Codependency: Identifying & addressing an underlying, untreated addiction in our clients
South Africa · CPD points & talks · Psychologists
Codependency is a frequently overlooked but clinically significant issue that can masquerade as anxiety, depression, or relational dysfunction. Often misunderstood or minimised in psychological practice, codependency is increasingly recognised as a behavioural addiction that requires specific intervention strategies—distinct from those used in classic talk therapy.
This focused CPD session provides psychologists and allied health professionals with a practical, research-informed framework for recognising and addressing codependency. It outlines diagnostic markers, explores the developmental origins of codependent behaviours, and offers practical tools for managing therapeutic challenges when working with these clients.
Sections
- What is codependency?
- Where does it come from?
- The characteristics of codependency
- How to recover from codependency
- How to handle codependent clients
Learning outcomes
By the end of this session, participants will be able to:
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Define codependency as a behavioural addiction and distinguish it from other mental health concerns.
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Identify common characteristics and diagnostic features of codependent presentations.
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Understand the developmental and relational roots of codependency.
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Apply targeted strategies to support recovery from codependency.
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Navigate therapeutic challenges and countertransference when working with codependent clients.
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