New Zealand psychologists, master the identification and treatment of codependency, a clinically significant behavioural addiction impacting client well-being. This CPD talk offers a research-informed approach to recognizing its subtle presentations and applying distinct therapeutic strategies for effective recovery.
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
Learning Outcomes
By the end of this talk, participants will be able to:
Define codependency as a behavioural addiction and distinguish it from other mental health concerns.
Identify common characteristics and diagnostic features of codependent presentations.
Understand the developmental and relational roots of codependency.
Apply targeted strategies to support recovery from codependency.
Navigate therapeutic challenges and countertransference when working with codependent clients.
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