Sometimes we don’t realize that our care giving has crossed the line into codependency or unhealthy care taking. It’s not always easy to see when our behavior is no longer supporting a healthy self and a healthy relationship.
Category Archives: codependency
Podcast Interview: Understanding Perfectionism
Perfectionism is a shield. It’s an attempt to cover up your flaws and missteps. It’s like armor that you put on to protect yourself from criticism.
12 Tell-Tale Signs That You’re a People-Pleaser
Are you a people-pleaser? Being kind, generous, and flexible are wonderful qualities. But sometimes we’re too accommodating, too eager to please, and too afraid of saying “no”. There is a price to be paid for being “too nice”. Ryan is a classic people-pleaser. He’s been dating Jessie for two years and hopes to marry her. From the beginning, Jessie has been […]
Are You an Enabler? Understanding Codependency vs. Helping
Codependency isn’t just amplified helping. One of the big misconceptions about codependency is that it’s simply being super, duper nice. It’s true that most codependents are kind and generous to a fault. You typically struggle to say “no” and set limits. As a result, people take advantage of your desire to help. But codependency is much more than this. Codependency is a […]
4 Smart Strategies for Coping with an Addicted Partner
The holidays can be a scary time when your partner’s an addict or alcoholic. Instead of visions of sugar plums, you may be having nightmares of: parties with alcohol DUI’s broken promises being embarrassed by your partner ruined holidays of the past receiving gifts of alcohol relapse strained family relationships stress over finances, long to-do lists The most important thing […]
Guide to Healthy Holiday Boundaries
The holidays add some extra challenges when it comes to healthy boundaries. As you know, the holiday season means more social commitments, financial pressures, family gatherings, more eating and drinking. You may find yourself over-stressed and off your normal routine of exercising, sleeping, healthy eating and other positive coping activities.
Nice Guy’s Guide to Setting Boundaries with your Ex
Setting Boundaries with Your Ex This is my second post in my Nice Guy series. It is aimed at helping “nice guys” to have happier, healthier relationships and get their needs met. Even though it’s titled Nice Guys, I think many women will relate as well. I work with a lot of “nice guys” in my psychotherapy practice. They tend […]
Nice Guy’s Guide to Saying No
OK, Nice Guys and Gals, you’ve decided it’s time to learn the art of saying no. Perhaps you’re a bit of a people-pleaser or perfectionist. You can absolutely learn how to say no and not feel bad about it. Saying no is an essential form of self-care. Saying no sets a boundary. Boundaries preserve our physical and emotional well-being and […]