Codependency & Relationship Patterns

Services > Codependency

Your needs matter, too. Therapy can help you create relationships that feel healthier, more balanced, and more fulfilling.

Codependency – often thought about as the condition of the lost self. Codependency is defined as the state of being mutually reliant, for example, a relationship between two individuals who are emotionally dependent on one another.

Codependency can also be defined as a dysfunctional relationship pattern in which an individual is psychologically dependent on (or controlled by) a person who has an addiction (e.g., alcohol, gambling).

Some of the things that have been found to correlate with codependency include: Low self-esteem; family dysfunction, depression, anxiety, stress.

Other signs of codependency could include: Having a hard time saying no, having poor boundaries, feeling compelled to take care of people, having a need for control especially over others, fixating on mistakes, feeling a need to be liked by everyone, feeling a need to always be in a relationship, having intimacy issues, confusing love and pity, displaying a fear of abandonment.

When we are living in codependency, we can feel there is no way out. Treatment often involves exploring early childhood and family dynamic issues. With experience in codependency recovery the staff at Essentially you Counseling and Wellness Services can help validate your feelings, set realistic expectations for yourself and celebrate your progress, even the baby steps!!

FAQ

1. Can I talk about putting everyone else's needs before my own?
Yes. Your needs matter, too. You can explore patterns of people-pleasing, difficulty setting boundaries or feeling responsible for other people, and discuss the balance you want in your relationships.
2. Do I have to end a relationship to work on these patterns?
You can begin by talking about your experiences, needs and goals. Therapy provides space to understand your relationship patterns and explore your choices without requiring you to arrive with a decision already made.
3. How do I get started with therapy?
Getting started is easy. Contact our practice to request an appointment, and our team can help you determine the best next step based on your needs, availability, insurance, and preferences.

If you’re not sure what type of therapist or service you need, that’s okay. You don’t have to have everything figured out before reaching out. Our team can help connect you with a therapist who is a good fit.

4. How do I know which therapist is right for me?
Finding the right therapist is an important part of successful treatment. We consider factors such as your concerns, goals, preferred therapeutic approach, availability, location, etc.

If you’re unsure who would be the best fit, our team can help guide you.

5. What happens during my first appointment?
Your first appointment is an opportunity for you and your therapist to get to know one another, discuss what brings you to therapy, understand your concerns and goals, and begin developing a plan for treatment.

You don’t need to prepare a perfect explanation of everything you’re experiencing. Your therapist will guide the conversation.

6. Do you offer telehealth?
Yes. We offer telehealth appointments for eligible clients, subject to clinical, insurance, and other applicable requirements.
7. Do you accept insurance?
Yes. We are an insurance-based mental health practice and work with participating insurance plans.

Because insurance participation can vary by therapist, service, location, and plan, we recommend contacting our office to confirm whether your specific insurance plan can be used for your requested service.

8. How long will I need therapy?
The length of treatment varies significantly from person to person.

Some people seek therapy for a specific situation or period of their lives, while others benefit from longer-term support. Your therapist will work with you to determine what makes sense for your goals rather than assuming everyone needs the same amount of treatment.

Your mental health starts with you. Let us help you on your journey.

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