The holidays are here again! Does your holiday look like the pictures in magazines and catalogs or the ones you see in the movies? We all know it’s supposed to be a joyful time of year filled with happy family gatherings, plentiful gifts, and a joyful spirit. But for some, the reality is far different – the family gatherings […]
The Link Between Perfectionism and Codependency
Striving for excellence is a good thing. Perfectionism, however, is an unrealistic and unrelenting expectation that you’ll excel at everything, always do and say the “right” thing, and be everything to everyone. People who struggle with codependency, tend to struggle with perfectionism as well. Perfectionism is one of the ways we try to feel in control and worthy.
What is Childhood Emotional Neglect?
This post contains affiliate links. Do you feel empty and disconnected? Do you sense that you’re different than everyone else, but you can’t put your finger on what’s wrong? Childhood Emotional Neglect, a term coined by psychologist Dr. Jonice Webb, is a powerful experience, but one that often goes unnoticed and untreated. In fact, many people who experienced Childhood […]
Guided Meditation to Heal Codependency
Changing our long-standing thought and behavior patterns can be a long journey. Different approaches work for different people. In my psychotherapy practice, I try to provide a variety of strategies to promote self-care and compassion. For some, a guided meditation, such as this one, can be a helpful tool in healing from codependency and learning to love yourself. What […]
Adult Children of Alcoholics: How Addiction Affects the Entire Family
Alcoholism and addiction affect the entire family, not just the addict. The effects are especially profound if you grew up with an addicted parent. Many adult children of alcoholics (ACOA) or addicts are amazed at how accurately the six family roles outlined in this article describe the family they grew up in. Why is addiction considered a family […]
Why Your Loved One Getting Sober Doesn’t Solve Your Problems
Mary and Dan have been married for 10 years and for nine of them Dan has been done tried everything in his power to help Mary get and stay sober. He’s driven her to the emergency room, called rehab facilities, participated in the family program at the three recovery programs she’s attended, given her lists of therapists, begged her […]
What is a Codependent Friendship?
Friends play an important role in our lives. A friend is a trusted confidant, someone who “gets” you like no one else, and a source of fun and solace. A true friend has your back and supports you through life’s ups and downs. But friendships, like any other relationship, aren’t always healthy. Not all friendships are mutually supportive and satisfying. […]
High Achievers Can Build Stronger Relationships by Doing Less and Embracing Imperfection
Here in Silicon Valley, we’re surrounded by high achievers. It seems like everyone’s just launched a start-up company, bought a new Tesla, or their kid got into an Ivy League college. All this achieving is great – it drives innovation, solves problems, and fuels our economy – but it can also take a toll on individuals and their […]