Relationship Issues Therapists in Buckman, Portland, OR

Photo of Dani Lutzow, Pre-Licensed Professional
Dani Lutzow
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Buckman, Portland, OR 97214  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Areas that bring people into my practice include relationship issues; anxiety and depression; healing from loss or trauma; building social skills and self-esteem; family and early life issues; difficulties at home or school.
I am seeing new clients! I know how therapy can be: hard, rough, crying, happiness, wisdom, and finding who you are with your body, mind, emotions, and spirit. Together we can find a path that feels healthy and healing. We will find those brick walls on that path and smash them with our hulk hands. I work with clients to develop their strengths into powerful tools. I provide individual therapy and counseling sessions to individuals aged 18 and older. I have a particular passion and expertise in grief/bereavement/loss, trauma, anxiety, existentialism, and depression disorders.
Areas that bring people into my practice include relationship issues; anxiety and depression; healing from loss or trauma; building social skills and self-esteem; family and early life issues; difficulties at home or school.
I am seeing new clients! I know how therapy can be: hard, rough, crying, happiness, wisdom, and finding who you are with your body, mind, emotions, and spirit. Together we can find a path that feels healthy and healing. We will find those brick walls on that path and smash them with our hulk hands. I work with clients to develop their strengths into powerful tools. I provide individual therapy and counseling sessions to individuals aged 18 and older. I have a particular passion and expertise in grief/bereavement/loss, trauma, anxiety, existentialism, and depression disorders.
(503) 461-7658 View (503) 461-7658
Photo of Emily Kittelson, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Emily Kittelson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Buckman, Portland, OR 97214  (Online Only)
I work with individual adults who are looking to break old patterns, challenge their assumptions, have better relationships, and live life in alignment with their true values. I want to help you explore these patterns and develop curiosity about where they are rooted, so that you can start making new choices about how to respond to familiar feelings. I aim to help you get un-stuck and build a more flexible relationship with your emotions and automatic thoughts. Let's work together to build new neural pathways and learn to cope with all of life's vast unknowns.
I work with individual adults who are looking to break old patterns, challenge their assumptions, have better relationships, and live life in alignment with their true values. I want to help you explore these patterns and develop curiosity about where they are rooted, so that you can start making new choices about how to respond to familiar feelings. I aim to help you get un-stuck and build a more flexible relationship with your emotions and automatic thoughts. Let's work together to build new neural pathways and learn to cope with all of life's vast unknowns.
(503) 966-5137 View (503) 966-5137
Photo of Paula Emerick, LMFT, CADC I, Marriage & Family Therapist
Paula Emerick
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CADC I
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Buckman, Portland, OR 97214  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My specialties include addiction and recovery, relationship dynamics (couples, poly, open, kink), LGBTQIAA identity, family of origin, SPMI, sex work, and healing from trauma.
I believe the most important parts of therapy are trust and collaboration. You'll know immediately if the therapist is right for you. If you don't feel it, keep looking. There's a lot of us therapists out here and your time and self-work are important! Additionally, at our most vulnerable times in life, we need someone who will hold a safe space for us to approach our edges - the parts of us we tend to avoid or neglect. Addressing our 'issues' is intensely brave and can also be terrifying! I commend you for embarking on this journey and invite you to call me if my words resonate with your needs.
My specialties include addiction and recovery, relationship dynamics (couples, poly, open, kink), LGBTQIAA identity, family of origin, SPMI, sex work, and healing from trauma.
I believe the most important parts of therapy are trust and collaboration. You'll know immediately if the therapist is right for you. If you don't feel it, keep looking. There's a lot of us therapists out here and your time and self-work are important! Additionally, at our most vulnerable times in life, we need someone who will hold a safe space for us to approach our edges - the parts of us we tend to avoid or neglect. Addressing our 'issues' is intensely brave and can also be terrifying! I commend you for embarking on this journey and invite you to call me if my words resonate with your needs.
(971) 260-4121 View (971) 260-4121
Photo of Holly Wigmore, MS, NCC
Holly Wigmore
Professional Counselor Associate, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
Buckman, Portland, OR 97214  (Online Only)
Having a trusting, safe, and nonjudgmental relationship with your therapist is an essential component of the therapy process.
Looking for a therapist can be overwhelming - especially if you are feeling overwhelmed in the first place! Maybe you are experiencing anxiety, feelings of hopelessness, or can't quite put a finger on what you are feeling. Maybe you have experiences with PTSD, trauma, or dissociation. Maybe you've been on a path of healing for a long time, or maybe you just started today. I want to support your connection to your own innate inner wisdom that holds the keys to healing the wounds that keep you from where you want to be or where you want to go next.
Having a trusting, safe, and nonjudgmental relationship with your therapist is an essential component of the therapy process.
Looking for a therapist can be overwhelming - especially if you are feeling overwhelmed in the first place! Maybe you are experiencing anxiety, feelings of hopelessness, or can't quite put a finger on what you are feeling. Maybe you have experiences with PTSD, trauma, or dissociation. Maybe you've been on a path of healing for a long time, or maybe you just started today. I want to support your connection to your own innate inner wisdom that holds the keys to healing the wounds that keep you from where you want to be or where you want to go next.
(503) 907-6890 View (503) 907-6890
Photo of Erin Axelrod, MA
Erin Axelrod
Professional Counselor Associate, MA
Verified Verified
Buckman, Portland, OR 97214  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Above all, I believe in the healing potential of the therapeutic relationship and will always meet you and your experience with acceptance and authenticity.
I love working with individuals who want to learn deeply about themselves and heal their relationships - relationships with others, and with the parts of themselves that exist within. At the core of my work is the belief that the struggles we face hold wisdom about what is needed. When we can acknowledge what we feel with compassion, that wisdom has space to reveal itself and point us toward change. Sometimes this work feels scary. That's okay! In therapy, we can feel fear and still proceed, knowing we have the support we need to help us face and embrace what is discovered, and help us find guidance or insight where we feel stuck.
Above all, I believe in the healing potential of the therapeutic relationship and will always meet you and your experience with acceptance and authenticity.
I love working with individuals who want to learn deeply about themselves and heal their relationships - relationships with others, and with the parts of themselves that exist within. At the core of my work is the belief that the struggles we face hold wisdom about what is needed. When we can acknowledge what we feel with compassion, that wisdom has space to reveal itself and point us toward change. Sometimes this work feels scary. That's okay! In therapy, we can feel fear and still proceed, knowing we have the support we need to help us face and embrace what is discovered, and help us find guidance or insight where we feel stuck.
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Photo of Lindsay Walker - Bridgetown Sex Therapy, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Bridgetown Sex Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Buckman, Portland, OR 97214  (Online Only)
While I specialize in sex therapy, I work with a variety of issues including sexuality, gender identity, depression, anxiety, relationship problems, communication, parenting, abuse, grief, trauma, and ADHD.
Do you struggle with issues related to sex, sexuality, and gender identity? I have worked to specialize in these issues which are frequently considered taboo. I strive to provide a safe and accepting environment for my clients to discover more about their sexuality/gender identity, transform it into what they want, and affirm who they are. Finding someone you feel comfortable talking to is hard, so I hope to make it a little easier by offering a free consultation to make sure we are a good fit.
While I specialize in sex therapy, I work with a variety of issues including sexuality, gender identity, depression, anxiety, relationship problems, communication, parenting, abuse, grief, trauma, and ADHD.
Do you struggle with issues related to sex, sexuality, and gender identity? I have worked to specialize in these issues which are frequently considered taboo. I strive to provide a safe and accepting environment for my clients to discover more about their sexuality/gender identity, transform it into what they want, and affirm who they are. Finding someone you feel comfortable talking to is hard, so I hope to make it a little easier by offering a free consultation to make sure we are a good fit.
(503) 893-8879 View (503) 893-8879
Photo of Karen Stallwood, PsyD, Psychologist
Karen Stallwood
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Buckman, Portland, OR 97214  (Online Only)
I specialize in the treatment of anxiety, depression, relationship problems, work-related stress, and abusive relationships--just to name a few. My approach to treatment is primarily present focused because I believe that unresolved issues from our past end up repeating themselves in our current relationships. Together we will explore the ways that your thoughts, feelings, and actions affect your mood and the way you experience the world.
I specialize in the treatment of anxiety, depression, relationship problems, work-related stress, and abusive relationships--just to name a few. My approach to treatment is primarily present focused because I believe that unresolved issues from our past end up repeating themselves in our current relationships. Together we will explore the ways that your thoughts, feelings, and actions affect your mood and the way you experience the world.
(503) 658-9286 View (503) 658-9286
Photo of Sarah Sumner, C-YT
Sarah Sumner
Clinical Social Worker Associate, C-YT
Verified Verified
Buckman, Portland, OR 97214  (Online Only)
I love to help people move from shame-based to a pleasure-centered relationship to their sexuality.
From personal and professional experience I know how hard it can be to navigate difficult circumstances without support- and I’m so glad you’re here. I enjoy working with a range of clients and specialize in assisting individuals and couples who are neurodivergent, LGBTQ+, and/or adult survivors of complex trauma and their partners navigate anxiety, depression, communication issues, and cultivate healthy sexuality. I am also kink/BDSM affirming and poly/ethical non-monogamy affirming.
I love to help people move from shame-based to a pleasure-centered relationship to their sexuality.
From personal and professional experience I know how hard it can be to navigate difficult circumstances without support- and I’m so glad you’re here. I enjoy working with a range of clients and specialize in assisting individuals and couples who are neurodivergent, LGBTQ+, and/or adult survivors of complex trauma and their partners navigate anxiety, depression, communication issues, and cultivate healthy sexuality. I am also kink/BDSM affirming and poly/ethical non-monogamy affirming.
(503) 212-6551 View (503) 212-6551
Photo of Aaron P Miller, PsyD, Psychologist
Aaron P Miller
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Buckman, Portland, OR 97214
With over two decades of experience in mental health, I've had the privilege of walking alongside individuals, couples, and families as they navigate relationship challenges, work-related worries, personal losses, and the twists and turns of life's journey.
As a compassionate clinical psychologist, I understand that life's journey can be challenging. The weight of daily struggles and the echoes of past events can sometimes become overwhelming, leaving you feeling adrift in a sea of confusion, stress, and exhaustion. It's okay to acknowledge these feelings – they're a natural part of being human. However, it's also important to know that you don't have to face them alone. In times of uncertainty and turmoil, psychotherapy offers a path towards clarity, freedom, and relief.
With over two decades of experience in mental health, I've had the privilege of walking alongside individuals, couples, and families as they navigate relationship challenges, work-related worries, personal losses, and the twists and turns of life's journey.
As a compassionate clinical psychologist, I understand that life's journey can be challenging. The weight of daily struggles and the echoes of past events can sometimes become overwhelming, leaving you feeling adrift in a sea of confusion, stress, and exhaustion. It's okay to acknowledge these feelings – they're a natural part of being human. However, it's also important to know that you don't have to face them alone. In times of uncertainty and turmoil, psychotherapy offers a path towards clarity, freedom, and relief.
(503) 395-3957 View (503) 395-3957
Photo of Ben Mosebach, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ben Mosebach
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Buckman, Portland, OR 97214
Whether you're dealing with relationship issues, work stress, anxiety, depression, life transitions or simply feeling stuck, I'm here to support you.
Hey there, I'm Ben Mosebach and I'm not your typical therapist. I'm not here to offer you clichés or empty promises. What I offer is authenticity and the potential to profoundly impact your life. My approach to therapy is straightforward and down-to-earth. Theoretically I am rooted in the humanistic perspectives encompassing aspects of existentialism, gestalt and person centered therapy. But I'm not interested in wasting your time with superficial chatter or jargon-filled language. I'm here to roll up my sleeves and get to work with you, tackling whatever challenges you're facing head-on.
Whether you're dealing with relationship issues, work stress, anxiety, depression, life transitions or simply feeling stuck, I'm here to support you.
Hey there, I'm Ben Mosebach and I'm not your typical therapist. I'm not here to offer you clichés or empty promises. What I offer is authenticity and the potential to profoundly impact your life. My approach to therapy is straightforward and down-to-earth. Theoretically I am rooted in the humanistic perspectives encompassing aspects of existentialism, gestalt and person centered therapy. But I'm not interested in wasting your time with superficial chatter or jargon-filled language. I'm here to roll up my sleeves and get to work with you, tackling whatever challenges you're facing head-on.
(503) 564-7929 View (503) 564-7929
Photo of Christopher G Marquardt - cgm counseling, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
cgm counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Buckman, Portland, OR 97214
Which type of clients typically choose to contact me? Those feeling isolated in today's technological society. Couples seeking support managing their relationship. Those considering a change in their career, lifestyle or geography. People curious about the impact of their level of substance use. Creatives curious how to make meaning and the most out of their talents. People bothered by social connections or difficult people in their lives. Parents negotiating how to remain loving while setting boundaries. Those seeking a deeper spiritual connection.
Which type of clients typically choose to contact me? Those feeling isolated in today's technological society. Couples seeking support managing their relationship. Those considering a change in their career, lifestyle or geography. People curious about the impact of their level of substance use. Creatives curious how to make meaning and the most out of their talents. People bothered by social connections or difficult people in their lives. Parents negotiating how to remain loving while setting boundaries. Those seeking a deeper spiritual connection.
(971) 203-0760 View (971) 203-0760
Photo of Abby Hall, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Abby Hall
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Buckman, Portland, OR 97214
Have you had desires of what your sex life or relationships could look like, but never known how to make that a reality? Do you find yourself stuck in navigating relationships with others of varying sexual orientations or sexual lifestyles? Perhaps you struggle with communicating and navigating those differences in desire or needs with your partners. Whether that is an addition of a new partner, a child, a new dynamic in your relationship, or not feeling your most authentic self in your sexuality or relationships, you are ready to take that next step and embrace your identity and sexuality in this phase of your life.
Have you had desires of what your sex life or relationships could look like, but never known how to make that a reality? Do you find yourself stuck in navigating relationships with others of varying sexual orientations or sexual lifestyles? Perhaps you struggle with communicating and navigating those differences in desire or needs with your partners. Whether that is an addition of a new partner, a child, a new dynamic in your relationship, or not feeling your most authentic self in your sexuality or relationships, you are ready to take that next step and embrace your identity and sexuality in this phase of your life.
(971) 265-8082 View (971) 265-8082
Photo of Kristina Houck, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kristina Houck
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Buckman, Portland, OR 97214
In our work together, you can expect radical genuineness, empathy, and - likely - a bit of light-hearted humor, as we foster a relationship of acceptance and trust.
Are you dealing with transitions in your life, loss of relationship, struggling with work or school, or discerning your personal values or spiritual beliefs? Are some of your struggles more long standing - having ongoing painful thoughts and feelings that interfere with your sense of self, relationships, or ability to experience life as you desire? Do you desire to feel less alone, gain perspective, and reorient to your true self? Through non-judgmental acceptance and awareness of thoughts and emotions, therapy can help us understand the pain we are experiencing, learn new ways of responding, and gain more joy in our life.
In our work together, you can expect radical genuineness, empathy, and - likely - a bit of light-hearted humor, as we foster a relationship of acceptance and trust.
Are you dealing with transitions in your life, loss of relationship, struggling with work or school, or discerning your personal values or spiritual beliefs? Are some of your struggles more long standing - having ongoing painful thoughts and feelings that interfere with your sense of self, relationships, or ability to experience life as you desire? Do you desire to feel less alone, gain perspective, and reorient to your true self? Through non-judgmental acceptance and awareness of thoughts and emotions, therapy can help us understand the pain we are experiencing, learn new ways of responding, and gain more joy in our life.
(503) 836-8959 View (503) 836-8959
Photo of Kristin Tand, LPC, LMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kristin Tand
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Buckman, Portland, OR 97214  (Online Only)
As an experienced IFS therapist, I can help you develop a deeper relationship to all parts of yourself and create greater Self compassion.
You're a woman who works hard, at work AND at home. But you still feel unsatisfied...in your relationship, friendships, or a lack of time. You're doing great professionally but feel like life isn't clicking into place everywhere else. You might not even remember a time things didn’t feel this way. But one thing's for sure: you’re ready for some relief. You’re ready to feel both accomplished at the end of the day and fulfilled with your home life. You’re ready to have time for YOU. And most of all, you’re ready for more connection - with yourself and your loved ones.
As an experienced IFS therapist, I can help you develop a deeper relationship to all parts of yourself and create greater Self compassion.
You're a woman who works hard, at work AND at home. But you still feel unsatisfied...in your relationship, friendships, or a lack of time. You're doing great professionally but feel like life isn't clicking into place everywhere else. You might not even remember a time things didn’t feel this way. But one thing's for sure: you’re ready for some relief. You’re ready to feel both accomplished at the end of the day and fulfilled with your home life. You’re ready to have time for YOU. And most of all, you’re ready for more connection - with yourself and your loved ones.
(503) 405-8779 View (503) 405-8779
Photo of Lauren Hoffman, PsyD, Psychologist
Lauren Hoffman
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Buckman, Portland, OR 97216
Waitlist for new clients
My values as a therapist are to provide non-judgmental, empathic, and culturally informed care, while emphasizing an environment founded on personal growth, openness, and honesty. I use a multi-faceted approach to therapy to best fit the unique needs of each client because I recognize one size does not fit all. I often work from a psychodynamic-relational stance, using the client-therapist relationship as a tool to increase my client’s awareness of interactions between self, others, and the world to improve decision-making and enhance life satisfaction.
My values as a therapist are to provide non-judgmental, empathic, and culturally informed care, while emphasizing an environment founded on personal growth, openness, and honesty. I use a multi-faceted approach to therapy to best fit the unique needs of each client because I recognize one size does not fit all. I often work from a psychodynamic-relational stance, using the client-therapist relationship as a tool to increase my client’s awareness of interactions between self, others, and the world to improve decision-making and enhance life satisfaction.
(503) 966-2587 View (503) 966-2587
Photo of Joey Ellen Kramer O'Connell, LPC, MFT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Joey Ellen Kramer O'Connell
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Buckman, Portland, OR 97214
My work with families focuses on the unique challenges of: adoption, involvement with the foster care system, the effect of children on the couples' relationship, co-parenting and shared custody, infertility, blended families, divorce/separation, behavior challenges specific to young children or children with developmental delays.
All families experience transitions, and even positive change can cause stress. I employ an eclectic approach with a strong emphasis on attachment, structural, and solution-focused family therapies. I work with young children and their caregivers to form secure attachments early on. This leads to more effective communication and problem solving patterns and a higher level of resilience down the road. My work tends to be short term and builds on the existing strengths of your family. My work with couples is attachment informed as we look at past and current relationships to elucidate our most fulfilling ways of connecting.
My work with families focuses on the unique challenges of: adoption, involvement with the foster care system, the effect of children on the couples' relationship, co-parenting and shared custody, infertility, blended families, divorce/separation, behavior challenges specific to young children or children with developmental delays.
All families experience transitions, and even positive change can cause stress. I employ an eclectic approach with a strong emphasis on attachment, structural, and solution-focused family therapies. I work with young children and their caregivers to form secure attachments early on. This leads to more effective communication and problem solving patterns and a higher level of resilience down the road. My work tends to be short term and builds on the existing strengths of your family. My work with couples is attachment informed as we look at past and current relationships to elucidate our most fulfilling ways of connecting.
(503) 766-5894 View (503) 766-5894
Photo of Heather Leilani Simpson, MA, LMFT-A, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Heather Leilani Simpson
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LMFT-A
Verified Verified
Buckman, Portland, OR 97214  (Online Only)
Whether you are struggling with stress, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, or any other concerns, you deserve a therapist who will be open and supportive yet willing to challenge you gently when needed.  With an approach that combines connection and boundaries, we can work together to help you find the agency you need to move through life with pleasure. I specialize in working with BIPOC, LGTBQIA, Polyamory/Non-Monogamous, and Kink/BDSM communities to provide comprehensive, evidence based, trauma informed, sex positive therapy, that meets the needs of sexual marginalized populations.
Whether you are struggling with stress, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, or any other concerns, you deserve a therapist who will be open and supportive yet willing to challenge you gently when needed.  With an approach that combines connection and boundaries, we can work together to help you find the agency you need to move through life with pleasure. I specialize in working with BIPOC, LGTBQIA, Polyamory/Non-Monogamous, and Kink/BDSM communities to provide comprehensive, evidence based, trauma informed, sex positive therapy, that meets the needs of sexual marginalized populations.
(503) 994-9547 View (503) 994-9547
Photo of Magda Permut, PhD, Psychologist
Magda Permut
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Buckman, Portland, OR 97214
Impossible is temporary. As a relational psychologist specializing in issues like trauma and addictions, I have learned this time and time again. The combination of a supportive relationship, motivation to change well-worn patterns, and clear, concrete guidance can lead to changes far beyond what people believe is possible. Sometimes it seems "impossible" to live a deeper, more connected existence. We may carry scars of rejection and betrayal that keep us from being our truest selves. We heal in the context of genuine, warm, accepting relationships that also encourage us to take risks. I so enjoy building these relationships.
Impossible is temporary. As a relational psychologist specializing in issues like trauma and addictions, I have learned this time and time again. The combination of a supportive relationship, motivation to change well-worn patterns, and clear, concrete guidance can lead to changes far beyond what people believe is possible. Sometimes it seems "impossible" to live a deeper, more connected existence. We may carry scars of rejection and betrayal that keep us from being our truest selves. We heal in the context of genuine, warm, accepting relationships that also encourage us to take risks. I so enjoy building these relationships.
(503) 616-2040 View (503) 616-2040
Photo of Shauna Raffety Schatz, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shauna Raffety Schatz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Buckman, Portland, OR 97214
I am experienced in helping clients make positive change in their lives, whether you are struggling with depression, anxiety, relationship problems, or just day-to-day life stressors. I am a LCSW in Oregon, Washington, and California. I have been in practice as a psychotherapist for more than 20 years and completed my training at University of Southern California.
I am experienced in helping clients make positive change in their lives, whether you are struggling with depression, anxiety, relationship problems, or just day-to-day life stressors. I am a LCSW in Oregon, Washington, and California. I have been in practice as a psychotherapist for more than 20 years and completed my training at University of Southern California.
(805) 316-4333 View (805) 316-4333
Photo of Lindsay Anderson, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lindsay Anderson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Buckman, Portland, OR 97214  (Online Only)
Does this resonate with you? You've been told you're "too sensitive" or "too emotional." You feel like you can't trust yourself to make decisions, because you always "screw it up" and your mind is constantly going, replaying memories or rehearsing for the future. You find yourself in similar unfulfilling relationship patterns that leave you questioning your worth and loveability. You lose yourself in relationships, putting others' needs before your own. You're questioning if it can ever really be different.
Does this resonate with you? You've been told you're "too sensitive" or "too emotional." You feel like you can't trust yourself to make decisions, because you always "screw it up" and your mind is constantly going, replaying memories or rehearsing for the future. You find yourself in similar unfulfilling relationship patterns that leave you questioning your worth and loveability. You lose yourself in relationships, putting others' needs before your own. You're questioning if it can ever really be different.
(971) 313-8572 View (971) 313-8572

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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.