Blog

Let’s Talk About Counter-Dependency: It’s Not Narcissism

Have you ever wondered what’s up with the man who spends all his time in the office instead of with his partner? Or that girl who never has a relationship longer than six months before she ends it and runs away? They could be counter-dependent and fear commitment and intimacy. They are on the other end of the spectrum to a codependent.

People are becoming more and more aware of the general symptoms of codependency. As this awareness increases, so the chances of recovering to a healthy place increase as well. Codependency is one of the consequences of the failure of one of the most important developmental processes, completion of the bonding process with caregivers. This causes the very typical codependent behaviours that are quite easy to recognise. A list of these behaviours is listed on “What Is Codependency“.

Counter-dependency signs can include a fear of intimacy, commitment and a resistance to monogamy.

Read the full article here on my Free From Codependency Online Therapy Hub.

Subscribe to Dr Jenner's Blog via Email

Enter your email address to subscribe to this blog and receive notifications of new posts by email.

Join 5,475 other subscribers

Dr. Nicholas Jenner

Dr. Nicholas Jenner, a therapist, coach, and speaker, has over 20 years of experience in the field of therapy and coaching. His specialty lies in treating codependency, a condition that is often characterized by a compulsive dependence on a partner, friend, or family member for emotional or psychological sustenance. Dr. Jenner's approach to treating codependency involves using Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy, a treatment method that has gained widespread popularity in recent years. He identifies the underlying causes of codependent behavior by exploring his patients' internal "parts," or their different emotional states, to develop strategies to break free from it. Dr. Jenner has authored numerous works on the topic and offers online therapy services to assist individuals in developing healthy relationships and achieving emotional independence.

Leave a Reply

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

This Post Has One Comment

  1. PrEdIcTaBlY UNpreDicTaBLe August 25, 2021 Reply

    If codependency is the extreme one way and counter-dependent the other, then I seem to fit between the two.

    I am a complete walking contradiction. A paradox.

    Whatever I feel one way, I will feel the complete opposite of that also it seems.

    For example:

    I want to be close, but keep your distance.

    I want connection, but not intimacy.

    I need you but I don’t want to need anyone.

    I love you but can’t love anyone.

    I hate you but don’t leave me.

    I want space, but need you nearby.

    And also:

    I am faithful yet detached.

    I am committed yet relaxed.

    I love everyone and also no-one.

    I am sociable but a loner.

    I am gentle yet tough.

    I am passionate but platonic.

    I am codependent and counter-dependent.