The Center for Courageous Living Blog

By Nicole Andersen, MSW Intern   Does it ever feel like you're constantly putting someone else’s needs before your own? Maybe you feel responsible for their happiness and emotions, or you struggle to say no, even whenyou're exhausted. If so, you might be dealing with codependency. It’s a pattern of behavior when people become overly reliant on others emotionally, mentally, or even physically. But the good news? You can break free and start living life on your own terms. Let’s

By Katie Kroening, LCSW; CADC     I’ve worked with many clients who’ve come to counseling wondering if they’re crazy; clients have difficulty trusting in their own experience, express confusion around understanding the chaotic cycle in which they find themselves. Many clients aren’t aware that they are being mistreated, disrespected, stonewalled and controlled. Themes found in many stories are identified throughout their early childhood experiences; many of these emotionally

By, Katie Kroening, LCSW; CADC Tip-of-the-Day:  Avoid No More To those of you who have a difficult time sharing your thoughts, experiences and opinions, those that may avoid and withdraw from discussions, arguments and conflicts, I'd like to empower you to: “ Avoid No More! ”  I’d like to help you on the path to find  your voice, be brave and courageous as you share what you have to say. Your thoughts opinions, feelings and emotions matter. Problem:   Avoiders and Withdrawer

Tip of the Day: Signs of Power-and-Control in Relationships Problem: In relationships, sometimes couples struggle with trust and power-and-control issues. A partner’s own self-esteem issues and self-doubt-their past trauma stories-can be the influencers on current controlling and abusive behaviors. There is underlying fear of being hurt, abandoned, rejected and alone. Signs that Power-and-Control Issues may be in Your Relationship: · Physical intimidation, violence, th

Tip-of-the-Day: Tame the “DRAGON” DRAGON: The Betrayal Trauma PROBLEM: Don't let the "DRAGON" rob you of restored relationships. Often in relationships couples experience infidelity. Due to rising tension in the relationship, and difficulty repairing emotional injuries together, partners sometimes escape pain by opening the door to relationships outside the marriage. When the betraying partner is remorseful and fully willing to do whatever it takes to repair with partner, t