Codependency Reconsidered: History, Stigma, and Clinical Alternatives

Teens and treatment refusal

Autonomy & Influence

Overdose Crisis

CRAFT

I spoke with Beth from the podcast Light Up the Couch, a podcast for therapists. I invited Beth and listeners to consider strength based alternatives to the pathologizing term “co-dependency.”

This conversation explores the history, definitions, and cultural meanings of “codependency.” I challenge common misconceptions and highlight the role of stigma, gender, and cultural values. We also discussed practical clinical approaches like CRAFT, systems thinking, and harm reduction, that help clinicians move beyond labels toward more compassionate, effective support of their clients.

Anyone can listen for free, and Clearly Clinical podcast members can earn a CE hour for listening. (September 24, 2025, 65 minutes)

I recently spoke with Brenda Zane, host of Hopestream, about why teenagers often refuse treatment for their substance misuse.

In this episode, we discuss in more detail why teens can be resistant to treatment, how the TV show “Intervention” changed our entire concept of treatment, the enduring myth that most kids are using substances, and why, despite its proven track record, CRAFT still isn’t the standard approach recommended and used for helping a loved one. (June 27, 2024, 47 minutes)

Podcast host Heather Ross and I discuss the delicate balance of influence and autonomy in parent-child relationships, particularly in the context of addiction. I point out how parents get caught in the bind of being blamed for the negative aspects of enabling without receiving any credit for the positive influence they may have. We reflect on the power dynamics and responsibilities that come with being a helper, the importance of respect and autonomy in relationships, and the need for a balanced approach to supporting loved ones with substance use disorder. (February 2024, 43 minutes)

I was honored to be able to speak about CRAFT and harm reduction for families, alongside a group of amazing providers and advocates. Dr. Taryn Hansen and counselor Johnny Ohta spoke about what they are seeing with young people and fentanyl on the streets and in the clinic. Deaunte Damper spoke about what he sees in his community and his own lived experience. Malika Lamont spoke about her advocacy with VOCAL-WA and the changes we need to increase safety for everyone. (August 2022, 2 hours)

Watch Lara’s interview with Cathy Taughinbaugh, the author of The Compassionate Antidote: A path to change for your and your child struggling with substance use. Cathy asked, “Parents often feel judged, blamed for the addiction, or are called co-dependent. How can parents feel less shame and guilt?” (April 2022, 21 minutes)

Fentanyl

Lara had the opportunity to speak to KUOW reporter Anna Boiko-Weyrauch about advice for parents who find that their child is using Fentanyl. She has been reporting on the rise of Fentanyl in Washington state and its eclipse of heroin. (December 2021, 7 minutes)

Harm Reduction

Finding Fixes

Lara spoke with podcast host Heather Ross this month about harm reduction. When Heather first learned about harm reduction, she was worried that it meant approving of her daughter’s drug use, but she came to find that it helped her to reduce judgement and stay connected. (June 2022, 50 minutes)

The team at Finding Fixes podcast is on its second season of stories related to the opioid problem and the people who are impacted and the people who are looking for solutions. This episode focuses on a small community of people in Issaquah who have founded a church in support of those with heroin addiction and the people who love them. The producers were able to weave information about CRAFT into the story, through my interview with them. Although I have never met the folks at True Hope Community Church, I am happy to have shared the air with them and their loving approach in this episode. (November 2019, 30 minutes)