Relationship Issues Therapists in Grand Rapids, MI

Photo of James Love, LLMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
James Love
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49546
If you are someone looking for a open-minded therapist with a great deal of life experience across multiple states and decades, then you are in the right place. As a therapist who has had two different careers in the past, I work to speak your language and not clinical-speak. For adults, I work with both men and women going through a variety of issues. I have a particular expertise working with men dealing with life transitions, relationship troubles, identity & masculinity, addictions, anger, and sexual troubles. I have great deal of empathy for women as well and enjoy helping women through difficulties in life.
If you are someone looking for a open-minded therapist with a great deal of life experience across multiple states and decades, then you are in the right place. As a therapist who has had two different careers in the past, I work to speak your language and not clinical-speak. For adults, I work with both men and women going through a variety of issues. I have a particular expertise working with men dealing with life transitions, relationship troubles, identity & masculinity, addictions, anger, and sexual troubles. I have great deal of empathy for women as well and enjoy helping women through difficulties in life.
(616) 528-9451 View (616) 528-9451
Photo of Betsy Love, LMFT, MSMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Betsy Love
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MSMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49505  (Online Only)
It is my goal to teach healthy patterns for coping and communicating by fostering a relationship that is based on trust, safety, and authentic care.
Come as you are. I have many years of experience working with people and have seen people travel from brokenness to restoration. This isn't the end of your story. It takes an incredible amount of courage to face things in life but you don't have to be alone. I know that it can be scary to walk into a therapy room and share things that require great vulnerability. Lack of self-love. Infertility. Pregnancy Loss. Postpartum Depression. Guilt/Shame. Life Transitions. Identity. Marriage and Family Issues. Whatever you're facing, I would love to help you find healing.
It is my goal to teach healthy patterns for coping and communicating by fostering a relationship that is based on trust, safety, and authentic care.
Come as you are. I have many years of experience working with people and have seen people travel from brokenness to restoration. This isn't the end of your story. It takes an incredible amount of courage to face things in life but you don't have to be alone. I know that it can be scary to walk into a therapy room and share things that require great vulnerability. Lack of self-love. Infertility. Pregnancy Loss. Postpartum Depression. Guilt/Shame. Life Transitions. Identity. Marriage and Family Issues. Whatever you're facing, I would love to help you find healing.
(616) 426-6532 View (616) 426-6532
Photo of Rachel Bauer, LMSW, ADS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rachel Bauer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, ADS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49506
How are you going to get through this day, this issue, this relationship? You're trying to keep up with all of the demands with work, at home, with friends or family, it seems like no matter what you do, it's never enough. And now that it's all catching up to you, you've reached your limit. You're stressed out, overwhelmed, and exhausted. You've tried everything, the anxiety just won't go away. You want to live your life without fear or worries that hold you back from making your goals your reality.
How are you going to get through this day, this issue, this relationship? You're trying to keep up with all of the demands with work, at home, with friends or family, it seems like no matter what you do, it's never enough. And now that it's all catching up to you, you've reached your limit. You're stressed out, overwhelmed, and exhausted. You've tried everything, the anxiety just won't go away. You want to live your life without fear or worries that hold you back from making your goals your reality.
(616) 226-9039 View (616) 226-9039
Photo of Eric Fullen, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Eric Fullen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49504  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with individuals who struggle with depression, anxiety, OCD, low self-esteem, relationship problems, life transitions, and trauma.
Are you feeling stuck in your relationships, work, or personal life? Do you tend to blame yourself when something goes wrong? Well, I’m here to tell you that you’re not alone. We’ve all been there, and I know firsthand how hard it can be to reach out for help, but that is the first step toward healing. I believe you have what you need to heal and grow but I also know that it’s not as simple as willing yourself into it. That's where I come in. I aim to cultivate space for all of you, including the parts of you that you lean on to keep going but also the parts of you that you feel ashamed of (maybe even hate?).
I specialize in working with individuals who struggle with depression, anxiety, OCD, low self-esteem, relationship problems, life transitions, and trauma.
Are you feeling stuck in your relationships, work, or personal life? Do you tend to blame yourself when something goes wrong? Well, I’m here to tell you that you’re not alone. We’ve all been there, and I know firsthand how hard it can be to reach out for help, but that is the first step toward healing. I believe you have what you need to heal and grow but I also know that it’s not as simple as willing yourself into it. That's where I come in. I aim to cultivate space for all of you, including the parts of you that you lean on to keep going but also the parts of you that you feel ashamed of (maybe even hate?).
(616) 727-7923 View (616) 727-7923
Photo of Jeffrey Hollander, MSW, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jeffrey Hollander
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49506  (Online Only)
I work with adults primarily, but will accept ages 17 and 18. I focus on Substance Use Disorders and Co- Occurring Disorders and general Mental Health problems. I am skilled in Couples Therapy and in working with Co dependent spouses. I have experience with the prison system and work with Parolees and Probationers. I treat issues of Self Image, Self Esteem, and Anger Management skills as well as relationship difficulties. Please note that I am no longer with Northwest Counseling. I have joined Bloom Behavioral Health Partners. My personal web site is www.rationaltherapytechniques.com.
I work with adults primarily, but will accept ages 17 and 18. I focus on Substance Use Disorders and Co- Occurring Disorders and general Mental Health problems. I am skilled in Couples Therapy and in working with Co dependent spouses. I have experience with the prison system and work with Parolees and Probationers. I treat issues of Self Image, Self Esteem, and Anger Management skills as well as relationship difficulties. Please note that I am no longer with Northwest Counseling. I have joined Bloom Behavioral Health Partners. My personal web site is www.rationaltherapytechniques.com.
(616) 710-4391 View (616) 710-4391
Claire Victoria Graves
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CAADC
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49505
Specializes in adult mental health, substance use disorders, trauma, and interpersonal relationship issues.
Claire practices an eclectic, person-centered, trauma-informed approach to therapy. Claire has significant experience working with adults struggling with substance use disorders, co-occurring mental health issues, and intimate partner violence. Claire practices an inclusive and holistic approach to therapy, utilizing evidence-based interventions and creative approaches to meet individual client needs. Claire believes in practicing from an intersectional, trauma-informed, gender affirmative perspective, with specific emphasis on assisting clients in developing skills to more effectively navigate their unique life circumstances.
Specializes in adult mental health, substance use disorders, trauma, and interpersonal relationship issues.
Claire practices an eclectic, person-centered, trauma-informed approach to therapy. Claire has significant experience working with adults struggling with substance use disorders, co-occurring mental health issues, and intimate partner violence. Claire practices an inclusive and holistic approach to therapy, utilizing evidence-based interventions and creative approaches to meet individual client needs. Claire believes in practicing from an intersectional, trauma-informed, gender affirmative perspective, with specific emphasis on assisting clients in developing skills to more effectively navigate their unique life circumstances.
(616) 303-4143 View (616) 303-4143
Photo of Donna Kay VanderKodde - Begin Anew Counseling, LLC & Kodde Counseling, LLC, MA, LPC, Counselor
Begin Anew Counseling, LLC & Kodde Counseling, LLC
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49525
I provide counseling to all ages - family, dating, premarital, marriage, affair recovery (Gottman Methods Couples Training - Levels I-III completed), relationship problems, anger, anxiety, depression, grief, infertility, miscarriage, pre and post adoption adjustments, codependency, college issues, ADHD, abuse issues, and trauma care.
Are you struggling, confused, depressed, or anxious about your circumstances and relationships? Life is complicated and I am committed to truly hear you in a safe, non-judgmental environment. I am a skilled, caring, compassionate, counselor who will give you exceptional care, offer solution-based, holistic treatment that gives hope for change, and uses carefully selected therapy to best meet your unique needs.
I provide counseling to all ages - family, dating, premarital, marriage, affair recovery (Gottman Methods Couples Training - Levels I-III completed), relationship problems, anger, anxiety, depression, grief, infertility, miscarriage, pre and post adoption adjustments, codependency, college issues, ADHD, abuse issues, and trauma care.
Are you struggling, confused, depressed, or anxious about your circumstances and relationships? Life is complicated and I am committed to truly hear you in a safe, non-judgmental environment. I am a skilled, caring, compassionate, counselor who will give you exceptional care, offer solution-based, holistic treatment that gives hope for change, and uses carefully selected therapy to best meet your unique needs.
(616) 426-6577 View (616) 426-6577
Photo of Jeffrey Reining, PsyD, MA, LP, MDiv, Psychologist
Jeffrey Reining
Psychologist, PsyD, MA, LP, MDiv
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49506
I work with individuals, teens and couples dealing with issues including ineffective communication, spiritual struggles, depression, anxiety, behavioral problems, high stress, perfectionism, divorce, fertility issues and more. If you are struggling with worrying too much, feeling down all the time, connecting with your young adult, unsure how to co-parent, need help with saving your relationship, or are just looking to make changes in your life, I can help. I create a safe and welcoming environment that starts with understanding and works toward change.
I work with individuals, teens and couples dealing with issues including ineffective communication, spiritual struggles, depression, anxiety, behavioral problems, high stress, perfectionism, divorce, fertility issues and more. If you are struggling with worrying too much, feeling down all the time, connecting with your young adult, unsure how to co-parent, need help with saving your relationship, or are just looking to make changes in your life, I can help. I create a safe and welcoming environment that starts with understanding and works toward change.
(616) 201-3130 View (616) 201-3130
Photo of Rebecca Klott, PhD, Psychologist
Rebecca Klott
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49503
When you're struggling to find your way through emotional pain, choosing the right psychotherapist can be confusing. You want to find someone you can trust. You want that person to listen without judging and offer space for healing. The professional relationship between you and your psychotherapist should be based on mutual respect, genuineness, and healthy boundaries. In such a relationship, you can develop insight and understanding, as well as learn coping strategies to help relieve your pain.
When you're struggling to find your way through emotional pain, choosing the right psychotherapist can be confusing. You want to find someone you can trust. You want that person to listen without judging and offer space for healing. The professional relationship between you and your psychotherapist should be based on mutual respect, genuineness, and healthy boundaries. In such a relationship, you can develop insight and understanding, as well as learn coping strategies to help relieve your pain.
(616) 678-3063 View (616) 678-3063
Photo of Lindsey W. Sherd, PhD, Psychologist
Lindsey W. Sherd
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49546
I offer psychological testing and therapy. I believe in a collaborative approach to therapy and value my client's life experiences and the knowledge that they bring into the therapeutic relationship. I tend to work interpersonally and view the therapeutic relationship as a tool for gaining insight into personal struggles, as well as a venue to practice new behaviors and boundaries. I enjoy working with clients from diverse backgrounds and life experiences and while I am trained as a generalist, I have particular interests in working with depression, anxiety, trauma, eating disorders, body image, gender identity and socialization.
I offer psychological testing and therapy. I believe in a collaborative approach to therapy and value my client's life experiences and the knowledge that they bring into the therapeutic relationship. I tend to work interpersonally and view the therapeutic relationship as a tool for gaining insight into personal struggles, as well as a venue to practice new behaviors and boundaries. I enjoy working with clients from diverse backgrounds and life experiences and while I am trained as a generalist, I have particular interests in working with depression, anxiety, trauma, eating disorders, body image, gender identity and socialization.
(616) 557-6539 View (616) 557-6539
Photo of Courtney Kozarian, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Courtney Kozarian
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49505
I believe every person has a unique story, influenced by all of the situations and life experiences that have led up to this moment. My goal as a therapist is to build a warm and trusting relationship with you in order to support and encourage your personal growth and change. With both my personal and professional experience with blended families, non-monogamous relationships and anxiety/depression, I understand how difficult it can be to find a therapist who can provide a non-judgmental space to navigate your deepest thoughts and feelings. It is my goal to provide a space that is safe and welcoming for every client.
I believe every person has a unique story, influenced by all of the situations and life experiences that have led up to this moment. My goal as a therapist is to build a warm and trusting relationship with you in order to support and encourage your personal growth and change. With both my personal and professional experience with blended families, non-monogamous relationships and anxiety/depression, I understand how difficult it can be to find a therapist who can provide a non-judgmental space to navigate your deepest thoughts and feelings. It is my goal to provide a space that is safe and welcoming for every client.
(616) 580-1857 View (616) 580-1857
Photo of Jennifer L Selent, MA LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jennifer L Selent
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49546
Clients will find a safe, empathetic, and non-judgemental relationship working with me.
I am a Marriage and Family Therapist that has been working with Families, Couples, and Individuals with many diagnosis for over 15 years. I have a very wide array of experience, but do provide specialized training for the following populations: First Responders, individuals suffering from traumatic stress, eating disorders/disordered eating, addiction, and grief as well as their families. I also can support with performance issues related to competition, work, etc. I expect you would find me to be down to earth and practical, but clinically sophisticated in my approach. My goal is partnership and empowerment.
Clients will find a safe, empathetic, and non-judgemental relationship working with me.
I am a Marriage and Family Therapist that has been working with Families, Couples, and Individuals with many diagnosis for over 15 years. I have a very wide array of experience, but do provide specialized training for the following populations: First Responders, individuals suffering from traumatic stress, eating disorders/disordered eating, addiction, and grief as well as their families. I also can support with performance issues related to competition, work, etc. I expect you would find me to be down to earth and practical, but clinically sophisticated in my approach. My goal is partnership and empowerment.
(616) 537-6729 View (616) 537-6729
Photo of Heather Nitzki - Impression Psychotherapy - Heather Nitzki, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Impression Psychotherapy - Heather Nitzki
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49546
My work tends to focus more on strengthening the relationship that forms between us and using the trustworthy, secure attachment that we've formed to help us go deep in exploring and healing past and present relational wounds.
I believe that we all need safe, supportive relationships in order to not only survive, but to thrive. As a therapist, I aim to serve as that sense of stability amongst whatever chaos my clients may be feeling or facing. In our work, I won't tell you what to do or how to fix your problems - I wholeheartedly believe that you already hold those answers somewhere within you. With that being said, I do believe that it is fully my job to collaborate & explore with you, to bring you my honest experience & thoughts, and to work with you to help you uncover & find your own unique answers & truths that work best for you & for your healing.
My work tends to focus more on strengthening the relationship that forms between us and using the trustworthy, secure attachment that we've formed to help us go deep in exploring and healing past and present relational wounds.
I believe that we all need safe, supportive relationships in order to not only survive, but to thrive. As a therapist, I aim to serve as that sense of stability amongst whatever chaos my clients may be feeling or facing. In our work, I won't tell you what to do or how to fix your problems - I wholeheartedly believe that you already hold those answers somewhere within you. With that being said, I do believe that it is fully my job to collaborate & explore with you, to bring you my honest experience & thoughts, and to work with you to help you uncover & find your own unique answers & truths that work best for you & for your healing.
(616) 920-0113 View (616) 920-0113
Photo of Hande Walker, MA, LLP, Limited Licensed Psychologist
Hande Walker
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MA, LLP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Are you experiencing difficulties in your relationship? Do you feel isolated, depressed, and helpless? Are you having a difficult time coping with life stressors? You are not alone! It is hard to function and be the best version of yourself when these unresolved issues are weighing you down. We all need a helping hand when going through tough times and it is okay to ask for help.
Are you experiencing difficulties in your relationship? Do you feel isolated, depressed, and helpless? Are you having a difficult time coping with life stressors? You are not alone! It is hard to function and be the best version of yourself when these unresolved issues are weighing you down. We all need a helping hand when going through tough times and it is okay to ask for help.
(616) 207-2587 x25 View (616) 207-2587 x25
Photo of Kerry Hart, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kerry Hart
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Not Verified Not Verified
2 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49546
Kerry works with couples and families experiencing relationship issues such as infidelity, separation, reunification, or lifestyle planning for the future.
Kerry Hart is a Couple and Family Therapist working from a systemic approach. Kerry helps her clients understand their pasts and helps shape their futures by pointing out patterns that have developed in her client's lives, as well as within their families, and family history. Kerry received her Master's in Family Therapy from Drexel University in Philadelphia, PA and is a member of the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy (AAMFT). Kerry enjoys working from a client centered perspective, with individuals, couples, families, teens, and adults.
Kerry works with couples and families experiencing relationship issues such as infidelity, separation, reunification, or lifestyle planning for the future.
Kerry Hart is a Couple and Family Therapist working from a systemic approach. Kerry helps her clients understand their pasts and helps shape their futures by pointing out patterns that have developed in her client's lives, as well as within their families, and family history. Kerry received her Master's in Family Therapy from Drexel University in Philadelphia, PA and is a member of the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy (AAMFT). Kerry enjoys working from a client centered perspective, with individuals, couples, families, teens, and adults.
(616) 298-3169 View (616) 298-3169
Photo of Sam Lemmer, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sam Lemmer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Vulnerability: while rewarding, can be daunting. It isn’t easy to let someone into your internal landscape and I value the possibility of learning yours. My name is Sam and I work with clients to become intimately comfortable with the buried and beautifully impactful aspects of themselves. Often, the relationship to yourself contributes to how your days unfold in the world around you. When was the last time you heard or nurtured the parts of yourself that long for you? In doing so, a gateway opens up to a sense of self-worth that will allow you to experience yourself and your environment with a new lens.
Vulnerability: while rewarding, can be daunting. It isn’t easy to let someone into your internal landscape and I value the possibility of learning yours. My name is Sam and I work with clients to become intimately comfortable with the buried and beautifully impactful aspects of themselves. Often, the relationship to yourself contributes to how your days unfold in the world around you. When was the last time you heard or nurtured the parts of yourself that long for you? In doing so, a gateway opens up to a sense of self-worth that will allow you to experience yourself and your environment with a new lens.
(616) 236-2946 View (616) 236-2946
Photo of Kurt Visker, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kurt Visker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49546
I have been highly effective with relationship issues of all kinds.
Our many experiences in life shape the way we think about ourselves and the world around us. We use these shaped thoughts to make decisions and form relationships. Many times they are healthy rational thoughts, but at times we fall into an unhealthy irrational pattern that can create chaos in our lives. My role as a therapist is to help you increase your awareness and sort out the chaos. I enjoy building strong therapeutic relationships founded on empathy and respect that shapes a safe environment. Join me in a conversation that will walk you down a path of self discovery.
I have been highly effective with relationship issues of all kinds.
Our many experiences in life shape the way we think about ourselves and the world around us. We use these shaped thoughts to make decisions and form relationships. Many times they are healthy rational thoughts, but at times we fall into an unhealthy irrational pattern that can create chaos in our lives. My role as a therapist is to help you increase your awareness and sort out the chaos. I enjoy building strong therapeutic relationships founded on empathy and respect that shapes a safe environment. Join me in a conversation that will walk you down a path of self discovery.
(616) 449-2086 View (616) 449-2086
Photo of Allison Smith, MA, LLPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Allison Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LLPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49525
I work with issues ranging from anxiety, depression, relationship issues, identity, trauma and adjustment- related concerns.
I understand that seeking therapy can bring up a range of feelings — from excitement and hopefulness to uncertainty and anxiety. Whether you’ve been in therapy before or it’s your first time, I will tailor my approach to fit your specific needs, and provide a space where you can feel safe, heard, and accepted. You are the expert in your life and I am here to guide, support and walk with you through your healing and growth. In efforts to make each client as comfortable as possible, I offer both in person and telehealth therapy. I am a Limited License Professional Counselor and earned my Master’s from Eastern Michigan University.
I work with issues ranging from anxiety, depression, relationship issues, identity, trauma and adjustment- related concerns.
I understand that seeking therapy can bring up a range of feelings — from excitement and hopefulness to uncertainty and anxiety. Whether you’ve been in therapy before or it’s your first time, I will tailor my approach to fit your specific needs, and provide a space where you can feel safe, heard, and accepted. You are the expert in your life and I am here to guide, support and walk with you through your healing and growth. In efforts to make each client as comfortable as possible, I offer both in person and telehealth therapy. I am a Limited License Professional Counselor and earned my Master’s from Eastern Michigan University.
(616) 557-6649 View (616) 557-6649
Photo of Sarah Riemersma, LMSW, CAADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarah Riemersma
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CAADC
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49503
The therapeutic relationship is a powerful means of healing, change and connection.
Welcome! As humans, we are all on a path of healing and growing. We are born with intrinsic worth, but through painful experiences, we internalize untruths. Our work is about creating a new truth by trimming the pain that keeps you stuck in shame, toxic relational patterns, negative thoughts, unhealthy habits and loss of purpose. Collaboration is the foundation of my work. Humans are the experts in their lives, but I do have experience and training in how to help people make the changes they desire, as well as providing compassionate, empathetic, and non-judgmental care.
The therapeutic relationship is a powerful means of healing, change and connection.
Welcome! As humans, we are all on a path of healing and growing. We are born with intrinsic worth, but through painful experiences, we internalize untruths. Our work is about creating a new truth by trimming the pain that keeps you stuck in shame, toxic relational patterns, negative thoughts, unhealthy habits and loss of purpose. Collaboration is the foundation of my work. Humans are the experts in their lives, but I do have experience and training in how to help people make the changes they desire, as well as providing compassionate, empathetic, and non-judgmental care.
(616) 441-4186 View (616) 441-4186
Photo of Anna Gerard, DSW, LCSW, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Anna Gerard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49506  (Online Only)
My practice is grounded in Relational Theory and I believe the most important component of successful treatment is having a strong relationship with your therapist.
I believe the most well-adjusted individuals have found contentment through the brave exploration of themselves. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a Doctorate in Clinical Social Work from the University of Pennsylvania. For over fifteen years, I have worked with a variety of populations, including children, adolescents, families and adults. My experience supporting clients through Substance Abuse, Anxiety, Depression, Eating Disorders, Grief and Loss, PTSD and OCD is vast. I also have specialized expertise working with adolescents and young adults.
My practice is grounded in Relational Theory and I believe the most important component of successful treatment is having a strong relationship with your therapist.
I believe the most well-adjusted individuals have found contentment through the brave exploration of themselves. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a Doctorate in Clinical Social Work from the University of Pennsylvania. For over fifteen years, I have worked with a variety of populations, including children, adolescents, families and adults. My experience supporting clients through Substance Abuse, Anxiety, Depression, Eating Disorders, Grief and Loss, PTSD and OCD is vast. I also have specialized expertise working with adolescents and young adults.
(616) 577-7890 View (616) 577-7890
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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.