Codependency

Codependency is when we depend too much on others for our sense of self and self-worth. It’s when we get lost in relationships and sacrifice our own needs to please others. If you find yourself responsible for other's happiness, struggling to set boundaries or always putting other's needs before your own you might be codependent. At the Center for Growth & Connection, we know how deeply codependency can impact your emotional well-being and we can help you break free from those patterns.

What Does Codependency Look Like

Codependency shows up in many ways but here are some common signs you might see in your life:

• People-Pleasing: You go out of your way to make others happy even at the cost of your own happiness.
• Can’t Say No: You struggle to set boundaries and as a result, you end up feeling overwhelmed or resentful.
• Neglecting Your Own Needs: You put other's needs before your own and end up burnt out or neglecting your physical and emotional well-being.
• Responsible for Other's Feelings: You take on the emotions of those around you and feel like it’s your job to fix or save them.
• Low Self-Worth: You might feel not good enough unless you’re doing something for others or seeking their approval.

These behaviors can show up in any kind of relationship—romantic, friendships, family dynamics or work relationships. Codependency creates an imbalance where one person feels like they are giving too much and losing themselves in the process.

What Causes Codependency

Codependency often starts in childhood. It can develop from growing up in an environment where emotional needs were neglected, inconsistent caregiving was present or you learned to put others needs before your own for acceptance or love. Unhealthy family dynamics such as emotional manipulation, neglect or addiction can also be contributing factors.

As we grow these early experiences shape the way we relate to others in adulthood. Without realizing it we can carry these patterns into all of our relationships and end up with unhealthy attachment styles and behaviors that are hard to break.

Codependency in Relationships

When codependency is present in a relationship it creates an unhealthy dynamic where one person is always giving and the other may take without giving back in balance. This imbalance can lead to feelings of resentment, frustration and exhaustion. The person who is giving too much may feel drained and the person who is receiving may feel overwhelmed or dependent.

In these situations, communication breaks down, needs go unmet and there is a sense of emotional disconnection. What starts as a desire to help or care for others can turn into emotional enmeshment where each person loses their sense of self.

How Can Therapy Help You Overcome Codependency

At the Center for Growth & Connection we offer therapy to help you break free from codependent behaviors and build healthier relationships. Our approach is non-judgmental and compassionate and we create a safe space for you to explore your struggles without fear of being criticized. Therapy will help you:

• Understand the Root Cause: By looking into your past and understanding how codependent behaviors developed we can help you uncover the underlying emotional needs that drive your behavior.
• Set Healthy Boundaries: One of the key steps to overcome codependency is to learn how to set and maintain boundaries that protect your emotional and mental well-being.
• Boost Self-Worth: Therapy can help you work through feelings of not being good enough and develop a stronger more positive sense of self.
• Healthy Relationship Patterns: You’ll learn how to create balanced mutually supportive relationships where both people can thrive independently and together.

What to Expect in Codependency Therapy

When you come to the Center for Growth & Connection you’ll be working with kind therapists who have experience in helping individuals overcome codependency. Your therapy sessions will be tailored to your needs and you can expect to work on:

• Your Relationship History: We’ll look into your past relationships to understand where codependency developed.
• New Coping Skills: We’ll help you learn healthier ways to manage emotions and stress so you don’t fall into old patterns of people-pleasing or neglecting your own needs.
• Boundary Setting: You’ll learn how to assert yourself in relationships, communicate your needs and say no when necessary without guilt.
• Self-Care: We’ll work together on prioritizing your well-being and making time for self-care practices that nourish your mind, body and spirit.

We use a combination of therapeutic approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), trauma-informed care and mindfulness techniques to help you break free from codependent patterns and develop the skills to live a balanced life.

Is Codependency Therapy for You

If you see any of the signs of codependency in your life then therapy could be the first step to making real changes. Whether you’re struggling with unhealthy relationships, people-pleasing behaviors or can’t put yourself first then therapy can help you break free from these patterns and create the healthy balanced life you deserve.

Take the First Step Toward Healing

If you’re ready to reclaim your sense of self and create lasting change, we’re here to help. Reach out today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how codependency therapy can help you find emotional freedom and build stronger relationships.