Codependency therapists in Chesterfield, Virginia VA

Codependency can often lead to unhealthy relationships, low self esteem, and abuse. I work with clients to challenge codependent behaviors to increase freedom and autonomy in their life.  

My approach teaches you to depend on yourself and to be self-directed. You can learn to help yourself if you improve your discomfort tolerance for doing things for yourself, taking calculated risks, and accept yourself even when you fail.  

Codependency is a circular pattern that emerge in relationships when one person needs another person to need them in order to keep the relationship going. This is an unhealthy pattern and often leads to unhappiness and toxic patterns in relationships. I approach these relationships from a place of empathy and concern for all parties involved. It is my goal to illuminate these patterns and teach individuals to set healthy boundaries that will allow them to break free of codependent relationships and live healthier and happier lives with friends and family.  

The concept of Co-Dependency was developed as a way of explaining how family members of alcoholics, especially their spouses, became emotionally ill apparently as a result of living with an alcoholic for years. "Co" is a prefix that means "like" or "with" - the family member becomes sick like and with "the dependent" (the person dependent on a chemical). There are several common problems that often go along with life with an alcoholic or drug abuser, including their unpredictable moods, selfish and irresponsible behavior, angry outbursts which may include verbal or physical abuse, broken promises and commitments, embarrassing public behavior, financial irresponsibility, legal problems, and inability to return love or affection. However, most chemically dependent people have periods when they function well, and this generates the hope that they will stay well, quit or control their chemical use, and become responsible and loving for good.  

Assistance with codependency issues.