Codependency Therapists in Mount Sterling, KY

Photo of Angel D. Conley, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Mount Sterling, KY
Angel D. Conley
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MEd, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
Mount Sterling, KY 40353
Your authentic self is waiting for you! Challenging or traumatic life experiences often overshadow our authentic selves. We may feel stuck, lack motivation, or chronically procrastinate. Irrational and self defeating thoughts lead to fear, anxiety, depression, excessive worry, and may manifest in physical symptoms. When we live in this cycle too long it becomes our normal. We may recycle past trauma into present relationships. We find harmful ways to cope; such as people pleasing, codependency and addictive behaviors including, but not limited to substance abuse.
Your authentic self is waiting for you! Challenging or traumatic life experiences often overshadow our authentic selves. We may feel stuck, lack motivation, or chronically procrastinate. Irrational and self defeating thoughts lead to fear, anxiety, depression, excessive worry, and may manifest in physical symptoms. When we live in this cycle too long it becomes our normal. We may recycle past trauma into present relationships. We find harmful ways to cope; such as people pleasing, codependency and addictive behaviors including, but not limited to substance abuse.
(859) 237-8981 View (859) 237-8981
Photo of Vicci Phillips, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Mount Sterling, KY
Vicci Phillips
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MS, LPCC
Verified Verified
Mount Sterling, KY 40353
We all encounter problems in life, and seeking help to overcome these difficulties is smart, healthy, and courageous. As a counselor, I am passionate about helping people discover how to navigate life's obstacles. Together, we will work toward helping you achieve your goals, all in a confidential, accepting, and non-judgmental environment. We will explore the areas in your life that are not working as well as you would like and find avenues toward hope, health, and healing.
We all encounter problems in life, and seeking help to overcome these difficulties is smart, healthy, and courageous. As a counselor, I am passionate about helping people discover how to navigate life's obstacles. Together, we will work toward helping you achieve your goals, all in a confidential, accepting, and non-judgmental environment. We will explore the areas in your life that are not working as well as you would like and find avenues toward hope, health, and healing.
(859) 577-9349 View (859) 577-9349
Photo of Kendra O Poe, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Mount Sterling, KY
Kendra O Poe
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC, NCCE-A
Verified Verified
Mount Sterling, KY 40353
Thank you for taking the first step and considering counseling services. Counseling is a journey towards wellness. At Thrive Counseling & Consultation, we strive to help clients not only survive, but to thrive. Our environment is nonjudgmental in nature,and a safe place to explore life's difficulties and trials. We will be by your side for talk therapy every step along the way. Call today for help from a caring professional!
Thank you for taking the first step and considering counseling services. Counseling is a journey towards wellness. At Thrive Counseling & Consultation, we strive to help clients not only survive, but to thrive. Our environment is nonjudgmental in nature,and a safe place to explore life's difficulties and trials. We will be by your side for talk therapy every step along the way. Call today for help from a caring professional!
(859) 898-2479 View (859) 898-2479

Online Therapists

Photo of Carolyn (Cece) Lindsey, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Mount Sterling, KY
Carolyn (Cece) Lindsey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Louisville, KY 40222
We offer men's recovery groups, parents of addicts groups, women's recovery groups, codependency groups & Adult Children of Alcoholics groups.
Life is a series of transitions - some peaks and some valleys. I find these valleys often are a result of internal conflict and external events or pressure. I believe that we all have an authentic self and much of the internal conflict comes from living inauthentically, which develops into maladaptive behaviors. There’s “the way it seems” and “the way it is,” and sometimes we all need someone to remind us of “the way it is.” That’s where I come in - my goals are to work TOGETHER with you to navigate a new path toward living your most authentic life and finding inner peace and confidence to be that person.
We offer men's recovery groups, parents of addicts groups, women's recovery groups, codependency groups & Adult Children of Alcoholics groups.
Life is a series of transitions - some peaks and some valleys. I find these valleys often are a result of internal conflict and external events or pressure. I believe that we all have an authentic self and much of the internal conflict comes from living inauthentically, which develops into maladaptive behaviors. There’s “the way it seems” and “the way it is,” and sometimes we all need someone to remind us of “the way it is.” That’s where I come in - my goals are to work TOGETHER with you to navigate a new path toward living your most authentic life and finding inner peace and confidence to be that person.
(502) 236-9338 View (502) 236-9338
Photo of Sara Semenick, Marriage & Family Therapist in Mount Sterling, KY
Sara Semenick
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40207
Waitlist for new clients
My training and experience enables me to offer effective counseling from a systemic perspective to individuals, families, and couples who are dealing with a variety of issues - anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship struggles, codependency, sexual trauma, etc.
My desire is to create a safe and welcoming space for you to begin your therapy journey. I want your experience to be tailor-made to you and your story. I believe every person is made in the image of God and therefore, every life has value, worth and dignity regardless of what life challenges you have encountered. My hope is that you will feel safe and cared for, so that you can dive fully into your healing journey. I have seen that clients who have an open mind, are ready to work, and are hopeful to change achieve their goals and grow more into the people they want to be. Those who take ownership of the journey find success.
My training and experience enables me to offer effective counseling from a systemic perspective to individuals, families, and couples who are dealing with a variety of issues - anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship struggles, codependency, sexual trauma, etc.
My desire is to create a safe and welcoming space for you to begin your therapy journey. I want your experience to be tailor-made to you and your story. I believe every person is made in the image of God and therefore, every life has value, worth and dignity regardless of what life challenges you have encountered. My hope is that you will feel safe and cared for, so that you can dive fully into your healing journey. I have seen that clients who have an open mind, are ready to work, and are hopeful to change achieve their goals and grow more into the people they want to be. Those who take ownership of the journey find success.
(502) 430-7432 View (502) 430-7432
Photo of Rachael Renshaw- Millennial Therapist, Counselor in Mount Sterling, KY
Rachael Renshaw- Millennial Therapist
Counselor, BA, MEd, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40207
Waitlist for new clients
I have intensive experience and specialize in treating the following mental health diagnoses: Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Depression, OCD, codependency, and disordered eating.
What part of your life is the source of feelings of depression, anxiety, perfectionism, shame, or relational issues? It can be difficult to develop self awareness in which we can distinguish the root cause of poor quality of life. I specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy which is geared towards aiding clients in developing a self awareness of unhealthy thinking habits and behaviors and teaching thought stopping, mindfulness techniques, and replacement thoughts. I also utilize Dialectical Behavioral and Brief Solution Focused strategies, which aid clients in the most time efficient manner possible.
I have intensive experience and specialize in treating the following mental health diagnoses: Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Depression, OCD, codependency, and disordered eating.
What part of your life is the source of feelings of depression, anxiety, perfectionism, shame, or relational issues? It can be difficult to develop self awareness in which we can distinguish the root cause of poor quality of life. I specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy which is geared towards aiding clients in developing a self awareness of unhealthy thinking habits and behaviors and teaching thought stopping, mindfulness techniques, and replacement thoughts. I also utilize Dialectical Behavioral and Brief Solution Focused strategies, which aid clients in the most time efficient manner possible.
(859) 353-6796 View (859) 353-6796
Photo of Angela Kirkland, Psychologist in Mount Sterling, KY
Angela Kirkland
Psychologist, MA, CPAF
Verified Verified
Lexington, KY 40503
I have worked with many types of issues such as depression, anxiety, panic, codependency, and even the stress of aging parents.
If you are struggling with emotional stress, long for better relationships, or wish to address difficult circumstances in the past or present, then the assistance of a mental health professional may be a step in the right direction. Building a partnership with a therapist can help you process those issues and build skills to better tackle challenges. As a Cognitive Behavioral Therapist, I help clients understand how the mind interprets and reacts to situations, and then arm them with tools. With knowledge brings awareness, and awareness creates the opportunity for positive change.
I have worked with many types of issues such as depression, anxiety, panic, codependency, and even the stress of aging parents.
If you are struggling with emotional stress, long for better relationships, or wish to address difficult circumstances in the past or present, then the assistance of a mental health professional may be a step in the right direction. Building a partnership with a therapist can help you process those issues and build skills to better tackle challenges. As a Cognitive Behavioral Therapist, I help clients understand how the mind interprets and reacts to situations, and then arm them with tools. With knowledge brings awareness, and awareness creates the opportunity for positive change.
(859) 209-6595 View (859) 209-6595
Photo of Angelina Wedding, Counselor in Mount Sterling, KY
Angelina Wedding
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Lexington, KY 40509  (Online Only)
I have a wide range of experiences and feel confident working with clients experiencing issues in the following areas: addiction, depression, relationship issues, child & adolescent issues, sexuality, bereavement, anxiety, and codependency.
I love my work and enjoy offering my clients a safe and supportive environment for them to grow and explore themselves. My style is both conversational and relational. I offer an authentic presence within a collaborative, lively relationship in which self-discovery can be non-threatening and perhaps, even fun. I am committed to sharing everything I know which I believe will help heal the difficulties in one's life. I am inspired each day by the courage clients have each moment they show up for therapy. I became a therapist because, to me, the value in life comes when you return to your value within.
I have a wide range of experiences and feel confident working with clients experiencing issues in the following areas: addiction, depression, relationship issues, child & adolescent issues, sexuality, bereavement, anxiety, and codependency.
I love my work and enjoy offering my clients a safe and supportive environment for them to grow and explore themselves. My style is both conversational and relational. I offer an authentic presence within a collaborative, lively relationship in which self-discovery can be non-threatening and perhaps, even fun. I am committed to sharing everything I know which I believe will help heal the difficulties in one's life. I am inspired each day by the courage clients have each moment they show up for therapy. I became a therapist because, to me, the value in life comes when you return to your value within.
(859) 765-7802 View (859) 765-7802
Photo of Sam Fox Gabinio, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Mount Sterling, KY
Sam Fox Gabinio
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MMFT
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40222
I provide family therapy for a wide variety of life challenges including family loss/crisis, life transition, substance abuse and codependency issues and more.
If you are reading this to seek out support for yourself or a loved one, I am proud of you! Asking for help is a brave thing to do. I hope you give yourself credit for each piece of your journey. As a therapist, I walk alongside a person or family and give encouragement and honest reflections of what I see. I am kind and understanding. I work with transgender people for support during all phases of life. One of my specialties is supporting parents of transgender people of all ages. I am transgender and LGBTQ+ affirming. I help parents of transgender and LGBTQ+ people build their confidence in parenting.
I provide family therapy for a wide variety of life challenges including family loss/crisis, life transition, substance abuse and codependency issues and more.
If you are reading this to seek out support for yourself or a loved one, I am proud of you! Asking for help is a brave thing to do. I hope you give yourself credit for each piece of your journey. As a therapist, I walk alongside a person or family and give encouragement and honest reflections of what I see. I am kind and understanding. I work with transgender people for support during all phases of life. One of my specialties is supporting parents of transgender people of all ages. I am transgender and LGBTQ+ affirming. I help parents of transgender and LGBTQ+ people build their confidence in parenting.
(502) 906-6598 View (502) 906-6598
Photo of Sara Hoover, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Mount Sterling, KY
Sara Hoover
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MS, LISW, CPC
Verified Verified
Newport, KY 41073  (Online Only)
Additionally, I specialize in working with adults struggling with anxiety, depression, grief / loss, trauma, life transitions, self-esteem issues, codependency and relationship issues.
Are you tired of feeling bad about yourself, being your own worst critic, feeling stuck, anxious and/or depressed? I provide a safe, nonjudgmental space for you to begin to change how you see yourself, improve how you feel and move forward in your life. I offer virtual therapy sessions, including virtual EMDR, as well as Life Coaching sessions. I am licensed in Ohio and Kentucky.
Additionally, I specialize in working with adults struggling with anxiety, depression, grief / loss, trauma, life transitions, self-esteem issues, codependency and relationship issues.
Are you tired of feeling bad about yourself, being your own worst critic, feeling stuck, anxious and/or depressed? I provide a safe, nonjudgmental space for you to begin to change how you see yourself, improve how you feel and move forward in your life. I offer virtual therapy sessions, including virtual EMDR, as well as Life Coaching sessions. I am licensed in Ohio and Kentucky.
(614) 918-4594 View (614) 918-4594
Photo of Acadia Counseling, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Mount Sterling, KY
Acadia Counseling, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Louisville, KY 40207
com) to view each counselor profile and select the right match for you! Some of our specialties include: anxiety, insomnia, codependency, parenting struggles, depression, relationship difficulties, life transitions, and hopelessness/worthlessness.
The team of helpers at Acadia Counseling is ready to assist you with whatever is weighing you down. Maybe you have never attended counseling before. Maybe you tried it once or twice and didn't like the professional you saw. Whatever your situation, we are ready to help!
com) to view each counselor profile and select the right match for you! Some of our specialties include: anxiety, insomnia, codependency, parenting struggles, depression, relationship difficulties, life transitions, and hopelessness/worthlessness.
The team of helpers at Acadia Counseling is ready to assist you with whatever is weighing you down. Maybe you have never attended counseling before. Maybe you tried it once or twice and didn't like the professional you saw. Whatever your situation, we are ready to help!
(502) 825-1375 View (502) 825-1375
Photo of Wanda Hale Schubarth, Marriage & Family Therapist in Mount Sterling, KY
Wanda Hale Schubarth
Marriage & Family Therapist, MAMFT, LMFT
Verified Verified
Nicholasville, KY 40356
I provide counseling to clients struggling with underdeveloped identity issues due to codependency and/or unsatisfactory relationships, anxiety, depression, conflict issues, low self-esteem, unresolved emotional pain, grief, divorce adjustment, communication issues, and an array of other life challenges.
One of my great privileges in life is being afforded the opportunity to help others heal and grow from life hurts and challenges. Life transitions and struggles offer the opportunity to find greater clarity of purpose, more meaningful relationships, increased confidence, and personal satisfaction. Therapy is a unique and personal journey built on mutual trust and respect. My style is gentle and yet direct, respectful, engaging, and collaborative. I work with individuals, couples, and families to help identify and solve personal life challenges that arise individually, family related, and couple relationship difficulties. Healing, growth, and transformation is the goal.
I provide counseling to clients struggling with underdeveloped identity issues due to codependency and/or unsatisfactory relationships, anxiety, depression, conflict issues, low self-esteem, unresolved emotional pain, grief, divorce adjustment, communication issues, and an array of other life challenges.
One of my great privileges in life is being afforded the opportunity to help others heal and grow from life hurts and challenges. Life transitions and struggles offer the opportunity to find greater clarity of purpose, more meaningful relationships, increased confidence, and personal satisfaction. Therapy is a unique and personal journey built on mutual trust and respect. My style is gentle and yet direct, respectful, engaging, and collaborative. I work with individuals, couples, and families to help identify and solve personal life challenges that arise individually, family related, and couple relationship difficulties. Healing, growth, and transformation is the goal.
(859) 449-7387 View (859) 449-7387
Photo of Maya Jundi, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Mount Sterling, KY
Maya Jundi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, CSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lexington, KY 40503
Do you need support to achieve your goals and navigate daily life stressors? Have you been considering that it may be time to talk with someone to achieve the desired results you’ve been wanting? I enjoy working with clients struggling with addiction, depression/anxiety, life transitions, grief/loss, codependency, and relationship concerns. I am LGBTQ+ affirming and welcome all gender identities, sexualities, and presentations into my office.
Do you need support to achieve your goals and navigate daily life stressors? Have you been considering that it may be time to talk with someone to achieve the desired results you’ve been wanting? I enjoy working with clients struggling with addiction, depression/anxiety, life transitions, grief/loss, codependency, and relationship concerns. I am LGBTQ+ affirming and welcome all gender identities, sexualities, and presentations into my office.
(859) 762-6860 View (859) 762-6860
Photo of Elizabeth Walden, Counselor in Mount Sterling, KY
Elizabeth Walden
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Richmond, KY 40475
My name is Elizabeth Walden. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. I use a personalized, client-centered approach recognizing that you are the expert on you! I'm here to facilitate growth and change using strategies designed uniquely for you based on your strengths, perception of the world, past behaviors and hopes for the future. I primarily work with individual adults struggling with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, job stress, situational depression or stress, relationship issues, addiction, ADHD, codependency, trauma, family issues, hopelessness and anger.
My name is Elizabeth Walden. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. I use a personalized, client-centered approach recognizing that you are the expert on you! I'm here to facilitate growth and change using strategies designed uniquely for you based on your strengths, perception of the world, past behaviors and hopes for the future. I primarily work with individual adults struggling with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, job stress, situational depression or stress, relationship issues, addiction, ADHD, codependency, trauma, family issues, hopelessness and anger.
(859) 217-6515 View (859) 217-6515
Photo of Tracey L.Carson LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Mount Sterling, KY
Tracey L.Carson LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, ACSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40222
I am passionate about working with addictions (drugs, alcohol, eating, sex, gambling etc); codependency and other traumas.
My clinical skills are vast after over 30 years in private practice and 40 years as a social worker. I have worked with the military in Europe as a family therapist and participate in the Give an Hour Program here in Kentucky. I serve on several boards including the Kent School Social Work Board, and the National Association of Social Work Ethics Committee.
I am passionate about working with addictions (drugs, alcohol, eating, sex, gambling etc); codependency and other traumas.
My clinical skills are vast after over 30 years in private practice and 40 years as a social worker. I have worked with the military in Europe as a family therapist and participate in the Give an Hour Program here in Kentucky. I serve on several boards including the Kent School Social Work Board, and the National Association of Social Work Ethics Committee.
(502) 251-9137 View (502) 251-9137
Photo of Katie Fulinello, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Mount Sterling, KY
Katie Fulinello
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40207
I specialize in helping clients address anxiety, burnout, codependency, and difficult relationships.
I believe the greatest gift is to feel confident being fully ourselves. My work is based on the belief that the best outcomes develop from the strongest relationships, including our relationship with self. I'm passionate about helping clients break negative habits and develop new tools to lead life more fully, and in greater alignment with self.
I specialize in helping clients address anxiety, burnout, codependency, and difficult relationships.
I believe the greatest gift is to feel confident being fully ourselves. My work is based on the belief that the best outcomes develop from the strongest relationships, including our relationship with self. I'm passionate about helping clients break negative habits and develop new tools to lead life more fully, and in greater alignment with self.
(502) 306-0242 View (502) 306-0242
Photo of Discover You Counseling, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Mount Sterling, KY
Discover You Counseling, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCADC
Verified Verified
Lexington, KY 40509
Helping people is not only our profession, but also a passion. We provide support for: addiction, codependency, mental health, relationship issues, anger management, and counseling. Through empathy, compassion, knowledge, and understanding we can help you utilize tools that you already possess to help you succeed with lasting changes to your life.
Helping people is not only our profession, but also a passion. We provide support for: addiction, codependency, mental health, relationship issues, anger management, and counseling. Through empathy, compassion, knowledge, and understanding we can help you utilize tools that you already possess to help you succeed with lasting changes to your life.
(859) 898-2315 View (859) 898-2315
Photo of Luke Buckman, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Mount Sterling, KY
Luke Buckman, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lexington, KY 40508
I work with children, adolescents and adults, in varying degrees of distress. Many clients enter their therapeutic relationship with presenting problems which may include depression, anxiety, dysfunction in a primary relationship, or grief and loss. Others present addiction and codependency patterns that cause chronic difficulties with maintaining healthy relationships. Some suffer trauma that remains buried and entangled deep within. All are seeking a new path out of their suffering and into an enlightened experienced of themselves and the world. Together we will seek that fresh perspective, allowing old wounds to heal and creating space for a renewed vision of hope.
I work with children, adolescents and adults, in varying degrees of distress. Many clients enter their therapeutic relationship with presenting problems which may include depression, anxiety, dysfunction in a primary relationship, or grief and loss. Others present addiction and codependency patterns that cause chronic difficulties with maintaining healthy relationships. Some suffer trauma that remains buried and entangled deep within. All are seeking a new path out of their suffering and into an enlightened experienced of themselves and the world. Together we will seek that fresh perspective, allowing old wounds to heal and creating space for a renewed vision of hope.
(859) 905-3325 View (859) 905-3325
Photo of Dr. Tomerial Brooks, LCSW, MBA , Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Mount Sterling, KY
Dr. Tomerial Brooks, LCSW, MBA
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSW, MBA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lexington, KY 40517  (Online Only)
Other specialties include: Career development/identity development, life transition issues, codependency issues and multicultural/racial identity concerns.
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker the past 16 years, I have worked with a variety of clients including Adolescents, Adults and Emerging Adults. I enjoy working with adults most. Having worked at a CMHC the majority of my career, I gained skills in working with adults presenting with a range of concerns including trauma, mood disorders, addictions, grief, anxiety and depression as well as life transition changes. I also have experience with anger management, parenting issues and multicultural concerns. I hold a range of clinical expertise and experience working with adults from a place of compassion, understanding and in a judgement free environment.
Other specialties include: Career development/identity development, life transition issues, codependency issues and multicultural/racial identity concerns.
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker the past 16 years, I have worked with a variety of clients including Adolescents, Adults and Emerging Adults. I enjoy working with adults most. Having worked at a CMHC the majority of my career, I gained skills in working with adults presenting with a range of concerns including trauma, mood disorders, addictions, grief, anxiety and depression as well as life transition changes. I also have experience with anger management, parenting issues and multicultural concerns. I hold a range of clinical expertise and experience working with adults from a place of compassion, understanding and in a judgement free environment.
(859) 298-3487 View (859) 298-3487
Photo of Creative Counseling Solutions PLLC - Linda Rose, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Mount Sterling, KY
Creative Counseling Solutions PLLC - Linda Rose
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC, MEd, ATR
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40222
I'm accepting Clients! and offering ZOOM, phone and office sessions. FIRST SESSION DISCOUNT! Feeling Stuck? Need Solutions? Everyone does sometimes. When you're stuck, try something different! I treat Individuals, couples, families - I am genuine, down to earth, empathetic and take a gentle approach, I treat depression, anxiety, trauma, abuse, grief/loss, job stresses, toxic relationships and divorce recovery. Are you a highly sensitive person? Does life overwhelm you? I understand and I can help. If spirituality is a comfort, I am a Christian and comfortable including all faiths into our conversations.
I'm accepting Clients! and offering ZOOM, phone and office sessions. FIRST SESSION DISCOUNT! Feeling Stuck? Need Solutions? Everyone does sometimes. When you're stuck, try something different! I treat Individuals, couples, families - I am genuine, down to earth, empathetic and take a gentle approach, I treat depression, anxiety, trauma, abuse, grief/loss, job stresses, toxic relationships and divorce recovery. Are you a highly sensitive person? Does life overwhelm you? I understand and I can help. If spirituality is a comfort, I am a Christian and comfortable including all faiths into our conversations.
(502) 804-2100 View (502) 804-2100

See more therapy options for Mount Sterling

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.