When a person is addicted, we treat that individual for addiction. When a person is partnered with an addict, what do they get? Nine times out of ten, they are told their choice to enter and remain in close relationship with an addict is codependence, a pseudo-pathology linked to unresolved early-life trauma. But is that really the case? And does telling loved ones of an addict there is something wrong with them really help? In my experience, it usually does not. These caregivers are merely trying to help a person they love while living in the ongoing crisis of addiction. Sure, they may at times engage in behaviors that are not as helpful as they might like (enabling, enmeshing, controlling, etc.), but this is not a pathology, nor is it automatically the manifestation of unresolved trauma. Instead, it’s an attachment-based attempt to love a person while the proverbial house is burning down. And who could be expected to do that perfectly without empathetic support?
Understanding, empathy, and helpful support are exactly what Prodependence provides. Prodependence is an evolved prism through which therapists and loved ones of addicts can examine, evaluate, and improve relationships damaged by addiction (and all other relationships). Learn more about this new, positive, attachment-based model.
Upon attending this session, participants will be able to:- Define prodependence
- Determine how does prodependence differ (and how does it mirror) codependence
- Identify cases where prodependence is a more useful model and how can therapists implement prodependence in their practice.
