Photo of Leyla Sanford, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles County, CA
Leyla Sanford
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Studio City, CA 91604
I work with clients who are depressed or anxious, in need of relationship help, and those just interested self-improvement.
I believe we are all equipped with the resources to navigate our way to fulfillment. Sometimes life's challenges overwhelm us and we need some extra support. Sometimes hurts from long ago arise and get in our way. I will guide you in uncovering your inner strengths by providing a safe environment where we will engage in meaningful conversations about your emotional life. By exploring areas of both dissatisfaction and contentment, and unraveling problematic ideas, we can alleviate your pain and work towards gratification.
I work with clients who are depressed or anxious, in need of relationship help, and those just interested self-improvement.
I believe we are all equipped with the resources to navigate our way to fulfillment. Sometimes life's challenges overwhelm us and we need some extra support. Sometimes hurts from long ago arise and get in our way. I will guide you in uncovering your inner strengths by providing a safe environment where we will engage in meaningful conversations about your emotional life. By exploring areas of both dissatisfaction and contentment, and unraveling problematic ideas, we can alleviate your pain and work towards gratification.
(323) 649-8437 View (323) 649-8437
Photo of Julia Willinger, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles County, CA
Julia Willinger
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, RYT-200
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90066
I blend depth, relational, IFS, and somatic ideologies to help you heal from trauma, creative blocks, relationship challenges, depression, anxiety, and life transitions.
Whether you’re going through a difficult moment or life transition, having trouble in relationships, experiencing anxiety, or looking for meaning in your life, I am here to support you. I create a safe, shame-free space for you to explore underlying issues that may be causing challenges in your life. I show up authentically with a Trauma-informed, Depth/Jungian, IFS, Relational, and compassionate Mind-Body approach. We can explore your inner world, process past trauma, bring awareness to relational wounds, and grow interpersonal connection in order for you to have fulfilling relationships with yourself and others.
I blend depth, relational, IFS, and somatic ideologies to help you heal from trauma, creative blocks, relationship challenges, depression, anxiety, and life transitions.
Whether you’re going through a difficult moment or life transition, having trouble in relationships, experiencing anxiety, or looking for meaning in your life, I am here to support you. I create a safe, shame-free space for you to explore underlying issues that may be causing challenges in your life. I show up authentically with a Trauma-informed, Depth/Jungian, IFS, Relational, and compassionate Mind-Body approach. We can explore your inner world, process past trauma, bring awareness to relational wounds, and grow interpersonal connection in order for you to have fulfilling relationships with yourself and others.
(213) 394-6978 View (213) 394-6978
Photo of Zane (Susan) Walshe, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles County, CA
Zane (Susan) Walshe
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90814
I specialize in treating: LGBTQIA+ Community, Alcoholism and Addictions, Relationship Issues, Couples Counseling, Depression, Anxiety, PTSD/Trauma: (Mental, Emotional, Physical, Sexual Abuse).
I am a Licensed Marriage, Family Therapist in private practice in Long Beach, California working with individuals, couples, and families. As a Transmasculine person who uses the pronouns they/them/theirs, I am especially qualified and passionate about working with folks in the LGBTQIA+ Community and their allies. An eclectic therapist focused on the healing arts utilizing a wide variety of theories and techniques including Mindfulness, Somatic, Cognitive Behavioral, Existential and Gestalt to serve the diverse needs of my clients. I also supervise wonderful, skilled, and compassionate Associates who offer caring therapy on a scale.
I specialize in treating: LGBTQIA+ Community, Alcoholism and Addictions, Relationship Issues, Couples Counseling, Depression, Anxiety, PTSD/Trauma: (Mental, Emotional, Physical, Sexual Abuse).
I am a Licensed Marriage, Family Therapist in private practice in Long Beach, California working with individuals, couples, and families. As a Transmasculine person who uses the pronouns they/them/theirs, I am especially qualified and passionate about working with folks in the LGBTQIA+ Community and their allies. An eclectic therapist focused on the healing arts utilizing a wide variety of theories and techniques including Mindfulness, Somatic, Cognitive Behavioral, Existential and Gestalt to serve the diverse needs of my clients. I also supervise wonderful, skilled, and compassionate Associates who offer caring therapy on a scale.
(562) 445-3729 View (562) 445-3729
Photo of Charles Andrews, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles County, CA
Charles Andrews
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90814
Is your intimate relationship a minefield of frustration and suspicion, anger and fear? Do you yearn for a loving, gratifying relationship of mutual understanding and compassion, that makes plenty of room for growth and change? I strive to help couples move from pain and fear to hope and trust in the power of a safe, trusting intimate relationship.
I see anyone who is suffering. You want a better intimate relationship. You want a better relationship with friends, family, or at work. You're struggling with a major life decision or situation. You're grieving loss, of work, home, family. You're searching for better understanding and awareness of your emotional life. You struggle with anger and fear. You wonder "who am I now? What's going on with me?" Therapy is for whatever you want it to be for. Perhaps you simply want someone to understand your suffering. To be with you as you push into the heart of it. Into your own heart and mind. I'm here for all of it.
Is your intimate relationship a minefield of frustration and suspicion, anger and fear? Do you yearn for a loving, gratifying relationship of mutual understanding and compassion, that makes plenty of room for growth and change? I strive to help couples move from pain and fear to hope and trust in the power of a safe, trusting intimate relationship.
I see anyone who is suffering. You want a better intimate relationship. You want a better relationship with friends, family, or at work. You're struggling with a major life decision or situation. You're grieving loss, of work, home, family. You're searching for better understanding and awareness of your emotional life. You struggle with anger and fear. You wonder "who am I now? What's going on with me?" Therapy is for whatever you want it to be for. Perhaps you simply want someone to understand your suffering. To be with you as you push into the heart of it. Into your own heart and mind. I'm here for all of it.
(213) 344-5929 View (213) 344-5929
Photo of Trish Haight, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles County, CA
Trish Haight
Marriage & Family Therapist, SEP, CSAT, CCPS, CPTT, DSTT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90064
Waitlist for new clients
I am a trauma specialist working with developmental, relational, and shock traumas. Relationship is what we long for from our deep selves. From birth, our instinct is to connect in order to feel safety, comfort, and wholeness. This yearning moves with us throughout our lives. Connection gives us a sense of belonging and of being "okay". Be it the relationship with self, body, others, and life experience, the connection and flow of it is vital for healthy functioning. When the connection is blocked, frozen, or severed, a whole-self cannot thrive. Reconnecting is essential for our authentic self-expressions.
I am a trauma specialist working with developmental, relational, and shock traumas. Relationship is what we long for from our deep selves. From birth, our instinct is to connect in order to feel safety, comfort, and wholeness. This yearning moves with us throughout our lives. Connection gives us a sense of belonging and of being "okay". Be it the relationship with self, body, others, and life experience, the connection and flow of it is vital for healthy functioning. When the connection is blocked, frozen, or severed, a whole-self cannot thrive. Reconnecting is essential for our authentic self-expressions.
(424) 294-8937 View (424) 294-8937
Photo of Chloe Bean, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Los Angeles County, CA
Chloe Bean
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Beverly Hills, CA 90212
I work with clients who are motivated to find harmony within themselves, in their relationships, and in their lives. I specialize in providing psychotherapy for issues including anxiety, low self-esteem, trauma, depression, body image, burnout, and relationship conflict. I work with adults, adolescents, and couples, and I provide parent/family coaching. My style is curious, warm, direct, and experiential. We will work together as you develop insight and self-acceptance, and you will gain skills to use outside of sessions as we focus on your short and long-term goals.
I work with clients who are motivated to find harmony within themselves, in their relationships, and in their lives. I specialize in providing psychotherapy for issues including anxiety, low self-esteem, trauma, depression, body image, burnout, and relationship conflict. I work with adults, adolescents, and couples, and I provide parent/family coaching. My style is curious, warm, direct, and experiential. We will work together as you develop insight and self-acceptance, and you will gain skills to use outside of sessions as we focus on your short and long-term goals.
(424) 842-4909 View (424) 842-4909
Photo of Kathlynn Gates, Associate Clinical Social Worker in Los Angeles County, CA
Kathlynn Gates
Associate Clinical Social Worker, ASW
Verified Verified
Pasadena, CA 91101
Are you experiencing challenges dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship/family issues, and trauma/PTSD? Due to these symptoms, we can be in too much emotional pain and feel too stuck to reframe our perceptions or to find solutions to our problems. Childhood or recent trauma can cause emotional distress that can be difficult to process. I am here to support you in working through unresolved trauma and guide you toward healing. Therefore, you can feel empowered, rejuvenated, and enthusiastic about life again.
Are you experiencing challenges dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship/family issues, and trauma/PTSD? Due to these symptoms, we can be in too much emotional pain and feel too stuck to reframe our perceptions or to find solutions to our problems. Childhood or recent trauma can cause emotional distress that can be difficult to process. I am here to support you in working through unresolved trauma and guide you toward healing. Therefore, you can feel empowered, rejuvenated, and enthusiastic about life again.
(626) 788-8445 View (626) 788-8445
Photo of Erika Self, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles County, CA
Erika Self
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
La Verne, CA 91750  (Online Only)
Are you feeling overwhelmed and stressed-out in your relationship?  Do you sometimes find yourself drinking/smoking/eating to cope? Are you and your partner having the same argument over and over? If you answered 'yes' to any of these questions, you're in the right place.​ You want to understand why these pattern keep happening. You want to learn how to cope with feelings like anxiety, sadness, and anger so you can be more present. You want to learn how to identify and express your feelings and needs more effectively to build more emotional intimacy with your partner/s. You're ready for a change.
Are you feeling overwhelmed and stressed-out in your relationship?  Do you sometimes find yourself drinking/smoking/eating to cope? Are you and your partner having the same argument over and over? If you answered 'yes' to any of these questions, you're in the right place.​ You want to understand why these pattern keep happening. You want to learn how to cope with feelings like anxiety, sadness, and anger so you can be more present. You want to learn how to identify and express your feelings and needs more effectively to build more emotional intimacy with your partner/s. You're ready for a change.
(213) 238-6435 View (213) 238-6435
Photo of Thomas Y. Simon, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles County, CA
Thomas Y. Simon
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90066  (Online Only)
Thank you for taking a moment to read about me and my work. My approach uses insight and depth psychotherapy combined with Mindfulness within a framework of awareness of the body. When our living process becomes stuck, therapy can move it forward. If you feel stuck in repetitive behaviors, painful feelings, and recurring anxious thoughts, I want to help you to identify how you are bogged down, so you can feel better. I can help to re-focus a sense of purpose...a way to step into your life more completely. This may include taking action if feeling adrift, or bringing clarity to a relationship.
Thank you for taking a moment to read about me and my work. My approach uses insight and depth psychotherapy combined with Mindfulness within a framework of awareness of the body. When our living process becomes stuck, therapy can move it forward. If you feel stuck in repetitive behaviors, painful feelings, and recurring anxious thoughts, I want to help you to identify how you are bogged down, so you can feel better. I can help to re-focus a sense of purpose...a way to step into your life more completely. This may include taking action if feeling adrift, or bringing clarity to a relationship.
(424) 304-0069 View (424) 304-0069
Photo of Nazare Magaz, Psychologist in Los Angeles County, CA
Nazare Magaz
Psychologist, PsyD, PhD
Verified Verified
Altadena, CA 91001
Treatment with me is a dedicated journey to your growth and wellbeing. I offer the highest level of clinical expertise,3 doctorates, with absolute regard to you as a unique individual. I am committed to help you learn and improve your life. My specialization in attachments (parents and beyond), will provide you with essential understanding of the impact of early relationship on current difficulties. Additionally, my dialectical and metallization expertise will help you develop skills to alleviate anxiety/depression and improve all relationship, yourself included. I will help you increase calmness, joy, confidence and understanding.
Treatment with me is a dedicated journey to your growth and wellbeing. I offer the highest level of clinical expertise,3 doctorates, with absolute regard to you as a unique individual. I am committed to help you learn and improve your life. My specialization in attachments (parents and beyond), will provide you with essential understanding of the impact of early relationship on current difficulties. Additionally, my dialectical and metallization expertise will help you develop skills to alleviate anxiety/depression and improve all relationship, yourself included. I will help you increase calmness, joy, confidence and understanding.
(626) 310-7047 View (626) 310-7047
Photo of Vincent Lombardi, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles County, CA
Vincent Lombardi
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CSAT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90028
I truly enjoy working with clients who are seeking understanding of themselves and wanting to create some change in their lives. I also understand that true intimacy is created from the client-patient relationship, therefore it is tantamount to find the right therapist that you (the patient) feels safe/comfortable enough to say anything that is needed in order to illicit insight/change. I ask that all my clients outline specific therapeutic goals so that together we be clear as to our purpose and stay the course of treatment. I am client-focused and open to feedback since treatment is made for the client.
I truly enjoy working with clients who are seeking understanding of themselves and wanting to create some change in their lives. I also understand that true intimacy is created from the client-patient relationship, therefore it is tantamount to find the right therapist that you (the patient) feels safe/comfortable enough to say anything that is needed in order to illicit insight/change. I ask that all my clients outline specific therapeutic goals so that together we be clear as to our purpose and stay the course of treatment. I am client-focused and open to feedback since treatment is made for the client.
(323) 924-6521 View (323) 924-6521
Photo of Brianna Lynn Johnson, Associate Clinical Social Worker in Los Angeles County, CA
Brianna Lynn Johnson
Associate Clinical Social Worker, MSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
Pasadena, CA 91101
If you are reading this, then I imagine you have found yourself needing change. Perhaps you are exhausted by the daily anxiety that has you believe you are never safe, always questioning your place and relationships. Maybe you are finally ready to delve into past trauma, knowing it is time to dive into the unknown in the hopes to release its grip on your life. Relationship difficulties with family members or partners are at an all time high, and you find yourself needing support to learn how to communicate and be heard. Maybe you simply need a space to feel safe, supported, and learn how to breathe fully again.
If you are reading this, then I imagine you have found yourself needing change. Perhaps you are exhausted by the daily anxiety that has you believe you are never safe, always questioning your place and relationships. Maybe you are finally ready to delve into past trauma, knowing it is time to dive into the unknown in the hopes to release its grip on your life. Relationship difficulties with family members or partners are at an all time high, and you find yourself needing support to learn how to communicate and be heard. Maybe you simply need a space to feel safe, supported, and learn how to breathe fully again.
(323) 827-8631 View (323) 827-8631
Photo of Carol Beecroft, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles County, CA
Carol Beecroft
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
Altadena, CA 91001
When you feel need for change, when your inner and outer lives are out of synch, this may be a calling to seek meaning and new vitality. As a therapist, I work in an engaged, creative way with clients who wish to connect, explore and gain insight into their authentic feelings, needs and relationship patterns. My approach includes the emotional, body-mind, energetic and creative aspects of each individual who wishes to discover and bring the healing of new consciousness and healthy wholeheartedness into their lives. I am also able to provide you tools for solving problems with conflict, intimacy, relationships and communication.
When you feel need for change, when your inner and outer lives are out of synch, this may be a calling to seek meaning and new vitality. As a therapist, I work in an engaged, creative way with clients who wish to connect, explore and gain insight into their authentic feelings, needs and relationship patterns. My approach includes the emotional, body-mind, energetic and creative aspects of each individual who wishes to discover and bring the healing of new consciousness and healthy wholeheartedness into their lives. I am also able to provide you tools for solving problems with conflict, intimacy, relationships and communication.
(626) 550-2131 View (626) 550-2131
Photo of Savanna Petruccelli, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Los Angeles County, CA
Savanna Petruccelli
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, AMFT
Verified Verified
Torrance, CA 90505
I specialize in working with relationship difficulties, life transitions, setting boundaries, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, substance use, and first responder families.
I know it’s not easy to ask for help. The truth is, everyone feels stuck at some point in our lives and that’s completely normal. We are relational beings and aren’t meant to navigate these challenges alone. Finding a therapist who you connect with is a brave decision that can truly change your outlook on life. Maybe you are struggling with what seems to be an unsolvable problem and are tired of feeling the way that you do. Maybe you feel lonely, unheard, or frustrated in your interpersonal relationship.
I specialize in working with relationship difficulties, life transitions, setting boundaries, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, substance use, and first responder families.
I know it’s not easy to ask for help. The truth is, everyone feels stuck at some point in our lives and that’s completely normal. We are relational beings and aren’t meant to navigate these challenges alone. Finding a therapist who you connect with is a brave decision that can truly change your outlook on life. Maybe you are struggling with what seems to be an unsolvable problem and are tired of feeling the way that you do. Maybe you feel lonely, unheard, or frustrated in your interpersonal relationship.
(310) 340-6902 View (310) 340-6902
Photo of Caroline Sheridan Wallace, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Los Angeles County, CA
Caroline Sheridan Wallace
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90039
The therapeutic process is about attunement and connection. My style is empathetic, warm, and curious. I enjoy working with creative people who are dealing with relationship issues, anxiety, grief, life transitions, and those who are ready to process experiences of trauma. I utilize a psychoanalytic approach which means I like to collaborate with the client in an exploration of their history to better understand themselves. I also work relationally and intersubjectively which means that together we will explore how the unconscious plays out within the therapeutic relationship.
The therapeutic process is about attunement and connection. My style is empathetic, warm, and curious. I enjoy working with creative people who are dealing with relationship issues, anxiety, grief, life transitions, and those who are ready to process experiences of trauma. I utilize a psychoanalytic approach which means I like to collaborate with the client in an exploration of their history to better understand themselves. I also work relationally and intersubjectively which means that together we will explore how the unconscious plays out within the therapeutic relationship.
(818) 940-1102 View (818) 940-1102
Photo of Alexa Enyart, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Los Angeles County, CA
Alexa Enyart
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
Van Nuys, CA 91405
I have expertise in relationship/family dynamics & attachment issues.
Do you feel as though your anxiety and depression are unmanageable? How about feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or helplessness like you’ve hit rock bottom and are struggling to find hope for tomorrow? Once we start to unravel the details of our past and trauma we give ourselves the ability to process feelings that we have long suppressed. I aim to collaborate with you and provide tools to decrease the challenging feelings you are currently facing and achieve a more integrated and balanced sense of self, leading to emotional healing and personal growth.
I have expertise in relationship/family dynamics & attachment issues.
Do you feel as though your anxiety and depression are unmanageable? How about feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or helplessness like you’ve hit rock bottom and are struggling to find hope for tomorrow? Once we start to unravel the details of our past and trauma we give ourselves the ability to process feelings that we have long suppressed. I aim to collaborate with you and provide tools to decrease the challenging feelings you are currently facing and achieve a more integrated and balanced sense of self, leading to emotional healing and personal growth.
(323) 396-9818 View (323) 396-9818
Photo of Aaron Aviera, Psychologist in Los Angeles County, CA
Aaron Aviera
Psychologist, PhD, SEP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90025
Waitlist for new clients
Thank you for taking time to read about my work. I am a clinical psychologist (PhD, UCLA, 1991) and have been providing psychotherapy to individuals and couples for over twenty five years. My approach integrates insight oriented/depth psychotherapy with mindfulness/meditation within a framework of body awareness. A central part of therapy is the mutually created caring and healing relationship. If we work together, time will be devoted to building a trusting, safe and containing relationship where early (developmental) as well as more recent challenges can be discussed, explored and healed.
Thank you for taking time to read about my work. I am a clinical psychologist (PhD, UCLA, 1991) and have been providing psychotherapy to individuals and couples for over twenty five years. My approach integrates insight oriented/depth psychotherapy with mindfulness/meditation within a framework of body awareness. A central part of therapy is the mutually created caring and healing relationship. If we work together, time will be devoted to building a trusting, safe and containing relationship where early (developmental) as well as more recent challenges can be discussed, explored and healed.
(424) 322-1664 View (424) 322-1664
Photo of Liliana Frandsen, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Los Angeles County, CA
Liliana Frandsen
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Glendale, CA 91204
I work with clients looking to move through anxiety, depression, life transitions, trauma, relationship issues, grief, and poor self-esteem. I am a queer identified therapist and I specialize in working with the LGBTQIA+ community. I work with queer, lesbian, bi, and trans identifying adults and adolescents in individual, couples, and group settings. I’m passionate about continuing the process of decolonizing mental health therapy and all my work is affirmative and through a queer, social justice lens.
I work with clients looking to move through anxiety, depression, life transitions, trauma, relationship issues, grief, and poor self-esteem. I am a queer identified therapist and I specialize in working with the LGBTQIA+ community. I work with queer, lesbian, bi, and trans identifying adults and adolescents in individual, couples, and group settings. I’m passionate about continuing the process of decolonizing mental health therapy and all my work is affirmative and through a queer, social justice lens.
(323) 379-0934 View (323) 379-0934
Photo of Sarah Cheedle, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles County, CA
Sarah Cheedle
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Culver City, CA 90232  (Online Only)
We all go through times that are stressful and overwhelming. Certain behaviors and aspects of our personalities can cause us trouble as well. Whether it be work problems, relationship issues, illness or just a vague feeling of unhappiness or irritability, seeing a therapist can help. As a clinical social worker, I have been trained to assess the complex picture of your life and determine where changes can be made. As partners in the process of therapy we can address emotional, mental, physical and practical areas of your life that can be modified or healed to bring about relief and fulfillment.
We all go through times that are stressful and overwhelming. Certain behaviors and aspects of our personalities can cause us trouble as well. Whether it be work problems, relationship issues, illness or just a vague feeling of unhappiness or irritability, seeing a therapist can help. As a clinical social worker, I have been trained to assess the complex picture of your life and determine where changes can be made. As partners in the process of therapy we can address emotional, mental, physical and practical areas of your life that can be modified or healed to bring about relief and fulfillment.
(424) 254-1694 View (424) 254-1694
Photo of Bryce McDavitt, Psychologist in Los Angeles County, CA
Bryce McDavitt
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Studio City, CA 91604  (Online Only)
With over twenty years experience in LGBTQ counseling, research, and teaching, I have a deep understanding of our community. Among LGBTQ individuals anxiety and depression may involve feelings of emptiness, relationship problems, interpersonal sensitivity, or addictions. The roots of these struggles can vary, but it helps to have a therapist who grasps the alienating impact of growing up in a world that disavows the core of who we are. I will help you address these issues, and others, through a deeper approach that can feel energizing, challenging, and even liberating.
With over twenty years experience in LGBTQ counseling, research, and teaching, I have a deep understanding of our community. Among LGBTQ individuals anxiety and depression may involve feelings of emptiness, relationship problems, interpersonal sensitivity, or addictions. The roots of these struggles can vary, but it helps to have a therapist who grasps the alienating impact of growing up in a world that disavows the core of who we are. I will help you address these issues, and others, through a deeper approach that can feel energizing, challenging, and even liberating.
(323) 801-8123 View (323) 801-8123

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Relationship Issues Therapists
While need for human connection appears to be innate, the ability to form healthy, loving relationships is learned. Some evidence suggests that the ability to form a stable relationship starts to form in infancy, in a child's earliest experiences with a caregiver who reliably meets the infant's needs for food, care, warmth, protection, stimulation, and social contact. Such relationships are not destiny, but they are theorized to establish deeply ingrained patterns of relating to others. The end of a relationship, however, is often a source of great psychological anguish.