Photo of A. Shaye, Ph.D., Psychologist in Westwood, Los Angeles, CA
A. Shaye, Ph.D.
Psychologist, MA, PhD
Verified Verified
Westwood, Los Angeles, CA 90024
Do you feel anxious? Overwhelmed? Sad? Are you struggling with a relationship issue or work stress? Dr. Shaye works in a therapy model to ensure that you see your feelings and situations change quickly, as you gain insight into your past and present to create a better future. Dr. Shaye provides a type of therapy that quickly promotes healthy relationships, decreases anxiety, and soothes depression. The office is beautiful and private to ensure client's are comfortable.
Do you feel anxious? Overwhelmed? Sad? Are you struggling with a relationship issue or work stress? Dr. Shaye works in a therapy model to ensure that you see your feelings and situations change quickly, as you gain insight into your past and present to create a better future. Dr. Shaye provides a type of therapy that quickly promotes healthy relationships, decreases anxiety, and soothes depression. The office is beautiful and private to ensure client's are comfortable.
(310) 736-2810 View (310) 736-2810
Photo of Krissy Shippey, Marriage & Family Therapist in Westwood, Los Angeles, CA
Krissy Shippey
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Westwood, Los Angeles, CA 90024
Research shows the best outcomes are a result of a positive relationship with your therapist.
As a therapist, I am passionate about walking alongside folks as they reveal their truths and vulnerabilities to themselves. I believe, and have witnessed that people are capable of long standing change with knowledge, support, and connection, and that therapy is a great place for that. You can learn new ways to manage life stressors, feel safe, gain confidence, and live a more joyful and purposeful life. I use cognitive behavioral, solution-focused, and strength-based techniques, while never ignoring the human element and connection where the real change happens.
Research shows the best outcomes are a result of a positive relationship with your therapist.
As a therapist, I am passionate about walking alongside folks as they reveal their truths and vulnerabilities to themselves. I believe, and have witnessed that people are capable of long standing change with knowledge, support, and connection, and that therapy is a great place for that. You can learn new ways to manage life stressors, feel safe, gain confidence, and live a more joyful and purposeful life. I use cognitive behavioral, solution-focused, and strength-based techniques, while never ignoring the human element and connection where the real change happens.
(805) 316-7071 View (805) 316-7071
Photo of Ashley Leila Nahai, Marriage & Family Therapist in Westwood, Los Angeles, CA
Ashley Leila Nahai
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Westwood, Los Angeles, CA 90024
I believe that establishing a trusting and collaborative therapeutic relationship is vital.
I specialize in working with individuals, families, and couples affected by substance abuse and co-occuring disorders. The effects of substance abuse and addiction can be devastating to individuals and their loved ones, and my goal is to help you navigate through the confusion and pain in order to establish a more fulfilling life. I have years of experience working with a diverse array of clients in residential treatment settings and bring a wealth of knowledge about the most effective treatment modalities to my private practice.
I believe that establishing a trusting and collaborative therapeutic relationship is vital.
I specialize in working with individuals, families, and couples affected by substance abuse and co-occuring disorders. The effects of substance abuse and addiction can be devastating to individuals and their loved ones, and my goal is to help you navigate through the confusion and pain in order to establish a more fulfilling life. I have years of experience working with a diverse array of clients in residential treatment settings and bring a wealth of knowledge about the most effective treatment modalities to my private practice.
(424) 531-9647 View (424) 531-9647
Photo of Hazel Gilson, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Westwood, Los Angeles, CA
Hazel Gilson
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westwood, Los Angeles, CA 90025
I use a customized trauma-informed approach to treat mood disorders, anxiety disorders, unresolved trauma, and relationship issues.
At some point in our lives we all experience psychological pain and suffering. While there is no blueprint to life, if you have a history of adverse life experiences, or come from an unstable home, you may find yourself struggling to build the life you want. Unresolved childhood trauma can result in a wide range of mental health, physical pain and relationship issues. You may feel broken and unsure if you can recover. Yet, my personal and professional experiences have taught me, it is through experiencing brokenness we emerge our most resilient.
I use a customized trauma-informed approach to treat mood disorders, anxiety disorders, unresolved trauma, and relationship issues.
At some point in our lives we all experience psychological pain and suffering. While there is no blueprint to life, if you have a history of adverse life experiences, or come from an unstable home, you may find yourself struggling to build the life you want. Unresolved childhood trauma can result in a wide range of mental health, physical pain and relationship issues. You may feel broken and unsure if you can recover. Yet, my personal and professional experiences have taught me, it is through experiencing brokenness we emerge our most resilient.
(805) 219-8186 View (805) 219-8186
Photo of Nicole Hamrang, Marriage & Family Therapist in Westwood, Los Angeles, CA
Nicole Hamrang
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Westwood, Los Angeles, CA 90024  (Online Only)
Still feeling like no one can truly understand what you are going through? Or maybe you're just seeking to find some guidance or clarity even though it almost feels nearly impossible. Together we will understand you, your goals, and improve the relationship and dynamics that are the most important to you. As an eclectic therapist we will work together to develop new tools that can help you identify and communicate your boundaries and triggers. My speciality includes working with individuals whom have experienced trauma, addiction (dual diagnosis), mild/acute/chronic mental illness, crisis counseling, mood/depression and coaching.
Still feeling like no one can truly understand what you are going through? Or maybe you're just seeking to find some guidance or clarity even though it almost feels nearly impossible. Together we will understand you, your goals, and improve the relationship and dynamics that are the most important to you. As an eclectic therapist we will work together to develop new tools that can help you identify and communicate your boundaries and triggers. My speciality includes working with individuals whom have experienced trauma, addiction (dual diagnosis), mild/acute/chronic mental illness, crisis counseling, mood/depression and coaching.
(909) 640-6935 View (909) 640-6935
Photo of Jessica McIntyre, Marriage & Family Therapist in Westwood, Los Angeles, CA
Jessica McIntyre
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, CHT
Verified Verified
Westwood, Los Angeles, CA 90025
Life can present many challenges. Most of the time, we can successfully handle the trials and tribulations of daily living; but occasionally we get overwhelmed. To help cope and feel much better, we consult a professional who sorts and sheds light on the elements that caused these challenges. In the process, we talk about how we feel and why we feel the way we do. Most importantly, we learn to successfully handle the initiating emotional triggers in a way such that the resultant problems no longer arise. My Los Angeles therapy practice is dediated to being that caring professional.
Life can present many challenges. Most of the time, we can successfully handle the trials and tribulations of daily living; but occasionally we get overwhelmed. To help cope and feel much better, we consult a professional who sorts and sheds light on the elements that caused these challenges. In the process, we talk about how we feel and why we feel the way we do. Most importantly, we learn to successfully handle the initiating emotional triggers in a way such that the resultant problems no longer arise. My Los Angeles therapy practice is dediated to being that caring professional.
(310) 773-3671 View (310) 773-3671
Photo of Betsy Spier, Marriage & Family Therapist in Westwood, Los Angeles, CA
Betsy Spier
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westwood, Los Angeles, CA 90049
In these times of uncertainty, I am here to help. I have years of experience and am able to work with you virtually. Call me! Listening for what is not said is often as important as what is said. No one therapeutic approach suits every client's need, so I tailor my approach based on what's best for the individual. My success with sober clients and others suffering from addictive disorders comes from my willingness to help them navigate the realities of life. Sometimes psychotherapy alone cannot cure mood disorders, just as drugs for depression and anxiety are less effective without concurrent psychotherapy.
In these times of uncertainty, I am here to help. I have years of experience and am able to work with you virtually. Call me! Listening for what is not said is often as important as what is said. No one therapeutic approach suits every client's need, so I tailor my approach based on what's best for the individual. My success with sober clients and others suffering from addictive disorders comes from my willingness to help them navigate the realities of life. Sometimes psychotherapy alone cannot cure mood disorders, just as drugs for depression and anxiety are less effective without concurrent psychotherapy.
(310) 740-9868 View (310) 740-9868
Photo of Francyne Foxman, Marriage & Family Therapist in Westwood, Los Angeles, CA
Francyne Foxman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Westwood, Los Angeles, CA 90024
I received my B.A. in Psychology from U.C., Berkeley & my M.A. in Clinical Psychology from Pepperdine University. I hold a Certification in Dual Diagnosis from U.C., Los Angeles & am skilled in counseling clients dealing with addictions as well as emotional challenges (i.e. depression, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder, trauma, grief & loss). I am proficient in treating persons & families dealing with divorce, separation, custody and court issues. I have provided supervision to Marriage & Family Therapy Trainees and Interns. In-home psychotherapy available, upon request. A Good Faith Estimate (GFE) provided upon request.
I received my B.A. in Psychology from U.C., Berkeley & my M.A. in Clinical Psychology from Pepperdine University. I hold a Certification in Dual Diagnosis from U.C., Los Angeles & am skilled in counseling clients dealing with addictions as well as emotional challenges (i.e. depression, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder, trauma, grief & loss). I am proficient in treating persons & families dealing with divorce, separation, custody and court issues. I have provided supervision to Marriage & Family Therapy Trainees and Interns. In-home psychotherapy available, upon request. A Good Faith Estimate (GFE) provided upon request.
(310) 226-8437 View (310) 226-8437
Photo of Lucinda Gray, Psychologist in Westwood, Los Angeles, CA
Lucinda Gray
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Westwood, Los Angeles, CA 90024  (Online Only)
Whether you come to therapy for a tune up or an overhaul, our work usually begins with a crisis, a situation that is causing stress, anxiety or depression. Inner conflict is a signal that you need to make changes in your life; make new decisions. In therapy we will explore factors that are making this time challenging for you. We look for action steps you can take to change the situation. in deeper ongoing work we will explore underlying issues that are affecting your life and your choices. We will work toward healing old wounds and moving into self-forgiveness. what is between you and optimal health, both physical and mental?
Whether you come to therapy for a tune up or an overhaul, our work usually begins with a crisis, a situation that is causing stress, anxiety or depression. Inner conflict is a signal that you need to make changes in your life; make new decisions. In therapy we will explore factors that are making this time challenging for you. We look for action steps you can take to change the situation. in deeper ongoing work we will explore underlying issues that are affecting your life and your choices. We will work toward healing old wounds and moving into self-forgiveness. what is between you and optimal health, both physical and mental?
(520) 500-1130 View (520) 500-1130
Photo of Stara Shakti, Licensed Professional Counselor in Westwood, Los Angeles, CA
Stara Shakti
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Westwood, Los Angeles, CA 90024
Are you seeking a safe space where your unique identity is understood and celebrated? Do you find yourself straddling the complexities of many marginalized identities: POC/BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, ADHD/neurodivergent, 1st-gen American/adult child of immigrant parents? The weight from the social pressure to conform to immigrant family roles / expectations—especially the “minority model” stereotype and resulting perfectionism—can leave you feeling anxious, stressed, and overwhelmed. Navigating these challenges can be daunting, but you’ll find answers and guidance here.
Are you seeking a safe space where your unique identity is understood and celebrated? Do you find yourself straddling the complexities of many marginalized identities: POC/BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, ADHD/neurodivergent, 1st-gen American/adult child of immigrant parents? The weight from the social pressure to conform to immigrant family roles / expectations—especially the “minority model” stereotype and resulting perfectionism—can leave you feeling anxious, stressed, and overwhelmed. Navigating these challenges can be daunting, but you’ll find answers and guidance here.
(310) 919-5877 View (310) 919-5877
Photo of Jeanette Yoffe, Marriage & Family Therapist in Westwood, Los Angeles, CA
Jeanette Yoffe
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, MA
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Westwood, Los Angeles, CA 90024  (Online Only)
Are you experiencing unresolved childhood trauma, shame, anxiety, or grief and loss related to adoption or foster care? Gently know, you are not alone. I am an adoptee and former foster youth and adoption-foster care competent. I understand how complex the challenges can be. I have a team of adoption foster care competent therapists supporting birth parents, adoptees, foster youth, foster parents, and adoptive parents skilled in reunification, adoption, adoption trauma, open adoption, foster care to adoption, search, and reunion. We have a network of peer support groups so you can be part of a thriving community!
Are you experiencing unresolved childhood trauma, shame, anxiety, or grief and loss related to adoption or foster care? Gently know, you are not alone. I am an adoptee and former foster youth and adoption-foster care competent. I understand how complex the challenges can be. I have a team of adoption foster care competent therapists supporting birth parents, adoptees, foster youth, foster parents, and adoptive parents skilled in reunification, adoption, adoption trauma, open adoption, foster care to adoption, search, and reunion. We have a network of peer support groups so you can be part of a thriving community!
(424) 999-1231 View (424) 999-1231
Photo of Porsche Terry, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westwood, Los Angeles, CA
Porsche Terry
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Westwood, Los Angeles, CA 90024
I am well rounded, hold a high level of cultural competency, and understand the unique struggles of immigration, victims of crime, racism, discrimination, systemic barriers, lack of resources, and the impact of economic hardships on mental health functioning. I enjoy working with people from all walks of life and joining with my clients to help them achieve their goals. Fairly stable clients with desires to prevent potential distress. College students, first-generation graduates, the transition of life worries and bridging the gap of knowledge and rapidly shifting social norms in a highly technological society during the pandemic.
I am well rounded, hold a high level of cultural competency, and understand the unique struggles of immigration, victims of crime, racism, discrimination, systemic barriers, lack of resources, and the impact of economic hardships on mental health functioning. I enjoy working with people from all walks of life and joining with my clients to help them achieve their goals. Fairly stable clients with desires to prevent potential distress. College students, first-generation graduates, the transition of life worries and bridging the gap of knowledge and rapidly shifting social norms in a highly technological society during the pandemic.
(661) 768-1511 View (661) 768-1511
Photo of Jim Borgardt, Marriage & Family Therapist in Westwood, Los Angeles, CA
Jim Borgardt
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westwood, Los Angeles, CA 90024
As your therapist, I can help you find the solutions to problems that seem impossible for you to solve. I can help you to reduce those symptoms that brought you to me in the first place. Together we can develop behavioral changes that make life more enjoyable. Once involved, you will feel less helpless, overwhelmed, or frightened. I provide a safe space in which you can articulate your difficulties, and support for the efforts you are willing to make to turn things around. From here you will find the opportunity for personal growth. Please visit http://therapy.borgardt.com.
As your therapist, I can help you find the solutions to problems that seem impossible for you to solve. I can help you to reduce those symptoms that brought you to me in the first place. Together we can develop behavioral changes that make life more enjoyable. Once involved, you will feel less helpless, overwhelmed, or frightened. I provide a safe space in which you can articulate your difficulties, and support for the efforts you are willing to make to turn things around. From here you will find the opportunity for personal growth. Please visit http://therapy.borgardt.com.
(562) 250-5953 View (562) 250-5953
Photo of Dr. Mirta Innis-Thompson Psychotherapist, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westwood, Los Angeles, CA
Dr. Mirta Innis-Thompson Psychotherapist
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, MSW, LICSW, LCSW-C, LCSW
Verified Verified
Westwood, Los Angeles, CA 90024
Not accepting new clients
At Elite Behavioral Therapy, I believe you are the author of your own experience and the expert on your own life. But sometimes even experts need advice. Perhaps you have wondered why there isn’t a how-to manual for your own life. Or thought that others seem to know the secret ingredient to the recipe for a successful relationship. There is no magical formula for happiness. But I can be your guide, and help you dispel the myths and negative stories that you have told yourself that's getting in the way of your happiness. Worries, stresses, joy, and hopes? I can help you better manage the conflicts everyone struggles.
At Elite Behavioral Therapy, I believe you are the author of your own experience and the expert on your own life. But sometimes even experts need advice. Perhaps you have wondered why there isn’t a how-to manual for your own life. Or thought that others seem to know the secret ingredient to the recipe for a successful relationship. There is no magical formula for happiness. But I can be your guide, and help you dispel the myths and negative stories that you have told yourself that's getting in the way of your happiness. Worries, stresses, joy, and hopes? I can help you better manage the conflicts everyone struggles.
(301) 690-0336 View (301) 690-0336

Online Therapists

Photo of Kacey Truong, Pre-Licensed Professional in Westwood, Los Angeles, CA
Kacey Truong
Pre-Licensed Professional, ASW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90026
Unresolved trauma can cause relationship issues.
Do you struggle with anxiety and depression due to your childhood trauma? Are you having problems with your partner or family members due to life transition issues? Are you experiencing increased stress, fears, and doubts around the future? I believe that we all have the capacity to heal our emotional wounds and create meaningful changes. My goal as a therapist is to offer you a safe place in which you can process insights, concerns, and emotions associated with trauma.
Unresolved trauma can cause relationship issues.
Do you struggle with anxiety and depression due to your childhood trauma? Are you having problems with your partner or family members due to life transition issues? Are you experiencing increased stress, fears, and doubts around the future? I believe that we all have the capacity to heal our emotional wounds and create meaningful changes. My goal as a therapist is to offer you a safe place in which you can process insights, concerns, and emotions associated with trauma.
(818) 350-5158 View (818) 350-5158
Photo of Veronica Ghabour, Counselor in Westwood, Los Angeles, CA
Veronica Ghabour
Counselor, APCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90025
I aim to assist couples in identifying their underlying issues, practicing healthy communication, and setting appropriate expectations within the relationship.
Mental health challenges are due to the aftereffects of traumatic experiences. Trauma can place a strain on your family, work, relationships, and even cause issues with self-worth. I specialize in trauma therapy along with treating personality disorders, depression, anxiety, ADHD, and addiction. All these disorders can look different from person to person, and that is where our therapeutic journey of empowerment and self-exploration begins. I concentrate on creating a safe space of growth and self-discovery through unconditional positive regard, emotional regulation, and guided activities.
I aim to assist couples in identifying their underlying issues, practicing healthy communication, and setting appropriate expectations within the relationship.
Mental health challenges are due to the aftereffects of traumatic experiences. Trauma can place a strain on your family, work, relationships, and even cause issues with self-worth. I specialize in trauma therapy along with treating personality disorders, depression, anxiety, ADHD, and addiction. All these disorders can look different from person to person, and that is where our therapeutic journey of empowerment and self-exploration begins. I concentrate on creating a safe space of growth and self-discovery through unconditional positive regard, emotional regulation, and guided activities.
(424) 342-0238 View (424) 342-0238
Photo of Mayra Sotelo, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westwood, Los Angeles, CA
Mayra Sotelo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90071  (Online Only)
So how can I help? My specialities include depression and anxiety, working with those impacted by divorce, grief/loss, stress, communication issues, relationship conflicts, and Trauma.
Hello, My name is Mayra. I am a bilingual Licensed Clinical Social Worker, fluent in both English and Spanish, with over 16 years of mental health experience. I am passionate about helping individuals who are not feeling like themselves, adjusting to new life changes, or dealing with trauma. Although taking the first steps toward therapy can be intimidating, the benefits can be profound. Throughout my career, I have provided clients from diverse ethnic backgrounds with individual therapy.
So how can I help? My specialities include depression and anxiety, working with those impacted by divorce, grief/loss, stress, communication issues, relationship conflicts, and Trauma.
Hello, My name is Mayra. I am a bilingual Licensed Clinical Social Worker, fluent in both English and Spanish, with over 16 years of mental health experience. I am passionate about helping individuals who are not feeling like themselves, adjusting to new life changes, or dealing with trauma. Although taking the first steps toward therapy can be intimidating, the benefits can be profound. Throughout my career, I have provided clients from diverse ethnic backgrounds with individual therapy.
(747) 269-6303 View (747) 269-6303
Photo of Jamie Stern, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Westwood, Los Angeles, CA
Jamie Stern
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90026
Are you going through internal struggle due to trauma? Do you feel anxious and depressed about the future? Do you struggle with family issues and relationship issues? I’m willing to meet you where you are, help you process unwanted thoughts and emotions, and help develop an action plan to effectively cultivate your healing and growth. I’m here to help you explore unresolved feelings (anxiety, depression, anger, helplessness, grief, etc.) and develop skills to effectively cope with them. Thus, you can feel relieved and fulfilled in your relationship with yourself and others.
Are you going through internal struggle due to trauma? Do you feel anxious and depressed about the future? Do you struggle with family issues and relationship issues? I’m willing to meet you where you are, help you process unwanted thoughts and emotions, and help develop an action plan to effectively cultivate your healing and growth. I’m here to help you explore unresolved feelings (anxiety, depression, anger, helplessness, grief, etc.) and develop skills to effectively cope with them. Thus, you can feel relieved and fulfilled in your relationship with yourself and others.
(818) 338-5852 View (818) 338-5852
Photo of Dr. Christina M. Charlotin, Psychologist in Westwood, Los Angeles, CA
Dr. Christina M. Charlotin
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90071
I work with adults who experience depression, anxiety disorders (agoraphobia, panic disorder, social anxiety, specific phobias), OCD, relationship challenges or loss, phase-of-life stressors, procrastination, & LGBTQ or Race related trauma.
Compared to many other psychologists, my therapy style may be more goal oriented, assertive, and with a stronger focus on observing and measuring therapeutic progress over longer term emotional processing. My approach is based on my belief that we do have the power to create healthy emotions & dismantle unwanted emotions. When meeting with you, I'll want to understand how your ongoing circumstances, emotions, behaviors, or thoughts impact the short term as well as the overall outcomes in your life. I base my treatment on evidenced-based inventions, eastern & wellness perspectives, and a conscious awareness approach.
I work with adults who experience depression, anxiety disorders (agoraphobia, panic disorder, social anxiety, specific phobias), OCD, relationship challenges or loss, phase-of-life stressors, procrastination, & LGBTQ or Race related trauma.
Compared to many other psychologists, my therapy style may be more goal oriented, assertive, and with a stronger focus on observing and measuring therapeutic progress over longer term emotional processing. My approach is based on my belief that we do have the power to create healthy emotions & dismantle unwanted emotions. When meeting with you, I'll want to understand how your ongoing circumstances, emotions, behaviors, or thoughts impact the short term as well as the overall outcomes in your life. I base my treatment on evidenced-based inventions, eastern & wellness perspectives, and a conscious awareness approach.
(323) 508-2096 View (323) 508-2096
Photo of Lucky Barbero, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westwood, Los Angeles, CA
Lucky Barbero
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90056  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, or relationship challenges? Feel burdened by thoughts of the future or haunted by the past? Struggling with negative self-talk, unhealthy behavior, and low self-esteem? I offer a Client Centered approach and a safe space to process your thoughts and emotions. I provide therapeutic support during your journey of self-discovery, growth, and healing. I strive for collaboration in creating a therapeutic plan that will fit your unique needs towards achieving your personal goals.
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, or relationship challenges? Feel burdened by thoughts of the future or haunted by the past? Struggling with negative self-talk, unhealthy behavior, and low self-esteem? I offer a Client Centered approach and a safe space to process your thoughts and emotions. I provide therapeutic support during your journey of self-discovery, growth, and healing. I strive for collaboration in creating a therapeutic plan that will fit your unique needs towards achieving your personal goals.
(626) 240-1238 View (626) 240-1238

See more therapy options for Westwood, Los Angeles

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.