Originally Posted by
TheHopeful 
As in, can a codependent ever really heal while still in the same relationship, or is leaving the first step towards recovery?
One of my closest friends (we're in touch throughout every day) is a four year sober recovering A who has been in love with another recovering addict for 3 years. They have changed their relationship dramatically for the better. They met in AA. Both very much dedicated to their recovery - go to AA, Al-Anon, therapy and have strong spiritual practices. She's had relapses and was on suicide watch for awhile, so it's not all been smooth sailing. I'm heartened and inspired that by focusing on their individual recovery, they are transforming their relationship from one of extreme codependence to interdependence and love. It takes a
lot of dedication to recovery and both know that they cannot look to the other to provide that.