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Offered in-person & online

Our therapists offer dependent personality disorder therapy in Grand Rapids, MI

Get in-person or online care, and cover the majority of the costs with your insurance.

All Grand Rapids Charter Township services

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686,000 people sought help with Thriveworks in the last year

Discover how starting dependent personality disorder therapy can support your own journey toward a happier, more fulfilling life.

Meet with a provider as soon as this week

ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS

Aetna, ASR, Blue Care Network of Michigan, +24 more
Narcissism, Anger, Behavioral Issues, Coping Skills, Self Esteem, +10 more

As a professional who has had to ask for help before, I know this process can be intimidating and difficult, but let me reassure you that seeking assi... As a professional who has had to ask for help before, I know this process can be intimidating and difficult, but let me reassure you that seeking assistance is a courageous step towards personal growth and emotional well-being. Read more

ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS

Aetna, ASR, Blue Care Network of Michigan, +20 more
Military / Veteran, Chronic Illness, Medical / Health Issues, Self Harm, Domestic Abuse, +22 more

I am a white woman with nearly four years of experience working with many different populations and in various fields within social work.

ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS

Aetna, ASR, Blue Care Network of Michigan, +18 more
Domestic Abuse, Behavioral Issues, Coping Skills, Self Esteem, Stress, +10 more

As an older woman who has been affected by much of what life has to offer, I can empathize with many areas of trauma and joy and learning how to heal ... As an older woman who has been affected by much of what life has to offer, I can empathize with many areas of trauma and joy and learning how to heal from and celebrate those events. Read more

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Aetna, ASR, Blue Care Network of Michigan, +16 more
Military / Veteran, Chronic Illness, Medical / Health Issues, Self Harm, Domestic Abuse, +23 more

I have a wide range of experience to help me understand the individual needs a person may have.

ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS

Aetna, ASR, Blue Care Network of Michigan, +23 more
Medical / Health Issues, Self Harm, Anger, Behavioral Issues, Coping Skills, +14 more

I am dedicated to supporting you in beginning your journey no matter where we start.

ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS

Aetna, ASR, Blue Care Network of Michigan, +23 more
Military / Veteran, Chronic Illness, Medical / Health Issues, Self Harm, Behavioral Issues, +18 more

I understand what overcoming is...I had to overcome childhood trauma. I've been there. Healing from trauma is not easy, but you're worth the time and ... I understand what overcoming is...I had to overcome childhood trauma. I've been there. Healing from trauma is not easy, but you're worth the time and the effort. You have this one life, and it's important that you are able to show up for it in a way that you can feel good about, be at peace about, and be proud of. Read more

ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS

Aetna, ASR, Blue Care Network of Michigan, +21 more
Self Harm, Domestic Abuse, Anger, Behavioral Issues, Coping Skills, +18 more

ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS

Aetna, ASR, Blue Care Network of Michigan, +19 more
Domestic Abuse, Anger, Behavioral Issues, Coping Skills, Self Esteem, +11 more

As a woman who is married, has kids, and has been working in mental health for a few years, I understand the impact of stress, depression, and trauma ... As a woman who is married, has kids, and has been working in mental health for a few years, I understand the impact of stress, depression, and trauma and the affect they have on everyday life. Read more

ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS

Aetna, ASR, Blue Care Network of Michigan, +22 more
Coping Skills, Stress, Sleep / Insomnia, Anxiety, Depression, +1 more

As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, my role is multifaceted. I am a mental health advocate, educator, and clinician.

Starting Dependent personality disorder therapy

What is Dependent personality disorder therapy?

Dependent personality disorder therapy from our therapists in Grand Rapids Charter Township, MI helps clients establish their individuality and self-reliance, as those with dependent personality disorder harshly criticize themselves and underestimate their abilities.

How does Dependent personality disorder therapy work?

Dependent personality disorder therapy often involves exploration into one's past — specifically, events or relationships that may have led to the development of their dependent personality disorder. These experiences and their subsequent behaviors are discussed to help one develop healthier behaviors moving forward.

Is Dependent personality disorder therapy conducted in person or online?

Dependent personality disorder therapy at Thriveworks is conducted both in person and online by video. We encourage you to choose the option that works best for you.

How long does Dependent personality disorder therapy last?

Dependent personality disorder with a provider at Thriveworks in Grand Rapids Charter Township, MI is a short-term therapy, as long-form treatment can lead to the development of a dependence on one's therapist.

Need more help deciding?

Here is a story most people will recognize: A young girl’s mother passes unexpectedly, and her father quickly remarries a widower with two young daughters. Upon the father’s untimely death, the young girl’s stepmother and stepsisters reveal their true nature. They force the young girl to become their servant, and she complies with their whims and demands. The young girl begins to lose her own identity and stops exerting her own will. Outsiders—her animal friends and fairy godmother—come to her rescue, and eventually, she meets her prince charming. Cinderella is such a well-known story that it is hard to disguise it, but what people may not know is that Cinderella is also a story that illustrates a serious mental disorder: Dependent Personality Disorder. Sometimes, this disorder is even called “The Cinderella Complex” because it was initially thought to be a disorder for women who fear being independent. However, men and women can suffer from Dependent Personality Disorder.

The main characteristics of the disorder are low self-esteem, a deep desire to please, and a need to be cared for (or rescued). Dependent Personality Disorder can introduce many personal and professional challenges into an individual’s life, but there are also treatment options available for it. People can learn how to live their own, unique life. Skilled therapists often formulate a unique treatment plan that can teach people with the disorder how to be self-reliant and secure in their individuality.

“Every human has four endowments—self awareness, conscience, independent will and creative imagination. These give us the ultimate human freedom…
The power to choose, to respond, to change.”
—Stephen Covey

The mental health professionals at Thriveworks Grand Rapids have experience working with clients who struggle with dependency and may have Dependent Personality Disorder. We know the resources that are available for healing, and we want our clients to live their own, unique, independent lives.

The Development of Dependent Personality Disorder

Diagnosing dependency can be tricky because some cultural practices or developmental stages look like Dependent Personality Disorder. Certain cultures emphasize deferential treatment toward caretakers and authority figures that, in isolation, can look like symptoms of the disorder. However, with the broader cultural context, it is clear these respectful behaviors are not a disorder. Similarly, it is developmentally appropriate for children and teens to depend upon their parents as caretakers. Again, these behaviors are appropriate.

Often, Dependent Personality Disorder is not diagnosed until adulthood because of these factors. When people have the disorder, it can become clear as they mature. They often do not make the transition from adolescence into an independent adulthood. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5) outlines further symptoms that keep people from becoming self-sufficient and self-reliant.

Dependent Personality Disorder’s Symptoms

Dependent Personality Disorder teaches people a number of untrue things, and two of the most toxic are different sides of the same coin. First, the disorder leads people to believe that they are helpless and cannot fulfill their own material and emotional needs. Second, the disorder leads people to believe that another person must meet those needs. Because of these beliefs, people often have difficult with mutual, reciprocal friendships. They may be clingy or experience separation anxiety within their relationships. People with the disorder are often overly submissive, and they become their own worst critics by emphasizing their fault which ignoring their strengths.
Three significant symptoms of Dependent Personality Disorder (301.6[F70.7]) are:

  1. Anxiety when separated from care givers.
  2. Behavior that is overly deferential.
  3. A core need for someone to care for them.

At least five of the following signs will also be present:

  • Being uneasy and uncomfortable with one’s own uniqueness, independency, and individuality.
  • Seeking advice guidance and encouragement for making everyday decisions.
  • Abdicating significant areas of one’s life in favor of an authority figure or caregiver taking over responsibility.
  • Feeling acute fear of abandonment by an authority figure or caregiver.
  • Complying with what others think and feel in an extreme way and often, to ensure their care.
  • Replacing a caretaking relationship that has ended quickly with another authority figure.
  • Establishing relationships that do not remain mutual but escalate into dependence.
  • Minimizing one’s opinions, feelings, thoughts, perspectives, and preferences in order to please others.

These symptoms cause a number of troubles in people’s personal and professional lives. Because people with the disorder rarely take initiative and often lack confidence, they often have trouble securing and staying in a job. The disorder raises people’s risk of other mental health problems like anxiety, adjustment, personality, and depression disorders. They often have small social circles, limiting their social interactions to their family.

Scheduling Counseling at Thriveworks Grand Rapids for Dependent Personality Disorder

“You are constantly invited to be what you are.”
—Ralph Waldo Emerson

People are supposed to be free, unique, and responsible for their own lives. Interdependence is healthy, but dependence is not. If you are struggling with dependence, know that help is available. Many options for treatments are available, and the mental health professionals at Thriveworks Grand Rapids have worked with many people to find the right treatment for them.

If you are ready to see a therapist, we are ready for you. When you call our office, your first appointment may be within 24 hours. We do not put our clients on a waitlist, but weekend and evening sessions are available. We also accept many forms of insurance. Call Thriveworks Grand Rapids today.

Pricing & insurance

Our therapists accept most major insurances. We accept 585+ insurance plans, and offer self-pay options, too.
Learn more about pricing for therapy and counseling services at Thriveworks.

Our Grand Rapids Charter Township therapists and counselors accept 27 insurance plans

  • Aetna

  • ASR

  • Blue Care Network of Michigan

  • Blue Care Network of Michigan Medicare Advantage (HMO | PPO)

  • Blue Cross Blue Shield | Anthem (Blue Card)

  • Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan | BCBS Medicare Advantage (HMO | PPO)

  • Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan | BCBS PPO

  • Carelon

  • Cigna | Evernorth

  • Cigna | Evernorth EAP

  • Cigna | Evernorth Medicare Advantage

  • Compsych

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Self-pay costs at Grand Rapids Charter Township
Talk therapy

Talk therapy

Includes individual, couples, child/ teen, & family therapy

First session

$1

Ongoing sessions

$1

Talk therapy

Psychiatry

Includes reducing symptoms with medication & management

First session

$1

Ongoing sessions

$1

Hear from our clients

4.9 Learn about verified reviews
★★★★★
I am loving Thriveworks not only for the convenience of virtual appointments, but this is the first place I’ve tried that has actually helped. My therapist is incredibly kind and helpful and is amazing at helping me with any issues I’m struggling with. They paired me with a therapist that is experienced in the specific areas I needed help with, and it has been wonderful. I would absolutely recommend Thriveworks!
Read more I am loving Thriveworks not only for the convenience of virtual appointments, but this is the first place I’ve tried that has actually helped. My therapist is incredibly kind and helpful and is amazing at helping me with any issues I’m struggling with. They paired me with a therapist that is experienced in the specific areas I needed help with, and it has been wonderful. I would absolutely recommend Thriveworks!
Kelly Jan 2024
Thriveworks.com verified review
★★★★★
I have worked with Pamela Rybka LPC both personally and professionally. I have found her compassion and expertise invaluable. She has helped with me issues related to aging and grief and loss. If you need someone to help you on life's journey, contact her. Her kindness and gentle confrontation will help you be the best person you can be.
Read more I have worked with Pamela Rybka LPC both personally and professionally. I have found her compassion and expertise invaluable. She has helped with me issues related to aging and grief and loss. If you need someone to help you on life's journey, contact her. Her kindness and gentle confrontation will help you be the best person you can be.
Grand Rapids Jul 2022
Review left on Thriveworks.com
★★★★★
Emily Warning is an amazing therapist. She is very professional and knows how to listen and respond to my concerns. She really makes me feel heard. Thank you Emily, you are great!
Read more Emily Warning is an amazing therapist. She is very professional and knows how to listen and respond to my concerns. She really makes me feel heard. Thank you Emily, you are great!
Grand Rapids May 2022
Review left on Thriveworks.com
★★★★★
I’ve had the pleasure of knowing Cassie personally and professionally for over 10 years. She is an extremely kind and compassionate person. She is an excellent listener, she is very thoughtful, organized and you can tell she genuinely cares about her clients and wants to help. She’s an excellent communicator and I would highly recommend her as a counselor any day!
Read more I’ve had the pleasure of knowing Cassie personally and professionally for over 10 years. She is an extremely kind and compassionate person. She is an excellent listener, she is very thoughtful, organized and you can tell she genuinely cares about her clients and wants to help. She’s an excellent communicator and I would highly recommend her as a counselor any day!
Grand Rapids Mar 2022
Review left on Thriveworks.com
★★★★★
Angel was the sweetest person! I’m so glad I chose this place for help! I felt like a crazy person at first but she made me feel like I was just normal and just going through a lot! I really appreciate angel!
Read more Angel was the sweetest person! I’m so glad I chose this place for help! I felt like a crazy person at first but she made me feel like I was just normal and just going through a lot! I really appreciate angel!
Grand Rapids Jan 2020
Review left on Thriveworks.com
★★★★★
Thriveworks is a blessing. I got an appointment with a counselor within a week. Margaret Rose was wonderful. She was kind and insightful and I felt safe with her. I highly recommend Thriveworks Grand Rapids
Read more Thriveworks is a blessing. I got an appointment with a counselor within a week. Margaret Rose was wonderful. She was kind and insightful and I felt safe with her. I highly recommend Thriveworks Grand Rapids
Grand Rapids Sep 2019
Review left on Thriveworks.com
★★★★★
My son saw Denise for the first time recently and she was great. She seemed very well informed in every area and so willing to help my son with his anxiety. She actually spent time with us and seemed to care. I'm so glad we found her.
Read more My son saw Denise for the first time recently and she was great. She seemed very well informed in every area and so willing to help my son with his anxiety. She actually spent time with us and seemed to care. I'm so glad we found her.
Grand Rapids Jul 2019
Review left on Thriveworks.com
★★★★★
I was in need of a psychiatrist for chronic depression and anxiety. I came across thrive having only a 4 month wait instead 9 to 12 month wait with any other psychiatrist. This was wonderful news. I met Denise as my clinician. She is very empathetic very knowledgeable. She has helped me alot sine my first vist. She is very dedicated to her patients which I truly appreciate. I would highly recommend her for any psychiatric needs. I think she goes above and beyond her role. She is a caring individual. There should be more people like Denise. She needs to be recognized for her work.
Read more I was in need of a psychiatrist for chronic depression and anxiety. I came across thrive having only a 4 month wait instead 9 to 12 month wait with any other psychiatrist. This was wonderful news. I met Denise as my clinician. She is very empathetic very knowledgeable. She has helped me alot sine my first vist. She is very dedicated to her patients which I truly appreciate. I would highly recommend her for any psychiatric needs. I think she goes above and beyond her role. She is a caring individual. There should be more people like Denise. She needs to be recognized for her work.
Grand Rapids Mar 2019
Review left on Thriveworks.com

Where to find us

Getting here

Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Grand Rapids is located off of Kenmoor Ave SE. We share an office with Paper Plane Therapies, and are located near the ClearChoice Dental Implant Center.

Phone number

(616) 421-9387

Languages spoken by MI providers

  • English
Tuesday 8:00am - 9:00pm
Wednesday 8:00am - 9:00pm
Thursday 8:00am - 9:00pm
Friday 8:00am - 9:00pm
Saturday 8:00am - 9:00pm
Sunday 8:00am - 9:00pm
Monday 8:00am - 9:00pm

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Tuesday 7:00am - 9:30pm
Wednesday 7:00am - 9:30pm
Thursday 7:00am - 9:30pm
Friday 7:00am - 9:30pm
Saturday 7:00am - 6:00pm
Sunday 8:00am - 5:00pm
Monday 7:00am - 9:30pm

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