For those suffering from codependency, seeking out a qualified codependency therapist in Brisbane may be the best way to get help.
Hi, my name is Roslyn Saunders I am a codependency therapist (and codependency recovery coach) located in Brisbane, Australia, servicing clients Australia-wide.
Codependency is an issue that has been plaguing millions of people worldwide for generations. It’s a destructive pattern in which individuals become so enmeshed in the lives of others, they forget who they are and what makes them unique. This can lead to serious consequences both physical and mental.
A ‘codependency therapist’ specialises in:
- helping patients identify their codependent behaviours
- gain insight into why these behaviours exist, and
- learn how to break free from the cycle of codependence
In this article, we will explore what it means to be a ‘codependency therapist‘ and discuss why seeking out one can make all the difference when trying to heal from codependency issues.
1. What Is Codependency?
Codependency is a phenomenon of emotional entanglement that can be seen in relationships between two people. It is characterised by an unhealthy dependence on the other person, often resulting from feelings of insecurity and fear of rejection or abandonment. In such cases, one partner’s sense of self-worth may become dependent upon the approval or acceptance granted by the other. Symbolically speaking, codependency traps individuals in a web of unspoken expectations with no way out. If you are not sure if you are codependent, take my free codependency quiz today.
The condition has been found to have its roots in childhood trauma, when adults close to the child were emotionally unavailable or unable to provide strong boundaries for them. As these children grow up, they tend to seek validation through external sources – mainly their romantic partners – instead of being able to rely on themselves alone.
This often leads to patterns of enabling behaviour where one partner assumes responsibility for both their own and the other’s well-being; further perpetuating this cycle of dependency and neediness within the relationship.
Without intervention from trained professionals such as a codependency therapist specialising in codependency issues, like myself, Roslyn Saunders Codependency Recovery Coach, it can be difficult for those affected to break free from these damaging patterns and regain a healthy sense of autonomy and independence. If you are seeking a Codependency Therapist near you in Brisbane, Australia, book a free discovery call with me (Roslyn Saunders) to find out if I can help you.
2. Causes Of Codependency
Codependency is a behavioural pattern that has been linked to various psychological and emotional issues. It can have serious consequences if not addressed in time, so it is important to understand its causes. This article will dive deeper into the topic and explore more of the potential sources of codependency.
The cause of codependency may vary from person to person; however, as previously mentioned some common factors include:
- childhood experiences such as neglect or abuse
- growing up with an emotionally unavailable parent
- being raised by someone who was struggling with addiction
- past trauma may also lead to feelings of low self-worth and insecurity which can contribute to codependent behaviour later on in life
Other influences might be living in an environment where needs aren’t met sufficiently or a lack of healthy relationships with family members. Finally, certain personality traits like difficulty expressing emotions or having trouble setting boundaries could make one more vulnerable to developing codependent patterns.
There are multiple factors at play when it comes to why people become codependent. These range from environmental influences such as upbringing and personal circumstances to individual characteristics like emotional expressiveness and boundary-setting ability. Acknowledging these different aspects can help individuals recognise their own vulnerabilities and take steps towards healing dependent behaviours before they become entrenched and damaging. If you are wondering “Am I codependent” take my codependency quiz today.
3. Signs & Symptoms Of Codependency
“Where there is no struggle, there is no strength.” – Oprah Winfrey. This saying suggests that the struggles we face in life are not obstacles to be avoided, but rather opportunities for personal growth and development. Without facing and overcoming struggles, we cannot develop the strength and resilience necessary to succeed in life. Therefore, we should embrace our struggles and use them as opportunities to become stronger and more capable individuals. From this, we can look at codependency as a struggle and the opportunity to triumph with the right support.
Codependency can be defined as an emotional and behavioural condition that results from an unhealthy relationship between two people who are too reliant on each other. It can manifest in a variety of ways and result in numerous signs and symptoms which may vary depending on the individual’s experience with the condition. In order to identify codependency and gain insight into its complexities, it is important to understand what defines these signs and symptoms.
The most common indicators of codependent behaviour include:
- a low sense of self-worth
- difficulty expressing emotions or needs
- the extreme need for approval
- feeling responsible for another person’s feelings or actions
- inability to make decisions without considering someone else’s opinion
- difficulty setting boundaries
- fear of abandonment
- enabling behaviours such as rescuing or taking care of others at one’s own expense
- excessive attempts to control outcomes by controlling others’ behaviours
Additionally, those struggling with codependency often:
- feel guilty when asserting themselves
- take criticism personally
- become resentful when not receiving attention from their partner
- engage in unhealthy communication patterns like passive aggressiveness or manipulation rather than communicating directly
- lack healthy relationships outside of romantic partnerships and have difficulties recognising problems in their relationships until they reach a crisis level
Putting effort into understanding how codependence manifests itself helps provide better guidance towards seeking help from a professional therapist. With proper support and treatment plan tailored individually, those affected by codependence can start breaking away from this damaging cycle while gaining confidence in themselves so they can begin developing healthier relationships with the ones around them.
4. The Role Of A Codependency Therapist
A codependency therapist in Brisbane, like myself (Roslyn Saunders), is an important resource for those struggling with this condition. As a professional, I can provide individuals with the skills, tools and support needed to gain insight into their disorder and develop healthier relationships. The role of a codependency therapist includes:
- Identifying thought patterns and behaviour that contribute to the codependent cycle
- Exploring potential underlying causes such as past trauma or unresolved issues
- Assisting patients in developing more adaptive coping strategies and building self-esteem.
The goals of therapy will vary depending on individual needs but may include:
- helping clients understand how their behaviours are impacting their lives
- exploring ways to improve communication skills
- managing emotions healthily
- setting healthy boundaries
- increasing assertiveness
- acknowledging feelings instead of denying them
- improving problem solving abilities
- understanding the impact of addiction on family dynamics
- learning new relationship skills
- recognising personal rights and responsibilities
- and working towards creating meaningful connections
A codependency therapist works collaboratively with clients to create positive change in order to promote healing from dysfunctional relationships.
To ensure successful outcomes it is essential for individuals dealing with codependence to be open minded about treatment objectives and willing to commit time and effort into recovery. As well as traditional talking therapies such as cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), Neuro-linguistic programming (NLP) and other techniques like mindfulness meditation might also be used by therapists in order to help individuals identify unhealthy patterns and reduce symptoms associated with codependency.
5. Techniques Used In Codependency Therapy
Codependency therapy is an effective approach used to address the issues of unhealthy relationships. It focuses on understanding, identifying and changing behaviours that might be leading to self-defeating patterns in interpersonal relationships. Through this form of treatment, individuals gain insight into how their behaviour contributes to difficult dynamics within a relationship.
A variety of techniques are employed by codependency therapists; some commonly used approaches include:
- Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
- Neuro-linguistic programming (NLP)
NLP and CBT help patients identify cognitive distortions that lead to maladaptive behaviours and provide strategies for replacing those thoughts with healthier ones.
- Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT)
DBT combines individual psychotherapy sessions with skills training groups where clients can learn new ways of responding to triggers or stressors.
- Systematic Desensitisation
Systematic Desensitisationsvinvolve gradually exposing people to anxiety-provoking situations until they become less fearful over time.
- Interpersonal Therapies
Interpersonal therapies focus on helping people understand why certain interactions occur between themselves and others, as well as what roles they may play in creating these dynamics.
- Motivational Interviewing and Eye Movement Desensitization and
Motivational interviewing involves exploring values, beliefs and needs while accepting ambivalence about change in order to develop motivation from within the patient.
- Reprocessing (EMDR).
EMDR utilizes bilateral stimulation such as eye movements or taps which help process traumatic memories stored in the brain more effectively so that healing can take place.
These methods are designed to teach healthy coping mechanisms for dealing with relational difficulties or trauma through providing insight into one’s own behaviour, teaching communication skills, developing empathy towards oneself and others and ultimately resolving internal conflicts resulting from dysfunctional attachment styles associated with childhood trauma or neglectful parenting experiences.
6. Benefits Of Codependency Therapy
Codependency therapy is an approach to counselling and treatment that focuses on improving relationships, understanding oneself better, and learning how to form healthier attachments. It has been found to be beneficial in a variety of ways – both psychological and physical. From developing greater self-awareness and gaining insight into one’s behaviours to reducing feelings of guilt and shame, codependency therapy can provide profound healing benefits.
One major benefit of this type of therapy is the development of improved communication skills. Clients learn effective strategies for expressing themselves openly and honestly with their partners or loved ones without fear of judgement or criticism. Doing so helps create a deeper level of understanding between two people by allowing them to have meaningful conversations about difficult topics such as trust issues, boundaries, setting expectations, and resolving conflicts in healthy ways.
Additionally, clients gain valuable insights into why they act the way they do in certain situations which leads to increased empathy for themselves as well as those around them. Finally, through codependency therapy clients can also experience relief from symptoms related to anxiety and depression due to being able to recognise underlying triggers more clearly which ultimately allows for greater control over their mental health.
If you are seeking a Codependency Therapist in Brisbane book a Codependency Recovery Discovery Call today.
7. Challenges Of Codependency Therapy
Codependency therapy can be a vital tool in helping individuals who feel trapped by their coping mechanisms and destructive patterns of behaviour. While it has been seen to bring many benefits, this type of therapy also presents some challenges that one should keep in mind when considering treatment.
Firstly, codependency therapy requires an individual to face the underlying issues behind their behaviours. This process can be emotionally difficult as it involves delving into painful memories from past experiences or present relationships. It is not uncommon for people to become overwhelmed with intense emotions during this time which may cause them to shut down and resist further progress. Furthermore, those undergoing this kind of therapy must learn how to recognise and challenge any negative thoughts they are having about themselves or others in order to break out of unhealthy cycles. This requires scaffolding and support from a trained Codependency Therapist in Brisbane, like myself, (Roslyn Saunders). I have successfully helped hundreds of people overcome and recover from codependent behaviour. Book a free discovery call today.
It is important for patients going through codependency therapy to be mindful of these potential difficulties and have realistic expectations about what will be required for success. With dedication, perseverance and support from a qualified therapist, like myself, individuals can gain valuable insight into the roots of their problems while learning healthier approaches towards relationships.
8. How To Find A Codependency Therapist
I am, a codependency therapist also referred to as a codependency recovery coach, who has personal experience dealing with addiction in myself and my family, and my children. I have faced the consequences of my family’s addiction legacy and had to confront my adult children’s drug and alcohol addictions. However, I now express deep gratitude for this experience, as it has given me the wisdom to recognise and address co-dependency behaviours within myself.
Having developed a thorough daily deliberate action plan and a supportive program and network, I have successfully navigated the challenging road to recovery. With a lifetime of experience, I now inspire others who are on a similar path towards recovery.
In addition to holding a Diploma in Counseling, I am also a Certified Neuro-Linguistic Programming Practitioner (NLP). My knowledge and experience in addiction recovery have been further enhanced through coaching services provided to high-need individuals. You can book a free discovery call with me today, let’s discover if we can work together for your brighter future.
9. Preparing For Codependency Therapy
Preparing for codependency therapy can feel overwhelming, especially if you are unsure about what to expect. However, taking the time to prepare can help you get the most out of your therapy sessions and make the process smoother. Here are some tips for preparing for codependency therapy:
- Set a Goal: It is important to have a clear goal in mind before beginning therapy. What do you hope to achieve? What changes do you want to make in your life? Identifying your goals will help you and your therapist work together to create a plan for your therapy sessions.
- Gather Information: Educating yourself about codependency can be beneficial. Read books or articles, listen to podcasts or watch videos to learn more about codependency, and how it can affect you and your relationships.
- Be Honest with Yourself: It can be difficult to confront the reality of your codependency. However, it is important, to be honest with yourself and your therapist about your feelings, behaviours, and experiences. This will help your therapist understand your situation better and provide appropriate treatment.
- Reflect on Your Relationships: Take time to reflect on your relationships and how they have been impacted by codependency. Identify patterns in your relationships, the role you play, and the impact of codependency on your emotional and mental health.
- Take Care of Yourself: Self-care is essential during the therapy process. Make sure you are getting enough rest, exercise, and eating healthy foods. Engage in activities that bring you joy and relaxation, such as meditation or reading.
- Prepare Questions: Be prepared to ask questions and share any concerns you have with your therapist. This will help you understand the therapy process and feel more comfortable during your sessions.
10. The Outcome Of Codependency Therapy
The outcome of codependency therapy is an important step in the path to recovery. One can imagine themselves being freed from their chains as if a bird that has been caged for too long and suddenly released into its natural environment. Codependency therapy is a process that helps individuals break free from unhealthy patterns of behaviour and improve their life overall.
There are several positive outcomes one can expect after completing codependency therapy:
- Improved self-esteem – Through this type of counselling, people learn how to accept responsibility for their own actions and feelings, which leads to greater self-confidence.
- More meaningful relationships – As they work on understanding themselves better, individuals become more aware of what they need out of relationships with others, leading to healthier connections.
- Increased coping skills– With the help of a therapist, people develop strategies for dealing with stressors in life so they don’t have to rely on destructive behaviours or substances to cope.
Codependency therapy offers many benefits including developing healthy communication skills, learning effective problem solving techniques, and recognizing signs of burnout before it gets too severe. All these things lead to improved mental health and well-being over time as individuals make progress towards addressing the underlying issues fueling their addiction or other problematic behaviours.
In summary, codependency therapy is a powerful and effective way to help people overcome codependency. While it can be challenging, the techniques used by codependency therapists, like myself, (Roslyn Saunders), are designed to target the underlying causes of this condition. Through understanding these causes, identifying signs and symptoms, and applying appropriate therapeutic strategies, many individuals have been able to break free from their codependent patterns of behaviour.
Successful treatment requires patience and commitment. It also requires an open mind so that new insights into one’s behaviours may be gained. The outcome of successful codependence therapy can result in improved communication skills, greater self-awareness, healthier relationships with others, and improved overall mental health.
