Relationship Issues Therapists in Webster Groves, MO

Photo of Amanda Samuels, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Amanda Samuels
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Webster Groves, MO 63119
If you are noticing a disconnect in your relationship and want to work on finding your way back to one another, I encourage you to reach out to explore how we can work together to help you re-connect in your relationship.
Feeling disconnected from your partner, like you are living parallel lives? We are social creatures and desire connection with others. You may be feeling hurt, confused, or stressed and need the support of someone that can listen and help you navigate the needs and wants of the relationship while learning the skills to resolve conflict. I will help you to learn to understand what your partner is saying, to put the message into words you can hear. Resolving the miscommunications can lead to clarity. Learning to communicate with one another, being heard, and getting needs met are common goals of the clients I work with.
If you are noticing a disconnect in your relationship and want to work on finding your way back to one another, I encourage you to reach out to explore how we can work together to help you re-connect in your relationship.
Feeling disconnected from your partner, like you are living parallel lives? We are social creatures and desire connection with others. You may be feeling hurt, confused, or stressed and need the support of someone that can listen and help you navigate the needs and wants of the relationship while learning the skills to resolve conflict. I will help you to learn to understand what your partner is saying, to put the message into words you can hear. Resolving the miscommunications can lead to clarity. Learning to communicate with one another, being heard, and getting needs met are common goals of the clients I work with.
(314) 666-8569 View (314) 666-8569
Photo of Jen Durham Austin - Jen Durham Austin, LCSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jen Durham Austin, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Webster Groves, MO 63119
I offer short-term & long-term therapy focusing on depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, LGBT and gender identity exploration, adoption and parenting issues, PTSD, complex stress and trauma, & substance use. As a clinician, I approach my work from a holistic, trauma-informed lens. An individual's mental health and overall happiness are based on a number of different factors that are unique to that individual. Therapy is a collaborative effort that takes compassion, reflection, & creativity. Therapy is a financial commitment, but it's also an investment in your emotional well-being, relationships, and quality of life.
I offer short-term & long-term therapy focusing on depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, LGBT and gender identity exploration, adoption and parenting issues, PTSD, complex stress and trauma, & substance use. As a clinician, I approach my work from a holistic, trauma-informed lens. An individual's mental health and overall happiness are based on a number of different factors that are unique to that individual. Therapy is a collaborative effort that takes compassion, reflection, & creativity. Therapy is a financial commitment, but it's also an investment in your emotional well-being, relationships, and quality of life.
(314) 370-2794 View (314) 370-2794
Photo of Erin Phoenix, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Erin Phoenix
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Webster Groves, MO 63119
While I use a variety of evidence-based therapeutic techniques, the foundation of my practice is building a trusting and open relationship with you.
Therapy allows you to unpack yourself. It might be time for you to focus on your healing if you are overwhelmed by your emotions or struggle with triggers. Together, we will heal the wounds from the past to create change in current relationships with kids, your partner, friends, co-workers, and family. My clients are unsatisfied and want to dive deeper into themselves. I offer a safe, trusting relationship so clients can be vulnerable and look inward. During our sessions, I will challenge you to get curious about yourself; by doing that, you will show up within your relationships more connected, authentic, and regulated.
While I use a variety of evidence-based therapeutic techniques, the foundation of my practice is building a trusting and open relationship with you.
Therapy allows you to unpack yourself. It might be time for you to focus on your healing if you are overwhelmed by your emotions or struggle with triggers. Together, we will heal the wounds from the past to create change in current relationships with kids, your partner, friends, co-workers, and family. My clients are unsatisfied and want to dive deeper into themselves. I offer a safe, trusting relationship so clients can be vulnerable and look inward. During our sessions, I will challenge you to get curious about yourself; by doing that, you will show up within your relationships more connected, authentic, and regulated.
(314) 949-5770 View (314) 949-5770
Photo of Heather Rose Sindelar, LMSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Heather Rose Sindelar
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Webster Groves, MO 63119
My clinical specialties include anxiety, adjustment/life transitions, crisis care, depression, emotional regulation, familial challenges, grief and loss, guilt and shame, recovery from abuse or neglect, recovery from substance abuse, relationship challenges, self-esteem development, sexual concerns, and trauma-related issues.
I believe deeply in the power of compassion, and that healing happens in the presence of an accepting witness. Life can be so hard at times, and we all need someone with whom we feel safe to open up to about our painful or complex struggles. I strive to be an empathetic, non-judgmental and empowering coach in your triumphs and struggles alike. My mission is to create a place for you to find and express your authentic self and feel heard, witnessed, and valued.
My clinical specialties include anxiety, adjustment/life transitions, crisis care, depression, emotional regulation, familial challenges, grief and loss, guilt and shame, recovery from abuse or neglect, recovery from substance abuse, relationship challenges, self-esteem development, sexual concerns, and trauma-related issues.
I believe deeply in the power of compassion, and that healing happens in the presence of an accepting witness. Life can be so hard at times, and we all need someone with whom we feel safe to open up to about our painful or complex struggles. I strive to be an empathetic, non-judgmental and empowering coach in your triumphs and struggles alike. My mission is to create a place for you to find and express your authentic self and feel heard, witnessed, and valued.
(636) 280-5171 View (636) 280-5171
Photo of Vera Gabliani, PhD, Psychologist
Vera Gabliani
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Webster Groves, MO 63119  (Online Only)
I specialize in holistic, mind-body therapy for women who are struggling with relationship difficulties, anxiety, health and parenting challenges.
The way you are living isn't working anymore. It's getting harder to keep up the appearance of being fine like you always have. When you think about how you've been acting and feeling recently, you're not quite sure you like the person you've become. All the struggles & conflicts you face with your partner, kids, family, co-workers keep you on overload, but you have no idea how you could handle them differently. You feel like your life is out of control, and you are ready to try anything that might help you to not completely fall apart and live in dread and overwhelm every day.
I specialize in holistic, mind-body therapy for women who are struggling with relationship difficulties, anxiety, health and parenting challenges.
The way you are living isn't working anymore. It's getting harder to keep up the appearance of being fine like you always have. When you think about how you've been acting and feeling recently, you're not quite sure you like the person you've become. All the struggles & conflicts you face with your partner, kids, family, co-workers keep you on overload, but you have no idea how you could handle them differently. You feel like your life is out of control, and you are ready to try anything that might help you to not completely fall apart and live in dread and overwhelm every day.
(314) 222-2399 View (314) 222-2399
Photo of Danica Byler, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Danica Byler
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Webster Groves, MO 63119  (Online Only)
The Gottman Method is an integrative approach to couple therapy based on over 40 years of research. As a Certified Gottman therapist, I work with couples experiencing communication issues, trouble dealing with conflict and personality differences, infidelity, differing parenting styles, intimacy and closeness. After a thorough assessment of your relationship, we will establish goals, and begin to develop a plan to gain skills that will help begin to heal the issues that can sometimes feel difficult to navigate on your own.
The Gottman Method is an integrative approach to couple therapy based on over 40 years of research. As a Certified Gottman therapist, I work with couples experiencing communication issues, trouble dealing with conflict and personality differences, infidelity, differing parenting styles, intimacy and closeness. After a thorough assessment of your relationship, we will establish goals, and begin to develop a plan to gain skills that will help begin to heal the issues that can sometimes feel difficult to navigate on your own.
(618) 996-5863 View (618) 996-5863
Photo of Joan Brackmann, MA, LPC, SEP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Joan Brackmann
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, SEP
Verified Verified
Webster Groves, MO 63119
I am a Somatic Experiencing Practitioner, also trained in the use of EMDR, Imago Relationship Therapy, and am intimately connected to and knowledgeable about 12-step recovery.
I believe that through being respected, listened to, feeling validated and cared about, the healing process is well under way. Whether experiencing depression, anxiety, fear or shame, unresolved pain from the past, or difficulties currently, we will explore your problems together and they will all make sense. I have helped clients with: eating disorders; alcohol and drug addictions; unresolved childhood trauma; depression; anxiety; grief; post-traumatic stress; LGBTQIA related issues; and relationship problems. My approach is eclectic and collaborative. I will help you find a way to heal and change that works for you.
I am a Somatic Experiencing Practitioner, also trained in the use of EMDR, Imago Relationship Therapy, and am intimately connected to and knowledgeable about 12-step recovery.
I believe that through being respected, listened to, feeling validated and cared about, the healing process is well under way. Whether experiencing depression, anxiety, fear or shame, unresolved pain from the past, or difficulties currently, we will explore your problems together and they will all make sense. I have helped clients with: eating disorders; alcohol and drug addictions; unresolved childhood trauma; depression; anxiety; grief; post-traumatic stress; LGBTQIA related issues; and relationship problems. My approach is eclectic and collaborative. I will help you find a way to heal and change that works for you.
(314) 227-9950 View (314) 227-9950
Photo of Katheryn Barton - Uplift and Connect Counseling, LPC, MEd, Licensed Professional Counselor
Uplift and Connect Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MEd
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Webster Groves, MO 63119
That longing you felt early-on in the relationship is gone and you so desperately want it back.
It's getting harder and harder not to argue in front of the kids. Or, not to argue at all. You are feeling resentful and annoyed with your partner and your negative reactions happen faster than ever before. Plus, you don't want to rock the boat and almost any conversation you have right now turns into an argument. It feels like the person lying next to you in bed is only a roommate and you are lonely. You thought things were getting better but then one more fight sent you back to square-one of feeling alone and distant from each other. You are no longer playing the waiting/hoping game and are looking for change.
That longing you felt early-on in the relationship is gone and you so desperately want it back.
It's getting harder and harder not to argue in front of the kids. Or, not to argue at all. You are feeling resentful and annoyed with your partner and your negative reactions happen faster than ever before. Plus, you don't want to rock the boat and almost any conversation you have right now turns into an argument. It feels like the person lying next to you in bed is only a roommate and you are lonely. You thought things were getting better but then one more fight sent you back to square-one of feeling alone and distant from each other. You are no longer playing the waiting/hoping game and are looking for change.
(314) 403-2609 View (314) 403-2609
Photo of Megan Dooley Hussmann, PhD, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Megan Dooley Hussmann
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
Webster Groves, MO 63119
I am a good fit if you want to experience an empowering relationship that centers your wellbeing and allows you to explore what has felt difficult.
I focus on interpersonal trauma and help people at all stages of life process the impact of harmful relationships and how to cultivate more nourishing relationships in the future. I am especially interested in working with childhood trauma, parents, and offer individual and couples counseling. My counseling style is warm and inquisitive. I’m a therapist because I believe that we all have a right to be heard and understood. I help us build a relationship that is encouraging, honest, attentive, and genuinely caring.
I am a good fit if you want to experience an empowering relationship that centers your wellbeing and allows you to explore what has felt difficult.
I focus on interpersonal trauma and help people at all stages of life process the impact of harmful relationships and how to cultivate more nourishing relationships in the future. I am especially interested in working with childhood trauma, parents, and offer individual and couples counseling. My counseling style is warm and inquisitive. I’m a therapist because I believe that we all have a right to be heard and understood. I help us build a relationship that is encouraging, honest, attentive, and genuinely caring.
(314) 970-5716 View (314) 970-5716
Photo of John A Leber, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
John A Leber
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Webster Groves, MO 63119
I specialize in marriage counseling and relationship building.
Have you ever asked yourself “is this what it is supposed to be like?” Feel like your needs are not being met, perhaps you don’t know what YOUR needs are let alone you spouse’s? Shouldn’t it be easier to talk to the person you love than anyone else? Has your trust been broken? Are you fighting to get passion you once had in your relationship back? Is an evening at home for you and your significant other spent staring at each other’s phone. Would you like to find that connection you once had or perhaps you have never been able to develop such a connection. Learn the skills necessary to navigate the ups and downs of a lifetime
I specialize in marriage counseling and relationship building.
Have you ever asked yourself “is this what it is supposed to be like?” Feel like your needs are not being met, perhaps you don’t know what YOUR needs are let alone you spouse’s? Shouldn’t it be easier to talk to the person you love than anyone else? Has your trust been broken? Are you fighting to get passion you once had in your relationship back? Is an evening at home for you and your significant other spent staring at each other’s phone. Would you like to find that connection you once had or perhaps you have never been able to develop such a connection. Learn the skills necessary to navigate the ups and downs of a lifetime
(314) 219-1762 View (314) 219-1762
Photo of Megan Robb, LPC, ATR-BC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Megan Robb
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ATR-BC, NCC
Verified Verified
Webster Groves, MO 63119
I use art therapy and various evidenced based practices personalized to your working style because our relationship or the group relationship is my priority.
Hi, I'm Megan and I use she/her pronouns. I have 20 years experience working alongside people as they strengthen their inner knowledge and outward interactions. Therapy can bridge the gap between where you are and where you want to be. I think a lot about the brain and how we unconsciously replicate patterns. The work I do uses current brain-based therapy approaches to help integrate outdated patterns into newer, more helpful ones.
I use art therapy and various evidenced based practices personalized to your working style because our relationship or the group relationship is my priority.
Hi, I'm Megan and I use she/her pronouns. I have 20 years experience working alongside people as they strengthen their inner knowledge and outward interactions. Therapy can bridge the gap between where you are and where you want to be. I think a lot about the brain and how we unconsciously replicate patterns. The work I do uses current brain-based therapy approaches to help integrate outdated patterns into newer, more helpful ones.
(314) 970-5890 View (314) 970-5890
Photo of Melissa G Chosid - St. Louis Couples Counseling , MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
St. Louis Couples Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Webster Groves, MO 63119
Let's start here: you are not broken, and nothing is wrong with you. But if you have felt disconnected from your own sexuality or like there's a canyon of space between you and your partner, I can help. Many barriers in the way of our sexual thriving are outdated or inaccurate cultural, societal, and internal core messages that block us up. Sex is supposed to be free, playful, and uninhibited. If that sounds like a completely foreign world, it may be time to reexamine your own relationship to eroticism.
Let's start here: you are not broken, and nothing is wrong with you. But if you have felt disconnected from your own sexuality or like there's a canyon of space between you and your partner, I can help. Many barriers in the way of our sexual thriving are outdated or inaccurate cultural, societal, and internal core messages that block us up. Sex is supposed to be free, playful, and uninhibited. If that sounds like a completely foreign world, it may be time to reexamine your own relationship to eroticism.
(314) 328-8593 View (314) 328-8593
Photo of Lindsay Davis, LPC, C-DBT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lindsay Davis
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, C-DBT
Verified Verified
Webster Groves, MO 63119
I enjoy working with those who are struggling with life transitions as well as relationship and communication concerns.
Personal philosophy: "Seek to understand, empower to grow". I believe effective therapy must occur in an environment of safety, trust, collaboration and a true connection between the therapist and the client. You deserve to feel understood, respected and supported. My work is to help you minimize the gap between where you are today and where you want to be.
I enjoy working with those who are struggling with life transitions as well as relationship and communication concerns.
Personal philosophy: "Seek to understand, empower to grow". I believe effective therapy must occur in an environment of safety, trust, collaboration and a true connection between the therapist and the client. You deserve to feel understood, respected and supported. My work is to help you minimize the gap between where you are today and where you want to be.
(314) 697-2098 View (314) 697-2098
Photo of Patrice Marie Bathon, MA, PLPC, NCC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Patrice Marie Bathon
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, PLPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Webster Groves, MO 63119
Are you looking for more clarity, insight, or healing? People often seek help or feel the need for change at a crossroads or while facing a challenging life situation. As your therapist, I will help you navigate situations like this while also allowing you to explore a deeper and more purposeful connection with yourself through a safe, meaningful therapeutic relationship. It's challenging to find someone with whom you can relate and connect while processing what is going on in your life. My goal is to help adults and couples get to the root of the issues that affect their daily lives and relationships.
Are you looking for more clarity, insight, or healing? People often seek help or feel the need for change at a crossroads or while facing a challenging life situation. As your therapist, I will help you navigate situations like this while also allowing you to explore a deeper and more purposeful connection with yourself through a safe, meaningful therapeutic relationship. It's challenging to find someone with whom you can relate and connect while processing what is going on in your life. My goal is to help adults and couples get to the root of the issues that affect their daily lives and relationships.
(314) 866-8385 View (314) 866-8385
Photo of Genevieve Friedmann, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Genevieve Friedmann
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Webster Groves, MO 63119
I specialize in working with people who struggle with anxiety, sexual intimacy concerns, relationship issues, and self-esteem.
You face unique challenges and feel alone in sorting through all life throws at you. Constant demands pull you in every direction, leaving you feeling inadequate; as if you’ve lost you own voice and vision for what you want out of your relationships, life, and future. Maybe it feels like a struggle to make a meaningful connection, a decision, or time to focus on your own well-being. You’re left feeling stuck and unsure of how to move forward. You want your relationships to be a place for support and understanding. You want to have balance, peace and stability.
I specialize in working with people who struggle with anxiety, sexual intimacy concerns, relationship issues, and self-esteem.
You face unique challenges and feel alone in sorting through all life throws at you. Constant demands pull you in every direction, leaving you feeling inadequate; as if you’ve lost you own voice and vision for what you want out of your relationships, life, and future. Maybe it feels like a struggle to make a meaningful connection, a decision, or time to focus on your own well-being. You’re left feeling stuck and unsure of how to move forward. You want your relationships to be a place for support and understanding. You want to have balance, peace and stability.
(636) 200-6871 View (636) 200-6871
Photo of Doris Wild Helmering, LCSW, BCD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Doris Wild Helmering
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BCD
Verified Verified
Webster Groves, MO 63119
I believe almost all problems are solvable. If you decide to see me for therapy, the first thing I'll probably ask is, "What's going on? Why have you come?" Perhaps you're having difficulty with a relationship or your struggling with a child or your weight. You may be trying to decide if you want to continue in a relationship or look for another job. Or you've noticed that you're drinking too much or getting too angry or obsessing. Maybe you're feeling anxious, depressed or lonely, and despite your best efforts, you can't seem to shake these feelings.
I believe almost all problems are solvable. If you decide to see me for therapy, the first thing I'll probably ask is, "What's going on? Why have you come?" Perhaps you're having difficulty with a relationship or your struggling with a child or your weight. You may be trying to decide if you want to continue in a relationship or look for another job. Or you've noticed that you're drinking too much or getting too angry or obsessing. Maybe you're feeling anxious, depressed or lonely, and despite your best efforts, you can't seem to shake these feelings.
(636) 238-1854 View (636) 238-1854
Photo of William H. Kuntz, MS LCSW, Lic Psy, Psychologist
William H. Kuntz
Psychologist, MS LCSW, Lic Psy
Verified Verified
Webster Groves, MO 63119
Our therapeutic relationship will be designed to promote self-discovery and growth.
Are you experiencing distress in your marriage or relationship? Are you dealing with depression or anxiety? Is your work or family life stressful? Do you need to find greater balance or deal with a major life transition? I am a licensed psychologist and licensed clinical social worker with over 35 years of counseling experience. My specialties include: couples counseling, adolescent issues, depression, anxiety, and life coaching. I am an empathetic and compassionate counselor who understands emotional difficulties and the challenge of balancing personal needs, family, and career.
Our therapeutic relationship will be designed to promote self-discovery and growth.
Are you experiencing distress in your marriage or relationship? Are you dealing with depression or anxiety? Is your work or family life stressful? Do you need to find greater balance or deal with a major life transition? I am a licensed psychologist and licensed clinical social worker with over 35 years of counseling experience. My specialties include: couples counseling, adolescent issues, depression, anxiety, and life coaching. I am an empathetic and compassionate counselor who understands emotional difficulties and the challenge of balancing personal needs, family, and career.
(314) 666-6126 View (314) 666-6126
Mary Clare Hall
Pre-Licensed Professional, MEd, NCC
Verified Verified
Webster Groves, MO 63119
I believe that a strong therapeutic relationship is crucial for fostering connection and growth.
Only you truly understand your own story and experiences. My role is to work alongside you, viewing your challenges through your unique perspective. Together, we will explore the impact of your experiences, thoughts, feelings, and behaviors and develop effective coping strategies to foster a sense of self-efficacy. I assist clients in navigating issues such as decision-making, relationships, loss of direction, low self-esteem, excessive self-demand, & body-image concerns. Whether you’re eager or apprehensive about starting or restarting therapy, I deeply respect and support your decision to embark on this important journey
I believe that a strong therapeutic relationship is crucial for fostering connection and growth.
Only you truly understand your own story and experiences. My role is to work alongside you, viewing your challenges through your unique perspective. Together, we will explore the impact of your experiences, thoughts, feelings, and behaviors and develop effective coping strategies to foster a sense of self-efficacy. I assist clients in navigating issues such as decision-making, relationships, loss of direction, low self-esteem, excessive self-demand, & body-image concerns. Whether you’re eager or apprehensive about starting or restarting therapy, I deeply respect and support your decision to embark on this important journey
(314) 470-8594 View (314) 470-8594
Photo of Justin Dodd, PLPC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Justin Dodd
Pre-Licensed Professional, PLPC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Webster Groves, MO 63119
Are you tired, worried, or feeling alone? Maybe you're nervous or unsure what more can be done for a relationship you want badly to work. Do you feel frustrated, stuck, or hopeless in patterns you want to change? Do you long for tomorrow to feel different than today? Maybe a confidential space might just be a comfort right now. Wherever you are, it is often a hard thing to need help. It is often harder still to ask for it. I'm glad you're here and hanging on.
Are you tired, worried, or feeling alone? Maybe you're nervous or unsure what more can be done for a relationship you want badly to work. Do you feel frustrated, stuck, or hopeless in patterns you want to change? Do you long for tomorrow to feel different than today? Maybe a confidential space might just be a comfort right now. Wherever you are, it is often a hard thing to need help. It is often harder still to ask for it. I'm glad you're here and hanging on.
(314) 582-4216 View (314) 582-4216
Photo of Dena DiStefano, MSW, LCSW, CCTP, C-DBT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dena DiStefano
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CCTP, C-DBT
Verified Verified
Webster Groves, MO 63119
You feel empty and ambivalent in your relationship with your partner. You’ve been together for so long that you have forgotten why you got together in the first place. Over the years, you’ve poured most of your time and energy into raising your kids, and now you find that you and your partner communicate about little else. Intimacy is non-existent, and you really wonder if you’re still compatible or if you even want the same things out of life. Despite all of this, though, you aren’t ready to give up on this life you’ve built together. You want to find your way back to your partner – you just don’t know how to get there.
You feel empty and ambivalent in your relationship with your partner. You’ve been together for so long that you have forgotten why you got together in the first place. Over the years, you’ve poured most of your time and energy into raising your kids, and now you find that you and your partner communicate about little else. Intimacy is non-existent, and you really wonder if you’re still compatible or if you even want the same things out of life. Despite all of this, though, you aren’t ready to give up on this life you’ve built together. You want to find your way back to your partner – you just don’t know how to get there.
(314) 369-8009 View (314) 369-8009
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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.