Photo of Anna Axotis, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Anna Axotis
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Cardiff, CA 92007  (Online Only)
Let's work together to get you, your relationship or your loved one where you want to be.
Life doesn't always go the way we planned in our heads. Sometimes we are thrown curveballs, presented with a transition we didn't choose, or maybe notice that stress has caught up to us. If you find you could use a space to think out loud, gain insight, develop strategies to move forward and reset your focus I would love to offer that to you.
Let's work together to get you, your relationship or your loved one where you want to be.
Life doesn't always go the way we planned in our heads. Sometimes we are thrown curveballs, presented with a transition we didn't choose, or maybe notice that stress has caught up to us. If you find you could use a space to think out loud, gain insight, develop strategies to move forward and reset your focus I would love to offer that to you.
(619) 202-8791 View (619) 202-8791
Photo of Kristyn M Beckstrom, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kristyn M Beckstrom
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Cardiff, CA 92007
I believe that you can work through long standing issues big or small and improve your life, your sense of well being and your relationship to yourself and others.
Life is full of challenges and you don’t have to face them alone. I enjoy helping people who are experiencing differing levels of depression or anxiety, issues with self worth or body image and/or relationship issues. I am also passionate about helping people to heal trauma, recent or past, big or small. Any mixture of these things can be brought to therapy and worked through, to the extent that you desire. I will work with you to move through whatever you are facing. I believe that you are unique & that the solutions to your life challenges are unique to you, we will find those solutions together.
I believe that you can work through long standing issues big or small and improve your life, your sense of well being and your relationship to yourself and others.
Life is full of challenges and you don’t have to face them alone. I enjoy helping people who are experiencing differing levels of depression or anxiety, issues with self worth or body image and/or relationship issues. I am also passionate about helping people to heal trauma, recent or past, big or small. Any mixture of these things can be brought to therapy and worked through, to the extent that you desire. I will work with you to move through whatever you are facing. I believe that you are unique & that the solutions to your life challenges are unique to you, we will find those solutions together.
(619) 586-6210 View (619) 586-6210
Photo of Adrianne Faye, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Adrianne Faye
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Cardiff, CA 92007  (Online Only)
Are you having trouble with your relationships, feeling stuck in your life, depressed, not having a purpose, feeling like you are suffering, or having problematic patterns you continue to repeat in your life? These are some of the issues that bring people to wanting psychotherapy. My style is warm, supportive, and interactive, with a focus on empathy, authenticity, and openness. I enjoy helping individuals, couples, teens, and young women who want to achieve a more satisfying, and productive life through learning new skills. I will be a constant witness to your growth, happiness and self realization.
Are you having trouble with your relationships, feeling stuck in your life, depressed, not having a purpose, feeling like you are suffering, or having problematic patterns you continue to repeat in your life? These are some of the issues that bring people to wanting psychotherapy. My style is warm, supportive, and interactive, with a focus on empathy, authenticity, and openness. I enjoy helping individuals, couples, teens, and young women who want to achieve a more satisfying, and productive life through learning new skills. I will be a constant witness to your growth, happiness and self realization.
(310) 736-6346 View (310) 736-6346

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Kenneth Fried, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kenneth Fried
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Rancho Santa Fe, CA 92067
A graduate of UCLA and Pepperdine, Ken has a special interest in the mind-body connection and the relationship between our thoughts and emotions and our physical and spiritual sense of well-being.
Ken is a passionate and seasoned Marriage and Family therapist who has been helping people improve the quality of their lives and relationships for over 30 years. Equal parts clinician, healer and coach, Ken has a unique way of helping people identify and dissolve the obstacles that have been limiting their greater enjoyment and success in life. With an emphasis on personal growth and the deeper work of self-acceptance, he patiently guides his clients towards their best version of themselves. When clients can begin producing dramatically new outcomes and results in their daily lives, he knows his unique brand of therapy is working!
A graduate of UCLA and Pepperdine, Ken has a special interest in the mind-body connection and the relationship between our thoughts and emotions and our physical and spiritual sense of well-being.
Ken is a passionate and seasoned Marriage and Family therapist who has been helping people improve the quality of their lives and relationships for over 30 years. Equal parts clinician, healer and coach, Ken has a unique way of helping people identify and dissolve the obstacles that have been limiting their greater enjoyment and success in life. With an emphasis on personal growth and the deeper work of self-acceptance, he patiently guides his clients towards their best version of themselves. When clients can begin producing dramatically new outcomes and results in their daily lives, he knows his unique brand of therapy is working!
(760) 845-2745 View (760) 845-2745
Photo of Christina Elizabeth Ames-Cotto - Hope, Growth & Healing Counseling, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Hope, Growth & Healing Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Encinitas, CA 92024  (Online Only)
I have 6 years of experience working with diverse populations with a multitude of different challenges; some of which include intergenerational trauma, substance abuse, domestic violence, relationship conflict, neurodiversity, LGBTQIA, and cultural identity.
Offer Telehealth Only - Life provides happiness as well as its share of challenges. I believe individuals and couples are capable of navigating life but sometimes need a little extra help and compassion. Therapy can be that place where a person can discuss, learn and work through any past or present challenges that may be getting in the way of living a happy and hopeful life.
I have 6 years of experience working with diverse populations with a multitude of different challenges; some of which include intergenerational trauma, substance abuse, domestic violence, relationship conflict, neurodiversity, LGBTQIA, and cultural identity.
Offer Telehealth Only - Life provides happiness as well as its share of challenges. I believe individuals and couples are capable of navigating life but sometimes need a little extra help and compassion. Therapy can be that place where a person can discuss, learn and work through any past or present challenges that may be getting in the way of living a happy and hopeful life.
(619) 776-3039 View (619) 776-3039
Photo of Adrienne Blumberg, MA, LMFT, RPT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Adrienne Blumberg
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, RPT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Solana Beach, CA 92075  (Online Only)
I enjoy working with ages 12 and up, especially those experiencing conflicts in their personal, school and professional life. Many experience complexities and challenges that are hard to resolve. "Connection" is the most important aspect in developing a natural, trusting and collaborative working relationship. Connection promotes a healthy therapeutic alliance where goals can be achieved and reflected upon. A therapeutic relationship involves weaving compassion and understanding while developing the ability to effectively communicate in a safe, nurturing environment. Parent coaching and co-parenting are also available.
I enjoy working with ages 12 and up, especially those experiencing conflicts in their personal, school and professional life. Many experience complexities and challenges that are hard to resolve. "Connection" is the most important aspect in developing a natural, trusting and collaborative working relationship. Connection promotes a healthy therapeutic alliance where goals can be achieved and reflected upon. A therapeutic relationship involves weaving compassion and understanding while developing the ability to effectively communicate in a safe, nurturing environment. Parent coaching and co-parenting are also available.
(858) 768-2664 View (858) 768-2664
Photo of Karolyn Johnson - Connected ~ Seen & Heard , MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Connected ~ Seen & Heard
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Solana Beach, CA 92075
We have the expertise to support you through anxiety, depression, the parenting journey from preconception to child raising, understanding family dynamics, developmental trauma, and other trauma related issues such as substance use, relationship abuse, codependency, and attachment styles.
Connected - Seen & Heard is a unique space that honors the human need and desire to belong. We strive to offer the concept and experience of authentic connection through individual, family, couples, or group therapy, workshops. community events, retreats, and trainings. As an attachment-based group practice we believe that wounding happens in relationship, and therefore so does healing! The basis of connection is safety, trust, and vulnerability. It is in this safe space where we experience emotional healing and develop an understanding of self and of others.
We have the expertise to support you through anxiety, depression, the parenting journey from preconception to child raising, understanding family dynamics, developmental trauma, and other trauma related issues such as substance use, relationship abuse, codependency, and attachment styles.
Connected - Seen & Heard is a unique space that honors the human need and desire to belong. We strive to offer the concept and experience of authentic connection through individual, family, couples, or group therapy, workshops. community events, retreats, and trainings. As an attachment-based group practice we believe that wounding happens in relationship, and therefore so does healing! The basis of connection is safety, trust, and vulnerability. It is in this safe space where we experience emotional healing and develop an understanding of self and of others.
(619) 457-4105 View (619) 457-4105
Photo of Ashley Mullica, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ashley Mullica
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Encinitas, CA 92024
I am skilled at treating PTSD, anxiety, panic attacks, OCD, trauma, relationship/communication issues, grief/loss, women's issues/postpartum depression, infertility, cancer (I’m a survivor myself), and school/work adjustment.
Please note new office location in San Diego! Are. you tired of feeling stuck, lost, or anxious? Have you experienced a recent loss or are you struggling with relationship difficulties? Are you feeling overwhelmed by anxiety or trauma? I provide a safe, non-judgmental, and compassionate environment where a healthy therapeutic relationship is built so that you can work towards overcoming these obstacles! I will collaborate with you to help achieve your goals and provide honest feedback and practical, straightforward, and effective interventions. I view each client as unique and adapt my approach to meet your individualized needs.
I am skilled at treating PTSD, anxiety, panic attacks, OCD, trauma, relationship/communication issues, grief/loss, women's issues/postpartum depression, infertility, cancer (I’m a survivor myself), and school/work adjustment.
Please note new office location in San Diego! Are. you tired of feeling stuck, lost, or anxious? Have you experienced a recent loss or are you struggling with relationship difficulties? Are you feeling overwhelmed by anxiety or trauma? I provide a safe, non-judgmental, and compassionate environment where a healthy therapeutic relationship is built so that you can work towards overcoming these obstacles! I will collaborate with you to help achieve your goals and provide honest feedback and practical, straightforward, and effective interventions. I view each client as unique and adapt my approach to meet your individualized needs.
(760) 407-2827 View (760) 407-2827
Photo of Alicia Baird Fassardi, PhD, Psychologist
Alicia Baird Fassardi
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Encinitas, CA 92024
I am a clinical psychologist originally from Argentina. I work with adults of all backgrounds who look for support and strategies to create lasting changes in their lives and in their relationships. Many of my patients report symptoms of depression and anxiety related to relationship issues, life transitions, traumatic events, personal crisis or medical trauma. People who enjoy collaborative work grounded in dialogue, moments of insight and encouragement to experiment with new intentions and behaviors, typically tell me they find our sessions helpful and report lower stress and increased connection in relationships.
I am a clinical psychologist originally from Argentina. I work with adults of all backgrounds who look for support and strategies to create lasting changes in their lives and in their relationships. Many of my patients report symptoms of depression and anxiety related to relationship issues, life transitions, traumatic events, personal crisis or medical trauma. People who enjoy collaborative work grounded in dialogue, moments of insight and encouragement to experiment with new intentions and behaviors, typically tell me they find our sessions helpful and report lower stress and increased connection in relationships.
(760) 840-2085 View (760) 840-2085
Photo of Darryl J Huels, PhD, LCSW-R, CEAP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Darryl J Huels
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW-R, CEAP
Verified Verified
Solana Beach, CA 92075  (Online Only)
I am a PhD and a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 30 years of experience working with people in helping them to resolve personal, social, relationship, and family problems.
I am a PhD and a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 30 years of experience working with people in helping them to resolve personal, social, relationship, and family problems.
(858) 221-6773 View (858) 221-6773
Photo of Jessica A. Lopez, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jessica A. Lopez
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Encinitas, CA 92023  (Online Only)
Are you feeling anxious or depressed because of work, a relationship, or your adult relationship with your parents? Do you want deeper connections or want to explore your attachment style? I'm Jessica, and I'm here to support you. I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, also known as a connection reviver & hope restorer. As a Native American woman & transplant to San Diego, I believe we are capable of change. I specialize in helping individuals like you navigate the complexities of modern living, offering tailored support to address anxiety & depression, and guide you toward feeling better in yourself & in your relationships.
Are you feeling anxious or depressed because of work, a relationship, or your adult relationship with your parents? Do you want deeper connections or want to explore your attachment style? I'm Jessica, and I'm here to support you. I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, also known as a connection reviver & hope restorer. As a Native American woman & transplant to San Diego, I believe we are capable of change. I specialize in helping individuals like you navigate the complexities of modern living, offering tailored support to address anxiety & depression, and guide you toward feeling better in yourself & in your relationships.
(619) 378-4692 View (619) 378-4692
Photo of Ryan Thomas Neace, MA, LPCC, LPC, NCC, CCMHC, Counselor
Ryan Thomas Neace
Counselor, MA, LPCC, LPC, NCC, CCMHC
Verified Verified
13 Endorsed
Encinitas, CA 92023  (Online Only)
Thus, our relationship itself — that is the work! There’s nothing else you need to do to prepare, so why wait? Can't wait to hear from you.
Understanding ourselves and our lives can be difficult. On the one hand, our inner critics may be so loud, self-examination is torturous. On the other, well-meaning people in our lives may be so eager to validate us that we are never quite sure we're getting a real picture of who we are. So, counseling is essentially about receiving the support to work creatively with all of this noise long enough to allow change to happen in and through you. The only way to do this to let someone get to know the real you. If we can do that, therapy can be a deeply authentic, radically human, even life-changing encounter!
Thus, our relationship itself — that is the work! There’s nothing else you need to do to prepare, so why wait? Can't wait to hear from you.
Understanding ourselves and our lives can be difficult. On the one hand, our inner critics may be so loud, self-examination is torturous. On the other, well-meaning people in our lives may be so eager to validate us that we are never quite sure we're getting a real picture of who we are. So, counseling is essentially about receiving the support to work creatively with all of this noise long enough to allow change to happen in and through you. The only way to do this to let someone get to know the real you. If we can do that, therapy can be a deeply authentic, radically human, even life-changing encounter!
(760) 824-3092 View (760) 824-3092
Photo of Margaret A. O'Hara, PhD, LPCC, LMHC, NCC, CASAC
Margaret A. O'Hara
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, PhD, LPCC, LMHC, NCC, CASAC
Verified Verified
Encinitas, CA 92024  (Online Only)
Together we will apply strategies to reach the mental health, wellness, relationship, education, or career goals you set.
Are you stressed and use alcohol, other substances, food, exercise, sex, work, spending, gambling, or screen use excessively? Do you think “I got this” after planning a strict regimen for change only to break it soon after? Do failed attempts cause you to feel down? Do you long for past times when you could enjoy these pleasures? Do you suspect there may be core issues that drive these behaviors but fear slowing down to explore them? Is there a personal or family history of trauma or emotional issues that causes anxiety? Do you feel exhausted and yearn to wake up refreshed? Are you isolating to avoid people who are concerned?
Together we will apply strategies to reach the mental health, wellness, relationship, education, or career goals you set.
Are you stressed and use alcohol, other substances, food, exercise, sex, work, spending, gambling, or screen use excessively? Do you think “I got this” after planning a strict regimen for change only to break it soon after? Do failed attempts cause you to feel down? Do you long for past times when you could enjoy these pleasures? Do you suspect there may be core issues that drive these behaviors but fear slowing down to explore them? Is there a personal or family history of trauma or emotional issues that causes anxiety? Do you feel exhausted and yearn to wake up refreshed? Are you isolating to avoid people who are concerned?
(760) 592-0190 View (760) 592-0190
Photo of Kelli Olds - Kelli Olds LMFT Owner at Mood Therapy, MA, LMFT, HHP, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kelli Olds LMFT Owner at Mood Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, HHP
Verified Verified
Encinitas, CA 92024
I strongly believe that this relationship between client and therapist is the most important agent for change.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with 20 years experience in the health and wellness industry. I have a BA in Elementary Education, a MA in Counseling Psychology and I sat on the Board of the San Diego North County chapter of the California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists. I practice Telehealth Online Therapy and have an office in Encinitas. I enjoy helping individuals create and maintain healthy relationships with themselves, their spouses, children, family members, friends, colleagues, and ex-spouses. I also love helping individuals navigate divorce recovery and co-parenting.
I strongly believe that this relationship between client and therapist is the most important agent for change.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with 20 years experience in the health and wellness industry. I have a BA in Elementary Education, a MA in Counseling Psychology and I sat on the Board of the San Diego North County chapter of the California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists. I practice Telehealth Online Therapy and have an office in Encinitas. I enjoy helping individuals create and maintain healthy relationships with themselves, their spouses, children, family members, friends, colleagues, and ex-spouses. I also love helping individuals navigate divorce recovery and co-parenting.
(760) 840-2018 View (760) 840-2018
Photo of Sarah Rewers, MA , LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sarah Rewers
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA , LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Encinitas, CA 92023
Many of my clients approach me feeling overwhelmed, anxious, depressed, or burnt out. I’m an experienced therapist who works well with individuals navigating relationship challenges, life transitions, and boundary setting. My approach to psychotherapy is to provide you with a free and protected space to express difficult thoughts and feelings and to facilitate the emergence of your authentic self.
Many of my clients approach me feeling overwhelmed, anxious, depressed, or burnt out. I’m an experienced therapist who works well with individuals navigating relationship challenges, life transitions, and boundary setting. My approach to psychotherapy is to provide you with a free and protected space to express difficult thoughts and feelings and to facilitate the emergence of your authentic self.
(415) 594-4965 View (415) 594-4965
Photo of Sheila Henry, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sheila Henry
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Solana Beach, CA 92075
He just wants sex and not a relationship.
Although I am highly experienced in working with anxiety and trauma, my passion is to help women over 50 get into a loving relationship. Are you lonely? Being lonely has many ill effects upon your health and quality of life. Love adds years of better health and a longer life. I specialize in helping women get rid of past baggage (such as trauma, physical or emotional abuse not being able to receive love.) You will learn how to avoid repeating past dysfunctional patterns, and then how find the man to create the great relationship of your dreams.
He just wants sex and not a relationship.
Although I am highly experienced in working with anxiety and trauma, my passion is to help women over 50 get into a loving relationship. Are you lonely? Being lonely has many ill effects upon your health and quality of life. Love adds years of better health and a longer life. I specialize in helping women get rid of past baggage (such as trauma, physical or emotional abuse not being able to receive love.) You will learn how to avoid repeating past dysfunctional patterns, and then how find the man to create the great relationship of your dreams.
(858) 215-1961 View (858) 215-1961
Photo of Jessica Cooper, MA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Jessica Cooper
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Encinitas, CA 92023
When working with couples I take an eclectic approach combining EFT, Gottman, and Imago Relationship Therapy in order to rebuild the foundation, improve communication, promote intimacy, and strengthen the relationship.
Taking the steps to explore therapy can be vulnerable and intimidating. Finding a therapist you connect with is key. I am an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist in the Carlsbad area. My goal is to foster an open, trusting, non-judgmental, and collaborative environment in which clients can feel comfortable to express themselves. My passion is rooted in assisting clients through their journey to achieve goals, find fulfillment, and explore themselves in a safe and caring space. I have a client-centered and integrative approach to therapy, utilizing therapeutic modalities which best fit a client and their needs.
When working with couples I take an eclectic approach combining EFT, Gottman, and Imago Relationship Therapy in order to rebuild the foundation, improve communication, promote intimacy, and strengthen the relationship.
Taking the steps to explore therapy can be vulnerable and intimidating. Finding a therapist you connect with is key. I am an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist in the Carlsbad area. My goal is to foster an open, trusting, non-judgmental, and collaborative environment in which clients can feel comfortable to express themselves. My passion is rooted in assisting clients through their journey to achieve goals, find fulfillment, and explore themselves in a safe and caring space. I have a client-centered and integrative approach to therapy, utilizing therapeutic modalities which best fit a client and their needs.
(442) 239-6702 View (442) 239-6702
Photo of Carrie Jaffe, PhD, Psychologist
Carrie Jaffe
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Del Mar, CA 92014
Do you have the same painful relationship, job, or family problems over and over? Have you been unable to figure out why, or how to do it differently? I can help you learn how and why, and help you change these patterns. If you are unhappy, insecure, stuck in self-defeating patterns, have repeated relationship conflicts, addiction issues, or have stopped progressing in life, I can help you gain insight, change negative patterns, modify personality issues, achieve consistent Recovery from addictions, and live a happier life. I also have expertise in helping people cope with, and recover from relationships with narcissistic people.
Do you have the same painful relationship, job, or family problems over and over? Have you been unable to figure out why, or how to do it differently? I can help you learn how and why, and help you change these patterns. If you are unhappy, insecure, stuck in self-defeating patterns, have repeated relationship conflicts, addiction issues, or have stopped progressing in life, I can help you gain insight, change negative patterns, modify personality issues, achieve consistent Recovery from addictions, and live a happier life. I also have expertise in helping people cope with, and recover from relationships with narcissistic people.
(858) 375-4733 View (858) 375-4733
Photo of Spenser Gabin, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Spenser Gabin
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
Encinitas, CA 92024
The therapeutic relationship can be an invaluable opportunity to foster growth, take intelligent risks, and rewrite unhelpful narratives. Often the most important and difficult changes in life are internal. Moreover, the most critical changes can begin with the acceptance of a painful reality. Sometimes it is helpful to explore these realities with a supportive individual who has some distance from the situation. I find the most successful clients are curious about their own beliefs and feelings. While they want to be challenged, they also believe in the necessity of self-compassion.
The therapeutic relationship can be an invaluable opportunity to foster growth, take intelligent risks, and rewrite unhelpful narratives. Often the most important and difficult changes in life are internal. Moreover, the most critical changes can begin with the acceptance of a painful reality. Sometimes it is helpful to explore these realities with a supportive individual who has some distance from the situation. I find the most successful clients are curious about their own beliefs and feelings. While they want to be challenged, they also believe in the necessity of self-compassion.
(760) 313-3294 View (760) 313-3294
Photo of Patti Rosenberg, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Patti Rosenberg
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Solana Beach, CA 92075  (Online Only)
Whether dealing with relationship issues, anxiety, depression, grief, or PTSD.
Hi, I’m Patti. In this fast paced world, there never seems to be enough time for you. Being pulled in many directions, always feeling rushed, and like life is out of control. Maybe you feel alone even while surrounded by others, Does this sound familiar? I’ve spent over a decade working in the mental health field. My career began working with at-risk children and adolescents struggling with depression, anger, anxiety, substance use, suicidal ideations/attempts, and body image disorders.
Whether dealing with relationship issues, anxiety, depression, grief, or PTSD.
Hi, I’m Patti. In this fast paced world, there never seems to be enough time for you. Being pulled in many directions, always feeling rushed, and like life is out of control. Maybe you feel alone even while surrounded by others, Does this sound familiar? I’ve spent over a decade working in the mental health field. My career began working with at-risk children and adolescents struggling with depression, anger, anxiety, substance use, suicidal ideations/attempts, and body image disorders.
(858) 524-3944 View (858) 524-3944
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.