The Hidden Root Cause of Anxiety and Depression- Codependency With Dr. Sarah Michaud

Mar 17, 2025

Dr. Sarah Michaud, a clinical psychologist and addiction expert, sheds light on the hidden roots of anxiety and depression tied to codependency. She explores how anxiety often masks suppressed anger and caretaking behaviors. The conversation emphasizes the significance of setting boundaries and being assertive to enhance personal well-being. Dr. Michaud also discusses the emotional complexities of communication in relationships and encourages listeners to prioritize their emotional needs for healthier connections.

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Intro

00:00 • 2min

Understanding Codependency in Relationships

01:35 • 11min

Navigating Codependency and Emotional Expression

12:34 • 6min

Finding Your Voice in Codependent Relationships

19:02 • 3min

Navigating Personal Needs and Emotional Expression

21:39 • 3min

Confronting Codependency

24:34 • 21min

Embracing Self-Worth and Healing from Codependency

45:13 • 2min

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Sometimes anxiety attacks and panic attacks are actually suppressed anger and caretaking that are showing up as Anxiety. In this conversation with Dr. Sarah Michaud, we explore how our anxiety around other people's feelings often shows up as caretaking, codependency, and unhealthy relationships. When we learn to be more assertive, more clear, and to allow other people to be responsible for themselves, we can heal from codependency and improve symptoms of depression or anxiety.

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Therapy in a Nutshell and the information provided by Emma McAdam are solely intended for informational and entertainment purposes and are not a substitute for advice, diagnosis, or treatment regarding medical or mental health conditions. Although Emma McAdam is a licensed marriage and family therapist, the views expressed on this site or any related content should not be taken for medical or psychiatric advice. Always consult your physician before making any decisions related to your physical or mental health. In therapy I use a combination of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Systems Theory, positive psychology, and a bio-psycho-social approach to treating mental illness and other challenges we all face in life. The ideas from my videos are frequently adapted from multiple sources. Many of them come from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, especially the work of Steven Hayes, Jason Luoma, and Russ Harris. The sections on stress and the mind-body connection derive from the work of Stephen Porges (the Polyvagal theory), Peter Levine (Somatic Experiencing) Francine Shapiro (EMDR), and Bessel Van Der Kolk. I also rely heavily on the work of the Arbinger Institute for my overall understanding of our ability to choose our life's direction.

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