Photo of Anne Kim, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Silver Spring, MD
Anne Kim
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Silver Spring, MD 20904  (Online Only)
I am interested in strength based therapy, diversity & multicultural issues, relationship issues, religion & spirituality, mood disorders, trauma, and couples & family therapy.
I have experience working with clients ages from 5 to 105. I have worked at elementary school working with children, middle school & high school working with teens, university students working with young adults, community mental health centers working with adults, and a hospice setting working with mostly elders, providing individual, couples, family, group-therapy including bereavement counseling. I have enjoyed working with clients at every human development stages and learn to respect every one of my clients in the process of supporting them.
I am interested in strength based therapy, diversity & multicultural issues, relationship issues, religion & spirituality, mood disorders, trauma, and couples & family therapy.
I have experience working with clients ages from 5 to 105. I have worked at elementary school working with children, middle school & high school working with teens, university students working with young adults, community mental health centers working with adults, and a hospice setting working with mostly elders, providing individual, couples, family, group-therapy including bereavement counseling. I have enjoyed working with clients at every human development stages and learn to respect every one of my clients in the process of supporting them.
(301) 284-3491 View (301) 284-3491
Photo of Ruth Ann Stoltzfus, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Silver Spring, MD
Ruth Ann Stoltzfus
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LICSW
Verified Verified
Silver Spring, MD 20910
Let's solve conflict in your relationship whether you are married or in a partnership.
You've already begun. I believe change is possible. Congratulations on taking the first step towards change. Let's take the second step together. I love my work. I will listen with respect to your concerns and outline for you how I think I can be of help to you. I have been involved in helping people of all ages, gender, nationality and sexual orientation. Most people come to get help sorting out the "stuff" of their lives. You are unique, let's talk about you--strengthen your self-esteem.
Let's solve conflict in your relationship whether you are married or in a partnership.
You've already begun. I believe change is possible. Congratulations on taking the first step towards change. Let's take the second step together. I love my work. I will listen with respect to your concerns and outline for you how I think I can be of help to you. I have been involved in helping people of all ages, gender, nationality and sexual orientation. Most people come to get help sorting out the "stuff" of their lives. You are unique, let's talk about you--strengthen your self-esteem.
(301) 565-5920 View (301) 565-5920
Living and Growing, LLC
Verified Verified
Silver Spring, MD 20910
I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner committed to mental health treatment promotion and prevention. With a psychodynamic foundation, I integrate Internal family systems(IFS) and attachment theories to my treatment approach. This approach is successful with clients seeking help with adulting, relationships, families, and parenting as well as individual therapy. As an open and affirming Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner I've learned that the integration of these talk modalities are helpful for navigating life processes. Talk therapy undergirds the treatment relationship and when necessary may be complemented with medication management.
I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner committed to mental health treatment promotion and prevention. With a psychodynamic foundation, I integrate Internal family systems(IFS) and attachment theories to my treatment approach. This approach is successful with clients seeking help with adulting, relationships, families, and parenting as well as individual therapy. As an open and affirming Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner I've learned that the integration of these talk modalities are helpful for navigating life processes. Talk therapy undergirds the treatment relationship and when necessary may be complemented with medication management.
(301) 960-5477 View (301) 960-5477
Photo of Sonja Williams and Associates, LCMFT, MDiv, Marriage & Family Therapist in Silver Spring, MD
Sonja Williams and Associates, LCMFT, MDiv
Marriage & Family Therapist, LCMFT, MDiv
Verified Verified
Silver Spring, MD 20910
We offer individual, couple, youth and group therapy experiences aimed at enhancing personal improvement, relationship skills development, emotions management, decision-making, communication and conflict resolution skills, parenting and life management skills, and managing anxiety, depression and other illnesses.
You CAN change your circumstances with a little motivation and the right help. I work with individuals, adolescents, couples and families who are looking to transform their quality of life and connections with others. My clients find new approaches to old problems and reclaim a sense of joy, dignity and vitality in their lives. Before opening my practice, I was a psychiatric therapist at Johns Hopkins Hopsital. I currently teach couples therapy at John Hopkins University. I am trained to help with depression, anxiety, rebuilding relationships, life transitions, separation/divorce, parenting challenges and more. Don't delay new life. Start today!
We offer individual, couple, youth and group therapy experiences aimed at enhancing personal improvement, relationship skills development, emotions management, decision-making, communication and conflict resolution skills, parenting and life management skills, and managing anxiety, depression and other illnesses.
You CAN change your circumstances with a little motivation and the right help. I work with individuals, adolescents, couples and families who are looking to transform their quality of life and connections with others. My clients find new approaches to old problems and reclaim a sense of joy, dignity and vitality in their lives. Before opening my practice, I was a psychiatric therapist at Johns Hopkins Hopsital. I currently teach couples therapy at John Hopkins University. I am trained to help with depression, anxiety, rebuilding relationships, life transitions, separation/divorce, parenting challenges and more. Don't delay new life. Start today!
(301) 852-5666 View (301) 852-5666
Photo of Katelyn Alcamo, Marriage & Family Therapist in Silver Spring, MD
Katelyn Alcamo
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LCMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Silver Spring, MD 20901
Are you worried that your child is anxious, depressed or having difficulty navigating peer relationships? Are you struggling with parenting a teenager? Do you feel disconnected from your partner and find yourself wondering where the passion went? Relationships can be both the most rewarding and most challenging aspects of our lives. As a Marriage and Family Therapist, I am specially trained to work with children, couples, and families. I provide a safe and supportive place where you are empowered to reach your personal and relationship goals. Together we can help you find balance, enrichment, and happiness in your life.
Are you worried that your child is anxious, depressed or having difficulty navigating peer relationships? Are you struggling with parenting a teenager? Do you feel disconnected from your partner and find yourself wondering where the passion went? Relationships can be both the most rewarding and most challenging aspects of our lives. As a Marriage and Family Therapist, I am specially trained to work with children, couples, and families. I provide a safe and supportive place where you are empowered to reach your personal and relationship goals. Together we can help you find balance, enrichment, and happiness in your life.
(240) 949-7990 View (240) 949-7990
Photo of Central Washington Psychotherapy Associates, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Silver Spring, MD
Central Washington Psychotherapy Associates
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, DCSW
Verified Verified
Silver Spring, MD 20901
Psychotherapy works best when the relationship between the client and the psychotherapist is characterized by empathy, trust, and an unconditional positive regard.
CWPA is an association of professionals which provides a broad spectrum of psychotherapy, psychiatry and mental health wellness services. Our offices are located in Northwest DC, Dupont Circle, Woodley Park, Takoma Park, and in Alexandria. Regardless if you are seeking coaching or short-term counseling for a specific issue, traditional psychotherapy, medication management, therapy for your child, couples therapy or even depth psychoanalysis, we have skilled professionals who will help you meet your goals. we offer a wide variety of treatment modalities and areas of specialization. The therapists in our referral network, which are some of the best in the city, are exceptionally qualified.
Psychotherapy works best when the relationship between the client and the psychotherapist is characterized by empathy, trust, and an unconditional positive regard.
CWPA is an association of professionals which provides a broad spectrum of psychotherapy, psychiatry and mental health wellness services. Our offices are located in Northwest DC, Dupont Circle, Woodley Park, Takoma Park, and in Alexandria. Regardless if you are seeking coaching or short-term counseling for a specific issue, traditional psychotherapy, medication management, therapy for your child, couples therapy or even depth psychoanalysis, we have skilled professionals who will help you meet your goals. we offer a wide variety of treatment modalities and areas of specialization. The therapists in our referral network, which are some of the best in the city, are exceptionally qualified.
(202) 601-3726 View (202) 601-3726
Photo of Pamela Bel Anu, Marriage & Family Therapist in Silver Spring, MD
Pamela Bel Anu
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LCMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Silver Spring, MD 20910
Anxiety, depression, relationship concerns, co-dependency, addiction, life transitions, and trauma are some of the issues I work with in my practice.
Is there something holding you back from the experience of feeling fully alive, safe, and satisfied in your own life; in your own skin? Experiencing internal and external difficulties long enough and under enough stress, we become disconnected to what makes life worth living. I believe my job is to provide a safe space and be a supportive, caring, non-judgmental presence as a guide and collaborator. Together we can face what is hurting or not helping you. I have worked over the years in a variety of settings with adults, children, teens, families and couples from diverse backgrounds and identities.
Anxiety, depression, relationship concerns, co-dependency, addiction, life transitions, and trauma are some of the issues I work with in my practice.
Is there something holding you back from the experience of feeling fully alive, safe, and satisfied in your own life; in your own skin? Experiencing internal and external difficulties long enough and under enough stress, we become disconnected to what makes life worth living. I believe my job is to provide a safe space and be a supportive, caring, non-judgmental presence as a guide and collaborator. Together we can face what is hurting or not helping you. I have worked over the years in a variety of settings with adults, children, teens, families and couples from diverse backgrounds and identities.
(240) 209-9116 View (240) 209-9116
Photo of Neda Kalafchi, Pre-Licensed Professional in Silver Spring, MD
Neda Kalafchi
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Silver Spring, MD 20906
Neda is a therapist at Washington Psychological Wellness. Through a multicultural lens, she is dedicated to assisting anyone seeking support. Neda takes a person-centered approach and draws from various therapeutic modalities, including ACT, to help individuals navigate relationship issues, depression, and other personal challenges. Though Neda sees a variety of clients, she has a particular interest in working with women and adolescent girls. She is committed to creating a safe and empowering environment where clients can foster self-love and navigate areas of personal growth.
Neda is a therapist at Washington Psychological Wellness. Through a multicultural lens, she is dedicated to assisting anyone seeking support. Neda takes a person-centered approach and draws from various therapeutic modalities, including ACT, to help individuals navigate relationship issues, depression, and other personal challenges. Though Neda sees a variety of clients, she has a particular interest in working with women and adolescent girls. She is committed to creating a safe and empowering environment where clients can foster self-love and navigate areas of personal growth.
(240) 816-4472 View (240) 816-4472
Photo of Marina Kerlow, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Silver Spring, MD
Marina Kerlow
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LGMFT
Verified Verified
Silver Spring, MD 20901  (Online Only)
I work with adults, children, teens and families struggling with trauma, anxiety, neurodiversity (ADHD and autism), relationship issues and adjusting to life transitions.
Are you feeling stuck in old patterns and confusion? I can help you break old cycles that no longer serve you and develop more productive and healthier ways of being - whether that's individually or as a family. I provide therapy for improving relationships, healing from trauma, and exploring identity. I draw from my background working in research on child development and family resilience, evidence-based practices, my clinical expertise, and own lived experiences.
I work with adults, children, teens and families struggling with trauma, anxiety, neurodiversity (ADHD and autism), relationship issues and adjusting to life transitions.
Are you feeling stuck in old patterns and confusion? I can help you break old cycles that no longer serve you and develop more productive and healthier ways of being - whether that's individually or as a family. I provide therapy for improving relationships, healing from trauma, and exploring identity. I draw from my background working in research on child development and family resilience, evidence-based practices, my clinical expertise, and own lived experiences.
(301) 804-2658 View (301) 804-2658
Photo of Insight Therapy & Wellness, Counselor in Silver Spring, MD
Insight Therapy & Wellness
Counselor, MEd, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Silver Spring, MD 20906
Our hope is to develop a collaborative and therapeutic relationship key to identifying concerns, setting and monitoring goals, and discovering solutions that promote self-understanding and improve your quality of life.
The therapists at Insight Therapy have experience treating individuals and couples experiencing anxiety, adjustment disorders, addictions, ADHD, anger management issues, depression, chronic illness and pain, infidelity, OCD, mood disorders, PTSD, relationship issues, and self-esteem or body image issues. We meet clients where they're at with empathy and compassion, while also challenging and guiding them to meet their needs and goals.
Our hope is to develop a collaborative and therapeutic relationship key to identifying concerns, setting and monitoring goals, and discovering solutions that promote self-understanding and improve your quality of life.
The therapists at Insight Therapy have experience treating individuals and couples experiencing anxiety, adjustment disorders, addictions, ADHD, anger management issues, depression, chronic illness and pain, infidelity, OCD, mood disorders, PTSD, relationship issues, and self-esteem or body image issues. We meet clients where they're at with empathy and compassion, while also challenging and guiding them to meet their needs and goals.
(410) 324-7609 View (410) 324-7609
Photo of Kristina R Smith, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Silver Spring, MD
Kristina R Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Silver Spring, MD 20910
We will use our relationship as well as mind-body techniques, expressive arts, role play, dream exploration, or Sandplay to increase your self-awareness, make patterns and habits more conscious, develop your coping skills, and improve your communication and attachment with others.
I love to work with people that want to be seen, understood, and feel more confident and comfortable in their own skin. People whom have depth and want to live meaningful connected lives. People come to therapy when something is not working and to explore challenges that keep them from being engaged in important areas of life. This may show up as anxiety, depression, anger, or a life lacking fulfillment. Facing yourself is a difficult and brave act; imperative to grow, cope with change, improve relationships, connect with others, understand yourself better, and feel more ALIVE!
We will use our relationship as well as mind-body techniques, expressive arts, role play, dream exploration, or Sandplay to increase your self-awareness, make patterns and habits more conscious, develop your coping skills, and improve your communication and attachment with others.
I love to work with people that want to be seen, understood, and feel more confident and comfortable in their own skin. People whom have depth and want to live meaningful connected lives. People come to therapy when something is not working and to explore challenges that keep them from being engaged in important areas of life. This may show up as anxiety, depression, anger, or a life lacking fulfillment. Facing yourself is a difficult and brave act; imperative to grow, cope with change, improve relationships, connect with others, understand yourself better, and feel more ALIVE!
(410) 429-2867 View (410) 429-2867
Photo of Alana Tipton, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Silver Spring, MD
Alana Tipton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Silver Spring, MD 20902  (Online Only)
I believe in the power of a strong, therapeutic relationship and believe it is vital to making progress together.
We all deserve relief from our burdens. Beginning therapy takes motivation, courage and the desire to change and grow. Most of us wouldn’t do it unless we need real help. I create a safe and supportive environment for you to explore how to improve your quality of life and together, we explore ways for you to heal and grow. I work with clients facing a variety of challenges including family of origin stressors, life transitions, trauma, anxiety, and depression. I am a queer affirming therapist.
I believe in the power of a strong, therapeutic relationship and believe it is vital to making progress together.
We all deserve relief from our burdens. Beginning therapy takes motivation, courage and the desire to change and grow. Most of us wouldn’t do it unless we need real help. I create a safe and supportive environment for you to explore how to improve your quality of life and together, we explore ways for you to heal and grow. I work with clients facing a variety of challenges including family of origin stressors, life transitions, trauma, anxiety, and depression. I am a queer affirming therapist.
(240) 652-2243 View (240) 652-2243
Photo of Jennifer Fang Brehm, Marriage & Family Therapist in Silver Spring, MD
Jennifer Fang Brehm
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LCMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Silver Spring, MD 20901
As humans, we experience pain, loss, or difficulties in our lives as individuals and in our family relationships. We make our best efforts to cope, adapt or resolve these trying experiences on our own. But sometimes, we get stuck or they are too great to endure alone. I believe the therapeutic relationship is a safe place, free of judgement, invested in exploring, healing, and growing. Together, we can work on the interpersonal, emotional, psychological, and spiritual issues that hinder you and your relationships from reaching full potential.
As humans, we experience pain, loss, or difficulties in our lives as individuals and in our family relationships. We make our best efforts to cope, adapt or resolve these trying experiences on our own. But sometimes, we get stuck or they are too great to endure alone. I believe the therapeutic relationship is a safe place, free of judgement, invested in exploring, healing, and growing. Together, we can work on the interpersonal, emotional, psychological, and spiritual issues that hinder you and your relationships from reaching full potential.
(301) 804-2241 View (301) 804-2241
Photo of Jaime Fryburg, Psychologist in Silver Spring, MD
Jaime Fryburg
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Silver Spring, MD 20910
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with The Kingsbury Wellness & Learning Group, a team of dedicated professionals working collaboratively to provide exceptional therapeutic services to children, teens, and adults. I help adults experiencing relationship challenges gain a better understanding of how their history is impacting them, so that they can break unwanted patterns and engage in more meaningful, fulfilling relationships. I also help adolescents experiencing stress at school and at home learn ways to cope with their emotions and build more self-confidence.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with The Kingsbury Wellness & Learning Group, a team of dedicated professionals working collaboratively to provide exceptional therapeutic services to children, teens, and adults. I help adults experiencing relationship challenges gain a better understanding of how their history is impacting them, so that they can break unwanted patterns and engage in more meaningful, fulfilling relationships. I also help adolescents experiencing stress at school and at home learn ways to cope with their emotions and build more self-confidence.
(240) 858-0210 x108 View (240) 858-0210 x108
Photo of Amy Zimmerman, Licensed Professional Counselor in Silver Spring, MD
Amy Zimmerman
Licensed Professional Counselor, LGMFT, LGPC, LPMT, MT-BC
Verified Verified
Silver Spring, MD 20910
With a client-centered and trauma-informed approach, Amy fosters compassion while working with individuals, couples, and families across all age groups. Amy is deeply committed to enhancing relationships, guiding clients from discord and distress to connection and emotional security. With a background in Music Therapy, Amy also integrates mediums like music, art, and imagery to empower clients to articulate and navigate complex emotions. Whether confronting challenges like relationship issues, depression, anxiety, neurodiversity, or trauma, Amy offers support, guidance, and empathy on the path to healing and transformation.
With a client-centered and trauma-informed approach, Amy fosters compassion while working with individuals, couples, and families across all age groups. Amy is deeply committed to enhancing relationships, guiding clients from discord and distress to connection and emotional security. With a background in Music Therapy, Amy also integrates mediums like music, art, and imagery to empower clients to articulate and navigate complex emotions. Whether confronting challenges like relationship issues, depression, anxiety, neurodiversity, or trauma, Amy offers support, guidance, and empathy on the path to healing and transformation.
(240) 883-5386 View (240) 883-5386
Photo of Wholesome Minds, LLC., Psychologist in Silver Spring, MD
Wholesome Minds, LLC.
Psychologist, PsyD, PhD, LCSW-C, LICSW
Verified Verified
Silver Spring, MD 20901  (Online Only)
We are excited to work with clients to help identify goals and develop a great therapeutic relationship.
We are a group practice of licensed clinical psychologists and social workers. Collectively, we have experience covering the developmental lifespan from assessing and treating young children with behavioral and learning concerns to working with adolescents and (young and older) adult clients who have issues navigating anxiety, depression, PTSD, significant life stressors, and life transitions. Our focus is to help individuals heal, energize, and become aware of their inner strengths. We work to achieve this by providing a safe space, listening to your concerns, and customizing an individualized treatment plan.
We are excited to work with clients to help identify goals and develop a great therapeutic relationship.
We are a group practice of licensed clinical psychologists and social workers. Collectively, we have experience covering the developmental lifespan from assessing and treating young children with behavioral and learning concerns to working with adolescents and (young and older) adult clients who have issues navigating anxiety, depression, PTSD, significant life stressors, and life transitions. Our focus is to help individuals heal, energize, and become aware of their inner strengths. We work to achieve this by providing a safe space, listening to your concerns, and customizing an individualized treatment plan.
(301) 307-5730 View (301) 307-5730
Photo of Jackie Bookman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Silver Spring, MD
Jackie Bookman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, MSW
Verified Verified
Silver Spring, MD 20910
My overarching priority for therapy is to establish a nurturing therapeutic relationship based on trust, comfort, & empowerment.
I am well-versed in working with people of all ages and life experiences, including those coping with depression and anxiety, stress, loss, lack of motivation, adjustment, trauma, and life transitions. I am particularly interested in working with individuals on early adulthood life transitions including college, early career, engagement/early marriage, and pregnancy, postpartum, and early parenthood. I work with individuals to build awareness and insight, find effective coping skills, and have healthy, satisfying relationships.
My overarching priority for therapy is to establish a nurturing therapeutic relationship based on trust, comfort, & empowerment.
I am well-versed in working with people of all ages and life experiences, including those coping with depression and anxiety, stress, loss, lack of motivation, adjustment, trauma, and life transitions. I am particularly interested in working with individuals on early adulthood life transitions including college, early career, engagement/early marriage, and pregnancy, postpartum, and early parenthood. I work with individuals to build awareness and insight, find effective coping skills, and have healthy, satisfying relationships.
(301) 960-3532 View (301) 960-3532
Photo of Rachel B Singer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Silver Spring, MD
Rachel B Singer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, MSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Silver Spring, MD 20910
I work with individuals, couples, families, and children. I specialize in addiction, relationship issues, depression, anxiety, self-esteem, trauma, family conflict and grief. My greatest intention is to help clients understand themselves better and improve their quality of life and relationships. I cater my approach to each client, responding to their own unique problems and personality style. This is not a "one-size-fits-all" practice.
I work with individuals, couples, families, and children. I specialize in addiction, relationship issues, depression, anxiety, self-esteem, trauma, family conflict and grief. My greatest intention is to help clients understand themselves better and improve their quality of life and relationships. I cater my approach to each client, responding to their own unique problems and personality style. This is not a "one-size-fits-all" practice.
(301) 960-3955 View (301) 960-3955
Photo of The Mindful Heart LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Silver Spring, MD
The Mindful Heart LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Silver Spring, MD 20910
We work with individuals, couples, families, and children. We specialize in addiction, eating disorders, relationship issues, depression, anxiety, self-esteem, trauma, family conflict and grief. Our greatest intention is to help clients understand themselves better and improve their quality of life and relationships. We cater our approach to each client, responding to their own unique problems and personality style. This is not a "one-size-fits-all" practice.
We work with individuals, couples, families, and children. We specialize in addiction, eating disorders, relationship issues, depression, anxiety, self-esteem, trauma, family conflict and grief. Our greatest intention is to help clients understand themselves better and improve their quality of life and relationships. We cater our approach to each client, responding to their own unique problems and personality style. This is not a "one-size-fits-all" practice.
(240) 258-2870 View (240) 258-2870
Photo of Marissa Post, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Silver Spring, MD
Marissa Post
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Silver Spring, MD 20910
I am also trained in Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT), in which I work with parents to strengthen their parent-child relationship and break disruptive behavior patterns at home.
I work with young children, adolescents, and families who are struggling with behavioral challenges, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, executive functioning, trauma, ADHD, social skills, and family transitions. I believe that forming a strong judgement-free partnership is the basis for positive change and that therapy, although challenging at times, should be engaging and fun. I also recognize that treatment is not a “cookie-cutter” solution and prioritize working together to determine what is best for each individual client.
I am also trained in Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT), in which I work with parents to strengthen their parent-child relationship and break disruptive behavior patterns at home.
I work with young children, adolescents, and families who are struggling with behavioral challenges, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, executive functioning, trauma, ADHD, social skills, and family transitions. I believe that forming a strong judgement-free partnership is the basis for positive change and that therapy, although challenging at times, should be engaging and fun. I also recognize that treatment is not a “cookie-cutter” solution and prioritize working together to determine what is best for each individual client.
(301) 450-8981 View (301) 450-8981

See more therapy options for Silver Spring

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.