There are many different signs of codependency, but some common ones include: feeling responsible for your partner's happiness or well-being, enabling your partner's bad behavior, feeling like you can't function without your partner, and being overly dependent on your partner.
A licensed mental health professional guides couples through the EFT process, helping them navigate their emotional experiences and fostering positive change. The therapist facilitates understanding and connection between partners.
While it is ideal for both partners to actively engage in couples counseling, therapy can still be helpful if only one partner is willing to attend. In such cases, the participating partner can learn valuable skills and strategies to improve communication, manage conflicts, and create a more positive relationship dynamic, which may eventually encourage the other partner to join the process.
During your first couples counseling session, your therapist will likely gather information about your relationship history, current challenges, and individual backgrounds. They may also ask about your goals for therapy and what you hope to achieve. This initial session serves as an opportunity for you and your partner to become comfortable with the therapist and begin building trust in the therapeutic process.
The first step is to take responsibility for your actions and apologize. Next, be honest with your thoughts and feelings. Show that you're willing to change and be a better partner. Finally, set some boundaries to help prevent future hurt. Remember to be patient as it takes time to rebuild trust.
