I help individuals break free from the exhausting cycle of codependency - where self-worth feels tied to others’ approval, boundaries blur, and self-care feels selfish. If you’re reading this, you might recognize yourself as the “fixer,” the “peacekeeper,” or the one who’s always putting others’ needs first. Counseling can help you break these patterns and rediscover your voice, needs, and inherent worth.

Codependency isn’t just about being “too nice” - it’s a survival strategy that often stems from childhood dynamics or unresolved trauma. Using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Family Systems Theory, we’ll untangle the beliefs keeping you stuck, rebuild healthy relationships, and cultivate a life rooted in authenticity, not obligation.

Understanding Codependency: Common Struggles

1. People-Pleasing

Saying 'yes' when you want to say 'no' - out of fear of rejection or conflict. We’ll work on:

- Identifying the roots of approval-seeking behavior.

- Practicing assertive communication to honor your limits.

- Tolerating discomfort when others are upset.

2. Emotional Dependency

Deriving your self-worth from relationships or others’ moods. Together, we’ll:

- Rediscover your own hobbies, values, and goals beyond caregiving roles.

- Challenge thoughts like “I’m only lovable if I’m needed.”

- Build confidence in your ability to stand alone.

3. Enabling Behaviors

Rescuing others from consequences or taking responsibility for their choices. We’ll focus on:

- Recognizing when helping becomes harmful - to yourself or others.

- Letting loved ones face natural outcomes.

- Redirecting energy toward your own growth.

4. Neglected Self-Care

Feeling drained from always putting others first. Using mindfulness techniques, we’ll:

- Identify physical and emotional warning signs of depletion.

- Create realistic, guilt-free self-care routines.

- Practice setting boundaries without apology.

5. Relationship Patterns

Attracting emotionally unavailable or chaotic partners. Through Family Systems work, we’ll:

- Explore how childhood roles (e.g., “the caretaker”) shape current dynamics.

- Break patterns of investing in one-sided relationships.

- Cultivate connections based on mutual respect.

My Approach to Healing Codependency

At Warner Counseling, I blend CBT with Solution-Focused Techniques to empower sustainable change:

- Cognitive Restructuring: Shift beliefs like “I’m responsible for others’ happiness” to “My well-being matters, too.”

- Boundary-Building Exercises: Role-play scenarios to practice saying “no” with confidence.

- Family Systems Exploration: Uncover how early relationships taught you to prioritize others’ needs over your own.

For those recovering from narcissistic or addictive relationships, we’ll integrate trauma-informed care to address emotional wounds.

What Clients Experience

Many ask: “Will therapy make me ‘selfish’?” Far from it - clients often achieve:

- Healthier Relationships: Partnerships where giving and receiving feel balanced.

- Stronger Self-Identity: Clarity about your passions, values, and boundaries.

- Reduced Resentment: Releasing resentment toward those you’ve overextended yourself for.

- Emotional Freedom: Making decisions based on your needs, not guilt or fear.

Why Choose Warner Counseling?

As a Flower Mound therapist specializing in codependency, I offer:

- Nonjudgmental Support: No shame if old habits resurface - just compassionate guidance.

- Practical Tools: Scripts for tough conversations, boundary-setting frameworks, and self-care checklists.

- Local Insight: Insight into how family and cultural dynamics may shape codependency.

- Holistic Focus: Addressing how trauma, addiction, or anxiety intersect with your relational patterns.

Take the First Step Toward Freedom

You deserve relationships where you’re seen, valued, and free to be imperfect. If you’re ready to break free from codependency and embrace self-respect, I’m here to help.