Codependency Therapists in Elkin, NC

Photo of Jordan Gwyn Stoltzfus Parigi, Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, MA
Jordan Gwyn Stoltzfus Parigi
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, MA
1 Endorsed
Elkin, NC 28621
I am a Licensed Mental Health therapist in the state of North Carolina. I am actively accepting new patients and work with individuals that are 18 and older. Through my years of experience, I have learned to connect with a wide range of individuals that are experiencing symptoms such as: Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar, PTSD, and a wide range of other concerns and diagnosis. The main therapeutic approaches are: CBT, ACT, and Motivational Interviewing. I specialize in transitional times in life that raise a sense of uncertainty and begin to create a foundation with the client that creates a sense of stability.
I am a Licensed Mental Health therapist in the state of North Carolina. I am actively accepting new patients and work with individuals that are 18 and older. Through my years of experience, I have learned to connect with a wide range of individuals that are experiencing symptoms such as: Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar, PTSD, and a wide range of other concerns and diagnosis. The main therapeutic approaches are: CBT, ACT, and Motivational Interviewing. I specialize in transitional times in life that raise a sense of uncertainty and begin to create a foundation with the client that creates a sense of stability.
(336) 606-3889 View (336) 606-3889
Photo of Melissa Strickland-Hanks, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCMHC, CSAC
Melissa Strickland-Hanks
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCMHC, CSAC
Online Only
Christian Counseling- Are you able to maintain your daily routine & responsibilities but continue to struggle with anxiety, panic attacks, and depression? Are you a family member of a person struggling with drug addiction or alcoholism and feel overwhelmed, confused, and lost in how to support them? Are you a hardworking mother who feels anxious and worried about your children? Have you been involved in an unhealthy relationship and finding it difficult to break free and move on with your life? You want to feel understood, validated, and supported in your struggles and find effective ways to manage and overcome these issues
Christian Counseling- Are you able to maintain your daily routine & responsibilities but continue to struggle with anxiety, panic attacks, and depression? Are you a family member of a person struggling with drug addiction or alcoholism and feel overwhelmed, confused, and lost in how to support them? Are you a hardworking mother who feels anxious and worried about your children? Have you been involved in an unhealthy relationship and finding it difficult to break free and move on with your life? You want to feel understood, validated, and supported in your struggles and find effective ways to manage and overcome these issues
(276) 218-2278 View (276) 218-2278

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Stéphanie Gimenez - Safe Haven Counseling, PLLC | Stéphanie Gimenez, Licensed Professional Counselor, NCC, LCMHC, LCAS-A
Safe Haven Counseling, PLLC | Stéphanie Gimenez
Licensed Professional Counselor, NCC, LCMHC, LCAS-A
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Stéphanie Gimenez is a trilingual immigrant with a rich cultural background who provides domestic violence (DV), mental health (MH), addiction, career & grief counseling services in English, Spanish & French. As a DV survivor, single mother & advocate for gender, racial, religious, cultural & social equality, Stéphanie provides individual, couple & group counseling in person, online, via phone & in-home to help her clients break free from DV, heal from trauma, manage mental illness, improve overall wellness, address relationship or addiction issues, work through grief or seek career advancement & improve their quality of life.
Stéphanie Gimenez is a trilingual immigrant with a rich cultural background who provides domestic violence (DV), mental health (MH), addiction, career & grief counseling services in English, Spanish & French. As a DV survivor, single mother & advocate for gender, racial, religious, cultural & social equality, Stéphanie provides individual, couple & group counseling in person, online, via phone & in-home to help her clients break free from DV, heal from trauma, manage mental illness, improve overall wellness, address relationship or addiction issues, work through grief or seek career advancement & improve their quality of life.
(336) 396-7834 View (336) 396-7834
Photo of Chantal D Hayes - Banyan Tree Counseling & Wellness, MA, LCMHC-S, NCC
Banyan Tree Counseling & Wellness
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Serves Area
Our work is dedicated to helping ALL people develop healthy, satisfying, productive, and meaningful lives. Though it can be difficult to make the decision to begin therapy, we have found that those who have sought help and take responsibility for their emotional health and relationships have achieved remarkable results. People come to us for a variety of reasons: they may be in transition, experiencing work stress, grieving a loss, struggling with religious or family ideals which no longer suit them, a new parent experiencing anxiety. Some have begun to feel daily life is stagnant, seeking more direction and purpose in their lives.
Our work is dedicated to helping ALL people develop healthy, satisfying, productive, and meaningful lives. Though it can be difficult to make the decision to begin therapy, we have found that those who have sought help and take responsibility for their emotional health and relationships have achieved remarkable results. People come to us for a variety of reasons: they may be in transition, experiencing work stress, grieving a loss, struggling with religious or family ideals which no longer suit them, a new parent experiencing anxiety. Some have begun to feel daily life is stagnant, seeking more direction and purpose in their lives.
(336) 750-6824 View (336) 750-6824
Photo of Pete G. McGourty, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LPC, CPC
Pete G. McGourty
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LPC, CPC
Statesville, NC 28625
My ideal client is a male or female aged 25 to 65. You are intelligent, motivated, professional, capable of self reflection. You realize there are areas in your life in need of tweaking to help you maximize your potential. It may be in the realm of your personal or work relationships. You may need guidance to effectively grieve a significant loss. Are you questioning your religious or spiritual beliefs and seeking truth. You may simply need a safe place to express tough real life issues. Perhaps a blind spot is impeding your progress. I can most definitely help! Act now no delay for it is plain you shall not pass this way again!
My ideal client is a male or female aged 25 to 65. You are intelligent, motivated, professional, capable of self reflection. You realize there are areas in your life in need of tweaking to help you maximize your potential. It may be in the realm of your personal or work relationships. You may need guidance to effectively grieve a significant loss. Are you questioning your religious or spiritual beliefs and seeking truth. You may simply need a safe place to express tough real life issues. Perhaps a blind spot is impeding your progress. I can most definitely help! Act now no delay for it is plain you shall not pass this way again!
(704) 459-6640 View (704) 459-6640
Photo of Michele Hairston, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MAMF, LCMHCS, ICST, CCAPT
Michele Hairston
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MAMF, LCMHCS, ICST, CCAPT
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
As a counselor, I believe that true and lasting change comes from looking at the whole person. I work with patients to bring about transformation through an understanding of the body, emotional healing, behavioral change and a spiritual foundation. I enjoy working with adolescents and families who have been affected by violence, trauma, family changes, drugs and major life changes. I also work with individuals who suffer from depression, anxiety, life changes, addictions as a result of trauma, self-regulation, stress and conflict. I desire to help strengthen and deepen your personal relationship with Jesus Christ as you heal.
As a counselor, I believe that true and lasting change comes from looking at the whole person. I work with patients to bring about transformation through an understanding of the body, emotional healing, behavioral change and a spiritual foundation. I enjoy working with adolescents and families who have been affected by violence, trauma, family changes, drugs and major life changes. I also work with individuals who suffer from depression, anxiety, life changes, addictions as a result of trauma, self-regulation, stress and conflict. I desire to help strengthen and deepen your personal relationship with Jesus Christ as you heal.
(336) 663-0423 View (336) 663-0423
Photo of Andrea Miles, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LPC, LCMHC
Andrea Miles
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LPC, LCMHC
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Seeking help is a sign of strength and health, not weakness or shame. You have a story and it matters. As an experienced mental health therapist, I feel honored to listen to your story as we work together toward change and healing. My style is warm, supportive, emotions-focused and collaborative. I place the utmost importance on developing a strong, trusting therapeutic relationship. I am grounded in person-centered counseling, which emphasizes empathy, authenticity, and acceptance in relationships. Make the investment of time and energy to improve the most influential relationships of your life-it is what we all desire and deserve.
Seeking help is a sign of strength and health, not weakness or shame. You have a story and it matters. As an experienced mental health therapist, I feel honored to listen to your story as we work together toward change and healing. My style is warm, supportive, emotions-focused and collaborative. I place the utmost importance on developing a strong, trusting therapeutic relationship. I am grounded in person-centered counseling, which emphasizes empathy, authenticity, and acceptance in relationships. Make the investment of time and energy to improve the most influential relationships of your life-it is what we all desire and deserve.
(336) 948-8572 View (336) 948-8572
Photo of Whitney B Smith, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, LPC
Whitney B Smith
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, LPC
1 Endorsed
Mount Airy, NC 27030
My areas of competence include attachment, complex post-traumatic stress disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, EMDR, somatic psychotherapy, codependency, boundary issues, anxiety, depression, grief, childhood trauma and abuse.
I am currently a licensed clinical mental health counselor (LCMHC) in North Carolina and a licensed professional counselor (LPC) in Virginia. To date, my clinical experience includes community mental health as a site supervisor of a school-based mental health program, a clinical trainer at the Center for Counselor Education and Family Studies at Liberty University, and as an outpatient therapist in two different practice. My experience in the community, private, and academic sectors has allowed me to work with a variety of clinical issues.
My areas of competence include attachment, complex post-traumatic stress disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, EMDR, somatic psychotherapy, codependency, boundary issues, anxiety, depression, grief, childhood trauma and abuse.
I am currently a licensed clinical mental health counselor (LCMHC) in North Carolina and a licensed professional counselor (LPC) in Virginia. To date, my clinical experience includes community mental health as a site supervisor of a school-based mental health program, a clinical trainer at the Center for Counselor Education and Family Studies at Liberty University, and as an outpatient therapist in two different practice. My experience in the community, private, and academic sectors has allowed me to work with a variety of clinical issues.
(336) 347-4538 View (336) 347-4538
Photo of Samantha Perry - Marigold Behavioral Health, PLLC, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MHS, LCMHC, NCC
Marigold Behavioral Health, PLLC
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MHS, LCMHC, NCC
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
Sometimes it can feel overwhelming to sit with your feelings - so let us sit with you! As a practice, our focus is to support patients in achieving a higher degree of satisfaction as they work towards their desired therapeutic goals. We pride ourselves on creating the most affirming, culturally sensitive, and neurodiverse space possible where individual differences and strengths are celebrated and sensory overload is minimized. Sessions are designed to help patients understand the core of their emotions and behaviors, and assist in regaining self-confidence and contentment.
Sometimes it can feel overwhelming to sit with your feelings - so let us sit with you! As a practice, our focus is to support patients in achieving a higher degree of satisfaction as they work towards their desired therapeutic goals. We pride ourselves on creating the most affirming, culturally sensitive, and neurodiverse space possible where individual differences and strengths are celebrated and sensory overload is minimized. Sessions are designed to help patients understand the core of their emotions and behaviors, and assist in regaining self-confidence and contentment.
(336) 203-8765 View (336) 203-8765
Photo of Brittany Johnson Todd, MSEd, NCC, LCMHCQS, CFMHE, CCCE
Brittany Johnson Todd
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I offer integrative therapeutic coaching, forensic-informed family support and evaluations: designed to help individuals & families navigate growth, emotional challenges, high-conflict dynamics, & life transitions with greater clarity and connection. My approach blends psychotherapy, coaching, expressive arts, nervous system work, & genuine accountability through ongoing support, check-ins, & personalized tools. Services are designed to address all of life's elements, creating meaningful, sustainable change. With a focus on real transformation in your everyday life, I offer evidence based, solution focused support & interventions.
I offer integrative therapeutic coaching, forensic-informed family support and evaluations: designed to help individuals & families navigate growth, emotional challenges, high-conflict dynamics, & life transitions with greater clarity and connection. My approach blends psychotherapy, coaching, expressive arts, nervous system work, & genuine accountability through ongoing support, check-ins, & personalized tools. Services are designed to address all of life's elements, creating meaningful, sustainable change. With a focus on real transformation in your everyday life, I offer evidence based, solution focused support & interventions.
(737) 637-5376 View (737) 637-5376
Photo of Nicole Ritter, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MEd, LCMHC
Nicole Ritter
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MEd, LCMHC
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I believe that every person has the ability to grow, heal and change. As a counselor, I provide a space of nonjudgmental acceptance and authenticity which invites clients to show up exactly as they are and to be valued and supported in all aspects of their identity. I aim to partner with and empower my clients, utilizing the strengths and skills they already possess, to work toward their goals for healing and growth. My counseling orientation is grounded in a family systems approach, though I also draw significantly from attachment theory and person-centered counseling.
I believe that every person has the ability to grow, heal and change. As a counselor, I provide a space of nonjudgmental acceptance and authenticity which invites clients to show up exactly as they are and to be valued and supported in all aspects of their identity. I aim to partner with and empower my clients, utilizing the strengths and skills they already possess, to work toward their goals for healing and growth. My counseling orientation is grounded in a family systems approach, though I also draw significantly from attachment theory and person-centered counseling.
(336) 594-2301 View (336) 594-2301
Photo of Rae Marsh, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Rae Marsh
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
I'm Rae Marsh, the owner of Yield Counseling Services. I provide Christian mental health therapy and Pastoral Counseling through video sessions. I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Board Certified Professional Christian Counselor. I've supported clients since 2006 and I'm passionate about walking with others along difficult paths. I'm skilled in leading clients toward desired change.
I'm Rae Marsh, the owner of Yield Counseling Services. I provide Christian mental health therapy and Pastoral Counseling through video sessions. I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Board Certified Professional Christian Counselor. I've supported clients since 2006 and I'm passionate about walking with others along difficult paths. I'm skilled in leading clients toward desired change.
(980) 372-5681 View (980) 372-5681
Photo of Corey Daniel, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MEd, LCMHC, NCC
Corey Daniel
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MEd, LCMHC, NCC
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I know finding support can be hard - from deciding you want to open yourself up to and trusting someone else to be a part of that process to realizing there is something you are struggling with. Sometimes the struggle is even finding a therapist who has availability (which can be discouraging in itself, I know!). But realize every step is one in the direction to you being a happier you, and you’re worth the time and energy it takes! Feel free to take a look at my website to learn more about me. I work with adolescents and adults and have specialized training in Brainspotting and Trauma Focused CBT therapeutic approaches.
I know finding support can be hard - from deciding you want to open yourself up to and trusting someone else to be a part of that process to realizing there is something you are struggling with. Sometimes the struggle is even finding a therapist who has availability (which can be discouraging in itself, I know!). But realize every step is one in the direction to you being a happier you, and you’re worth the time and energy it takes! Feel free to take a look at my website to learn more about me. I work with adolescents and adults and have specialized training in Brainspotting and Trauma Focused CBT therapeutic approaches.
(336) 920-7146 View (336) 920-7146
Photo of Alistair Burke, Counselor, LCMHC-A, NCC
Alistair Burke
Counselor, LCMHC-A, NCC
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
My clients are thoughtful, resilient and often creative individuals navigating the challenges of substance use, grief, trauma, anxiety, and depression. Many come feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or disconnected, yet carry a deep desire for healing and change. Together, we create a space of safety, curiosity, and compassion—where emotions can be understood, patterns can shift, and new possibilities for peace, self-trust, and meaning can begin to emerge.
My clients are thoughtful, resilient and often creative individuals navigating the challenges of substance use, grief, trauma, anxiety, and depression. Many come feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or disconnected, yet carry a deep desire for healing and change. Together, we create a space of safety, curiosity, and compassion—where emotions can be understood, patterns can shift, and new possibilities for peace, self-trust, and meaning can begin to emerge.
(828) 518-1364 View (828) 518-1364
Photo of Candace Rogers, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Candace Rogers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Online Only
I'm truly glad you're here. Taking the step to seek support is a courageous and important decision, and I'm honored to be part of your journey. My approach is rooted in empathy, understanding, and respect, and I strive to create a safe, non-judgmental space where you can feel heard and valued. Whether you're navigating challenges, seeking personal growth, or just need a space to talk, I'm here to walk alongside you. Together, we can explore your thoughts and feelings, develop strategies to achieve your goals, and work towards a more fulfilling and balanced life.
I'm truly glad you're here. Taking the step to seek support is a courageous and important decision, and I'm honored to be part of your journey. My approach is rooted in empathy, understanding, and respect, and I strive to create a safe, non-judgmental space where you can feel heard and valued. Whether you're navigating challenges, seeking personal growth, or just need a space to talk, I'm here to walk alongside you. Together, we can explore your thoughts and feelings, develop strategies to achieve your goals, and work towards a more fulfilling and balanced life.
(828) 809-1967 View (828) 809-1967
Photo of Olivia Bunce, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Olivia Bunce
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Serves Area
Currently Accepting Individuals, Couples and Families. Thank you for taking the first step towards healing. As a marriage and family therapist, I work with adolescents, adults, couples and families. I utilize systemic, evidence-based theories and practices to meet my client where they are and take them where they want to go. This simply means I view people within the context of their relationships and utilize interventions that have proven to be effective.
Currently Accepting Individuals, Couples and Families. Thank you for taking the first step towards healing. As a marriage and family therapist, I work with adolescents, adults, couples and families. I utilize systemic, evidence-based theories and practices to meet my client where they are and take them where they want to go. This simply means I view people within the context of their relationships and utilize interventions that have proven to be effective.
(336) 891-4028 View (336) 891-4028
Photo of Wanda Anthony Burger, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHCS, NCC, CCMC, CCS, PhD
Wanda Anthony Burger
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHCS, NCC, CCMC, CCS, PhD
1 Endorsed
Yadkinville, NC 27055
Hello! At some point in life we find a need to talk to someone. Grief, loss, trauma, adjustment, relational issues are a few areas we can face. My specialties include: grief, trauma: civilian/military PTSD/PTSS, stress, substance abuse; Wellness Groups, Growing through Grief , prevention & early intervention. Boon and Katie, registered,therapy dogs, may join sessions. Boon began working at 9 weeks. In 2016 I added Military Trauma (CCMC) Certified Military Counselor Certificate. It was an honor to complete this certificate and begin working with our wonderful veterans and families. Come visit us at The Therapy House.
Hello! At some point in life we find a need to talk to someone. Grief, loss, trauma, adjustment, relational issues are a few areas we can face. My specialties include: grief, trauma: civilian/military PTSD/PTSS, stress, substance abuse; Wellness Groups, Growing through Grief , prevention & early intervention. Boon and Katie, registered,therapy dogs, may join sessions. Boon began working at 9 weeks. In 2016 I added Military Trauma (CCMC) Certified Military Counselor Certificate. It was an honor to complete this certificate and begin working with our wonderful veterans and families. Come visit us at The Therapy House.
(336) 344-7187 View (336) 344-7187
Photo of Tanya Ann Depetris - Beacon of Hope Counseling Services, PLLC, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Beacon of Hope Counseling Services, PLLC
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC
1 Endorsed
Lewisville, NC 27023
Sometimes life looks different than we thought it would. Sometimes it can look exactly as we want it, and then things go sideways, and everything changes. Maybe you are experiencing troubling thoughts or feelings of hopelessness. Perhaps you are having difficulties with setting boundaries or communication in relationships. Maybe you have experienced something that is leaving you with feelings that are too big and overwhelming not to share with someone else. I can help! I work with individuals ages 18+ and couples who wish to make changes in their lives.
Sometimes life looks different than we thought it would. Sometimes it can look exactly as we want it, and then things go sideways, and everything changes. Maybe you are experiencing troubling thoughts or feelings of hopelessness. Perhaps you are having difficulties with setting boundaries or communication in relationships. Maybe you have experienced something that is leaving you with feelings that are too big and overwhelming not to share with someone else. I can help! I work with individuals ages 18+ and couples who wish to make changes in their lives.
(336) 569-7524 View (336) 569-7524
Photo of J Dale Hancock, Pastoral Counselor, PhD, MA, BS
J Dale Hancock
Pastoral Counselor, PhD, MA, BS
Serves Area
Meet Dr. Hancock We all need help sometimes. Mechanics, accountants, plumbers, medical professionals and many others are needed in our lives. Think of me as your family issues specialist. One of my greatest joys is to help people reach their goals. I hope you will feel as loved and well taken care of as my current and past clients do. I have led over 15,000 hours of counseling so far in my career. And having led approximately 500 parenting seminars and numerous marriage retreats the call on my life is clearly to help families be strong, loving, and successful.
Meet Dr. Hancock We all need help sometimes. Mechanics, accountants, plumbers, medical professionals and many others are needed in our lives. Think of me as your family issues specialist. One of my greatest joys is to help people reach their goals. I hope you will feel as loved and well taken care of as my current and past clients do. I have led over 15,000 hours of counseling so far in my career. And having led approximately 500 parenting seminars and numerous marriage retreats the call on my life is clearly to help families be strong, loving, and successful.
(336) 804-8691 View (336) 804-8691
Photo of Elyse Edwards - Forsyth Family Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor
Forsyth Family Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Our licensed therapists have extensive training and experience in issues affecting adults, couples, children, adolescents and their families. We specialize in treating a range of conditions including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, attachment, addiction, grief, women/men's issues, ADHD, oppositional/defiance, trauma, post traumatic stress disorder, OCD, and much more. We also offer extensive effective parenting training if your child is oppositional, defiant, and sometimes even aggressive.
Our licensed therapists have extensive training and experience in issues affecting adults, couples, children, adolescents and their families. We specialize in treating a range of conditions including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, attachment, addiction, grief, women/men's issues, ADHD, oppositional/defiance, trauma, post traumatic stress disorder, OCD, and much more. We also offer extensive effective parenting training if your child is oppositional, defiant, and sometimes even aggressive.
(336) 750-6021 View (336) 750-6021

See more therapy options for Elkin

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.