Relationship Issues Therapists in Lakewood, OH
![Photo of Mitchell L Wax, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/50a47068-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
I have been working for a number of years as a couples therapist dealing with marriage, divorce, and other relationship issues.
I am an established psychologist, working in the Lakewood area with individuals, couples, and families for a number of years. I am interested in how we experience and grow from life events, such as marriage, divorce, death of a loved one, moving, and/or pursuing a new career. In the past, I have been Director of Mental Health for the City of Cleveland's McCafferty Health Center.
I have been working for a number of years as a couples therapist dealing with marriage, divorce, and other relationship issues.
I am an established psychologist, working in the Lakewood area with individuals, couples, and families for a number of years. I am interested in how we experience and grow from life events, such as marriage, divorce, death of a loved one, moving, and/or pursuing a new career. In the past, I have been Director of Mental Health for the City of Cleveland's McCafferty Health Center.
![Photo of L Claire Campbell, ATR, LPCC-S, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4a8c3ba2-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
My role as therapist is one who guides and supports my client achieving goals created through the supportive, authentic, therapeutic relationship.
Are you feeling exhausted, overwhelmed, anxious or grieving? Going through a big life transition? I will meet you where you are in life in a safe, affirming space to explore your personal story, growth, and potential. I can help you make sense of things through traditional talk therapy coupled with somatic processing, mindfulness practice, relaxation techniques, guided imagery, movement and art therapy. I view each client as unique and having a powerful story to share. I will work with you to identify your inherent strengths, growing edges and support developing what changes will foster ongoing hope and positivity.
My role as therapist is one who guides and supports my client achieving goals created through the supportive, authentic, therapeutic relationship.
Are you feeling exhausted, overwhelmed, anxious or grieving? Going through a big life transition? I will meet you where you are in life in a safe, affirming space to explore your personal story, growth, and potential. I can help you make sense of things through traditional talk therapy coupled with somatic processing, mindfulness practice, relaxation techniques, guided imagery, movement and art therapy. I view each client as unique and having a powerful story to share. I will work with you to identify your inherent strengths, growing edges and support developing what changes will foster ongoing hope and positivity.
![Photo of undefined - Jill Gilberd - Couples and Marriage Therapy, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2b2a4450-77dc-4751-8d7d-70fbc6653edd/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jill Gilberd - Couples and Marriage Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Lakewood, OH 44107 (Online Only)
I chose the path of therapy because I am passionate about working with couples to repair, reconnect and rebuild from past ruptures. There are moments in life when we experience challenges that we feel unprepared to manage and our relationships can suffer. I believe that in those moments, counseling can offer the support, insight, and tools to work through those challenges. My hope is to support you both; creating a safe space to work collaboratively where you both can develop new awareness about yourselves as well as one another, heal from past wounds and improve the level of security and vulnerability within the relationship.
I chose the path of therapy because I am passionate about working with couples to repair, reconnect and rebuild from past ruptures. There are moments in life when we experience challenges that we feel unprepared to manage and our relationships can suffer. I believe that in those moments, counseling can offer the support, insight, and tools to work through those challenges. My hope is to support you both; creating a safe space to work collaboratively where you both can develop new awareness about yourselves as well as one another, heal from past wounds and improve the level of security and vulnerability within the relationship.
![Photo of Mary Kay Shelton, RN, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d1040006-3cef-4cd7-aeb6-48c5f89ed1c3/2/320x400.jpeg)
I recognize how challenging it can be to step into the process of healing and change and I work to meet you wherever you may be emotionally, mentally, and physically. I strive to make the therapy process feel safe and approachable. I use compassion, humor, empowerment, and curiosity to create a supportive environment and to work collaboratively with you. We will work together in navigating barriers and challenges and mapping out the next steps that are best for you in your journey. I have a calm and relatable style and prioritize developing an authentic and trusting therapeutic relationship with you.
I recognize how challenging it can be to step into the process of healing and change and I work to meet you wherever you may be emotionally, mentally, and physically. I strive to make the therapy process feel safe and approachable. I use compassion, humor, empowerment, and curiosity to create a supportive environment and to work collaboratively with you. We will work together in navigating barriers and challenges and mapping out the next steps that are best for you in your journey. I have a calm and relatable style and prioritize developing an authentic and trusting therapeutic relationship with you.
![Photo of Derrick Martin, LPCC-S, CEMDR, CCTP, NPT-C, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/14463a91-3c3b-44a0-b63b-87d572524423/1/320x400.jpeg)
Derrick Martin
Counselor, LPCC-S, CEMDR, CCTP, NPT-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lakewood, OH 44107
Do you want to find hope and reclaim your life? It might seem like a dark path, but there is light at the end of the tunnel. You don't have to walk it alone; the hardest step is showing up for the first appointment, but together, we can work towards a brighter future. You need a therapist who understands your unique challenges and aims to help you heal, improve relationships, and achieve mental well-being. As a former firefighter, paramedic, and police officer, my ideal patients include first responders, individuals, and couples, dealing with PTSD, anxiety, relationship issues, and traumatic stressors.
Do you want to find hope and reclaim your life? It might seem like a dark path, but there is light at the end of the tunnel. You don't have to walk it alone; the hardest step is showing up for the first appointment, but together, we can work towards a brighter future. You need a therapist who understands your unique challenges and aims to help you heal, improve relationships, and achieve mental well-being. As a former firefighter, paramedic, and police officer, my ideal patients include first responders, individuals, and couples, dealing with PTSD, anxiety, relationship issues, and traumatic stressors.
![Photo of undefined - Karen Wallis, LPCC, LPCC, LICDC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3fb19655-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Karen Wallis, LPCC
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC, LICDC
Verified Verified
Lakewood, OH 44107
Karen Wallis is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor providing adult psychotherapy. Drawing on insights from depth psychology and transpersonal psychology, she specializes in the treatment of depression, anxiety, substance abuse, relationship issues and trauma. She uses an integrative mind body approach towards holistic wellness. Karen holds a certificate in Academic Psychoanalysis from the Cleveland Psychoanalytic Center, an internationally recognized psychoanalytic training institute approved by the American Psychoanalytic Association.
Karen Wallis is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor providing adult psychotherapy. Drawing on insights from depth psychology and transpersonal psychology, she specializes in the treatment of depression, anxiety, substance abuse, relationship issues and trauma. She uses an integrative mind body approach towards holistic wellness. Karen holds a certificate in Academic Psychoanalysis from the Cleveland Psychoanalytic Center, an internationally recognized psychoanalytic training institute approved by the American Psychoanalytic Association.
![Photo of Philip R Belzunce, PhD, IMFT, BCC, BCPP, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d4edf2c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I specialize in individual and couples/family therapy and have licenses in psychology and couples and family therapy. My philosophy is to integrate the mind, body and spirit. I have extensive background, experience and knowledge in systemic, contextual, body, mind, spirit, diversity, and interconnections. I derive great satisfaction in serving my clients with a Higher Purpose and of facilitating individuals, couples, families and groups through transitions in their life journey and their transformations for growth, healing and well-being. From my many years of research and experience, I have co-authored a relationship guidebook, Eight Pathways of Healing Love: Your Journey of Transformation.
I specialize in individual and couples/family therapy and have licenses in psychology and couples and family therapy. My philosophy is to integrate the mind, body and spirit. I have extensive background, experience and knowledge in systemic, contextual, body, mind, spirit, diversity, and interconnections. I derive great satisfaction in serving my clients with a Higher Purpose and of facilitating individuals, couples, families and groups through transitions in their life journey and their transformations for growth, healing and well-being. From my many years of research and experience, I have co-authored a relationship guidebook, Eight Pathways of Healing Love: Your Journey of Transformation.
![Photo of Colleen M McCleery, IMFT, LICDC-C, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e899bdf-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Colleen M McCleery
Marriage & Family Therapist, IMFT, LICDC-C
Verified Verified
Lakewood, OH 44107 (Online Only)
I am a Marriage and Family Therapist with 30 years of experience, I address a wide array of individual and relationship issues with a holistic perspective and concern for your overall, long-term well being. I provide EMDR, individual, couples and family therapy. In addition my LICDC allows me to help certain clients identify addictive or self destructive patterns and relationships. Working together we can move towards self awareness and self improvement that positively impacts all areas of ones life.
I am a Marriage and Family Therapist with 30 years of experience, I address a wide array of individual and relationship issues with a holistic perspective and concern for your overall, long-term well being. I provide EMDR, individual, couples and family therapy. In addition my LICDC allows me to help certain clients identify addictive or self destructive patterns and relationships. Working together we can move towards self awareness and self improvement that positively impacts all areas of ones life.
![Photo of Leslie LaFleur, PsyD, ATR, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/42abbbcd-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Individual therapy offers a non-judgemental space for you to learn more about yourself and the issues that are troubling to you. Central to my practice is a supportive and trusting relationship in which you can feel valued, respected, and worthy. I will be with you throughout the process, offering my support, encouragement, and candid observations. Facing these issues can be intimidating and seeking help takes courage. Whether you work with me or another professional, I am glad you are beginning this journey.
Individual therapy offers a non-judgemental space for you to learn more about yourself and the issues that are troubling to you. Central to my practice is a supportive and trusting relationship in which you can feel valued, respected, and worthy. I will be with you throughout the process, offering my support, encouragement, and candid observations. Facing these issues can be intimidating and seeking help takes courage. Whether you work with me or another professional, I am glad you are beginning this journey.
![Photo of Jharie D. Parker, LPCC-S, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/acc34d15-65e2-4583-a8b5-eaaa17c8138d/3/320x400.jpeg)
Additionally, I have experience with those struggling in their (Christian) faith and wanting to heal their relationship with God.
These days, there seems more and more to be anxious about and hope can feel scarce. Between societal issues, racial trauma, the pressures of “adulting”, and navigating challenging relationships, we all need a safe space. Counseling can be that safe space. If you are ready to cultivate an improved quality of life, healthier relationships, or if you just need support dealing with life’s challenges, I’m here to journey with you. I’m passionate about hearing people’s stories and helping to create meaning. Additionally, if you are a counselor looking to develop professionally, I offer clinical supervision.
Additionally, I have experience with those struggling in their (Christian) faith and wanting to heal their relationship with God.
These days, there seems more and more to be anxious about and hope can feel scarce. Between societal issues, racial trauma, the pressures of “adulting”, and navigating challenging relationships, we all need a safe space. Counseling can be that safe space. If you are ready to cultivate an improved quality of life, healthier relationships, or if you just need support dealing with life’s challenges, I’m here to journey with you. I’m passionate about hearing people’s stories and helping to create meaning. Additionally, if you are a counselor looking to develop professionally, I offer clinical supervision.
![Photo of Suzana Figueira, MA, LPCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4055cb90-5194-4f84-90dc-f4c2d3f5cd3e/2/320x400.png)
The most important aspect of my work is building a therapeutic relationship with you the client. The goal is for you to move towards self-awareness, to become free of misconceptions and to become aligned within your total self. I have developed a warm, centered approach to counseling through more than 20 years of experience, counseling in agencies and private practice. I also conduct my sessions in Spanish and Portuguese. My goal is to provide a safe and welcoming environment where you'll feel comfortable exploring your thoughts and feelings and developing your strengths to achieve your goals. Currently offering Tele health .
The most important aspect of my work is building a therapeutic relationship with you the client. The goal is for you to move towards self-awareness, to become free of misconceptions and to become aligned within your total self. I have developed a warm, centered approach to counseling through more than 20 years of experience, counseling in agencies and private practice. I also conduct my sessions in Spanish and Portuguese. My goal is to provide a safe and welcoming environment where you'll feel comfortable exploring your thoughts and feelings and developing your strengths to achieve your goals. Currently offering Tele health .
15 Second Videos
Jill Gilberd - Couples and Marriage Therapy
David deBardelaben-Phillips
Samantha Chadwell
Adam Qin
Jeff Goad
Brian Strozewski
Alissa Pease
Veronica Fabec
Cornerstone Behavioral Health
Yub Kim
Cornerstone Behavioral Health
Kristi Anderson Wilson
Rebecca White
Michael Wilson
Caleb Folkerts
Live Well Counseling
Rebekah Watkins
Emily Pohorence
Michael Boyce
Jerome Cash
Sam Kuntz
Fay L Hahn
![Photo of David deBardelaben-Phillips, CCEP, MEd, BBA, RM](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e9d2816-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Couples who are struggling are provided support to navigate challenges, improve communication, and strengthen their relationship.
We all need support at different times in life. Many clients seek help when their current way of dealing with life's challenges no longer works. With a caring, non-judgmental & solution-focused approach, we will explore your issues, concerns and challenges in a safe environment. The most effective way to create change is to uncover root causes & start the healing from the deepest emotional level. Somatics and energy work offer a holistic solution encompassing body, mind, spirit, will & emotions. We combine the Core Energetics evolutionary process with Reiki energy treatments and coaching to help create a balance for clients.
Couples who are struggling are provided support to navigate challenges, improve communication, and strengthen their relationship.
We all need support at different times in life. Many clients seek help when their current way of dealing with life's challenges no longer works. With a caring, non-judgmental & solution-focused approach, we will explore your issues, concerns and challenges in a safe environment. The most effective way to create change is to uncover root causes & start the healing from the deepest emotional level. Somatics and energy work offer a holistic solution encompassing body, mind, spirit, will & emotions. We combine the Core Energetics evolutionary process with Reiki energy treatments and coaching to help create a balance for clients.
![Photo of Kira Hayes, MA, IMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ec4ba3be-9918-4ad7-a88f-b7d0e072623f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kira Hayes
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, IMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lakewood, OH 44107 (Online Only)
I specialize, with personal and professional experience, in working with gender, sexual/affectional and relationship structure (LGBTQ+/CNM/BDSM) communities.
Immediate availability! - Hi! As a queer identifying, Native, and ADHD diagnosed therapist, I deeply value the significance of knowledgeable and affirming care. Creating a space where you feel at home, truly understood and respected is of utmost importance to me. Let's team up and make therapy a journey where you can freely explore concerns and challenges, deepen effective communication and connection, and experience growth. My approach to therapy is collaborative, interactive, and firmly grounded in up-to-date evidence-based practices, ensuring a tailored and effective experience for you.
I specialize, with personal and professional experience, in working with gender, sexual/affectional and relationship structure (LGBTQ+/CNM/BDSM) communities.
Immediate availability! - Hi! As a queer identifying, Native, and ADHD diagnosed therapist, I deeply value the significance of knowledgeable and affirming care. Creating a space where you feel at home, truly understood and respected is of utmost importance to me. Let's team up and make therapy a journey where you can freely explore concerns and challenges, deepen effective communication and connection, and experience growth. My approach to therapy is collaborative, interactive, and firmly grounded in up-to-date evidence-based practices, ensuring a tailored and effective experience for you.
![Photo of Elizabeth Anthony, PhD, MSW, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9880103c-b628-42ca-8d0f-8413323c7589/3/320x400.jpeg)
Elizabeth Anthony
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, MSW, LISW
Verified Verified
Lakewood, OH 44107 (Online Only)
I work with adolescents, college students, and adults facing the challenges of daily life, relationship stress, life transitions, crises, or a general sense of ‘stuckness.
There are times when it seems life will unravel if you look too closely at the circumstances and parts of yourself you’ve worked hard to ignore. Yet, the life you’ve curated has become untenable. You’re faced with a choice: withstand this vague, nagging sense of anxiety and disconnection or find a way to explore the possibility of something new. I believe we all have within us the capacity to lead rich, meaningful lives.
I work with adolescents, college students, and adults facing the challenges of daily life, relationship stress, life transitions, crises, or a general sense of ‘stuckness.
There are times when it seems life will unravel if you look too closely at the circumstances and parts of yourself you’ve worked hard to ignore. Yet, the life you’ve curated has become untenable. You’re faced with a choice: withstand this vague, nagging sense of anxiety and disconnection or find a way to explore the possibility of something new. I believe we all have within us the capacity to lead rich, meaningful lives.
![Photo of Megan Davis-Diggins, MA, LPCC-S, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7f36393b-27c5-4a82-aeb0-9771e1723b9b/1/320x400.jpeg)
I believe in building a relationship with my clients where they feel safe and accepted, yet challenged and empowered to grow. People seek therapy when they are struggling in a current relationship, or are having trouble relating to a partner in a mentally healthy way. When we realize that we choose everything we say or do, then we have the power to make choices to have the quality relationships we desire. I help my clients make the choices needed to have happy relationships.
I believe in building a relationship with my clients where they feel safe and accepted, yet challenged and empowered to grow. People seek therapy when they are struggling in a current relationship, or are having trouble relating to a partner in a mentally healthy way. When we realize that we choose everything we say or do, then we have the power to make choices to have the quality relationships we desire. I help my clients make the choices needed to have happy relationships.
![Photo of Samantha Komertz, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d2836a95-ad38-4139-944b-1226aecc7018/1/320x400.jpeg)
Samantha Komertz
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lakewood, OH 44107
I specialize in working with young adults struggling with adjustment, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, stress management, and relationship issues.
Life can be difficult and it’s not uncommon to feel stressed, anxious or a sense of helplessness. There is no need to face these overwhelming emotions alone. My goal is to create a safe and nonjudgmental environment for you to express your thoughts, emotions, and life experiences.
I specialize in working with young adults struggling with adjustment, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, stress management, and relationship issues.
Life can be difficult and it’s not uncommon to feel stressed, anxious or a sense of helplessness. There is no need to face these overwhelming emotions alone. My goal is to create a safe and nonjudgmental environment for you to express your thoughts, emotions, and life experiences.
![Photo of Megan M Seaman, PhD, LPC, RYT, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/abbadde6-1010-4f24-95e6-3b24bd8c1a53/1/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome and thank you for your trust and confidence in allowing me, Dr. Megan Seaman, to serve you in the therapeutic relationship that we will form in the areas that are important to you! I have had 19 years of experience counseling clients in a variety of settings, which includes working with individuals, couples, families, and groups. I am trained and qualified to work with most diagnoses and life situations including, but not limited to anxiety and stress, depression, grief and loss, trauma, developmental transitions, gender and sexual identity development, career exploration, feminist and social justice issues, and mindfulness.
Welcome and thank you for your trust and confidence in allowing me, Dr. Megan Seaman, to serve you in the therapeutic relationship that we will form in the areas that are important to you! I have had 19 years of experience counseling clients in a variety of settings, which includes working with individuals, couples, families, and groups. I am trained and qualified to work with most diagnoses and life situations including, but not limited to anxiety and stress, depression, grief and loss, trauma, developmental transitions, gender and sexual identity development, career exploration, feminist and social justice issues, and mindfulness.
![Photo of Michael Crowdes, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/69e6cfa1-7f15-4479-90de-19068a4f7917/2/320x400.jpeg)
Now Accepting New Clients - I am passionate about helping people break through difficulties that have been holding them back from feeling happy and hopeful. I work with people who are dealing with significant life changes, both personal and professional, relationship issues, and people who are searching for better insight into themselves, or a greater sense of purpose. One of my specialties is working with clients suffering from grief or loss.
Now Accepting New Clients - I am passionate about helping people break through difficulties that have been holding them back from feeling happy and hopeful. I work with people who are dealing with significant life changes, both personal and professional, relationship issues, and people who are searching for better insight into themselves, or a greater sense of purpose. One of my specialties is working with clients suffering from grief or loss.
![Photo of Megan Berg Donnelly, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d2677115-7162-4d9d-90bb-eb983a55fa8d/2/320x400.jpeg)
In addition to my specialties I work with adolescents (16+) and adults struggling with anxiety, depression, difficult life transitions, relationship difficulties, grief and loss.
Life brings challenges and hardships often leaving us feeling stuck and overwhelmed. You do not have to be alone in your struggles, and I am committed to working together to help you reach your goals. I place a high value on the therapeutic relationship, offering a safe, empathetic , judgement-free space to help you identify barriers and emotions that are holding you back, facilitating growth and self-awareness along the way. My mission is to empower client's to make change and create more meaning in their lives.
In addition to my specialties I work with adolescents (16+) and adults struggling with anxiety, depression, difficult life transitions, relationship difficulties, grief and loss.
Life brings challenges and hardships often leaving us feeling stuck and overwhelmed. You do not have to be alone in your struggles, and I am committed to working together to help you reach your goals. I place a high value on the therapeutic relationship, offering a safe, empathetic , judgement-free space to help you identify barriers and emotions that are holding you back, facilitating growth and self-awareness along the way. My mission is to empower client's to make change and create more meaning in their lives.
![Photo of undefined - Queer Owned & Staffed - Affirming Pathways, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/feb415ba-517a-4e7b-97da-9082910febe9/3/320x400.jpeg)
Queer Owned & Staffed - Affirming Pathways
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lakewood, OH 44107
We're here to assist with challenges including, but not limited to, finding your authentic self, navigating gender, sexual/affectional, and relationship diverse minority stressors, disclosures, LGBTQ+ family support, any relational topics, ethical non-monogamy, Kink/BDSM, trauma, Neurodiversity (we have diagnosed clinicians), and more!.
We have -immediate- availability with multiple therapists and offer FREE video consults to help you find the best fit! As a Queer-Owned and staffed group practice, we focus on supporting gender, sexual/affectional, and relationship structure diverse communities (LGBTQ+), including ethical non-monogamy, BDSM/Kink, etc. Our priority is fostering a therapeutic space where everyone feels safe, respected, and truly understood. We deeply value providing knowledgeable and affirming mental healthcare for all individuals, relationships, families, and youth.
We're here to assist with challenges including, but not limited to, finding your authentic self, navigating gender, sexual/affectional, and relationship diverse minority stressors, disclosures, LGBTQ+ family support, any relational topics, ethical non-monogamy, Kink/BDSM, trauma, Neurodiversity (we have diagnosed clinicians), and more!.
We have -immediate- availability with multiple therapists and offer FREE video consults to help you find the best fit! As a Queer-Owned and staffed group practice, we focus on supporting gender, sexual/affectional, and relationship structure diverse communities (LGBTQ+), including ethical non-monogamy, BDSM/Kink, etc. Our priority is fostering a therapeutic space where everyone feels safe, respected, and truly understood. We deeply value providing knowledgeable and affirming mental healthcare for all individuals, relationships, families, and youth.
See more therapy options for Lakewood
Nearby Relationship Issues Therapists Searches for Lakewood
- Bay Village
- Berea
- Brook Park
- Brooklyn
- Cleveland
- Fairview Park
- Middleburg Heights
- North Olmsted
- Parma
- Parma Heights
- Rocky River
- Westlake
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.