Compassionate Codependency Therapy in Orange County, CA

Codependency can feel like losing yourself in the needs of others, leaving you drained and disconnected from your own identity. Through codependency therapy in Orange County, CA, you can break free from these patterns, set healthy boundaries, and rediscover a sense of balance and fulfillment in your life.

What Is Codependency?

Codependency is a pattern where you prioritize others’ needs over your own, often to the point of losing your sense of self. It can involve difficulty setting boundaries, seeking validation through others, or feeling responsible for their emotions. These behaviors can strain relationships and leave you emotionally drained. Here’s how codependency might show up in real life:

Amara always said yes, even when her heart whispered no. She stayed late at the office even though she was exhausted, helped friends who never returned the favor, and sacrificed her weekends for a partner’s endless demands. Each time, she silenced her own needs, afraid to disappoint.

Paul lived for the approval of others. Every decision he made—what to wear, where to eat, even his career—hinged on what he thought others wanted. Compliments were his lifeline, but their effect was fleeting. Deep down, he felt hollow, always chasing validation yet never finding a sense of true self-worth that came from inside himself.

Kylie grew up walking on eggshells around her mother’s addiction. She learned to soothe every outburst, clean up every mess, and hide the pain from the world. If her mother was upset, Kylie felt like it was her fault. Years later, she still carried the weight of responsibility for others’ emotions, never letting herself rest.

Amara, Paul, and Kylie all struggle with codependency, although it may show up in different aspects of their lives. If any of their stories resonate with you, you may struggle with codependency, too.

Where Does Codependency Come From?

All too often, codependency stems from early experiences where love and care felt conditional. Children depend on their caregivers for their survival, and those who grew up in family units with addiction, mental illness, or neglect learned that their safety depended on prioritizing others’ needs. Over time, this pattern becomes very deeply ingrained, shaping how they navigate relationships as adults.

How Codependency Affects Your Life

Prioritizing others’ needs over your own leaves little room for self-care. Over time, resentment can build from feeling unappreciated or taken advantage of, while a lack of boundaries erodes self-identity. Moving away from codependency doesn’t mean embracing hyper-independence; instead, it’s about finding the sweet spot of interdependence—where mutual support thrives without sacrificing individuality. Those who move beyond codependency often build healthier, more balanced relationships where love can be given and received with ease and mutual respect. At the risk of sounding cliché, putting your oxygen mask on first allows you to truly show up for others in the best way possible.

Steps of Therapy for Codependency

1. Build Awareness
2. Identify Root Causes
3. Develop Self-Awareness
4. Establish Boundaries
5. Foster Emotional Regulation
6. Build Self-Esteem
7. Encourage Healthy Communication
8. Cultivate Independence
9. Practice Interdependence
10. Reinforce Progress

Meet Hannah Pasternak: Codependency Therapist in Orange County, CA

Hannah has a compassionate, strengths-based approach that helps clients unlearn codependent behaviors, rebuild confidence, and foster healthy relationships. Using techniques like CBT, DBT, and mindfulness, Hannah guides you in setting boundaries, improving communication, and rediscovering your independence so that you can move forward and create the balanced and fulfilling life you seek.

If you’re ready to break free from codependency and create healthier relationships, contact our Intake Coordinator today at (949)236-1990.