Relationship Issues Counselling in Leicester

Photo of Emma Crocker - Emma Crocker Counselling, MSc, MBACP Accred, Psychotherapist
Emma Crocker Counselling
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Leicester LE1  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I have experience working with a wide variety of presenting problems including eating disorders, relationship difficulties, addiction, low mood, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, loss of self, self- harm and pain.
Sometimes it can be difficult to pinpoint exactly what’s wrong. Or, you may know what’s wrong, but not necessarily how to go about changing it. Everyone is different, and I utilise my skills and training to approach counselling in a collaborative way. I provide a non-judgemental, safe, confidential, therapeutic space where we can better understand what’s going on for you and explore ways to create or restore balance in your life. A great deal of my practice is focused on relationships (with ourselves and others- including our relationships with the things and people we turn to- substances, eating disorders, self- harm etc).
I have experience working with a wide variety of presenting problems including eating disorders, relationship difficulties, addiction, low mood, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, loss of self, self- harm and pain.
Sometimes it can be difficult to pinpoint exactly what’s wrong. Or, you may know what’s wrong, but not necessarily how to go about changing it. Everyone is different, and I utilise my skills and training to approach counselling in a collaborative way. I provide a non-judgemental, safe, confidential, therapeutic space where we can better understand what’s going on for you and explore ways to create or restore balance in your life. A great deal of my practice is focused on relationships (with ourselves and others- including our relationships with the things and people we turn to- substances, eating disorders, self- harm etc).
0116 326 5124 View 0116 326 5124
Photo of Hayley Banks, MBACP, Counsellor
Hayley Banks
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Leicester LE8
Hello and welcome, I'm Hayley and I'm a fully qualified and experienced counsellor. I understand that making the decision to see a counsellor can be quite daunting, especially if this is new to you. Counselling provides a space for you to talk openly at your pace without judgement with someone who is dedicated to listening, providing empathy and compassion in a pocket of time that is just for you. Our counselling relationship, built on trust and openness, will give you the foundations to move forward in your life. I will encourage you to share your thoughts and emotions safely in order to explore solutions and empower you.
Hello and welcome, I'm Hayley and I'm a fully qualified and experienced counsellor. I understand that making the decision to see a counsellor can be quite daunting, especially if this is new to you. Counselling provides a space for you to talk openly at your pace without judgement with someone who is dedicated to listening, providing empathy and compassion in a pocket of time that is just for you. Our counselling relationship, built on trust and openness, will give you the foundations to move forward in your life. I will encourage you to share your thoughts and emotions safely in order to explore solutions and empower you.
01858 457169 View 01858 457169
Photo of Craig Brand, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Craig Brand
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
Leicester LE1
I'm an integrative therapist - I blend a range of therapies from: neuroscience, trauma-informed therapies, humanistic relationship therapies, and existential therapy.
Hi, I'm Craig, a psychotherapist. I provide warm, down-to-earth therapy and have worked with people from all walks of life, in both private practice and charity settings. You may have a specific issue affecting your life, or a vague sense of not feeling right, but want to understand yourself more deeply. As a therapist, my role is not to give advice, but to support you at your pace, in the way that’s best for you. We can talk about anything, I won’t judge you, but I can bring knowledge and experience to help you find your best way through your struggles. Because life is short & struggling emotionally can get in the way of so much.
I'm an integrative therapist - I blend a range of therapies from: neuroscience, trauma-informed therapies, humanistic relationship therapies, and existential therapy.
Hi, I'm Craig, a psychotherapist. I provide warm, down-to-earth therapy and have worked with people from all walks of life, in both private practice and charity settings. You may have a specific issue affecting your life, or a vague sense of not feeling right, but want to understand yourself more deeply. As a therapist, my role is not to give advice, but to support you at your pace, in the way that’s best for you. We can talk about anything, I won’t judge you, but I can bring knowledge and experience to help you find your best way through your struggles. Because life is short & struggling emotionally can get in the way of so much.
01780 432532 View 01780 432532
Photo of Namita Patel, MNCPS Acc., Counsellor
Namita Patel
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Leicester LE4
I am an experienced relationship counsellor and worked with a wide range of issues for example affairs, trust, communication, divorce, separation and family matters. I have worked for Relate for 18 years together with private practice. I work with couples, individuals of any sexual orientation, in a safe, confidential, and non-judgmental environment, I am also trained to work with young people. Whilst I am trained to work systemically, I prefer to approach my work on a integrative basis meeting the clients individual needs. My aim is to provide support and work with you through your journey, whatever that maybe.
I am an experienced relationship counsellor and worked with a wide range of issues for example affairs, trust, communication, divorce, separation and family matters. I have worked for Relate for 18 years together with private practice. I work with couples, individuals of any sexual orientation, in a safe, confidential, and non-judgmental environment, I am also trained to work with young people. Whilst I am trained to work systemically, I prefer to approach my work on a integrative basis meeting the clients individual needs. My aim is to provide support and work with you through your journey, whatever that maybe.
0116 366 1795 View 0116 366 1795
Photo of Shaun William Lewis Snr. Accred, MBACP Accred, Psychotherapist
Shaun William Lewis Snr. Accred
Psychotherapist, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Leicester LE2
I work with clients using Relationship, CBT, Solution Focused, Psychodynamic, Jungian and Spiritual modalities to help with a broad range of difficulties.
Most of us experience times in our lives when we feel low, worried or anxious. This might be because of specific difficulties such as anxiety, night terrors, panic attacks or depression, it could also be a general sense of feeling down and simply not understanding why. Talking to an experienced, accredited therapist offers you the opportunity to explore what concerns you may have in a confidential, non-judgemental setting with someone who explores what life events might have contributed to these feelings. I am now offering Saturday appointments from 09:00-13:00.
I work with clients using Relationship, CBT, Solution Focused, Psychodynamic, Jungian and Spiritual modalities to help with a broad range of difficulties.
Most of us experience times in our lives when we feel low, worried or anxious. This might be because of specific difficulties such as anxiety, night terrors, panic attacks or depression, it could also be a general sense of feeling down and simply not understanding why. Talking to an experienced, accredited therapist offers you the opportunity to explore what concerns you may have in a confidential, non-judgemental setting with someone who explores what life events might have contributed to these feelings. I am now offering Saturday appointments from 09:00-13:00.
0116 326 5545 View 0116 326 5545
Photo of Sarah Nicholson, MBACP, Counsellor
Sarah Nicholson
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Leicester LE2
All of us, at times, can find life a bit tough. Whether its events that we are struggling with in the here and now or past issues that are still holding us back. Sometimes we can feel "stuck" in life and struggle to decide which road to take, having the space to talk through your problems confidentially with an understanding, non-judgmental and empathic professional can prove invaluable. Whether you are an individual or a couple who would like to improve your relationship, having a safe haven where you can explore the past and work towards a brighter future can make all the difference to your quality of life.
All of us, at times, can find life a bit tough. Whether its events that we are struggling with in the here and now or past issues that are still holding us back. Sometimes we can feel "stuck" in life and struggle to decide which road to take, having the space to talk through your problems confidentially with an understanding, non-judgmental and empathic professional can prove invaluable. Whether you are an individual or a couple who would like to improve your relationship, having a safe haven where you can explore the past and work towards a brighter future can make all the difference to your quality of life.
0116 464 9489 View 0116 464 9489
Photo of Farah Hussain, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Farah Hussain
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
Leicester LE5
I have spent the past decade, helping my clients to overcome their psychological problems and relationship struggles.
Your desire for an improvement in a particular area of your life has brought you to this page. And whatever you desire more of... whether it's more connection, love and ease in your relationships; more clarity, confidence and self-esteem or simply more peace, balance, and optimism in your life - you're in the right place. I’d love to help you discover a new and positive way forward so that you can step into your powerful potential and have the life and relationships that your heart truly desires. You can find out more about my psychotherapy, couples therapy and relationship coaching services on my website: www.farahhussain.com.
I have spent the past decade, helping my clients to overcome their psychological problems and relationship struggles.
Your desire for an improvement in a particular area of your life has brought you to this page. And whatever you desire more of... whether it's more connection, love and ease in your relationships; more clarity, confidence and self-esteem or simply more peace, balance, and optimism in your life - you're in the right place. I’d love to help you discover a new and positive way forward so that you can step into your powerful potential and have the life and relationships that your heart truly desires. You can find out more about my psychotherapy, couples therapy and relationship coaching services on my website: www.farahhussain.com.
0116 497 1784 View 0116 497 1784
Photo of Nicki Kaur - You And Me Therapy, MBACP, Psychotherapist
You And Me Therapy
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Leicester LE1
I support couples in their marriages, relationship difficulties this could be between friends, siblings, parents etc.
Hello, I believe it can be tough sometimes perhaps because you might be feeling stuck or your sense of direction has derailed, its ok! I get it! All you want is to feel heard. However you are feeling, it truly is ok! Trying to understand where it is you are right now is an important part of therapy, which will help you to overcome issues, such as anxiety, stress, lack of confidence & low self - esteem. You maybe feeling some or all of these and the thought of getting back on track feels like a challenge.
I support couples in their marriages, relationship difficulties this could be between friends, siblings, parents etc.
Hello, I believe it can be tough sometimes perhaps because you might be feeling stuck or your sense of direction has derailed, its ok! I get it! All you want is to feel heard. However you are feeling, it truly is ok! Trying to understand where it is you are right now is an important part of therapy, which will help you to overcome issues, such as anxiety, stress, lack of confidence & low self - esteem. You maybe feeling some or all of these and the thought of getting back on track feels like a challenge.
0116 326 4298 View 0116 326 4298
Photo of Jasmine Patel, PhD, HCPC - Couns. Psych., Psychologist
Jasmine Patel
Psychologist, PhD, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
Leicester LE8  (Online Only)
I’m a Counselling Psychologist with a wide range of experience in a variety of healthcare settings such as the NHS, Charities & Private Hospitals. I have extensive experience working in both primary and secondary care settings including Secondary Schools, Universities, Drug & Alcohol Services, Trauma Services and in Forensic Settings. I have experience working with young people and adults presenting with a wide range of difficulties such as depression, anxiety, eating disorder, personality disorder, drug addiction and relationship difficulties. I offer individual, group, family & couples therapy.
I’m a Counselling Psychologist with a wide range of experience in a variety of healthcare settings such as the NHS, Charities & Private Hospitals. I have extensive experience working in both primary and secondary care settings including Secondary Schools, Universities, Drug & Alcohol Services, Trauma Services and in Forensic Settings. I have experience working with young people and adults presenting with a wide range of difficulties such as depression, anxiety, eating disorder, personality disorder, drug addiction and relationship difficulties. I offer individual, group, family & couples therapy.
0116 478 6732 View 0116 478 6732
Photo of Adam Bruce, MNCPS Acc., Counsellor
Adam Bruce
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Leicester LE9  (Online Only)
At times it’s natural to feel overwhelmed and stressed out by life. That can create deep sadness, despair or loss of hope resulting in depression. Feeling fearful and anxious about life and the future can feel too much to cope with and have a really profound affect on everyday life. Sometimes it is recent events that are causing you to feel that you are really struggling while at other times those difficulties are linked to childhood neglect, trauma or abuse. Sometimes how you feel about yourself can result in a lack of confidence or low self esteem which can impact on your ability to feel at peace in the world and in relationship.
At times it’s natural to feel overwhelmed and stressed out by life. That can create deep sadness, despair or loss of hope resulting in depression. Feeling fearful and anxious about life and the future can feel too much to cope with and have a really profound affect on everyday life. Sometimes it is recent events that are causing you to feel that you are really struggling while at other times those difficulties are linked to childhood neglect, trauma or abuse. Sometimes how you feel about yourself can result in a lack of confidence or low self esteem which can impact on your ability to feel at peace in the world and in relationship.
0116 502 0538 View 0116 502 0538
Photo of Carleen Bentley - Halfway Tree Therapy Ltd, MSc, MUKCP, Psychotherapist
Halfway Tree Therapy Ltd
Psychotherapist, MSc, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Leicester LE1
We are all unique and present different ranges of issues requiring highly tailored therapy. As a UKCP accredited, Clinical Integrative Psychotherapist, qualified (with Distinction), at MSc level. I work in a relational/humanistic way, offering myself, my knowledge, and life experience to an extensive range of clients, to encourage growth and healing. Commissioned to work with the Nottinghamshire Police, BAME Crown Prosecution Service, NHS, whilst supporting Employee Assistance Programmes (EAP) and private patients with issues such as depression, anxiety, trauma and grief, childhood trauma and relationship issues.
We are all unique and present different ranges of issues requiring highly tailored therapy. As a UKCP accredited, Clinical Integrative Psychotherapist, qualified (with Distinction), at MSc level. I work in a relational/humanistic way, offering myself, my knowledge, and life experience to an extensive range of clients, to encourage growth and healing. Commissioned to work with the Nottinghamshire Police, BAME Crown Prosecution Service, NHS, whilst supporting Employee Assistance Programmes (EAP) and private patients with issues such as depression, anxiety, trauma and grief, childhood trauma and relationship issues.
01332 980834 View 01332 980834
Photo of Amanda Bassey - A&F Psychological Services Ltd, PsychD, HCPC - Forensic Psych., Psychologist
A&F Psychological Services Ltd
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Forensic Psych.
Verified Verified
Leicester LE1
We specialise in working with complex/longer-term psychological difficulties such as trauma, PTSD, CPTSD, and relationship issues.
We understand that everyday life is stressful and have worked to make our services as flexible as possible, and adapted to your needs. Our aim is to provide quality assessment, support and psychology services for individuals and their families, to improve mental and emotional well-being. We're a collection of chartered and HCPC registered Psychologists experienced in working with adult and adolescent clients. Our clinicians can support you with a range of issues including depression, anxiety, phobias, and OCD.
We specialise in working with complex/longer-term psychological difficulties such as trauma, PTSD, CPTSD, and relationship issues.
We understand that everyday life is stressful and have worked to make our services as flexible as possible, and adapted to your needs. Our aim is to provide quality assessment, support and psychology services for individuals and their families, to improve mental and emotional well-being. We're a collection of chartered and HCPC registered Psychologists experienced in working with adult and adolescent clients. Our clinicians can support you with a range of issues including depression, anxiety, phobias, and OCD.
01536 907319 View 01536 907319
Photo of Jo Augustus - The Eyris Practice, HCPC-Art Therap., Psychotherapist
The Eyris Practice
Psychotherapist, HCPC-Art Therap.
Verified Verified
Leicester LE19
The impact of difficult life experiences can adversely affect our mental well-being or interpersonal relationships at any time in our lives.Such life occurances may include truama, a bereavement or experiencing anxiety and depression. I use a person centred approach to develop a therapeutic relationship with you. This helps over time to support you in gaining insight and understanding of the emotional and mental difficulties you're experiencing. I provide a safe space to listen to you and identify the best therapeutic approach to meet your needs.I offer both face to face and online therapy to suit your individual needs.
The impact of difficult life experiences can adversely affect our mental well-being or interpersonal relationships at any time in our lives.Such life occurances may include truama, a bereavement or experiencing anxiety and depression. I use a person centred approach to develop a therapeutic relationship with you. This helps over time to support you in gaining insight and understanding of the emotional and mental difficulties you're experiencing. I provide a safe space to listen to you and identify the best therapeutic approach to meet your needs.I offer both face to face and online therapy to suit your individual needs.
01788 221257 View 01788 221257
Photo of Nick Scully Bsc (Hons) - Nick Scully/Fortify Counselling and Psychotherapy , MBACP Accred, Psychotherapist
Nick Scully/Fortify Counselling and Psychotherapy
Psychotherapist, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Leicester LE9
Not accepting new clients
I am an accredited, registered and insured counsellor and psychotherapist and provide a warm, non judgemental and grounded presence, in a respectful and confidential space. As a humanistic and integrative therapist, I recognise your individuality in a holistic and positive sense, together with your potential for change. I also see how acknowledging pain or difficulties in the past allows repair in the present. With exploration and understanding, this can lead to greater personal and interpersonal awareness and functioning. Enabling this, I have strong belief in the trusting therapeutic relationship we can create.
I am an accredited, registered and insured counsellor and psychotherapist and provide a warm, non judgemental and grounded presence, in a respectful and confidential space. As a humanistic and integrative therapist, I recognise your individuality in a holistic and positive sense, together with your potential for change. I also see how acknowledging pain or difficulties in the past allows repair in the present. With exploration and understanding, this can lead to greater personal and interpersonal awareness and functioning. Enabling this, I have strong belief in the trusting therapeutic relationship we can create.
07723 561790 View 07723 561790
Photo of Rajan Rai | Individuals And Couples, MUKCP, Psychotherapist
Rajan Rai | Individuals And Couples
Psychotherapist, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Leicester LE1
Hello! I’m Raj, and I am psychosexually-informed UKCP-registered psychotherapist. I offer face-to-face individual & couples counselling sessions in Beeston, Nottingham as well as online. With individuals, I work with (but not limited to): Depression & Anxiety; Relationship Issues; LGBTQIA+ - related Issues; Racial and cultural issues/conflicts; Low self-esteem; Lack of fulfilment. With couples, typical issues include:  affairs; conflict & anger; poor communication; life transitions; sexual difficulties; separation & divorce.
Hello! I’m Raj, and I am psychosexually-informed UKCP-registered psychotherapist. I offer face-to-face individual & couples counselling sessions in Beeston, Nottingham as well as online. With individuals, I work with (but not limited to): Depression & Anxiety; Relationship Issues; LGBTQIA+ - related Issues; Racial and cultural issues/conflicts; Low self-esteem; Lack of fulfilment. With couples, typical issues include:  affairs; conflict & anger; poor communication; life transitions; sexual difficulties; separation & divorce.
01777 809417 View 01777 809417
Photo of Joan Elizabeth Carter, MBACP Snr. Accred, Psychotherapist
Joan Elizabeth Carter
Psychotherapist, MBACP Snr. Accred
Verified Verified
Leicester LE7
Waitlist for new clients
I work with issues such as stress, loss, depression, anxiety, and relationship issues.
I am an experienced Registered and Senior Accredited counsellor/psychotherapist I have 25 years experience and over 20,000 hours client sessions. I offer individual and couples counselling. I have extensive experience working for the NHS, heading up a therapy service in one of the largest GP Medical Practices in the UK. I now work from my home near OAKHAM. The first step is to meet me for an initial assessment session so that you ca decide if I am the right therapist for you and if so, we can consider how best to address the issues you are facing. I believe that the relationship is central to our work together.
I work with issues such as stress, loss, depression, anxiety, and relationship issues.
I am an experienced Registered and Senior Accredited counsellor/psychotherapist I have 25 years experience and over 20,000 hours client sessions. I offer individual and couples counselling. I have extensive experience working for the NHS, heading up a therapy service in one of the largest GP Medical Practices in the UK. I now work from my home near OAKHAM. The first step is to meet me for an initial assessment session so that you ca decide if I am the right therapist for you and if so, we can consider how best to address the issues you are facing. I believe that the relationship is central to our work together.
01572 492166 View 01572 492166
Photo of Sondous Korsan - Sondous @ yatb.uk (English/Farsi), MA, BACP, Counsellor
Sondous @ yatb.uk (English/Farsi)
Counsellor, MA, BACP
Verified Verified
Leicester LE1
Are you seeking assistance to improve your relationship as a couple? With over a decade of experience as a certified Integrative Counselor, specializing in Person-Centered, Psychodynamic, and Humanistic approaches since 2009, I possess a comprehensive skill set to support you. I also bring expertise in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP), and Life Coaching. I offer interventions on both an individual and group basis, accessible via phone, Skype, Zoom, and WhatsApp, in English and Farsi. For more information, visit www.yatb.uk, a platform promoting self-development and unleashing your "best self."
Are you seeking assistance to improve your relationship as a couple? With over a decade of experience as a certified Integrative Counselor, specializing in Person-Centered, Psychodynamic, and Humanistic approaches since 2009, I possess a comprehensive skill set to support you. I also bring expertise in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP), and Life Coaching. I offer interventions on both an individual and group basis, accessible via phone, Skype, Zoom, and WhatsApp, in English and Farsi. For more information, visit www.yatb.uk, a platform promoting self-development and unleashing your "best self."
020 3095 4703 View 020 3095 4703
Photo of Donna Marie Periam, DCounsPsych, BACP, Counsellor
Donna Marie Periam
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, BACP
Verified Verified
Leicester LE1
Hello my name is Donna. The decision to see a counsellor can be very frightening, but if you are reading this, then you have made a very brave step with your own self care. There are times in our lives, especially in current times when we are instructed to self Isolate, when it is even more important to have someone to talk too. I will make every attempt to provide you with a safe and comfortable space in which to explore whatever may be concerning you. My main aim is provide a safe, non- judgemental space where we can build an open & honest relationship.
Hello my name is Donna. The decision to see a counsellor can be very frightening, but if you are reading this, then you have made a very brave step with your own self care. There are times in our lives, especially in current times when we are instructed to self Isolate, when it is even more important to have someone to talk too. I will make every attempt to provide you with a safe and comfortable space in which to explore whatever may be concerning you. My main aim is provide a safe, non- judgemental space where we can build an open & honest relationship.
01455 242980 View 01455 242980
Photo of Darline Joseph Marianathan, MUKCP, Psychotherapist
Darline Joseph Marianathan
Psychotherapist, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Leicester LE1
I have been in parental role early on in life and have gone through various relationship dynamics in both individualist as well as collectivist cultures.
Life can be a rough ride. Keeping the balance and moving forward can be a challenge. It can involve stress, anxiety, depression and much more. But I believe through psychological therapies we can learn and, in some cases even master, the art of managing life successfully. To achieve this, I practise an integrative approach that draws strength from various therapies in the field. I am a qualified Psychotherapist at a Doctoral level and I feel confident to deal with complexity . My natural inclination is to help people in need. My recent training and qualifications do enhance my inclination especially to those psychologically unwell.
I have been in parental role early on in life and have gone through various relationship dynamics in both individualist as well as collectivist cultures.
Life can be a rough ride. Keeping the balance and moving forward can be a challenge. It can involve stress, anxiety, depression and much more. But I believe through psychological therapies we can learn and, in some cases even master, the art of managing life successfully. To achieve this, I practise an integrative approach that draws strength from various therapies in the field. I am a qualified Psychotherapist at a Doctoral level and I feel confident to deal with complexity . My natural inclination is to help people in need. My recent training and qualifications do enhance my inclination especially to those psychologically unwell.
01837 512340 View 01837 512340
Photo of Ranjana Mitra, MBACP, Counsellor
Ranjana Mitra
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Leicester LE19
I am an experienced Counsellor, specialising in Couples counselling and relationship issues.
Are you living with feelings of self- doubt, blame, anger or shame? Do you need help to cope with depression or anxiety? Maybe you have suffered loss, and doubt your ability to sustain meaningful relationships with family and friends. Perhaps you are in a relationship that is stuck in the rut, or mired in hopelessness, negativity, and mistrust. It may be that your relationship has changed from a loving one to one of repeated misunderstandings, heated arguments or frosty silence. Stressful life events can bring about such difficulties, or sometimes disappointments simply accumulate over time.
I am an experienced Counsellor, specialising in Couples counselling and relationship issues.
Are you living with feelings of self- doubt, blame, anger or shame? Do you need help to cope with depression or anxiety? Maybe you have suffered loss, and doubt your ability to sustain meaningful relationships with family and friends. Perhaps you are in a relationship that is stuck in the rut, or mired in hopelessness, negativity, and mistrust. It may be that your relationship has changed from a loving one to one of repeated misunderstandings, heated arguments or frosty silence. Stressful life events can bring about such difficulties, or sometimes disappointments simply accumulate over time.
01773 307077 View 01773 307077

See more therapy options for Leicester

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.