard or invalidated because communication feels difficult or even unsafe. As a POC therapist, I understand what it means to suppress emotions for family’s sake and follow silent, suffocating expectations. Together, we’ll explore how these unspoken rules shaped you and develop tools to express emotions that once felt impossible to name.
(773) 830-3137 View (773) 830-3137
Photo of Tom Doctor, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC
Tom Doctor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC
Chicago, IL 60618
My clinical experience is focused on working with individuals, couples, adolescents, and families on issues including addiction, alcoholism, substance abuse, relationship/marital conflicts, codependency, divorce, infidelity, PTSD, childhood trauma, emotional abuse, anxiety, social anxiety, depression, life transition, LGBTQ+ issues, sexual health concerns, non-monogamy/polyamory, kink/BDSM, and intimacy injuries.
My therapeutic goal is to help clients live authentically and intentionally. I strive to foster an affirming space to help allow my clients to openly explore their thoughts, feelings and relationships. I work with my clients to utilize their own strengths and resilience to help propel themselves forward towards achieving and surpassing their goals.
My clinical experience is focused on working with individuals, couples, adolescents, and families on issues including addiction, alcoholism, substance abuse, relationship/marital conflicts, codependency, divorce, infidelity, PTSD, childhood trauma, emotional abuse, anxiety, social anxiety, depression, life transition, LGBTQ+ issues, sexual health concerns, non-monogamy/polyamory, kink/BDSM, and intimacy injuries.
My therapeutic goal is to help clients live authentically and intentionally. I strive to foster an affirming space to help allow my clients to openly explore their thoughts, feelings and relationships. I work with my clients to utilize their own strengths and resilience to help propel themselves forward towards achieving and surpassing their goals.
(773) 207-3046 View (773) 207-3046

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Codependency Therapists

What therapy types help with codependency problems?

Both couples and family therapy and cognitive and behavioral therapy (CBT) can help with the relationship difficulties referred to as codependency. Such problems typically include inappropriate feelings of responsibility for a loved one’s destructive behavior, irrational patterns of thinking about such behavior, and family interaction patterns in which the needs of one troubled member override the needs of others in a household.

What happens in therapy for codependency?

Spouses and family members learn and practice how to interact and support each other in a healthy way without sacrificing their own needs or well-being. They learn the limits of their responsibility for their loved ones and correct faulty patterns of thinking and feeling that underlie codependent behavior. Individuals may be encouraged to nurture an array of social relationships and to cultivate their own talents and interests so that they develop a healthy sense of self outside the family.

How does therapy help a person or couple overcome codependency?

Therapy helps people establish healthy ways of being in a relationship. Spouses and family members learn how to nurture and support one another without sacrificing their own needs or allowing the needs of one person to dominate the dynamic. Individuals learn how to say no and set boundaries, and how to maintain their own identity and self-esteem. Therapy helps people understand that they are not responsible for the feelings and actions of others. It also helps individuals deal with the turbulence that can come from living with a person suffering from such conditions as substance abuse and mental illness.

What is the goal of therapy for codependency?

One goal of therapy for codependency is to alleviate feelings of responsibility for and correct irrational patterns of thinking about loved ones whose behavioral problems override the needs of others in a household. Therapy helps people establish healthy boundaries of behavior and speak up for their own needs in a relationship. In addition, people learn how to maintain a healthy relationship, one in which both parties give and receive equally and are able to retain their own identity.