Codependency

Can hypnotherapy help with codependency?

Absolutely. Codependency arises when one or both partners in a relationship become overly dependent on the approval of the other for their own wellbeing. This might be mutual, or one-sided, in the case of partners of addicted or abusive individuals. The roots of codependency often go back to difficulties in childhood, for example chaotic households or emotionally unavailable parents; codependent individuals learn that focusing their energy on looking after those around them, rather than making themselves happy, makes for an easier life in the short term. While putting others before ourselves in times of stress and being supportive can be desirable in a relationship, consistently doing this can, over time, affect self-esteem, distract from pursuing our own needs and desires, and lead to unhealthy relationship dynamics, however. We can literally ‘lose’ ourselves in the relationship.

Signs of codependency include:
Our self-worth depending on the opinions of others and a need for external approval

‘Walking on eggshells’, or taking on unfair blame to keep the peace
Enabling our partner’s addictions/behaviour (eg buying their drugs, finding excuses for abuse)
Trying to control the environment and 'fix' others
Minimising our own needs, desires and preferences to the point of not knowing what they are any more
Our moods reflecting those of others rather than how we really feel
Anxiety and depression

Solution Focused Hypnotherapy can help with codependency by offering a space for you to find yourself again – exploring your best hopes for the future and building confidence and self-esteem using careful questioning and solution-focused techniques. Then we’ll use hypnosis, a relaxed state of hyper-focus, to engage your subconscious in making those hopes a reality.

Check out Wellbeing Tips for hints on how to feel better now.
Check out Snippets for more information on Solution Focused Hypnotherapy.
Contact me for help and support.