Relationship Issues Therapists in Downtown, Vancouver, BC

Photo of Delyse Ledgard - Turning Point Therapy - Delyse Ledgard and Team, RCC, CCC, Counsellor
Turning Point Therapy - Delyse Ledgard and Team
Counsellor, RCC, CCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Downtown, Vancouver, BC V6C
You are ready to change your relationship with yourself and others.
People start to heal when they are heard. Do you feel anxious, misunderstood, alone, and overwhelmed? Is trying to control your reactions and feelings not working? Do you feel disconnected from your feelings or controlled by them? Are you disillusioned about your life? Perhaps you have a sense of not getting to the root of your struggles. You keep noticing the same dynamics, relationships and struggles you had in the past. This repetitive nature leaves you feeling discouraged and out of control of your life. It is hard to contemplate reaching out for help when you have taken pride in figuring things out for yourself.
You are ready to change your relationship with yourself and others.
People start to heal when they are heard. Do you feel anxious, misunderstood, alone, and overwhelmed? Is trying to control your reactions and feelings not working? Do you feel disconnected from your feelings or controlled by them? Are you disillusioned about your life? Perhaps you have a sense of not getting to the root of your struggles. You keep noticing the same dynamics, relationships and struggles you had in the past. This repetitive nature leaves you feeling discouraged and out of control of your life. It is hard to contemplate reaching out for help when you have taken pride in figuring things out for yourself.
(855) 912-7733 View (855) 912-7733
Photo of Elene (Eleni) Maria Poulos - Imera Counselling, RPC-C, Pre-Licensed Professional
Imera Counselling
Pre-Licensed Professional, RPC-C
Verified Verified
Downtown, Vancouver, BC V6B
Growth and transformation are largely based on an environment of safety, compassion, and collaboration. The client-counsellor relationship is foundational, and I use an integrative, personalized approach with each client. I encourage clients to use their own understanding of experiences as a platform for healing, and together, we work to discover clarity, develop awareness, and create balance.
Growth and transformation are largely based on an environment of safety, compassion, and collaboration. The client-counsellor relationship is foundational, and I use an integrative, personalized approach with each client. I encourage clients to use their own understanding of experiences as a platform for healing, and together, we work to discover clarity, develop awareness, and create balance.
(587) 816-2881 View (587) 816-2881
Photo of Kira Lynne, RPC, MPCC, CCPCPR, Counsellor
Kira Lynne
Counsellor, RPC, MPCC, CCPCPR
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Downtown, Vancouver, BC V6Z
Are you feeling stuck? Stressed? Exhausted? Anxious or depressed? Do you feel you can't have the life you really want? Are you having trouble with relationships? By connecting with yourself on a deeper level, exploring your dreams and setting new goals, you will be able to create the life and relationships you desire. It doesn't matter if you've never worked with a counsellor in the past, if there is something that isn't working in your life, whether personal, professional or relationship-related, call or email me. You have nothing to lose.
Are you feeling stuck? Stressed? Exhausted? Anxious or depressed? Do you feel you can't have the life you really want? Are you having trouble with relationships? By connecting with yourself on a deeper level, exploring your dreams and setting new goals, you will be able to create the life and relationships you desire. It doesn't matter if you've never worked with a counsellor in the past, if there is something that isn't working in your life, whether personal, professional or relationship-related, call or email me. You have nothing to lose.
(844) 265-2452 View (844) 265-2452
Photo of Justice Skinner, BA, MA, Counsellor
Justice Skinner
Counsellor, BA, MA
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Downtown, Vancouver, BC V6Z
Areas of focus: Individual therapy, Depression & Anxiety, Attachment & Relationship Issues, Complex Trauma, Systemic Trauma, Inceration Trauma.
Justice appreciates the role that successful intervention can play in achieving control over one’s mental health through an anti-oppressive and collaborative framework. Justice understands that one’s mental health is constantly evolving, and she would be happy to help you achieve your goals. Justice truly believes that counselling should be free, and is happy to work within what is financially attainable to you, which is why she offers a sliding scale. Please reach out and we can discuss a decreased cost.
Areas of focus: Individual therapy, Depression & Anxiety, Attachment & Relationship Issues, Complex Trauma, Systemic Trauma, Inceration Trauma.
Justice appreciates the role that successful intervention can play in achieving control over one’s mental health through an anti-oppressive and collaborative framework. Justice understands that one’s mental health is constantly evolving, and she would be happy to help you achieve your goals. Justice truly believes that counselling should be free, and is happy to work within what is financially attainable to you, which is why she offers a sliding scale. Please reach out and we can discuss a decreased cost.
(902) 908-2525 View (902) 908-2525
Photo of Andressa Taverna, RTC, Counsellor
Andressa Taverna
Counsellor, RTC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Downtown, Vancouver, BC V6C
I abide by a non-judgmental and compassionate framework, and I can assist you individually or in a couples/ relationship setting.
Hi, I am Andressa Taverna. Being a trauma survivor has moulded me and impacted my life in many obvious and also many mysterious ways. Numbing out and dissociating has helped me bear the trauma, but burying it deep and pretending it didn’t exist never really worked. It was only when I started looking at it and inviting my demons to come forward, to speak up, to scream out their rage, that what I saw behind it was pain. Eventually, I saw that they were not demons after all, but my inner child.
I abide by a non-judgmental and compassionate framework, and I can assist you individually or in a couples/ relationship setting.
Hi, I am Andressa Taverna. Being a trauma survivor has moulded me and impacted my life in many obvious and also many mysterious ways. Numbing out and dissociating has helped me bear the trauma, but burying it deep and pretending it didn’t exist never really worked. It was only when I started looking at it and inviting my demons to come forward, to speak up, to scream out their rage, that what I saw behind it was pain. Eventually, I saw that they were not demons after all, but my inner child.
(249) 504-0436 View (249) 504-0436
Photo of Maya Tannis Jakob, MACP, RCC, Counsellor
Maya Tannis Jakob
Counsellor, MACP, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Downtown, Vancouver, BC V6B  (Online Only)
Have you recently left or are considering leaving a hurtful or toxic relationship? Are you ready to experience relief from heartache and break the cycle of painful disappointment? Are you ready to experience the empowerment that comes from tuning into and living out your truth? Let's get this journey started!.
I specialize in helping to heal the impacts of Toxic Relationships, Narcissistic Abuse, Betrayal, and Traumatic Relationships/Endings. Whether you have left or are in the process of leaving a hurtful relationship, our work together will start with mapping out a specialized plan that heals the hurt and empowers you to create and maintain healthy and supportive relationships in your life. Let's start your journey out of painful relationships and into the peace and calm that exists when you connect to safe and healthy people. My strength is guiding clients as the tune in, trust and live out their truth in all areas of their life.
Have you recently left or are considering leaving a hurtful or toxic relationship? Are you ready to experience relief from heartache and break the cycle of painful disappointment? Are you ready to experience the empowerment that comes from tuning into and living out your truth? Let's get this journey started!.
I specialize in helping to heal the impacts of Toxic Relationships, Narcissistic Abuse, Betrayal, and Traumatic Relationships/Endings. Whether you have left or are in the process of leaving a hurtful relationship, our work together will start with mapping out a specialized plan that heals the hurt and empowers you to create and maintain healthy and supportive relationships in your life. Let's start your journey out of painful relationships and into the peace and calm that exists when you connect to safe and healthy people. My strength is guiding clients as the tune in, trust and live out their truth in all areas of their life.
(778) 860-4457 View (778) 860-4457
Photo of Luke Primus, MC, RCC, Counsellor
Luke Primus
Counsellor, MC, RCC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Downtown, Vancouver, BC V6Z
Along with 1 /1 counselling, I do relationship therapy with couples wanting to improve their connection or who need help navigating difficult circumstances.
Are you stuck in patterns of feeling or behaviour that weigh you down and isolate you from people you love? Do you wonder if things can improve in your career, family, or community? I believe (based on extensive evidence) it is possible to change how we experience life. We all have the freedom and capacity to think new thoughts, feel new emotions, clarify beliefs, and heal from trauma. As a clinical counsellor I can help you identify and achieve your goals through an approach that is relational, authentic, creative, and collaborative.
Along with 1 /1 counselling, I do relationship therapy with couples wanting to improve their connection or who need help navigating difficult circumstances.
Are you stuck in patterns of feeling or behaviour that weigh you down and isolate you from people you love? Do you wonder if things can improve in your career, family, or community? I believe (based on extensive evidence) it is possible to change how we experience life. We all have the freedom and capacity to think new thoughts, feel new emotions, clarify beliefs, and heal from trauma. As a clinical counsellor I can help you identify and achieve your goals through an approach that is relational, authentic, creative, and collaborative.
(506) 315-4038 View (506) 315-4038
Photo of Marcia Stacey, MA, RCC, Counsellor
Marcia Stacey
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Downtown, Vancouver, BC V6E
I view counselling as a special type of relationship, one that promotes self-reflection and the opportunity to explore new perspectives through wholehearted support and guidance.
I work with people struggling with anxiety, depression, stress, relationship issues, trauma, low self-esteem and life transitions. This can include any problematic emotions or problems that have become barriers to achieving happiness and well-being. My intention is to provide a safe and open space where you can be witnessed for who you are and your experiences.
I view counselling as a special type of relationship, one that promotes self-reflection and the opportunity to explore new perspectives through wholehearted support and guidance.
I work with people struggling with anxiety, depression, stress, relationship issues, trauma, low self-esteem and life transitions. This can include any problematic emotions or problems that have become barriers to achieving happiness and well-being. My intention is to provide a safe and open space where you can be witnessed for who you are and your experiences.
(506) 808-5121 View (506) 808-5121
Photo of David Nisbet, MA, RCC, Counsellor
David Nisbet
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Downtown, Vancouver, BC V6B
My approach is informed by mindfulness, Buddhist psychology, and contemplative practices. In my work with clients I tend to be open, creative, collaborative and down-to-earth. I specialize in anxiety and relationship issues, often working with individuals and couples who feel lost or trapped in difficult patterns. I believe that within every challenge lies valuable insight waiting to be unearthed. With greater clarity comes the freedom to live authentically and pursue meaningful connections - within oneself, with others, and with life.
My approach is informed by mindfulness, Buddhist psychology, and contemplative practices. In my work with clients I tend to be open, creative, collaborative and down-to-earth. I specialize in anxiety and relationship issues, often working with individuals and couples who feel lost or trapped in difficult patterns. I believe that within every challenge lies valuable insight waiting to be unearthed. With greater clarity comes the freedom to live authentically and pursue meaningful connections - within oneself, with others, and with life.
(778) 767-0950 x778791 View (778) 767-0950 x778791
Photo of Jessica Willis - Yaletown Counselling Inc., MA, RCC, Counsellor
Yaletown Counselling Inc.
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Downtown, Vancouver, BC V6B
Welcome to Yaletown Counselling, where we provide compassionate support for individuals, couples, and families. Our dedicated team offers a safe and non-judgmental space to explore a variety of presenting problems. Whether you're facing challenges in your personal life, relationship issues, mental health, or family dynamics, we will help you navigate through difficult times to achieve positive change. With a client-centered approach, our Registered Clinical Counsellors tailor services to meet your unique needs, fostering growth, resilience, and well-being.
Welcome to Yaletown Counselling, where we provide compassionate support for individuals, couples, and families. Our dedicated team offers a safe and non-judgmental space to explore a variety of presenting problems. Whether you're facing challenges in your personal life, relationship issues, mental health, or family dynamics, we will help you navigate through difficult times to achieve positive change. With a client-centered approach, our Registered Clinical Counsellors tailor services to meet your unique needs, fostering growth, resilience, and well-being.
(249) 503-8533 View (249) 503-8533
Photo of Claire Yangxiezi Cao, MC, Counsellor
Claire Yangxiezi Cao
Counsellor, MC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Downtown, Vancouver, BC V6Z
I hold a profound belief in the inherent wisdom, resilience, and self-actualization potential within every individual. With a compassionate, client-centered and trauma-informed approach, my goal is to cultivate a safe, authentic, and non-judgmental environment where clients can embark on their personal journey of healing, growth, and self-discovery. My areas of expertise encompass childhood and intergenerational trauma, attachment and inner child work, family and relationship issues, grief and loss, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, anger management, self-harm, self-esteem, gender identity, and coping with life transitions.
I hold a profound belief in the inherent wisdom, resilience, and self-actualization potential within every individual. With a compassionate, client-centered and trauma-informed approach, my goal is to cultivate a safe, authentic, and non-judgmental environment where clients can embark on their personal journey of healing, growth, and self-discovery. My areas of expertise encompass childhood and intergenerational trauma, attachment and inner child work, family and relationship issues, grief and loss, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, anger management, self-harm, self-esteem, gender identity, and coping with life transitions.
(236) 239-0339 View (236) 239-0339
Photo of Alice Kim, MC, BA, RCC, Counsellor
Alice Kim
Counsellor, MC, BA, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Downtown, Vancouver, BC V6B
I also offer relationship counselling.
Through values of humanity, connection, safety, intentionality, curiosity, and courage, I combine talk therapy with body-based/somatic approaches. In individual counselling, you have the full space to explore your internal world - processing past/current experiences, developing a compassionate relationship with all parts of yourself, getting curious about your subconscious patterns, and exploring your relational connections. Through our relationship and work, my hope is that your past relational history can be processed, repaired, and integrated into your present, allowing you to move towards embodied inner and relational safety.
I also offer relationship counselling.
Through values of humanity, connection, safety, intentionality, curiosity, and courage, I combine talk therapy with body-based/somatic approaches. In individual counselling, you have the full space to explore your internal world - processing past/current experiences, developing a compassionate relationship with all parts of yourself, getting curious about your subconscious patterns, and exploring your relational connections. Through our relationship and work, my hope is that your past relational history can be processed, repaired, and integrated into your present, allowing you to move towards embodied inner and relational safety.
(902) 700-3049 View (902) 700-3049
Photo of Lynden Neudorf, MSW, RCSW, CST, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lynden Neudorf
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, RCSW, CST
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Downtown, Vancouver, BC V6C  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I offer you a respectful and self-honouring experience, and the opportunity to say a deeper "yes" to your life and to the relationship you want to have.
If you are searching for a respectful and non-judgmental couples therapist, chances are you've been struggling for a while, just hoping things will get better on their own. My work is focused on couples conflict, relational trauma, and sexuality concerns. Whether the problem is infidelity or another traumatic event, lack of interest in sex, drifting apart in your relationship, or constant bickering and rehashing old arguments, the problems facing you as a couple can be overwhelming. It's natural to feel vulnerable and at the same time yearn for a safe place to talk it out with someone who can help.
I offer you a respectful and self-honouring experience, and the opportunity to say a deeper "yes" to your life and to the relationship you want to have.
If you are searching for a respectful and non-judgmental couples therapist, chances are you've been struggling for a while, just hoping things will get better on their own. My work is focused on couples conflict, relational trauma, and sexuality concerns. Whether the problem is infidelity or another traumatic event, lack of interest in sex, drifting apart in your relationship, or constant bickering and rehashing old arguments, the problems facing you as a couple can be overwhelming. It's natural to feel vulnerable and at the same time yearn for a safe place to talk it out with someone who can help.
(249) 559-1452 View (249) 559-1452
Photo of Erin Voith, MA, RCC, Counsellor
Erin Voith
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Downtown, Vancouver, BC V6Z
My approach to counselling is centered on building a genuine and trusting relationship.
My passion lies in helping my clients navigate their unique personal struggles and the impact of larger harmful or limiting social norms. I am deeply curious about my clients’ journey, and committed to guiding them towards self-discovery, stronger interpersonal connections, and realizing their goals and potential. I achieve this by offering valuable insights, reflections, and practical tools. Furthermore, sessions become an important place to practice the skills that you'd like to take forward into your life. Our time together is an opportunity to slow down, consider, and deeply feel things.
My approach to counselling is centered on building a genuine and trusting relationship.
My passion lies in helping my clients navigate their unique personal struggles and the impact of larger harmful or limiting social norms. I am deeply curious about my clients’ journey, and committed to guiding them towards self-discovery, stronger interpersonal connections, and realizing their goals and potential. I achieve this by offering valuable insights, reflections, and practical tools. Furthermore, sessions become an important place to practice the skills that you'd like to take forward into your life. Our time together is an opportunity to slow down, consider, and deeply feel things.
(506) 560-4471 View (506) 560-4471
Photo of Heather McCabe - Phare Counselling, Counsellor
Phare Counselling
Counsellor
Verified Verified
Downtown, Vancouver, BC V6Z
Finding the right therapist can feel overwhelming, frustrating and time-consuming. If you’re tired of browsing countless profiles and being added to yet another waitlist, let us help you find the right counsellor. We are Phare. Our mission is to provide accessible counselling without the high costs, long waitlists or confusing processes. We have 25+ therapists who help a wide variety of clients on issues including anxiety, depression, relationship issues and trauma. We offer need-based sliding scale rates ($80-$170) so you can access quality counselling when you need it and help others do the same.
Finding the right therapist can feel overwhelming, frustrating and time-consuming. If you’re tired of browsing countless profiles and being added to yet another waitlist, let us help you find the right counsellor. We are Phare. Our mission is to provide accessible counselling without the high costs, long waitlists or confusing processes. We have 25+ therapists who help a wide variety of clients on issues including anxiety, depression, relationship issues and trauma. We offer need-based sliding scale rates ($80-$170) so you can access quality counselling when you need it and help others do the same.
(902) 905-6743 View (902) 905-6743
Photo of Viktoria Ivanova, MEd, BSc, RCC, Counsellor
Viktoria Ivanova
Counsellor, MEd, BSc, RCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Downtown, Vancouver, BC V6B  (Online Only)
I chose to specialize in relationship therapy because I have struggled with relationships myself.
Relationship struggles can make us feel miserable, stuck and hopeless. It can feel like your whole world is crashing down when you are fighting with your loved one. At the same time, when things are going well in our relationships, we feel supported, loved and cared for, we feel like we can take on the world. Considering the powerful impact relationships have on our lives, we know little about how to build healthy ones. It is not a subject covered in school, and often our parents do not make the greatest role models. But like any skill, we can learn how to build strong and intimate relationships.
I chose to specialize in relationship therapy because I have struggled with relationships myself.
Relationship struggles can make us feel miserable, stuck and hopeless. It can feel like your whole world is crashing down when you are fighting with your loved one. At the same time, when things are going well in our relationships, we feel supported, loved and cared for, we feel like we can take on the world. Considering the powerful impact relationships have on our lives, we know little about how to build healthy ones. It is not a subject covered in school, and often our parents do not make the greatest role models. But like any skill, we can learn how to build strong and intimate relationships.
(833) 862-5334 View (833) 862-5334
Photo of Diana Svenda, MCP, RCC, Counsellor
Diana Svenda
Counsellor, MCP, RCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Downtown, Vancouver, BC V6B
Navigating life's many challenges can leave us feeling overwhelmed, stuck, and disconnected from ourselves and others. Whether you are experiencing anxiety, depression, relationship issues, low self-esteem, disconnect from your identity, trauma, or addiction - you deserve to feel empowered to live life on your own terms. Having a safe, non-judgmental therapeutic relationship where you feel both challenged and accepted to show up as your authentic self is where your healing journey begins. Together, we can co-create sustainable changes that enhance your resilience to handle future stressors and lead you to a more fulfilling life.
Navigating life's many challenges can leave us feeling overwhelmed, stuck, and disconnected from ourselves and others. Whether you are experiencing anxiety, depression, relationship issues, low self-esteem, disconnect from your identity, trauma, or addiction - you deserve to feel empowered to live life on your own terms. Having a safe, non-judgmental therapeutic relationship where you feel both challenged and accepted to show up as your authentic self is where your healing journey begins. Together, we can co-create sustainable changes that enhance your resilience to handle future stressors and lead you to a more fulfilling life.
(506) 436-9283 View (506) 436-9283
Photo of Virlyn Collantes, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Virlyn Collantes
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Downtown, Vancouver, BC V6B  (Online Only)
I accept both British Columbia and Ontario clients for individual and couples therapy. I specialize in the following areas but not limited to: Relationship / Marriage Issues, Grief & Loss, Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, Prenatal/Postpartum, Emotional Regulation, Life Transitions, and Emotional Abuse. I’m a dedicated Registered Social Worker (RSW) practitioner associated with the British Columbia College of Social Workers and The Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers. I earned my Bachelor of Arts in Psychology in Toronto, Ontario, followed by a Master of Social Work (MSW) from the Erikson Institute in Chicago.
I accept both British Columbia and Ontario clients for individual and couples therapy. I specialize in the following areas but not limited to: Relationship / Marriage Issues, Grief & Loss, Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, Prenatal/Postpartum, Emotional Regulation, Life Transitions, and Emotional Abuse. I’m a dedicated Registered Social Worker (RSW) practitioner associated with the British Columbia College of Social Workers and The Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers. I earned my Bachelor of Arts in Psychology in Toronto, Ontario, followed by a Master of Social Work (MSW) from the Erikson Institute in Chicago.
(587) 804-0680 View (587) 804-0680
Photo of Viktoria Ivanova, MEd, BSc, RCC, Counsellor
Viktoria Ivanova
Counsellor, MEd, BSc, RCC
Verified Verified
Downtown, Vancouver, BC V6B  (Online Only)
Just like with any challenge in life, we want to have a strategy for how to navigate a relationship break down.
Are you going through break up? Separation? Divorce? Or perhaps you are not sure if you should stay or leave the relationship you are in? Relationship break down can bring turmoil and chaos to our whole lives, leaving us feeling disoriented, heartbroken, and shocked. We are quite often unprepared for these painful events and have no idea how to navigate these difficult emotions. It can feel like the whole world is spinning underneath your feet. Relationship Counselling is a place where you can catch your breath and begin to make sense of it all is so you can feel the ground under your feet once again.
Just like with any challenge in life, we want to have a strategy for how to navigate a relationship break down.
Are you going through break up? Separation? Divorce? Or perhaps you are not sure if you should stay or leave the relationship you are in? Relationship break down can bring turmoil and chaos to our whole lives, leaving us feeling disoriented, heartbroken, and shocked. We are quite often unprepared for these painful events and have no idea how to navigate these difficult emotions. It can feel like the whole world is spinning underneath your feet. Relationship Counselling is a place where you can catch your breath and begin to make sense of it all is so you can feel the ground under your feet once again.
(604) 670-3077 View (604) 670-3077
Photo of Jonah Robin Fialkow, BA, MACP, RCC, Counsellor
Jonah Robin Fialkow
Counsellor, BA, MACP, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Downtown, Vancouver, BC V6B
Maybe you are non-monogamous and not sure where to find a therapist who understands your values and your relationship structure.
Do you and your partner have the same fight over and over again? You love each other, but you can’t find a way out of this cycle. Even though you both want to make it work, you can’t seem to get through to each other, and every time you have the fight, your relationship feels a little bit more damaged. Resentment is starting to build, and the distance between you and your partner is growing, and the tension has started to impact your mood. You want to figure out how to have constructive conflict and rebuild intimacy, but you’re not sure where to turn. And more than anything, you want to feel heard.
Maybe you are non-monogamous and not sure where to find a therapist who understands your values and your relationship structure.
Do you and your partner have the same fight over and over again? You love each other, but you can’t find a way out of this cycle. Even though you both want to make it work, you can’t seem to get through to each other, and every time you have the fight, your relationship feels a little bit more damaged. Resentment is starting to build, and the distance between you and your partner is growing, and the tension has started to impact your mood. You want to figure out how to have constructive conflict and rebuild intimacy, but you’re not sure where to turn. And more than anything, you want to feel heard.
(825) 251-9028 View (825) 251-9028
1
...

See more therapy options for Downtown, Vancouver

Relationship Issues Counsellors
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.