Relationship Issues Therapists in Chicago, IL

Photo of Jeff Stahl, Counselor in Chicago, IL
Jeff Stahl
Counselor, LCPC, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60606
My strengths lie in the ability to create a therapeutic relationship, which holds clarity, compassion and respect as pillars in constructing a space for personal growth.
By picking up the phone and contacting a therapist, you've taken the hardest step: a coming to an awareness that you would like to affect change in your life. I believe in an interactive, dynamic approach where together we explore the history of an issue, it's effects and most importantly, institute a positive plan for change.
My strengths lie in the ability to create a therapeutic relationship, which holds clarity, compassion and respect as pillars in constructing a space for personal growth.
By picking up the phone and contacting a therapist, you've taken the hardest step: a coming to an awareness that you would like to affect change in your life. I believe in an interactive, dynamic approach where together we explore the history of an issue, it's effects and most importantly, institute a positive plan for change.
(312) 487-4381 View (312) 487-4381
Photo of Dr. Caitlin Stumpner, Psychologist in Chicago, IL
Dr. Caitlin Stumpner
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60613  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I work with individuals with a wide variety of concerns including relationship concerns, family-of-origin concerns, parent-child dynamics, identity development/exploration, trauma-related difficulties, low self-worth, life transitions/adjustments.
Welcome! I am so happy that you are taking this step towards healing and growth! It’s my personal belief that all humans have the power to grow and heal, but sometimes we get lost or stuck on this journey. It can feel overwhelming and disheartening when we find ourselves stuck back in familiar (perhaps uncomfortable) places we’ve already been. That’s okay! It’s a part of healing. Therapy is a powerful place where we create insight into these patterns and find relief to live a more fulfilling life. As a therapist, I value safety and collaboration within therapy, and empower clients to always prioritize their safety.
I work with individuals with a wide variety of concerns including relationship concerns, family-of-origin concerns, parent-child dynamics, identity development/exploration, trauma-related difficulties, low self-worth, life transitions/adjustments.
Welcome! I am so happy that you are taking this step towards healing and growth! It’s my personal belief that all humans have the power to grow and heal, but sometimes we get lost or stuck on this journey. It can feel overwhelming and disheartening when we find ourselves stuck back in familiar (perhaps uncomfortable) places we’ve already been. That’s okay! It’s a part of healing. Therapy is a powerful place where we create insight into these patterns and find relief to live a more fulfilling life. As a therapist, I value safety and collaboration within therapy, and empower clients to always prioritize their safety.
(872) 240-5129 View (872) 240-5129
Photo of Kaitlin Naatjes, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
Kaitlin Naatjes
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC, CMHIMP
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60611
I have extensive experience and training treating depression, anxiety, relationship issues, and pre/postnatal experience.
An integrative and holistic approach to change, healing, and future growth. Assessing your own being, needs, and internal control while promoting health in the mind-body-and soul. Therapy can heal relationships in your personal and professional worlds. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, communication skills, grief, infertility, eating disorders, etc., you do not have to struggle alone. As a licensed clinical therapist, I commit to diligently working in collaboration with you to bring about the change you desire. I am an experienced therapist, trained yoga instructor, and reiki practitioner.
I have extensive experience and training treating depression, anxiety, relationship issues, and pre/postnatal experience.
An integrative and holistic approach to change, healing, and future growth. Assessing your own being, needs, and internal control while promoting health in the mind-body-and soul. Therapy can heal relationships in your personal and professional worlds. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, communication skills, grief, infertility, eating disorders, etc., you do not have to struggle alone. As a licensed clinical therapist, I commit to diligently working in collaboration with you to bring about the change you desire. I am an experienced therapist, trained yoga instructor, and reiki practitioner.
(312) 626-5075 View (312) 626-5075
Photo of Bari Sturman, Marriage & Family Therapist in Chicago, IL
Bari Sturman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60622
Specializing in relationship therapy using practical, solution-focused and motivational approaches.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and have been providing individual, couples, family and group counseling services in a variety of settings for over 17 years. I truly believe in the power of the therapeutic process working together to identify personal challenges and develop healthy solutions that utilize individual strengths. Whether a client presents issues relating to chronic mental health, stage of life changes, relationship conflicts or simply to maintain mental wellness, therapy is a supportive environment that facilitates personal growth.
Specializing in relationship therapy using practical, solution-focused and motivational approaches.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and have been providing individual, couples, family and group counseling services in a variety of settings for over 17 years. I truly believe in the power of the therapeutic process working together to identify personal challenges and develop healthy solutions that utilize individual strengths. Whether a client presents issues relating to chronic mental health, stage of life changes, relationship conflicts or simply to maintain mental wellness, therapy is a supportive environment that facilitates personal growth.
(305) 600-5497 View (305) 600-5497
Photo of Monika Reklyte, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
Monika Reklyte
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60601  (Online Only)
I have clincial experience working with individuals and groups in the following areas: depression, anxiety, grief, self-harm, anger and stress management, suicidal ideation, trauma, life changes, and relationship issues.
I believe in the transformative power of change. Learning to work with impermanence and change holds the key to our freedom. As we navigate life's unexpected challenges and transitions, I offer myself as a compassionate companion on your journey towards self-discovery and personal growth. As a trauma informed therapist, my therapeutic approach emphasizes authenticity, vulnerability, cultural humility, transparency and focus on mind-body relations. I incorporate mindfulness, somatics, and parts work into our sessions, recognizing that our inner selves are composed of various facets, each with its own unique needs and perspectives.
I have clincial experience working with individuals and groups in the following areas: depression, anxiety, grief, self-harm, anger and stress management, suicidal ideation, trauma, life changes, and relationship issues.
I believe in the transformative power of change. Learning to work with impermanence and change holds the key to our freedom. As we navigate life's unexpected challenges and transitions, I offer myself as a compassionate companion on your journey towards self-discovery and personal growth. As a trauma informed therapist, my therapeutic approach emphasizes authenticity, vulnerability, cultural humility, transparency and focus on mind-body relations. I incorporate mindfulness, somatics, and parts work into our sessions, recognizing that our inner selves are composed of various facets, each with its own unique needs and perspectives.
(312) 654-4593 View (312) 654-4593
Photo of Jennifer Morales-Crye, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Jennifer Morales-Crye
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60647
I work with adults dealing with a variety of issues including anxiety, depression, trauma, food and body image, perinatal mental health, parenting, medication considerations, and relationship challenges with partners, family, and peers.
Repeated behaviors and feelings show up in our lives and can get in the way of growth, healing, and positive relationships. As your therapist, I will help you connect the dots in your life story to reveal what may be keeping you ‘stuck’. I have seen how transformative it is when someone gains a bird’s-eye view of their life, and I consider it a privilege to play an active role in this process with you.
I work with adults dealing with a variety of issues including anxiety, depression, trauma, food and body image, perinatal mental health, parenting, medication considerations, and relationship challenges with partners, family, and peers.
Repeated behaviors and feelings show up in our lives and can get in the way of growth, healing, and positive relationships. As your therapist, I will help you connect the dots in your life story to reveal what may be keeping you ‘stuck’. I have seen how transformative it is when someone gains a bird’s-eye view of their life, and I consider it a privilege to play an active role in this process with you.
(872) 219-0889 View (872) 219-0889
Photo of Louise Sherman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Louise Sherman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCPC, CCTP, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60607
Louise is dedicated to renewing lives and supporting the recovery of those struggling with chronic stress, anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, low self-worth and trauma. Louise strives to enhance an individual's quality of life and relationship with self, understanding that when met with adequate support, we can all find healing and fulfillment in life. Louise utilizes an integrative therapeutic approach, including Insight Oriented Therapy, Internal Family Systems Therapy, Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, Attachment-Based Theory, Experiential Therapy, Mindfulness, Somatic Experiencing, Psycho-Education and EMDR Therapy.
Louise is dedicated to renewing lives and supporting the recovery of those struggling with chronic stress, anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, low self-worth and trauma. Louise strives to enhance an individual's quality of life and relationship with self, understanding that when met with adequate support, we can all find healing and fulfillment in life. Louise utilizes an integrative therapeutic approach, including Insight Oriented Therapy, Internal Family Systems Therapy, Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, Attachment-Based Theory, Experiential Therapy, Mindfulness, Somatic Experiencing, Psycho-Education and EMDR Therapy.
(312) 564-4432 View (312) 564-4432
Photo of Danielle Simmons, Psychologist in Chicago, IL
Danielle Simmons
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60607  (Online Only)
I value developing a strong, trusting relationship where we collaborate on setting and meeting your unique, individualized goals.
Hello. Are you an adult, 18 years or older, seeking a safe, judgment-free space to talk out your concerns? With 10 years experience as a therapist, I've devoted my life to understanding and supporting wellness. We all know life can be isolating and unpredictable at times. Are you experiencing *Adjustments to Significant Life Transitions *Feelings of Stuckness or Despair *Identity Related Concerns *LGBTQIQA Concerns *Management of Racial & Cultural Tensions * Challenges with Boundary Setting *Anger Management *Conflict Resolution *Grief/ Loss *Career Related Concerns *Managing Family Related Responsibilities *Mindful Living *Issues with Anxiety or Stress Management?
I value developing a strong, trusting relationship where we collaborate on setting and meeting your unique, individualized goals.
Hello. Are you an adult, 18 years or older, seeking a safe, judgment-free space to talk out your concerns? With 10 years experience as a therapist, I've devoted my life to understanding and supporting wellness. We all know life can be isolating and unpredictable at times. Are you experiencing *Adjustments to Significant Life Transitions *Feelings of Stuckness or Despair *Identity Related Concerns *LGBTQIQA Concerns *Management of Racial & Cultural Tensions * Challenges with Boundary Setting *Anger Management *Conflict Resolution *Grief/ Loss *Career Related Concerns *Managing Family Related Responsibilities *Mindful Living *Issues with Anxiety or Stress Management?
(872) 216-3241 View (872) 216-3241
Photo of Dr. Diane Herbstman Welbel, Psy.D., Psychologist in Chicago, IL
Dr. Diane Herbstman Welbel, Psy.D.
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60657
I am committed to helping others choose to live a full life. I believe that psychotherapy can be a powerful tool toward reaching this goal, by creating the insight to grow, the space to heal, and the courage and self-reliance to foster change. This process begins with a safe and trusting therapist-client relationship. We will discuss what is important to you and collaborate to set goals for our work. Together, we will talk through your struggles, identifying sources of distress, discovering inner strength and resilience and developing strategies to cope with and improve your life.
I am committed to helping others choose to live a full life. I believe that psychotherapy can be a powerful tool toward reaching this goal, by creating the insight to grow, the space to heal, and the courage and self-reliance to foster change. This process begins with a safe and trusting therapist-client relationship. We will discuss what is important to you and collaborate to set goals for our work. Together, we will talk through your struggles, identifying sources of distress, discovering inner strength and resilience and developing strategies to cope with and improve your life.
(847) 558-6934 View (847) 558-6934
Photo of Tanaii Hunter, Licensed Social Worker in Chicago, IL
Tanaii Hunter
Licensed Social Worker
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60605  (Online Only)
If you are seeking a supportive and experienced couples therapist committed to your relationship's growth, I invite you to embark on this journey with me.
As a dedicated social worker and couples therapist, I am driven by a profound belief in the power of connection and the transformative potential of healthy relationships. I believe that every couple possesses unique strengths, and I am here to guide them on a path toward greater emotional intimacy and sustainable happiness. Diversity is at the core of my practice, and I celebrate love in all its forms. By honoring individual experiences, identities, and cultural backgrounds, I create an inclusive and non-judgmental environment where couples from all walks of life can find support and acceptance.
If you are seeking a supportive and experienced couples therapist committed to your relationship's growth, I invite you to embark on this journey with me.
As a dedicated social worker and couples therapist, I am driven by a profound belief in the power of connection and the transformative potential of healthy relationships. I believe that every couple possesses unique strengths, and I am here to guide them on a path toward greater emotional intimacy and sustainable happiness. Diversity is at the core of my practice, and I celebrate love in all its forms. By honoring individual experiences, identities, and cultural backgrounds, I create an inclusive and non-judgmental environment where couples from all walks of life can find support and acceptance.
(312) 779-0674 View (312) 779-0674
Photo of Rachana Doshi, Psychologist in Chicago, IL
Rachana Doshi
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60618  (Online Only)
I work with a range of presenting concerns including life transitions, self-esteem, shame, racial/ethnic identity development, relationship conflict, depression, anxiety, and group therapy.
I believe that people are experts in their own lives. We all have strengths that sometimes are not apparent to us, but we can learn to identify them. As we connect to our internal experiences, we discover that our thoughts and beliefs about the way things are might be more workable than we had previously believed. My approach when working with people is to be collaborative and relational. I meet clients wherever they are in their journey and we work together to identify goals that help them lead meaningful lives. As your therapist, I look to create a safe space, be fully present, and listen deeply with non-judgment.
I work with a range of presenting concerns including life transitions, self-esteem, shame, racial/ethnic identity development, relationship conflict, depression, anxiety, and group therapy.
I believe that people are experts in their own lives. We all have strengths that sometimes are not apparent to us, but we can learn to identify them. As we connect to our internal experiences, we discover that our thoughts and beliefs about the way things are might be more workable than we had previously believed. My approach when working with people is to be collaborative and relational. I meet clients wherever they are in their journey and we work together to identify goals that help them lead meaningful lives. As your therapist, I look to create a safe space, be fully present, and listen deeply with non-judgment.
(312) 663-8124 View (312) 663-8124
Photo of Cassandra Baxter, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
Cassandra Baxter
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60647
We all want to be our most authentic selves in this world. Knowing ourselves allows us to find our place in this world and that fosters happiness. For nearly 12 years I have been assisting clients dealing with a wide range of life transitions. I have worked with clients of all ages processing bereavement, relationship/job issues, depression, anxiety, combination diagnosis, PTSD and end of life processing. As a clinician I can help you to gain insight into what’s important in your own life and be excited and confident in yourself for doing the work that will make you more resilient.
We all want to be our most authentic selves in this world. Knowing ourselves allows us to find our place in this world and that fosters happiness. For nearly 12 years I have been assisting clients dealing with a wide range of life transitions. I have worked with clients of all ages processing bereavement, relationship/job issues, depression, anxiety, combination diagnosis, PTSD and end of life processing. As a clinician I can help you to gain insight into what’s important in your own life and be excited and confident in yourself for doing the work that will make you more resilient.
(773) 232-5421 View (773) 232-5421
Photo of Michele Tantillo, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Michele Tantillo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60625
Welcome! My name is Michele and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 26 years of experience. My primary focus is working with individuals in areas such as coping skills, relationship issues, anxiety, grief, and family conflict, amongst others.
Welcome! My name is Michele and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 26 years of experience. My primary focus is working with individuals in areas such as coping skills, relationship issues, anxiety, grief, and family conflict, amongst others.
(618) 469-0562 View (618) 469-0562
Photo of Anthony Paul Verdino, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Anthony Paul Verdino
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60613  (Online Only)
Please know that I'm only accepting clients on a very limited basis for Summer 2024 (May-August). You're the one that lives your worries, shame, and desires. You're the expert or emerging expert on your own life though it may not feel that way because life is confusing and overwhelming, and the world may feel a bit devastating. My aim is to help you become more aware of your emotions, relationship patterns, and less-than-helpful thoughts, so you may become more responsive to your truly authentic needs, desires, and values. My hope is that you will begin to feel more comfortable and confidant with who you are AND who you want to be.
Please know that I'm only accepting clients on a very limited basis for Summer 2024 (May-August). You're the one that lives your worries, shame, and desires. You're the expert or emerging expert on your own life though it may not feel that way because life is confusing and overwhelming, and the world may feel a bit devastating. My aim is to help you become more aware of your emotions, relationship patterns, and less-than-helpful thoughts, so you may become more responsive to your truly authentic needs, desires, and values. My hope is that you will begin to feel more comfortable and confidant with who you are AND who you want to be.
(773) 825-6996 View (773) 825-6996
Photo of Zibi Pawlowski, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
Zibi Pawlowski
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MSEd, LCPC, CADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60602
Whether you’re dealing with grief, depression, anxiety, relationship problems, existential angst, addictions, we all have the means to understand, change, and live better lives.
In today’s world, many tasks and responsibilities can easily become overwhelming as life throws us unexpected obstacles. We can become anxious, depressed, hopeless, feeling like there is no rhyme or reason to what we are going through, to what we are thinking and feeling, or even to life itself. We might choose to escape from our problems, angst, a sense of void, our past, or our daily thoughts through indulging in external gratifications, by using drugs and alcohol, sex, relationships, or other means. We often get stuck in our thinking, consumed by negative self-talk and perceptions of ourselves.
Whether you’re dealing with grief, depression, anxiety, relationship problems, existential angst, addictions, we all have the means to understand, change, and live better lives.
In today’s world, many tasks and responsibilities can easily become overwhelming as life throws us unexpected obstacles. We can become anxious, depressed, hopeless, feeling like there is no rhyme or reason to what we are going through, to what we are thinking and feeling, or even to life itself. We might choose to escape from our problems, angst, a sense of void, our past, or our daily thoughts through indulging in external gratifications, by using drugs and alcohol, sex, relationships, or other means. We often get stuck in our thinking, consumed by negative self-talk and perceptions of ourselves.
(312) 766-7670 View (312) 766-7670
Photo of Brooke Schmidt, Marriage & Family Therapist in Chicago, IL
Brooke Schmidt
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60603
Incorporating humor into our sessions is very important to me so we can build comfort within our therapeutic relationship.
Insecurities, anxieties, feelings of grief, & the traumas of our past are common human experiences, however, these feelings can distance us from the life we want and deserve. Let's meet the best parts of yourself together and find ways to get closer to where you want to be. I strive to point out and help you build on the strengths you already have while keeping your values at the forefront. My ideal clients are curious, introspective, motivated, and ready to commit to the work, and need an extra push from yours truly. If this does not sound like you then we may not be a good fit.
Incorporating humor into our sessions is very important to me so we can build comfort within our therapeutic relationship.
Insecurities, anxieties, feelings of grief, & the traumas of our past are common human experiences, however, these feelings can distance us from the life we want and deserve. Let's meet the best parts of yourself together and find ways to get closer to where you want to be. I strive to point out and help you build on the strengths you already have while keeping your values at the forefront. My ideal clients are curious, introspective, motivated, and ready to commit to the work, and need an extra push from yours truly. If this does not sound like you then we may not be a good fit.
(708) 419-1530 View (708) 419-1530
Photo of Leon Xue, Marriage & Family Therapist in Chicago, IL
Leon Xue
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LPC, ALMFT
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60602
You may find yourself grappling with relationship challenges, feeling disconnected, or navigating the impact of generational trauma. Your desire for understanding, healing, and renewed hope is palpable. You seek to overcome barriers, heal from trauma, and cultivate healthier communication patterns, longing to rediscover joy and vitality in your relationships and life.
You may find yourself grappling with relationship challenges, feeling disconnected, or navigating the impact of generational trauma. Your desire for understanding, healing, and renewed hope is palpable. You seek to overcome barriers, heal from trauma, and cultivate healthier communication patterns, longing to rediscover joy and vitality in your relationships and life.
(773) 900-7136 View (773) 900-7136
Photo of Allison Bozovsky, Marriage & Family Therapist in Chicago, IL
Allison Bozovsky
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640  (Online Only)
I also work in relationship enrichment, trauma, anxiety, depression, and relationships impacted by chronic health concerns.
I believe all clients are experts in their lives. As humans, we all have an innate ability to overcome challenges, which come up daily. I work hard to foster a safe and collaborative space to develop understanding to guide you to identify and discover your strengths to overcome these barriers through an integrative approach to cultivate change. I believe we live in a multifaceted world which can make it difficult for us to be our authentic selves. I want to help deepen your understanding of who you are through actions, meaning, and emotions, and how you can share yourself with the world.
I also work in relationship enrichment, trauma, anxiety, depression, and relationships impacted by chronic health concerns.
I believe all clients are experts in their lives. As humans, we all have an innate ability to overcome challenges, which come up daily. I work hard to foster a safe and collaborative space to develop understanding to guide you to identify and discover your strengths to overcome these barriers through an integrative approach to cultivate change. I believe we live in a multifaceted world which can make it difficult for us to be our authentic selves. I want to help deepen your understanding of who you are through actions, meaning, and emotions, and how you can share yourself with the world.
(224) 412-3653 View (224) 412-3653
Photo of Brenda N. Black, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Brenda N. Black
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, SEP
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60642  (Online Only)
My clinical focus is helping people who feel anxious or depressed related to: relationship difficulties, parenting, life transitions, self esteem, procrastination, grief and loss, caring for ill family members and trauma.
Life is challenging and the unexpected happens. Issues from the past often play a role in the choices we make. We tend to repeat patterns, often unconsciously, which may no longer be helpful in our effort to move forward.
My clinical focus is helping people who feel anxious or depressed related to: relationship difficulties, parenting, life transitions, self esteem, procrastination, grief and loss, caring for ill family members and trauma.
Life is challenging and the unexpected happens. Issues from the past often play a role in the choices we make. We tend to repeat patterns, often unconsciously, which may no longer be helpful in our effort to move forward.
(708) 556-2338 View (708) 556-2338
Photo of Azadeh Fatemi, Psychologist in Chicago, IL
Azadeh Fatemi
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60647  (Online Only)
Life is constantly changing and sometimes challenges arise as a result of this change. This often leads to experiencing feelings and thoughts that add further distress to us. As a therapist I aim to collaborate with you to create a trusting relationship to understand, explore, and better deal with these challenges. I invest in getting to know you and your experiences, understating you within your cultural context, and supporting you in reaching your potentials.
Life is constantly changing and sometimes challenges arise as a result of this change. This often leads to experiencing feelings and thoughts that add further distress to us. As a therapist I aim to collaborate with you to create a trusting relationship to understand, explore, and better deal with these challenges. I invest in getting to know you and your experiences, understating you within your cultural context, and supporting you in reaching your potentials.
(312) 374-6621 View (312) 374-6621
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.