Relationship Issues Therapists in Stamford, CT

Photo of Janice G Leiper, LCSW, ACSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Janice G Leiper
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Stamford, CT 06903
The following are some of my certifications: Advanced Imago Relationship Therapy Clinician, Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy Externship, Level 1 Internal Family Systems, Level 1 &II EMDR, Reiki I & II, Discernment Counseling.
I work with adults both individually and as couples, encompassing a range of mental health issues. I specialize in relationship counseling whether you're just getting into one, want to enhance your marriage/ relationship with new skills and insight, aren't sure if you are leaning in or out of your relationship or have filed for divorce. We get hurt in relationship and we heal in relationship. Let me help you get on the path of healing. It need not take years of therapy to become conscious of what's going on and what you long for.
The following are some of my certifications: Advanced Imago Relationship Therapy Clinician, Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy Externship, Level 1 Internal Family Systems, Level 1 &II EMDR, Reiki I & II, Discernment Counseling.
I work with adults both individually and as couples, encompassing a range of mental health issues. I specialize in relationship counseling whether you're just getting into one, want to enhance your marriage/ relationship with new skills and insight, aren't sure if you are leaning in or out of your relationship or have filed for divorce. We get hurt in relationship and we heal in relationship. Let me help you get on the path of healing. It need not take years of therapy to become conscious of what's going on and what you long for.
(203) 318-4992 View (203) 318-4992
Photo of Nicole (Nikki) Pradella, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nicole (Nikki) Pradella
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Stamford, CT 06902  (Online Only)
Feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure of how to move forward? You're not alone, and seeking support is a courageous first step. My approach is empathetic and non-judgmental, fostering a safe space for you to explore your feelings and experiences. I blend intuition with evidence-based techniques to tailor our sessions to your unique needs. I specialize in anxiety and grief and also support client's with relationship issues, life transitions and infertility. In addition, I hold an affirming space for the LGBTQ+ community. My sessions are characterized by authenticity and warmth, with a healthy dose of humor to lighten the mood.
Feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure of how to move forward? You're not alone, and seeking support is a courageous first step. My approach is empathetic and non-judgmental, fostering a safe space for you to explore your feelings and experiences. I blend intuition with evidence-based techniques to tailor our sessions to your unique needs. I specialize in anxiety and grief and also support client's with relationship issues, life transitions and infertility. In addition, I hold an affirming space for the LGBTQ+ community. My sessions are characterized by authenticity and warmth, with a healthy dose of humor to lighten the mood.
(475) 251-7107 View (475) 251-7107
Photo of Beth O'Donnell - Beth O'Donnell, Ph.D. LLC, PhD, Psychologist
Beth O'Donnell, Ph.D. LLC
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Stamford, CT 06902
I treat clients with depression or anxiety, usually in response to relationship issues, life stressors/transitions, or loss.
I am a clinical psychologist, experienced in work with adults, couples, adolescents, and families. I love my work! I find it so rewarding to help people turn life's challenges into opportunities for growth and change. My style is warm, comforting, and empathetic. Trained in multiple therapeutic approaches (cognitive-behavioral, psychodynamic, family systems), I work in a flexible manner that best suits you. I will help you clarify your goals and make a plan for change. When necessary, I explore underlying issues, to enhance insight and make new directions possible.
I treat clients with depression or anxiety, usually in response to relationship issues, life stressors/transitions, or loss.
I am a clinical psychologist, experienced in work with adults, couples, adolescents, and families. I love my work! I find it so rewarding to help people turn life's challenges into opportunities for growth and change. My style is warm, comforting, and empathetic. Trained in multiple therapeutic approaches (cognitive-behavioral, psychodynamic, family systems), I work in a flexible manner that best suits you. I will help you clarify your goals and make a plan for change. When necessary, I explore underlying issues, to enhance insight and make new directions possible.
(917) 746-8416 View (917) 746-8416
Photo of Bonnie Guild, MA, EdS, PhD, Psychologist
Bonnie Guild
Psychologist, MA, EdS, PhD
Verified Verified
Stamford, CT 06903
Research shows that the quality of the relationship between the psychologist and patient, where the patient trusts and feels cared for by the therapist, is an important factor in a successful outcome.
By coming to Psychology Today you have taken the next step in resolving what is bothering you. As a psychologist with over 25 years of experience, I know that it can be overwhelming, frightening, and confusing when you find that you have challenges that you cannot handle on your own. But the good news is that seeking therapy is the right decision! We will collaboratively explore your thoughts and emotions, change unhealthy patterns, and help you find answers that will not only help you now but in the future as well.
Research shows that the quality of the relationship between the psychologist and patient, where the patient trusts and feels cared for by the therapist, is an important factor in a successful outcome.
By coming to Psychology Today you have taken the next step in resolving what is bothering you. As a psychologist with over 25 years of experience, I know that it can be overwhelming, frightening, and confusing when you find that you have challenges that you cannot handle on your own. But the good news is that seeking therapy is the right decision! We will collaboratively explore your thoughts and emotions, change unhealthy patterns, and help you find answers that will not only help you now but in the future as well.
(203) 408-6799 View (203) 408-6799
Photo of Dana Vera, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dana Vera
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Stamford, CT 06905  (Online Only)
Finding the right therapist for you or your child may feel or actually be hard to navigate, and even anxiety producing for some. So many options and often little guidance on how to find the "right" person. I view therapy as a collaborative, relationship driven experience. I spend time getting to know and understand you and your unique history and experiences. And from there, together, we create a therapeutic space where you can feel at ease and safe to move toward deeper inner wisdom and a better quality of life.
Finding the right therapist for you or your child may feel or actually be hard to navigate, and even anxiety producing for some. So many options and often little guidance on how to find the "right" person. I view therapy as a collaborative, relationship driven experience. I spend time getting to know and understand you and your unique history and experiences. And from there, together, we create a therapeutic space where you can feel at ease and safe to move toward deeper inner wisdom and a better quality of life.
(203) 433-6526 View (203) 433-6526
Photo of Chandni Kapadia, PsyD, Psychologist
Chandni Kapadia
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Stamford, CT 06906
In my career, I have helped many people address multiple issues from trauma, identity development, relationship concerns, life transitions, college adjustment, depression, anxiety, and grief/loss.
Starting therapy can be overwhelming and scary, but together, we can work on figuring out where you want to go and remove the roadblocks in the way. I strive to help you find empowerment in your story by understanding how where you've been has led to where you are now. I use the relationship between my client and myself as a laboratory for exploration and development of the self.
In my career, I have helped many people address multiple issues from trauma, identity development, relationship concerns, life transitions, college adjustment, depression, anxiety, and grief/loss.
Starting therapy can be overwhelming and scary, but together, we can work on figuring out where you want to go and remove the roadblocks in the way. I strive to help you find empowerment in your story by understanding how where you've been has led to where you are now. I use the relationship between my client and myself as a laboratory for exploration and development of the self.
(475) 258-7788 View (475) 258-7788
Photo of Sara Jamison, MA, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sara Jamison
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW
Verified Verified
Stamford, CT 06902
The relationship with your therapist is key to success.
Are you seeking more joy and energy? Would you like to learn strategies to calm your nervous system and engage more fully with life? I work with adults and couples. In stressful situations, people typically revert to old unhealthy ways of coping that are no longer helpful. We work together to assess where you are stuck and what you want to achieve. I will teach you a variety of skills to help you calm and ground yourself. These include meditation, imagery and relaxation techniques. Our human brains have a negative bias. I want to help you to feel greater safety, focus on strengths and find more joy and ease in your life.
The relationship with your therapist is key to success.
Are you seeking more joy and energy? Would you like to learn strategies to calm your nervous system and engage more fully with life? I work with adults and couples. In stressful situations, people typically revert to old unhealthy ways of coping that are no longer helpful. We work together to assess where you are stuck and what you want to achieve. I will teach you a variety of skills to help you calm and ground yourself. These include meditation, imagery and relaxation techniques. Our human brains have a negative bias. I want to help you to feel greater safety, focus on strengths and find more joy and ease in your life.
(203) 745-2150 View (203) 745-2150
Photo of Keara Conway, MSEd, PsyD, Psychologist
Keara Conway
Psychologist, MSEd, PsyD
Verified Verified
Stamford, CT 06905
I strongly believe that one of the most important elements of successful therapy is the therapist-client relationship.
Obstacles to having a successful and fulfilling life can take many forms and arise from a variety of circumstances. These obstacles may include anxiety, depression, lack of coping resources, and difficulty with relationships. Your willingness to identify and address the issues holding you back will be key to you overcoming them and having the life that you deserve. Once we have a deeper understanding of the dynamics underlying your individual challenges, we can work together to begin to change them and put you on a new path. While starting therapy and confronting your own personal challenges may feel overwhelming, I am here to help.
I strongly believe that one of the most important elements of successful therapy is the therapist-client relationship.
Obstacles to having a successful and fulfilling life can take many forms and arise from a variety of circumstances. These obstacles may include anxiety, depression, lack of coping resources, and difficulty with relationships. Your willingness to identify and address the issues holding you back will be key to you overcoming them and having the life that you deserve. Once we have a deeper understanding of the dynamics underlying your individual challenges, we can work together to begin to change them and put you on a new path. While starting therapy and confronting your own personal challenges may feel overwhelming, I am here to help.
(475) 242-8016 View (475) 242-8016
Photo of Yamel Corcoll-Iglesias, MA, LMFT, ICAADC, SCPG, Marriage & Family Therapist
Yamel Corcoll-Iglesias
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, ICAADC, SCPG
Verified Verified
Stamford, CT 06901
Are you struggling in any of your personal or professional relationships? You are not alone. The quality of our lives is directly measured by the quality of our relationships. Whether weekly, or through half, 1 or 2 -day couples' intensives, I invite you to master full-respect relational-living. Partnering & parenting and every other relationship in between, requires skills. I help you organize your thoughts, spot what you'd like to see transformed and the way to it. Mainly, I work with the parts of you that won't use the skills. My work is collaborative & interactive, shaped & refined by over 20 years in the field. Bilingual/Lic.
Are you struggling in any of your personal or professional relationships? You are not alone. The quality of our lives is directly measured by the quality of our relationships. Whether weekly, or through half, 1 or 2 -day couples' intensives, I invite you to master full-respect relational-living. Partnering & parenting and every other relationship in between, requires skills. I help you organize your thoughts, spot what you'd like to see transformed and the way to it. Mainly, I work with the parts of you that won't use the skills. My work is collaborative & interactive, shaped & refined by over 20 years in the field. Bilingual/Lic.
(203) 491-1806 View (203) 491-1806
Photo of Krista Rodgerson, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Krista Rodgerson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Stamford, CT 06903
Being in a relationship can be hard work.
Understanding life's obstacles and the way we respond to them can be challenging and confusing. Together we can collaboratively build a road map for you to create the change you wish to see in your life, and to find balance and harmony. I believe that everyone has the tools they need to live their authentic life. Seeking a mental health professional is a brave and courageous decision, and I hope that we can build a relationship that supports you in becoming your best self. Everyone's lived experiences are different, and I look forward to an opportunity for you to tell me about yours.
Being in a relationship can be hard work.
Understanding life's obstacles and the way we respond to them can be challenging and confusing. Together we can collaboratively build a road map for you to create the change you wish to see in your life, and to find balance and harmony. I believe that everyone has the tools they need to live their authentic life. Seeking a mental health professional is a brave and courageous decision, and I hope that we can build a relationship that supports you in becoming your best self. Everyone's lived experiences are different, and I look forward to an opportunity for you to tell me about yours.
(203) 439-5805 View (203) 439-5805
Photo of Mitchell Lisa - Dr. Mitch-Lisa Marriage/Couple Workshop/Specialist, PsyD, MSW, Life, Coach
Dr. Mitch-Lisa Marriage/Couple Workshop/Specialist
PsyD, MSW, Life, Coach
Verified Verified
Stamford, CT 06901
Mitch PsyD & Lisa Relationship Coach (30 Years) are truly very Caring Professional's having a Male/Female Perspective on your Relationship.
Relationships in Crisis: We Have Several Private Couples/Marriage Workshops & Seminars, in order to Rapidly Accelerate Your Healing & Your Communication Process (Traditional 45 min. session (Simply Does Not Work). During these 2 to 4 weeks, we will see both of you Together & Individually, as well as Help each of you Learn the Art of Empathy, Sensitivity & Compassion. These Workshops/Seminars are Designed to be Informative & Powerful, in order to Accelerate Your Healing Process & Stop any further Damage from Occurring. Our Success RATE is 85% of Our Couples that have Successfully Completed Our Couples Workshops or Alcohol Treatment.
Mitch PsyD & Lisa Relationship Coach (30 Years) are truly very Caring Professional's having a Male/Female Perspective on your Relationship.
Relationships in Crisis: We Have Several Private Couples/Marriage Workshops & Seminars, in order to Rapidly Accelerate Your Healing & Your Communication Process (Traditional 45 min. session (Simply Does Not Work). During these 2 to 4 weeks, we will see both of you Together & Individually, as well as Help each of you Learn the Art of Empathy, Sensitivity & Compassion. These Workshops/Seminars are Designed to be Informative & Powerful, in order to Accelerate Your Healing Process & Stop any further Damage from Occurring. Our Success RATE is 85% of Our Couples that have Successfully Completed Our Couples Workshops or Alcohol Treatment.
(475) 265-5519 View (475) 265-5519
Photo of Angelique De Nofa -  Copper Penny Guidance, LLC - Angelique De Nofa , LCSW, MPH, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Copper Penny Guidance, LLC - Angelique De Nofa
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MPH
Verified Verified
Stamford, CT 06905  (Online Only)
As a seasoned therapist, I am curious, interactive and enjoy working with clients who are willing to cultivate a working relationship. Together we can work towards your goal, demystify your patterns, and shine a light into blind spots. When you're stuck in a cycle, used what's worked in the past with little success, it's time to seek guidance. I offer EMDR, clinical hypnotherapy, parts psychology, executive functioning skills, EQ (and more) to support your Whole Self in this collective world.
As a seasoned therapist, I am curious, interactive and enjoy working with clients who are willing to cultivate a working relationship. Together we can work towards your goal, demystify your patterns, and shine a light into blind spots. When you're stuck in a cycle, used what's worked in the past with little success, it's time to seek guidance. I offer EMDR, clinical hypnotherapy, parts psychology, executive functioning skills, EQ (and more) to support your Whole Self in this collective world.
View
Photo of Ilana Sterman, PsyD, Psychologist
Ilana Sterman
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Stamford, CT 06901
With over 20 years of experience as a licensed mental health professional, I work primarily with individuals and couples 18 years old and older, focusing on such challenges as: mood disorders, anxiety disorders, relationship issues, trauma, and concerns around life stressors.
When a particular area of life is less rewarding or is problematic, you may seek assistance rediscovering your path to mental health. Understanding that therapy is more likely to be helpful when you feel comfortable with your therapist, and hopeful about the therapy, my approach emphasizes accessing each person’s unique strengths and resources in order to facilitate growth, new learning, and fulfillment. I use a person-centered integrative approach drawing from psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral, and somatic theories to work collaboratively with you toward mutually agreed-upon goals.
With over 20 years of experience as a licensed mental health professional, I work primarily with individuals and couples 18 years old and older, focusing on such challenges as: mood disorders, anxiety disorders, relationship issues, trauma, and concerns around life stressors.
When a particular area of life is less rewarding or is problematic, you may seek assistance rediscovering your path to mental health. Understanding that therapy is more likely to be helpful when you feel comfortable with your therapist, and hopeful about the therapy, my approach emphasizes accessing each person’s unique strengths and resources in order to facilitate growth, new learning, and fulfillment. I use a person-centered integrative approach drawing from psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral, and somatic theories to work collaboratively with you toward mutually agreed-upon goals.
(475) 242-8151 View (475) 242-8151
Photo of Kelly Copeland, PsyD, Psychologist
Kelly Copeland
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Stamford, CT 06906
The trajectory to adulthood is not an easy or smooth path, and can include hurdles such as stress, feeling stuck, uncertainty, anxiety, and relationship issues. I am a licensed clinical psychologist with considerable experience and expertise working with young adults. Within the safe, confidential relationship of psychotherapy, I help people identify the sources of their challenges and minimize the barriers that hold them back in life. People often come to my office struggling with such issues as anxiety, depression, eating and body image issues, family and relationship concerns, and struggles with sense of identity.
The trajectory to adulthood is not an easy or smooth path, and can include hurdles such as stress, feeling stuck, uncertainty, anxiety, and relationship issues. I am a licensed clinical psychologist with considerable experience and expertise working with young adults. Within the safe, confidential relationship of psychotherapy, I help people identify the sources of their challenges and minimize the barriers that hold them back in life. People often come to my office struggling with such issues as anxiety, depression, eating and body image issues, family and relationship concerns, and struggles with sense of identity.
(475) 256-0685 View (475) 256-0685
Photo of Jamie Albert, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jamie Albert
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Stamford, CT 06902  (Online Only)
I provide individual, family and couple's therapy to those navigating the complexities of personal growth, often through life's transitions like pregnancy, postpartum, or parenthood. You may be struggling with anxiety, relationship challenges, or feeling disconnected from yourself. You seek a space to explore your emotional landscape, understand how early life experiences shape your present, and create a more balanced, fulfilling life. I help clients find motivation to heal, embrace change, and develop healthier relationships, both with yourself and others. Together, we work to foster personal empowerment and emotional clarity.
I provide individual, family and couple's therapy to those navigating the complexities of personal growth, often through life's transitions like pregnancy, postpartum, or parenthood. You may be struggling with anxiety, relationship challenges, or feeling disconnected from yourself. You seek a space to explore your emotional landscape, understand how early life experiences shape your present, and create a more balanced, fulfilling life. I help clients find motivation to heal, embrace change, and develop healthier relationships, both with yourself and others. Together, we work to foster personal empowerment and emotional clarity.
(475) 253-5769 View (475) 253-5769
Photo of Susan B Simerman, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Susan B Simerman
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Stamford, CT 06905
I work with individuals, couples and families to develop better relationship and communication skills, creating deep and lasting changes in their lives.
My goal is to facilitate healing, growth and change in your life within a safe, caring environment. With my extensive experience, I will help you work through your issues and guide you toward creating the happy, healthy, fulfilling life you desire. Working together, I will assist you in discovering the core issues which may be blocking your growth and causing stress and unhappiness in your life. Gaining perspective and solution-oriented strategies, I assist you in making powerful and permanent life changes!
I work with individuals, couples and families to develop better relationship and communication skills, creating deep and lasting changes in their lives.
My goal is to facilitate healing, growth and change in your life within a safe, caring environment. With my extensive experience, I will help you work through your issues and guide you toward creating the happy, healthy, fulfilling life you desire. Working together, I will assist you in discovering the core issues which may be blocking your growth and causing stress and unhappiness in your life. Gaining perspective and solution-oriented strategies, I assist you in making powerful and permanent life changes!
(203) 296-3034 View (203) 296-3034
Photo of Ronald Lawrence, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ronald Lawrence
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Stamford, CT 06906
Whether you are struggling with depression, anxiety, or relationship issues, interpersonal psychotherapy can provide a safe and supportive environment in which to explore the roots of your difficulties and find new ways of relating to yourself and others.
I work collaboratively with my patients to explore the ways in which their past experiences have shaped their current relationships, both with themselves and with others. In therapy, we will pay close attention to the dynamics of our own relationship, as well as to patterns of behavior and communication that may be holding you back in other areas of your life. By developing greater self-awareness and insight into these patterns, you can begin to break free of old patterns and forge more meaningful and fulfilling connections with others.
Whether you are struggling with depression, anxiety, or relationship issues, interpersonal psychotherapy can provide a safe and supportive environment in which to explore the roots of your difficulties and find new ways of relating to yourself and others.
I work collaboratively with my patients to explore the ways in which their past experiences have shaped their current relationships, both with themselves and with others. In therapy, we will pay close attention to the dynamics of our own relationship, as well as to patterns of behavior and communication that may be holding you back in other areas of your life. By developing greater self-awareness and insight into these patterns, you can begin to break free of old patterns and forge more meaningful and fulfilling connections with others.
(203) 442-9204 View (203) 442-9204
Photo of Randi Torstenson, PsyD, Psychologist
Randi Torstenson
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Stamford, CT 06905
I work with a variety of cultural, ethnic, and spiritual backgrounds, sexual orientations, relationship styles, and gender identities.
Thank you for taking the time to learn more about my practice. I am a clinical psychologist, licensed in CT and NY, where I see clients in-person and online. I’m licensed through Psychpact which also allows me to practice teletherapy in most US states. At the heart of my work, I focus on building an empathic relationship with my clients, who not only find relief from their presenting concerns, but also improve self-awareness and insightfulness - skills essential to fully thrive. I have received special training in trauma-informed and psychodynamic treatment and bring over 19 years experience working with individuals and couples.
I work with a variety of cultural, ethnic, and spiritual backgrounds, sexual orientations, relationship styles, and gender identities.
Thank you for taking the time to learn more about my practice. I am a clinical psychologist, licensed in CT and NY, where I see clients in-person and online. I’m licensed through Psychpact which also allows me to practice teletherapy in most US states. At the heart of my work, I focus on building an empathic relationship with my clients, who not only find relief from their presenting concerns, but also improve self-awareness and insightfulness - skills essential to fully thrive. I have received special training in trauma-informed and psychodynamic treatment and bring over 19 years experience working with individuals and couples.
(203) 941-8899 View (203) 941-8899
Photo of Deborah Matthews-Lonow - Deborah Matthews, PhD, Clinical Supervisor, PhD, Psychologist
Deborah Matthews, PhD, Clinical Supervisor
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Stamford, CT 06905
My focus includes relationship/family issues and coping with life's ongoing challenges.
If you are looking for a therapist, you know you want something in your life to be better and you haven't been able to make that happen on your own. You might feel stuck or overwhelmed. It doesn't have to stay that way. By looking for a therapist, you are taking the brave steps to make positive changes for yourself.
My focus includes relationship/family issues and coping with life's ongoing challenges.
If you are looking for a therapist, you know you want something in your life to be better and you haven't been able to make that happen on your own. You might feel stuck or overwhelmed. It doesn't have to stay that way. By looking for a therapist, you are taking the brave steps to make positive changes for yourself.
(475) 234-3813 View (475) 234-3813
Photo of Charles Andrew Opsahl, PhD, Psychologist
Charles Andrew Opsahl
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Stamford, CT 06902
Are you missing appreciation? Anxious and having trust issues? Do you feel a lack of sexual desire? Are you fighting more than enjoying each other? I can help you stop the negative cycle. Feel love again. Feel intimate again. I am a highly trained and experienced couples therapist. I am easy to talk to and skilled at creating tools to foster healthy connections between couples and families. Together, we repair your relationship by introducing new methods of communication to increase empathy and flexibility.
Are you missing appreciation? Anxious and having trust issues? Do you feel a lack of sexual desire? Are you fighting more than enjoying each other? I can help you stop the negative cycle. Feel love again. Feel intimate again. I am a highly trained and experienced couples therapist. I am easy to talk to and skilled at creating tools to foster healthy connections between couples and families. Together, we repair your relationship by introducing new methods of communication to increase empathy and flexibility.
(203) 350-7838 View (203) 350-7838
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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.