Relationship Issues Therapists in Central City, Los Angeles, CA

Photo of Anthea Tjoa, PsyD, MAICS, MAT, Psychologist
Anthea Tjoa
Psychologist, PsyD, MAICS, MAT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Central City, Los Angeles, CA 90007  (Online Only)
I care about the relationship between the client and therapist and view it as deeply and inherently sacred.
I am passionate about working with clients who are experiencing the emotional, psychological, and relational difficulties that come from processing their intersecting identities, sense of self, and relational contexts. My specialties are depression, grief, and trauma (e.g., relational abuse or religious abuse) that can stem from those complex dynamics.
I care about the relationship between the client and therapist and view it as deeply and inherently sacred.
I am passionate about working with clients who are experiencing the emotional, psychological, and relational difficulties that come from processing their intersecting identities, sense of self, and relational contexts. My specialties are depression, grief, and trauma (e.g., relational abuse or religious abuse) that can stem from those complex dynamics.
(323) 900-5266 View (323) 900-5266
Photo of Miyume McKinley, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Miyume McKinley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Central City, Los Angeles, CA 90011
I have experience working with trauma, mood disorders, anxiety, depression, and relationship problems.
Feeling stressed or overwhelmed? Tearing up or having crying spells? Family, relationships or work becoming more challenging? Or maybe, past situations are now causing feelings of sadness, anger, or shame because you can't forget the memory though you try. These are things that many people deal with on daily basis, however you don't have to do it alone. Therapy is an opportunity to learn ways of coping with things that can be emotionally draining. Counseling is not only what I do, but what I love! You will have the opportunity to share your thoughts in an environment free from judgment or criticism.
I have experience working with trauma, mood disorders, anxiety, depression, and relationship problems.
Feeling stressed or overwhelmed? Tearing up or having crying spells? Family, relationships or work becoming more challenging? Or maybe, past situations are now causing feelings of sadness, anger, or shame because you can't forget the memory though you try. These are things that many people deal with on daily basis, however you don't have to do it alone. Therapy is an opportunity to learn ways of coping with things that can be emotionally draining. Counseling is not only what I do, but what I love! You will have the opportunity to share your thoughts in an environment free from judgment or criticism.
(424) 570-6955 View (424) 570-6955
Photo of Elin Kiyoko Campbell, MSW, ASW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Elin Kiyoko Campbell
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, ASW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Central City, Los Angeles, CA 90011  (Online Only)
I work with people in all varieties of consensual relationship configurations, including folks looking to change their relationship configuration.
As a therapist who found myself in the mental health field as a result of a gamut of lived experience – I know too well how difficult it can be to find a therapeutic space where you “fit.” This world is heavy enough without the added difficulty of summoning the strength to reach out for help, only to feel like you must change yourself to access therapeutic support. It’s a terrible, gut-wrenching feeling that I have personally experienced. This will not happen with me. I pride myself on offering an open, honest, and comfortable therapeutic space where clients do not feel the need to censor or otherwise alter themselves.
I work with people in all varieties of consensual relationship configurations, including folks looking to change their relationship configuration.
As a therapist who found myself in the mental health field as a result of a gamut of lived experience – I know too well how difficult it can be to find a therapeutic space where you “fit.” This world is heavy enough without the added difficulty of summoning the strength to reach out for help, only to feel like you must change yourself to access therapeutic support. It’s a terrible, gut-wrenching feeling that I have personally experienced. This will not happen with me. I pride myself on offering an open, honest, and comfortable therapeutic space where clients do not feel the need to censor or otherwise alter themselves.
(415) 570-6476 View (415) 570-6476
Photo of Dr. Jacquelyn Johnson - Deeply Seen Psychological & Consulting Services, Psychologist
Deeply Seen Psychological & Consulting Services
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Central City, Los Angeles, CA 90015  (Online Only)
I am the therapist and coach for “the strong friend.” I serve high-achieving, high-performing professional women who are the go-to problem solver and listening ear for just about everyone–often at the sacrifice of their own emotional health and wellness. My heart is for women, especially Black women, to experience freedom and liberation from toxic narratives around value and worth. You get to be complex, emotional, angry, sad, and not okay. You deserve to be cared for, attuned to, seen, validated, take up space, and live a life that brings you pleasure and joy. You get to prioritize you and not live a life of pure self-sacrifice.
I am the therapist and coach for “the strong friend.” I serve high-achieving, high-performing professional women who are the go-to problem solver and listening ear for just about everyone–often at the sacrifice of their own emotional health and wellness. My heart is for women, especially Black women, to experience freedom and liberation from toxic narratives around value and worth. You get to be complex, emotional, angry, sad, and not okay. You deserve to be cared for, attuned to, seen, validated, take up space, and live a life that brings you pleasure and joy. You get to prioritize you and not live a life of pure self-sacrifice.
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Photo of Amy Carnes, LMFT, MS, Marriage & Family Therapist
Amy Carnes
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MS
Verified Verified
Central City, Los Angeles, CA 90011  (Online Only)
People usually come to me after a big disruption in their life, feeling “stuck” in some way or other. They are ready for self-reflection and open to making positive changes in their lives because they recognize the importance of self-care and value the opportunity to gain new perspectives. They want insight, tools and support for well-being and personal growth. If your goal is to learn healthy coping strategies in order to feel more empowered and whole, I bet we’ll be able to do great work together.
People usually come to me after a big disruption in their life, feeling “stuck” in some way or other. They are ready for self-reflection and open to making positive changes in their lives because they recognize the importance of self-care and value the opportunity to gain new perspectives. They want insight, tools and support for well-being and personal growth. If your goal is to learn healthy coping strategies in order to feel more empowered and whole, I bet we’ll be able to do great work together.
(906) 296-3813 View (906) 296-3813
Photo of Salma Soliman, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Salma Soliman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Central City, Los Angeles, CA 90015
Welcome! I am dedicated to helping clients discover their resilience and build emotional intelligence through a compassionate and evidence-based approach. My practice integrates diverse therapeutic methods to meet clients where they are, combining the latest research with a flexible, eclectic perspective. I am particularly passionate about incorporating creative and expressive art forms into therapy, which can open new avenues for self-expression and healing. Additionally, I have developed a unique approach known as improv therapy, which uses improvisational techniques to enhance spontaneity, confidence, and interpersonal skills.
Welcome! I am dedicated to helping clients discover their resilience and build emotional intelligence through a compassionate and evidence-based approach. My practice integrates diverse therapeutic methods to meet clients where they are, combining the latest research with a flexible, eclectic perspective. I am particularly passionate about incorporating creative and expressive art forms into therapy, which can open new avenues for self-expression and healing. Additionally, I have developed a unique approach known as improv therapy, which uses improvisational techniques to enhance spontaneity, confidence, and interpersonal skills.
(213) 493-3563 View (213) 493-3563
Photo of Jessica Guerrero, DSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jessica Guerrero
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Central City, Los Angeles, CA 90015  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Los Angeles, CA. working with children, youth, and families of multicultural backgrounds, including pregnant and postpartum parents (single and couples). If you struggle with figuring out what is going on with your child, how to improve your relationships with others and with yourself, but really not knowing how to get these answers? Have you struggled with lived trauma and/or generational trauma and can't seem to work through it? Know that you hold the answer deep within you, and I am here to help and accompany you through the journey of healing. Spiritual Support also available.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Los Angeles, CA. working with children, youth, and families of multicultural backgrounds, including pregnant and postpartum parents (single and couples). If you struggle with figuring out what is going on with your child, how to improve your relationships with others and with yourself, but really not knowing how to get these answers? Have you struggled with lived trauma and/or generational trauma and can't seem to work through it? Know that you hold the answer deep within you, and I am here to help and accompany you through the journey of healing. Spiritual Support also available.
(310) 861-7203 View (310) 861-7203
Photo of David Haro, MA, APCC
David Haro
Associate Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, APCC
Verified Verified
Central City, Los Angeles, CA 90011  (Online Only)
Sometimes you don't really know what you have until you almost lose it. Sexual issues can cause you to lose relationships, jobs, and sometimes, your freedom. You never meant to hurt anyone and so often, things get out of control. The constant worry that someone will find out about your sexual behavior is exhausting. What would be like to live a life with no secrets?
Sometimes you don't really know what you have until you almost lose it. Sexual issues can cause you to lose relationships, jobs, and sometimes, your freedom. You never meant to hurt anyone and so often, things get out of control. The constant worry that someone will find out about your sexual behavior is exhausting. What would be like to live a life with no secrets?
(760) 823-8323 View (760) 823-8323
Photo of Khristine Anthony, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Khristine Anthony
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Central City, Los Angeles, CA 90011  (Online Only)
Everyone deserves to live a life filled with purpose, meaning and pleasure. From time to time, we struggle with the unavoidable difficulties of life and begin to feel anxious, down, or sometimes feel stuck. I appreciate helping clients engage in self-exploration so that they can cease struggling and start living a life they want to live. We all deserve to have gratifying relationships with ourselves and other. We all deserve to have gratifying relationships with ourselves and other. Sometime, however, conditions get in the way. We may be incognizant of the motivations behind our actions.
Everyone deserves to live a life filled with purpose, meaning and pleasure. From time to time, we struggle with the unavoidable difficulties of life and begin to feel anxious, down, or sometimes feel stuck. I appreciate helping clients engage in self-exploration so that they can cease struggling and start living a life they want to live. We all deserve to have gratifying relationships with ourselves and other. We all deserve to have gratifying relationships with ourselves and other. Sometime, however, conditions get in the way. We may be incognizant of the motivations behind our actions.
(619) 649-9251 View (619) 649-9251
Photo of Denisha McCoy, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Denisha McCoy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Central City, Los Angeles, CA 90011
Not accepting new clients
I have over 7 years experience working with individuals and families impacted by various mental health related stressors. My goal is to provide a safe and non-judgmental space for you to be be heard. No matter where things got challenging in your journey, this process will allow us to work as a team to identify and utilize strategies that will help you to overcome the things that are impacting your life.
I have over 7 years experience working with individuals and families impacted by various mental health related stressors. My goal is to provide a safe and non-judgmental space for you to be be heard. No matter where things got challenging in your journey, this process will allow us to work as a team to identify and utilize strategies that will help you to overcome the things that are impacting your life.
(323) 417-8547 View (323) 417-8547

Online Therapists

Photo of Patricia Stephens, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Patricia Stephens
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90048  (Online Only)
I have experience working with: Anxiety and Stress Management, Relationship Issues, Life Transitions and Adjustment; Trauma and PTSD, Loss and Bereavement, Depression, Women's Issues and Anger Management.
I take a creative approach, tailoring treatment to each individual, couple and families I see. I utilize a variety of modalities Family Systems, Cognitive Behavioral and Solution Focused Therapy to help gain insight into past and present experiences and behaviors, identify and build strengths, develop healthy coping strategies and challenge long held assumptions about yourself, your relationships and the world you live in. I have extensive knowledge working with diverse populations.
I have experience working with: Anxiety and Stress Management, Relationship Issues, Life Transitions and Adjustment; Trauma and PTSD, Loss and Bereavement, Depression, Women's Issues and Anger Management.
I take a creative approach, tailoring treatment to each individual, couple and families I see. I utilize a variety of modalities Family Systems, Cognitive Behavioral and Solution Focused Therapy to help gain insight into past and present experiences and behaviors, identify and build strengths, develop healthy coping strategies and challenge long held assumptions about yourself, your relationships and the world you live in. I have extensive knowledge working with diverse populations.
(818) 293-1626 View (818) 293-1626
Photo of Aida Colocho, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Aida Colocho
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90006
I work with individuals who are experiencing depression, anxiety, self-esteem and self-image issues, relationship issues, and difficulty adjusting to changes in life.
My name is Aida Colocho, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I offer individuals that are struggling with issues ranging from depression, anxiety, divorce, trauma, and emotional support; a treatment approach that focuses on cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused, motivational interviewing, and exploration of self. My theoretical approach is cognitive, behavioral and humanistic.
I work with individuals who are experiencing depression, anxiety, self-esteem and self-image issues, relationship issues, and difficulty adjusting to changes in life.
My name is Aida Colocho, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I offer individuals that are struggling with issues ranging from depression, anxiety, divorce, trauma, and emotional support; a treatment approach that focuses on cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused, motivational interviewing, and exploration of self. My theoretical approach is cognitive, behavioral and humanistic.
(213) 561-6630 View (213) 561-6630
Photo of Dr. Barbra Payne, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Barbra Payne
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90036  (Online Only)
The key to a satisfying therapy experience is the relationship between therapist and client, the right fit.
As a psychologist, it is my belief that the therapy hour, the therapy relationship, is expressly unique. One that is devoted exclusively to you - where memories of the past stream into thoughts of the future and all is said in a protected, confidential space. Whether you are dealing with relationship or trauma issues, or seeking treatment for symptoms of depression, anxiety or substance use, the process of therapy can serve to clarify underlying feelings, reveal patterns - make the unconscious conscious. In doing so, therapy can enhance a person's sense of empowerment, enrich relationship experiences, illuminate the Self.
The key to a satisfying therapy experience is the relationship between therapist and client, the right fit.
As a psychologist, it is my belief that the therapy hour, the therapy relationship, is expressly unique. One that is devoted exclusively to you - where memories of the past stream into thoughts of the future and all is said in a protected, confidential space. Whether you are dealing with relationship or trauma issues, or seeking treatment for symptoms of depression, anxiety or substance use, the process of therapy can serve to clarify underlying feelings, reveal patterns - make the unconscious conscious. In doing so, therapy can enhance a person's sense of empowerment, enrich relationship experiences, illuminate the Self.
(323) 405-7885 View (323) 405-7885
Photo of Dr. Christina M. Charlotin, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Christina M. Charlotin
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90071
I work with adults who experience depression, anxiety disorders (agoraphobia, panic disorder, social anxiety, specific phobias), OCD, relationship challenges or loss, phase-of-life stressors, procrastination, & LGBTQ or Race related trauma.
Compared to many other psychologists, my therapy style may be more goal oriented, assertive, and with a stronger focus on observing and measuring therapeutic progress over longer term emotional processing. My approach is based on my belief that we do have the power to create healthy emotions & dismantle unwanted emotions. When meeting with you, I'll want to understand how your ongoing circumstances, emotions, behaviors, or thoughts impact the short term as well as the overall outcomes in your life. I base my treatment on evidenced-based inventions, eastern & wellness perspectives, and a conscious awareness approach.
I work with adults who experience depression, anxiety disorders (agoraphobia, panic disorder, social anxiety, specific phobias), OCD, relationship challenges or loss, phase-of-life stressors, procrastination, & LGBTQ or Race related trauma.
Compared to many other psychologists, my therapy style may be more goal oriented, assertive, and with a stronger focus on observing and measuring therapeutic progress over longer term emotional processing. My approach is based on my belief that we do have the power to create healthy emotions & dismantle unwanted emotions. When meeting with you, I'll want to understand how your ongoing circumstances, emotions, behaviors, or thoughts impact the short term as well as the overall outcomes in your life. I base my treatment on evidenced-based inventions, eastern & wellness perspectives, and a conscious awareness approach.
(323) 508-2096 View (323) 508-2096
Photo of Edna Lopez, MA,, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Edna Lopez
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA,, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90046
It is this marvel and respect that I strive to bring into my therapeutic relationship with you.
Are you stuck, unable to move forward in your life? I believe that we as human beings are resilient, and that, when we find ourselves stuck unable to move forward in our lives, it's important to seek guidance outside ourselves to unravel and breakfree from whatever is blocking our inner light. I am here to assist you to unravel and break free from whatever is blocking your inner light from shining.
It is this marvel and respect that I strive to bring into my therapeutic relationship with you.
Are you stuck, unable to move forward in your life? I believe that we as human beings are resilient, and that, when we find ourselves stuck unable to move forward in our lives, it's important to seek guidance outside ourselves to unravel and breakfree from whatever is blocking our inner light. I am here to assist you to unravel and break free from whatever is blocking your inner light from shining.
(323) 471-0446 View (323) 471-0446
Photo of Dr. Teyhou Smyth, PhD, LMFT, LPCC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr. Teyhou Smyth
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90025  (Online Only)
My work is focused on developing emotional intelligence and resilience, strengthening professional and personal identity, avoiding performance anxiety and fatigue, coping with high expectations, stress management, avoiding corporate burnout, understanding one’s own gender and cultural identity, depression & anxiety, life transitions and relationship issues.
I focus on relationships and attachment issues using Emotion Focused Therapy and Cognitive Behavior Therapy working from an attachment based model. I place a high value on personal development and wellness allowing for the achievement of one’s full potential and believe that everyone is able to access their full potential so that they may become the best version of themselves. I enjoy working with the LGBTQIA population and have a familiarity with LGBT specific issues gained from my clinical experience at the LGBT Center for many years.
My work is focused on developing emotional intelligence and resilience, strengthening professional and personal identity, avoiding performance anxiety and fatigue, coping with high expectations, stress management, avoiding corporate burnout, understanding one’s own gender and cultural identity, depression & anxiety, life transitions and relationship issues.
I focus on relationships and attachment issues using Emotion Focused Therapy and Cognitive Behavior Therapy working from an attachment based model. I place a high value on personal development and wellness allowing for the achievement of one’s full potential and believe that everyone is able to access their full potential so that they may become the best version of themselves. I enjoy working with the LGBTQIA population and have a familiarity with LGBT specific issues gained from my clinical experience at the LGBT Center for many years.
(213) 513-6144 View (213) 513-6144
Photo of Blair Lord, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Blair Lord
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90041
Do you feel like you have been holding the pain of stress and trauma in your body for years? Do you want to feel more empowered to understand your own nervous system and move into more regulated states of healing? Then we may be a good fit. I work with womxn and non-binary clients who experience chronic pain, chronic illness, anxiety, depression, or trauma. I am LGBTQIA+ allied, social justice, and feminist therapist. Clients I work with come in when experiencing life transition, relationship stress, new health diagnoses, career changes, increased pain, or family-of-origin pain.
Do you feel like you have been holding the pain of stress and trauma in your body for years? Do you want to feel more empowered to understand your own nervous system and move into more regulated states of healing? Then we may be a good fit. I work with womxn and non-binary clients who experience chronic pain, chronic illness, anxiety, depression, or trauma. I am LGBTQIA+ allied, social justice, and feminist therapist. Clients I work with come in when experiencing life transition, relationship stress, new health diagnoses, career changes, increased pain, or family-of-origin pain.
(213) 223-8121 View (213) 223-8121
Photo of Aniko Zela Benedek | Psychedelic Assisted Therapy, ASCW
Aniko Zela Benedek | Psychedelic Assisted Therapy
Associate Clinical Social Worker, ASCW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90069  (Online Only)
As a sex-positive therapist, I welcome clients from all walks of life, embracing diverse lifestyle and relationship paths, including monogamy, ethical non-monogamy (ENM), kink, gender expression, and the LGBTQ+ community.
I’m an Associate Therapist with an MSW from Columbia University and a meditation teacher based in California. I understand how it feels to be weighed down by past experiences and unresolved wounds, or to seek balance and clarity in life. I am dedicated to supporting you on your journey home - to yourself. Whether you need to heal from past trauma, grief, depression, anxiety, or get clarity on your situation or are going through a life transition or relationship issues, I’m here to support you every step of the way. Together, we will connect you to your own inner healing wisdom so that you can create the life you want to live.
As a sex-positive therapist, I welcome clients from all walks of life, embracing diverse lifestyle and relationship paths, including monogamy, ethical non-monogamy (ENM), kink, gender expression, and the LGBTQ+ community.
I’m an Associate Therapist with an MSW from Columbia University and a meditation teacher based in California. I understand how it feels to be weighed down by past experiences and unresolved wounds, or to seek balance and clarity in life. I am dedicated to supporting you on your journey home - to yourself. Whether you need to heal from past trauma, grief, depression, anxiety, or get clarity on your situation or are going through a life transition or relationship issues, I’m here to support you every step of the way. Together, we will connect you to your own inner healing wisdom so that you can create the life you want to live.
(707) 475-0251 View (707) 475-0251
Photo of Jennifer Jackson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer Jackson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90041
With an integrative approach tailored to your unique needs, I offer individual and couples therapy for relationship issues, anxiety, depression, trauma, grief and loss, postpartum mental health, and life transitions. I strive to create a compassionate, safe, and supportive space to collaborate on your goals, building a connection where meaningful change can occur. I approach our work with cultural humility and an anti-oppressive framework that supports intersectionality, particularly for those who identify as BIPOC, LGBTQ+ or queer, creatives and artists, and birthing parents in all stages of their perinatal journey.
With an integrative approach tailored to your unique needs, I offer individual and couples therapy for relationship issues, anxiety, depression, trauma, grief and loss, postpartum mental health, and life transitions. I strive to create a compassionate, safe, and supportive space to collaborate on your goals, building a connection where meaningful change can occur. I approach our work with cultural humility and an anti-oppressive framework that supports intersectionality, particularly for those who identify as BIPOC, LGBTQ+ or queer, creatives and artists, and birthing parents in all stages of their perinatal journey.
(323) 817-0442 View (323) 817-0442
Photo of Kailey Hockridge, MA, EdM, LPCC
Kailey Hockridge
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, EdM, LPCC
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90027  (Online Only)
With honesty, compassion, and humor, we will work together to better understand how you got to where you are so that you can continue to build a life, and relationship with yourself, that feels good for you.
I thrive in my work with creative, compassionate adults who are experiencing anxiety, burnout, or relationship stress. We may be a fit to work together if you are looking for a safer space to examine feelings of dissatisfaction or disconnect, and are curious about how to foster a greater sense of self-esteem and worthiness. I particularly enjoy working with self-described high achievers, and women in historically male-dominated industries. If you're ready to navigate your life more comfortably, gain confidence in communicating your needs, and build skills to better cope with your feelings - I look forward to supporting you in that.
With honesty, compassion, and humor, we will work together to better understand how you got to where you are so that you can continue to build a life, and relationship with yourself, that feels good for you.
I thrive in my work with creative, compassionate adults who are experiencing anxiety, burnout, or relationship stress. We may be a fit to work together if you are looking for a safer space to examine feelings of dissatisfaction or disconnect, and are curious about how to foster a greater sense of self-esteem and worthiness. I particularly enjoy working with self-described high achievers, and women in historically male-dominated industries. If you're ready to navigate your life more comfortably, gain confidence in communicating your needs, and build skills to better cope with your feelings - I look forward to supporting you in that.
(323) 676-2388 View (323) 676-2388

See more therapy options for Central City, Los Angeles

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.