Episode 50: From Self-Sacrifice to Self-Care — Understanding Codependency in Motherhood with Marissa Esquibel, LMFT

Ever feel like you’re losing yourself in the demands of motherhood? Join Kayla Nettleton and guest Marissa Esquivel, a licensed marriage and family therapist and host of The Code of the Debbie podcast, for an honest conversation on balancing self-care with the challenges of being a mom. Marissa shares her journey as a new mom, revealing how codependency can subtly impact every aspect of our lives—from our well-being to our closest relationships. She offers insights on the origins of codependency, often rooted in our upbringing, and explains how we unintentionally recreate self-sacrificing patterns that leave us feeling resentful and unfulfilled.This episode provides practical tips on setting healthy boundaries, reducing resentment, and creating a family dynamic that supports everyone, including you. Marissa discusses how something as simple as rediscovering an old hobby—like watching a favorite reality TV show—can help us reconnect with ourselves. Her approach to maintaining individuality reminds us that even small moments of autonomy make a big difference in our well-being.Kayla and Marissa also dive into the importance of self-awareness, especially when breaking cycles of codependency, and offer strategies for taking back control in ways that benefit both you and your family. Marissa shares her own experiences in setting boundaries and voicing needs in her marriage—encouraging moms to embrace communication as a tool for lasting change.Whether you're looking to improve your relationships, connect with your pre-motherhood self, or simply find practical ways to prioritize self-care, this episode is filled with relatable reflections and actionable advice for thriving as a mom while staying true to yourself.Helpful Links:Website: www.therapywithmarissa.comCodependummy Podcast Website: www.codependummy.comSocial Media Handles@therapywithmarissa Thank you so much for joining me this week on today's episode. Be sure to follow me on IG @therapy.with.kaylaI love hearing about your insights and aha! moments from the show. About the Podcast HostKayla Nettleton is a TX-based licensed therapist, business owner, and mom of 3.In her private practice, Kayla helps women break free from cycles of anxiety, perfectionism, and people-pleasing. Her holistic approach guides clients toward authentic, fulfilling lives by reconnecting with their intuition, setting boundaries, and building confidence.Kayla also works with couples, especially parents balancing marriage and family. She offers both traditional couples therapy and focused intensives (6 to 18 hours) to help partners address key issues like communication, trust, and intimacy.Through empathy and effective therapeutic tools, Kayla helps couples reconnect, thrive, and create healthier, more supportive relationships. Her practice transforms self-doubt and disconnection into growth, healing, and lasting change.Find Kayla on IG: @therapy.with.kaylaTikTok: therapy.with.kaylaYouTube: The Modern Mom's Roadmap to Balance PodcastEmail: [email protected] Consultation: Schedule a Free 20 minute therapy consultation here.