Kavita Hatten Offers Compassionate Codependency Therapy in Phoenix, and Throughout Arizona
Codependency is often referred to as a pattern of behavior where individuals prioritize the needs, desires, and well-being of others at the expense of their own. While it often stems from a desire to care for loved ones, it can lead to unhealthy dynamics, emotional exhaustion, and difficulty establishing boundaries. Recognizing and addressing these patterns is a crucial step toward creating healthier relationships and improving overall mental health.
As an experienced Meadows-trained therapist specializing in codependency, I work with clients to identify and understand the root causes of their behaviors and guide them toward developing healthier, more balanced connections. If you’re ready to begin your journey toward change, call me today at (480) 598-9540.
Understanding Codependency
Codependency is not just about relationships with others – it’s about the relationship you have with yourself. This pattern of behavior often involves:
- Difficulty setting boundaries.
- Feeling responsible for the happiness or well-being of others.
- Fear of rejection or abandonment.
- Low self-esteem and a reliance on external validation.
- Avoiding conflict by prioritizing others’ needs over your own.
These patterns can be deeply ingrained, often rooted in childhood experiences or past relationships. Therapy can help break these cycles and empower individuals to build healthier habits and connections.
Causes of Codependency
Through my work with clients, I’ve found that codependency often arises from a combination of past experiences and learned behaviors. Some potential causes include:
- Childhood Experiences – Growing up in a household where love or approval was conditional, or where a parent or caregiver relied on the child for emotional support, can contribute to codependent patterns.
- Trauma – Past trauma, especially involving abandonment, neglect, or abuse, can lead individuals to develop codependent tendencies as a way to ensure emotional security.
- Cultural or Social Conditioning – Societal expectations or cultural norms that emphasize self-sacrifice and caretaking can also play a role in codependency.
- Substance Use Dynamics – Codependency often develops in relationships where one partner struggles with addiction, as the other may take on a caretaking role.
By understanding the root causes, we can begin the process of healing and creating healthier dynamics.
Therapeutic Approaches for Codependency
My approach to treating codependency involves evidence-based methods that help clients recognize patterns, challenge unhelpful beliefs, and build skills for healthier relationships. Some of the techniques I use include:
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) – This approach helps clients identify and change negative thought patterns that contribute to codependent behaviors.
- Post-Induction Therapy – This model of therapy developed by Pia Mellody of The Meadows helps individuals heal from childhood trauma and gain a deeper understanding of the impact of relational trauma in their adult lives. Self-care, boundaries, self-esteem and other core issues are explored to heal the relationship with self.
- Inner Child Work – Exploring and healing childhood wounds can help address the root causes of codependency.
- Mindfulness Practices – Mindfulness promotes self-awareness and self-compassion, enabling individuals to stay present and manage emotional triggers.
- Strength-Based Therapy – Focusing on clients’ inherent strengths and resilience helps empower them to make meaningful changes.
My role is to provide a safe, supportive space where we can work together to create lasting change and improve your overall well-being.
About My Practice
I am a licensed therapist based in Phoenix, offering remote therapy services to individuals across Arizona. Transitioning to remote therapy has allowed me to connect with clients in a way that is both convenient and comfortable, eliminating barriers like travel time and location. My approach is client-centered and culturally sensitive, ensuring that each person feels seen, heard, and supported throughout their journey.
Take the First Step Toward Healthier Relationships
If you’re ready to break free from the patterns of codependency and build healthier connections, I’m here to help. Call me at (480) 598-9540 or fill out my online form to schedule a free consultation. Let’s work together to create a life where your needs and well-being are a priority, empowering you to thrive in all areas of your life.