Photo of Stephanie Clark, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Stephanie Clark
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Fernando, CA 91340
Hi my name is Stephanie Clark, LMFT. I have a depth approach, understanding where you have come from to where you are today. I focus on codependency, grief and loss process, addiction, domestic violence, cognitive distortions, healthy relationship attributes versus toxic attributes, and emotional maturity. I have worked with clients who struggle with anxiety, depression, grief, addiction, and marriage and family difficulties. I typically work with adults 18 and older, couples, and individuals.
Hi my name is Stephanie Clark, LMFT. I have a depth approach, understanding where you have come from to where you are today. I focus on codependency, grief and loss process, addiction, domestic violence, cognitive distortions, healthy relationship attributes versus toxic attributes, and emotional maturity. I have worked with clients who struggle with anxiety, depression, grief, addiction, and marriage and family difficulties. I typically work with adults 18 and older, couples, and individuals.
(657) 837-5997 View (657) 837-5997

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Vanessa Bell, PhD, PsyD, Marriage & Family Therapist
Vanessa Bell
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, PsyD
Verified Verified
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403
People who come to see me are often dealing with painful life-altering changes, depression, or anxiety. Some have long-standing emotional problems that have affected relationships or progress in their careers. People who have had therapy in the past and found it helpful are seeking to learn and understand more about their strengths and vulnerabilities. Frequently couples are struggling to recapture good feelings they once had with each other. Others want to recover from discovered infidelity. With my help they seek to manage the guilt, devastation and pain of lost trust so they may create a new relationship on sturdier ground.
People who come to see me are often dealing with painful life-altering changes, depression, or anxiety. Some have long-standing emotional problems that have affected relationships or progress in their careers. People who have had therapy in the past and found it helpful are seeking to learn and understand more about their strengths and vulnerabilities. Frequently couples are struggling to recapture good feelings they once had with each other. Others want to recover from discovered infidelity. With my help they seek to manage the guilt, devastation and pain of lost trust so they may create a new relationship on sturdier ground.
(818) 423-4408 View (818) 423-4408
Photo of Dr. Brendan J Nierenberg, PsyD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr. Brendan J Nierenberg
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lake Balboa, CA 91406  (Online Only)
I have been very fortunate to work with a wide range of populations including traumatic brain injury, substance abuse, eating disorders, couples and relationship issues, gender identity issues, borderline personality disorder, and men's issues.
It takes a great amount of courage to be seeking a therapist as you are doing right now. You have made the choice to seek out help, and for that, I can say you are already on your journey of healing. In a session with me, you will find acceptance, understanding, and compassion with any challenge you are facing. No matter what your goal is, you don't have to do it alone.
I have been very fortunate to work with a wide range of populations including traumatic brain injury, substance abuse, eating disorders, couples and relationship issues, gender identity issues, borderline personality disorder, and men's issues.
It takes a great amount of courage to be seeking a therapist as you are doing right now. You have made the choice to seek out help, and for that, I can say you are already on your journey of healing. In a session with me, you will find acceptance, understanding, and compassion with any challenge you are facing. No matter what your goal is, you don't have to do it alone.
(805) 243-1580 View (805) 243-1580
Photo of Spencer Scott, PsyD, Psychologist
Spencer Scott
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
North Hollywood, CA 91602
My specialties include anxiety, depression, ADHD, and relationship concerns.
***All appointments must be requested through FrameworkPsych.com*** At some point in life, we all experience a moment when we question whether we're on the best path forward. Perhaps a relationship feels unfulfilling, we're not advancing in our career the way we'd hoped, or we're feeling unsure about a decision. Through years of specialized training in evidence-based psychoanalytic approaches, I've discovered how we can collaborate to help you create the life you want. Together, we'll unlock ways for you to feel happier, more balanced, and better connected to your authentic self and others.
My specialties include anxiety, depression, ADHD, and relationship concerns.
***All appointments must be requested through FrameworkPsych.com*** At some point in life, we all experience a moment when we question whether we're on the best path forward. Perhaps a relationship feels unfulfilling, we're not advancing in our career the way we'd hoped, or we're feeling unsure about a decision. Through years of specialized training in evidence-based psychoanalytic approaches, I've discovered how we can collaborate to help you create the life you want. Together, we'll unlock ways for you to feel happier, more balanced, and better connected to your authentic self and others.
(323) 886-4538 View (323) 886-4538
Photo of Darlene Joy Manick, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Darlene Joy Manick
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Woodland Hills, CA 91364
I carefully listen and engage with intent to your unique experiences, and use our working relationship - gaining insight into your personal blind spots that are causing you emotional discomfort.
I specialize in treating treating high achieving individuals & couples, with perfectionist tendencies. My priority is your emotional safety. Non judgmental support allows for your sharing openly and honestly. The need to "be right" can be unconscious, & you may be hurting those you love. My skilled intuition, and 25+ yrs. of clinical success, knows hope is available for the motivated and committed recovering anxious, obsessive, & over analyzing adult. Our trusting relationship inspires you to reflect upon your life/ relationship goals; together we explore, & honestly challenge: "Do I want to be right?" Or, do I want to be loved?"
I carefully listen and engage with intent to your unique experiences, and use our working relationship - gaining insight into your personal blind spots that are causing you emotional discomfort.
I specialize in treating treating high achieving individuals & couples, with perfectionist tendencies. My priority is your emotional safety. Non judgmental support allows for your sharing openly and honestly. The need to "be right" can be unconscious, & you may be hurting those you love. My skilled intuition, and 25+ yrs. of clinical success, knows hope is available for the motivated and committed recovering anxious, obsessive, & over analyzing adult. Our trusting relationship inspires you to reflect upon your life/ relationship goals; together we explore, & honestly challenge: "Do I want to be right?" Or, do I want to be loved?"
(818) 639-4919 View (818) 639-4919
Photo of Rachel Bar, LMFT, PsyD, Marriage & Family Therapist
Rachel Bar
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Encino, CA 91316  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Therapy is about exploring transitions and losses. A loss of a relationship, a job, a lifestyle, a home, a friendship, or the loss of a dream or expectation. We dismiss some losses, not realizing their impact on our day to day life. We may suffer from anxiety or depression without understanding why they are present. Other losses, however, can be so traumatic that we lose our ability to heal from them. Moreover, we find ourselves repeating the same mistakes, not being able to transform ourselves and change our behavior, even when we realize that our reactions are unhelpful and self-destructive. We wonder whether life will be better.
Therapy is about exploring transitions and losses. A loss of a relationship, a job, a lifestyle, a home, a friendship, or the loss of a dream or expectation. We dismiss some losses, not realizing their impact on our day to day life. We may suffer from anxiety or depression without understanding why they are present. Other losses, however, can be so traumatic that we lose our ability to heal from them. Moreover, we find ourselves repeating the same mistakes, not being able to transform ourselves and change our behavior, even when we realize that our reactions are unhelpful and self-destructive. We wonder whether life will be better.
(818) 946-0229 View (818) 946-0229
Photo of Kate Loree, LMFT, ATR, MBA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kate Loree
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, ATR, MBA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Encino, CA 91436  (Online Only)
I specialize in non-monogamous, kink, sex worker, and LGBTQ communities. Growth occurs in an atmosphere of respect, compassion and a belief in the human capacity for healing, change and reparation. My approach emphasizes insight, emotional healing, and empowerment to help you reach you highest potential and develop a more gratifying life. Couples/Relationships: Both Imago and Emotionally Focused Therapy heavily influence my work to encourage the strengthening of trust, mutual respect, understanding, intimacy and love. We will work together to untangle confusing thoughts, feelings, and behavioral patterns to rediscover your capacity to make meaningful choices that are right for you or your relationship.
I specialize in non-monogamous, kink, sex worker, and LGBTQ communities. Growth occurs in an atmosphere of respect, compassion and a belief in the human capacity for healing, change and reparation. My approach emphasizes insight, emotional healing, and empowerment to help you reach you highest potential and develop a more gratifying life. Couples/Relationships: Both Imago and Emotionally Focused Therapy heavily influence my work to encourage the strengthening of trust, mutual respect, understanding, intimacy and love. We will work together to untangle confusing thoughts, feelings, and behavioral patterns to rediscover your capacity to make meaningful choices that are right for you or your relationship.
(310) 596-4197 View (310) 596-4197
Photo of Brandy Dunn - Toluca Lake Psychology, PsyD, Psychologist
Toluca Lake Psychology
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North Hollywood, CA 91602
Therapy is a process of self-reflection and conversation that honors the struggles of life: career uncertainty, relationship decisions, loneliness, grief and the ongoing pursuit self-love.
We are a collective of therapists at Silver Lake Psychology (Toluca Lake location) with a wide range of specialties. Our intake professionals will match you with the right therapist for your needs. We make appointments easy, offering evenings and weekends and flexibility for creative professionals who can't make the same time each week.
Therapy is a process of self-reflection and conversation that honors the struggles of life: career uncertainty, relationship decisions, loneliness, grief and the ongoing pursuit self-love.
We are a collective of therapists at Silver Lake Psychology (Toluca Lake location) with a wide range of specialties. Our intake professionals will match you with the right therapist for your needs. We make appointments easy, offering evenings and weekends and flexibility for creative professionals who can't make the same time each week.
(424) 400-2864 View (424) 400-2864
Photo of Valley Community Counseling Clinic - Valley Community Counseling Clinic, Psychologist
Valley Community Counseling Clinic
Psychologist
Verified Verified
North Hollywood, CA 91606
Waitlist for new clients
We treat a range of mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, trauma, addictions, and more.
Valley Community Counseling Clinic offers in-depth and affordable psychotherapy. We have provided quality treatment in the San Fernando Valley for 47 years. Our clinic serves as one of the most reputable training sites for psychotherapists in Los Angeles county. All of our therapists are working toward licensure and are under the supervision of licensed therapists, psychologists and psychoanalysts. We do not limit the number of sessions you may attend. We offer treatment on a sliding scale based on your income and your ability to pay.
We treat a range of mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, trauma, addictions, and more.
Valley Community Counseling Clinic offers in-depth and affordable psychotherapy. We have provided quality treatment in the San Fernando Valley for 47 years. Our clinic serves as one of the most reputable training sites for psychotherapists in Los Angeles county. All of our therapists are working toward licensure and are under the supervision of licensed therapists, psychologists and psychoanalysts. We do not limit the number of sessions you may attend. We offer treatment on a sliding scale based on your income and your ability to pay.
(818) 722-8711 View (818) 722-8711
Photo of Janelle De Veyra, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Janelle De Veyra
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Van Nuys, CA 91405
We can identify coping skills that can assist in codependency, relationship anxiety, and avoidance of intimacy.
Do you struggle with depression, anxiety, and trauma? Do you experience difficulties managing family and relationship issues? I believe that healing happens when we pay attention to all the parts that make us whole—our mind, body, and soul. The subconscious mind controls most of our reality and choices, so building awareness and active presence can improve the quality of daily living and assist in not only surviving but thriving through life. As an intuitive & holistic therapist, I will assist you in strengthening your inner psyche and developing new tools to manage negative feelings and thoughts.
We can identify coping skills that can assist in codependency, relationship anxiety, and avoidance of intimacy.
Do you struggle with depression, anxiety, and trauma? Do you experience difficulties managing family and relationship issues? I believe that healing happens when we pay attention to all the parts that make us whole—our mind, body, and soul. The subconscious mind controls most of our reality and choices, so building awareness and active presence can improve the quality of daily living and assist in not only surviving but thriving through life. As an intuitive & holistic therapist, I will assist you in strengthening your inner psyche and developing new tools to manage negative feelings and thoughts.
(323) 310-9730 View (323) 310-9730
Photo of Zach B Melmet, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Zach B Melmet
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North Hollywood, CA 91601  (Online Only)
The relationship in therapy is just as important as the tools applied to the task.
I work with a wide range of issues, including improving inter-personal relationships, working through relational trauma, ADD, Alternative Lifestyles, Anxiety, and Substance Use. I empower my clients to become more confident, achieve the goals they set for themselves, and to better communicate with the people around them. I aid my clients in gaining a better understanding of themselves and help them explore how to solve problems while staying aligned with their core values.
The relationship in therapy is just as important as the tools applied to the task.
I work with a wide range of issues, including improving inter-personal relationships, working through relational trauma, ADD, Alternative Lifestyles, Anxiety, and Substance Use. I empower my clients to become more confident, achieve the goals they set for themselves, and to better communicate with the people around them. I aid my clients in gaining a better understanding of themselves and help them explore how to solve problems while staying aligned with their core values.
(661) 449-2462 View (661) 449-2462
Photo of Andres Cohen, ACSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Andres Cohen
Pre-Licensed Professional, ACSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Northridge, CA 91324
I help people with depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, relationship issues, compulsive behavior, grief/loss, and trauma.
Life can feel overwhelming, confusing, and, at times, impossible. You may know your problems but can’t seem to overcome them. Whether existential issues or life’s minutiae weigh you down, trauma has left you feeling cut off from yourself and others, or your creativity feels stunted by your past, I understand how isolating these challenges can be. You don't have to navigate them alone.
I help people with depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, relationship issues, compulsive behavior, grief/loss, and trauma.
Life can feel overwhelming, confusing, and, at times, impossible. You may know your problems but can’t seem to overcome them. Whether existential issues or life’s minutiae weigh you down, trauma has left you feeling cut off from yourself and others, or your creativity feels stunted by your past, I understand how isolating these challenges can be. You don't have to navigate them alone.
(424) 380-6870 View (424) 380-6870
Photo of Lynn Ingber - Affordable Therapy Los Angeles, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Affordable Therapy Los Angeles
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403  (Online Only)
Our therapists can help with a variety of issues, including: Anxiety; Bereavement; Past Child Abuse; Depression; Emotional Abuse; Gay and Lesbian Issues; Job Displacement; Loneliness; Marriage Problems; Parent/Child Difficulties; Recovery from Substance Abuse; Relationship Difficulties, Stress, and Trauma.
We offer Telehealth in California on a sliding fee scale as low as $30 a session. We work with individuals, couples, children, and families. We will help you learn better communication skills for your relationships as will as help relieve any symptoms of anxiety and depression. Our therapy/counseling is confidential and you will meet your therapist online in the privacy of your own space. Visit our website at Affordabletherapyla.com and call us at 818-907-7974 Your phone call will be returned in 24 hours. No wait list and no insurance is required. We are here to help.
Our therapists can help with a variety of issues, including: Anxiety; Bereavement; Past Child Abuse; Depression; Emotional Abuse; Gay and Lesbian Issues; Job Displacement; Loneliness; Marriage Problems; Parent/Child Difficulties; Recovery from Substance Abuse; Relationship Difficulties, Stress, and Trauma.
We offer Telehealth in California on a sliding fee scale as low as $30 a session. We work with individuals, couples, children, and families. We will help you learn better communication skills for your relationships as will as help relieve any symptoms of anxiety and depression. Our therapy/counseling is confidential and you will meet your therapist online in the privacy of your own space. Visit our website at Affordabletherapyla.com and call us at 818-907-7974 Your phone call will be returned in 24 hours. No wait list and no insurance is required. We are here to help.
(213) 465-3669 View (213) 465-3669
Photo of Samantha Markman - Santa Clarita Therapy, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Santa Clarita Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Northridge, CA 91324
Establishing a trusting relationship and working collaboratively with our clients is our primary goal. My name is Samantha Markman and I have hand selected a team of excellent therapists with various specialties. We strive to create a therapeutic space of comfort and support, as we work with you to explore deep personal issues and experiment with new ways of thinking. We work with a wide range of clients that are dealing with various issues including depression, anxiety, infidelity, postpartum issues, addictive behaviors, LGBT issues, eating disorders, codependency, grief and loss, life transitions, and various types of trauma.
Establishing a trusting relationship and working collaboratively with our clients is our primary goal. My name is Samantha Markman and I have hand selected a team of excellent therapists with various specialties. We strive to create a therapeutic space of comfort and support, as we work with you to explore deep personal issues and experiment with new ways of thinking. We work with a wide range of clients that are dealing with various issues including depression, anxiety, infidelity, postpartum issues, addictive behaviors, LGBT issues, eating disorders, codependency, grief and loss, life transitions, and various types of trauma.
(661) 441-3124 View (661) 441-3124
Photo of Andrew D. Greif, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Andrew D. Greif
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Burbank, CA 91505
It takes a great deal of courage to embark on an experience of bettering one’s life. I feel honored to be a part of that process. Clients arrive in therapy for a myriad of different reasons, but most of all, seem to have a very clear goal of bettering their lives. I truly enjoy collaborating with Clients to make this happen, and strive to give my Clients tools to use many years into the future. I work with children, adolescents, adults and couples with a variety of presenting issues, including anxiety, depression, OCD, eating disorders, relationship issues and addiction.
It takes a great deal of courage to embark on an experience of bettering one’s life. I feel honored to be a part of that process. Clients arrive in therapy for a myriad of different reasons, but most of all, seem to have a very clear goal of bettering their lives. I truly enjoy collaborating with Clients to make this happen, and strive to give my Clients tools to use many years into the future. I work with children, adolescents, adults and couples with a variety of presenting issues, including anxiety, depression, OCD, eating disorders, relationship issues and addiction.
(818) 848-1488 View (818) 848-1488
Photo of Framework Associates - Framework Associates, PsyD, PhD, MFT, LCSW, Psychologist
Framework Associates
Psychologist, PsyD, PhD, MFT, LCSW
Verified Verified
North Hollywood, CA 91602
Perhaps a relationship feels unfulfilling, we're not advancing in our career the way we'd hoped, or we're feeling unsure about a decision.
Want to use your insurance to pay for therapy, but having a hard time finding a therapist who's accepting new clients? Stop your endless searching and skip the waitlists! We'd love to offer some help. Please visit FrameworkPsych.com to schedule your first appointment. Framework Associates was founded on the principles of providing affordable, accessible therapy from highly qualified therapists. We've invested in the latest healthcare technology that allows you to securely videochat with a therapist from the comfort of your own home.
Perhaps a relationship feels unfulfilling, we're not advancing in our career the way we'd hoped, or we're feeling unsure about a decision.
Want to use your insurance to pay for therapy, but having a hard time finding a therapist who's accepting new clients? Stop your endless searching and skip the waitlists! We'd love to offer some help. Please visit FrameworkPsych.com to schedule your first appointment. Framework Associates was founded on the principles of providing affordable, accessible therapy from highly qualified therapists. We've invested in the latest healthcare technology that allows you to securely videochat with a therapist from the comfort of your own home.
(310) 496-3779 View (310) 496-3779
Photo of Dorise Hebenstreit, AMFT, EMDR, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Dorise Hebenstreit
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, EMDR
Verified Verified
Van Nuys, CA 91405
My focus is to help individuals and families heal from anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship/family issues. As the therapeutic area of concern is introduced, we can begin to work together in developing empowerment of self as we set up together healthy and achievable goals. I aim to establish include compassion, good communication and trust. In our relationship then I will work alongside you to develop your own coping tools. My approach is a person-centered (positive type) direction to further your strengths and resilience which is tailored towards your specific goals and needs.
My focus is to help individuals and families heal from anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship/family issues. As the therapeutic area of concern is introduced, we can begin to work together in developing empowerment of self as we set up together healthy and achievable goals. I aim to establish include compassion, good communication and trust. In our relationship then I will work alongside you to develop your own coping tools. My approach is a person-centered (positive type) direction to further your strengths and resilience which is tailored towards your specific goals and needs.
(323) 774-5883 View (323) 774-5883
Photo of Robin Gans - Robin Gans Psy.D A Psychological Corp, PsyD, Psychologist
Robin Gans Psy.D A Psychological Corp
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Studio City, CA 91604
The professional relationship that I have with all my patients is based on collaboration, mutuality, understanding, respect, and trust.
I believe that a life well examined is a life worth living. It's important to truly know yourself, and what your strengths and limitations are. My focus in treatment is based upon your goals for therapy, and what outcome you are hoping for. I have done much work within the LGBTQ + Community, and with couples across all ethnicities and orientations. Couples bring their own personal histories and experiences into the their relationships forming "unconscious contracts" with each other. I help them understand what those are between each other, in order to help them have a better understanding of why they chose each other.
The professional relationship that I have with all my patients is based on collaboration, mutuality, understanding, respect, and trust.
I believe that a life well examined is a life worth living. It's important to truly know yourself, and what your strengths and limitations are. My focus in treatment is based upon your goals for therapy, and what outcome you are hoping for. I have done much work within the LGBTQ + Community, and with couples across all ethnicities and orientations. Couples bring their own personal histories and experiences into the their relationships forming "unconscious contracts" with each other. I help them understand what those are between each other, in order to help them have a better understanding of why they chose each other.
(818) 962-4546 View (818) 962-4546
Photo of Carla Walker - Carla's Coaching, Counseling And Classes, LMFT, Coach, Marriage & Family Therapist
Carla's Coaching, Counseling And Classes
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, Coach
Verified Verified
Northridge, CA 91325
I have the privilege of guiding high-profile and influential clients both nationally and internationally towards a more balanced life. Are you seeking a life filled with mindfulness and balance? Do you yearn to rediscover your passion? Whether your relationship requires enrichment, renewed commitment, or support through a transition, I am here to assist. My expertise extends to working with individuals, couples, and families, on a variety of issues. These include innovative weight loss coaching using peptides like Tirzepatide, stress reduction, managing grief, overcoming depression, anxiety, resolving identity conflicts, and more..
I have the privilege of guiding high-profile and influential clients both nationally and internationally towards a more balanced life. Are you seeking a life filled with mindfulness and balance? Do you yearn to rediscover your passion? Whether your relationship requires enrichment, renewed commitment, or support through a transition, I am here to assist. My expertise extends to working with individuals, couples, and families, on a variety of issues. These include innovative weight loss coaching using peptides like Tirzepatide, stress reduction, managing grief, overcoming depression, anxiety, resolving identity conflicts, and more..
(661) 347-2259 View (661) 347-2259
Photo of Beth Leedham - Individuals And Couples, PhD, Psychologist
Beth Leedham - Individuals And Couples
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Encino, CA 91436
With twenty-five years of experience and outstanding credentials, I have two goals for my clients: Solve the immediate problem that brings you to therapy, and promote lasting change. My arenas of work include depression, anxiety, stress, and relationship difficulties. I have extensive training in couples therapy and am an AASECT-Certified Sex Therapist. I deal with all manner of sexual issues, including desire problems, addiction, affairs, and the "sexless marriage." I welcome clients from varied backgrounds and communities.
With twenty-five years of experience and outstanding credentials, I have two goals for my clients: Solve the immediate problem that brings you to therapy, and promote lasting change. My arenas of work include depression, anxiety, stress, and relationship difficulties. I have extensive training in couples therapy and am an AASECT-Certified Sex Therapist. I deal with all manner of sexual issues, including desire problems, addiction, affairs, and the "sexless marriage." I welcome clients from varied backgrounds and communities.
(818) 963-9278 View (818) 963-9278

See more therapy options for San Fernando

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.