Relationship Issues Therapists in Woodlawn, Portland, OR

Photo of Sarah K Small, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sarah K Small
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Woodlawn, Portland, OR 97219  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Do you feel anxious too much of the time? Exhausted, disconnected, without purpose or interest? Do you forfeit your own thoughts and feelings in relationship to others? Would you like to deal with difficulties more effectively than the unconscious impulses to comply, defy or flee? Whether it's a distinct problem or a vague discontent that needs resolution, I hold the space to illuminate, guide and empower your progression. This is where talk is strong medicine. Neuroscience reveals that therapy changes brain chemistry & structure. Habitual patterns fall away to a renewed sense of energy, choice and personal authority.
Do you feel anxious too much of the time? Exhausted, disconnected, without purpose or interest? Do you forfeit your own thoughts and feelings in relationship to others? Would you like to deal with difficulties more effectively than the unconscious impulses to comply, defy or flee? Whether it's a distinct problem or a vague discontent that needs resolution, I hold the space to illuminate, guide and empower your progression. This is where talk is strong medicine. Neuroscience reveals that therapy changes brain chemistry & structure. Habitual patterns fall away to a renewed sense of energy, choice and personal authority.
(503) 967-3168 View (503) 967-3168
Photo of Clista Prelle-Tworek, MS, LPC, CADCIII, Licensed Professional Counselor
Clista Prelle-Tworek
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CADCIII
Verified Verified
Woodlawn, Portland, OR 97217  (Online Only)
It is my privilege to support my clients as they develop a strong and positive relationship with self, others and life itself.
I wholeheartedly believe in the ability people have to change and grow when motivated, and with the right support and tools. Life experiences can lead us to believe things that may not be true about ourselves and others. This can cause negative feeling states that can make current daily challenges more difficult. Physical health concerns are important to address along with emotional needs since the person is a holistic system where every aspect influences the rest of the whole. Sustainability and safety are corner stones to a healthy lifestyle as well as openness to new ideas and activities.
It is my privilege to support my clients as they develop a strong and positive relationship with self, others and life itself.
I wholeheartedly believe in the ability people have to change and grow when motivated, and with the right support and tools. Life experiences can lead us to believe things that may not be true about ourselves and others. This can cause negative feeling states that can make current daily challenges more difficult. Physical health concerns are important to address along with emotional needs since the person is a holistic system where every aspect influences the rest of the whole. Sustainability and safety are corner stones to a healthy lifestyle as well as openness to new ideas and activities.
(971) 265-8751 View (971) 265-8751
Photo of Tim Anderson, PsyD, Psychologist
Tim Anderson
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Woodlawn, Portland, OR 97211
I value the relational dynamics of therapy to provide a relationship most conducive therapy.
I work collaboratively with folks by exploring thoughts, feelings, and actions. We will do this as a means gain insight and achieve wellness. We will also discuss tools and coping strategies to manage currents stressors and concerns. I am a licensed Clinical Psychologist. I hold a Doctorate degree in Clinical Psychology and Master’s degree in Counseling Psychology. I have practiced in the San Francisco, Central Pennsylvania, and Nebraska. I have been in Portland for the last 5 years
I value the relational dynamics of therapy to provide a relationship most conducive therapy.
I work collaboratively with folks by exploring thoughts, feelings, and actions. We will do this as a means gain insight and achieve wellness. We will also discuss tools and coping strategies to manage currents stressors and concerns. I am a licensed Clinical Psychologist. I hold a Doctorate degree in Clinical Psychology and Master’s degree in Counseling Psychology. I have practiced in the San Francisco, Central Pennsylvania, and Nebraska. I have been in Portland for the last 5 years
(503) 936-5067 View (503) 936-5067
Photo of Jessica Bowes, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jessica Bowes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Woodlawn, Portland, OR 97211
The relationship between a therapist and client is the foundation of transformation and I invite inquiries to see if we could be a good fit for one another.
My vision of successful therapy is that you feel at home in yourself and maintain that center as you engage with the world around you. You will experience more ease, compassion, connection, balance, expansiveness, and a clarity about who you are and where you stand in relation to the experiences that brought you to therapy to begin with. Your issues may include not feeling like yourself, feeling stuck, grieving a loss, feeling flat, numb, or disconnected, sensing that something is missing or off, struggling with identity or life transitions, being in need of support in parenting, or just sensing that this is important somehow.
The relationship between a therapist and client is the foundation of transformation and I invite inquiries to see if we could be a good fit for one another.
My vision of successful therapy is that you feel at home in yourself and maintain that center as you engage with the world around you. You will experience more ease, compassion, connection, balance, expansiveness, and a clarity about who you are and where you stand in relation to the experiences that brought you to therapy to begin with. Your issues may include not feeling like yourself, feeling stuck, grieving a loss, feeling flat, numb, or disconnected, sensing that something is missing or off, struggling with identity or life transitions, being in need of support in parenting, or just sensing that this is important somehow.
(971) 351-3316 View (971) 351-3316
Photo of Emily Adler, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Emily Adler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Woodlawn, Portland, OR 97211  (Online Only)
It is my experience that the most important indicator of success in therapy is the client/therapist relationship.
My passion is to connect with people. I have found supporting folks experiencing stress and anxiety in their lives is a calling of mine. If we work together, we will develop tools, identify thinking errors and work toward increasing your overall happiness. My focus is on finding solutions that work for you. Together we will work to build a foundation where you can access tools for happiness the rest of your life.
It is my experience that the most important indicator of success in therapy is the client/therapist relationship.
My passion is to connect with people. I have found supporting folks experiencing stress and anxiety in their lives is a calling of mine. If we work together, we will develop tools, identify thinking errors and work toward increasing your overall happiness. My focus is on finding solutions that work for you. Together we will work to build a foundation where you can access tools for happiness the rest of your life.
(971) 265-6937 View (971) 265-6937
Photo of Simone Levine, MA
Simone Levine
Professional Counselor Associate, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Woodlawn, Portland, OR 97211  (Online Only)
Adopting a relationship-centered approach, I embrace a holistic methodology that considers the entire spectrum of the human experience — body, mind, and spirit.
Imagine finally feeling like your true self, no longer overwhelmed or caught in a cycle of frustration from life's relentless challenges. Envision a space where supportive guidance gently unravels the burdens you've carried—be it relationship issues, stress, anxiety, the depths of depression, grief, or the shadows of past trauma—revealing the essence of who you are. I've been there too, caught in the same exhausting cycles that hold us back from truly living, and I understand the courage it takes to seek change. With a trauma-informed lens, I am deeply committed to guiding you through breaking free from life's overwhelming cycles.
Adopting a relationship-centered approach, I embrace a holistic methodology that considers the entire spectrum of the human experience — body, mind, and spirit.
Imagine finally feeling like your true self, no longer overwhelmed or caught in a cycle of frustration from life's relentless challenges. Envision a space where supportive guidance gently unravels the burdens you've carried—be it relationship issues, stress, anxiety, the depths of depression, grief, or the shadows of past trauma—revealing the essence of who you are. I've been there too, caught in the same exhausting cycles that hold us back from truly living, and I understand the courage it takes to seek change. With a trauma-informed lens, I am deeply committed to guiding you through breaking free from life's overwhelming cycles.
(971) 265-8403 View (971) 265-8403
Photo of Lynn Roberts, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lynn Roberts
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Woodlawn, Portland, OR 97217  (Online Only)
Licensed OR/FL/CA. Ready to unhook from unhelpful thoughts, connect and improve your relationships? Are you tired of feeling overwhelmed or ineffective? Do you struggle in your relationships? Moving through life without purpose? Experiencing stress with life transitions? Your issues don’t define who you are, although you may feel that way today. Are you looking for someone who listens with warmth, openly and without judgment, helps you manage the now and offers tools to help you live with meaning and clarity? We can discover your strengths and you CAN be your best self. See my website for full services.
Licensed OR/FL/CA. Ready to unhook from unhelpful thoughts, connect and improve your relationships? Are you tired of feeling overwhelmed or ineffective? Do you struggle in your relationships? Moving through life without purpose? Experiencing stress with life transitions? Your issues don’t define who you are, although you may feel that way today. Are you looking for someone who listens with warmth, openly and without judgment, helps you manage the now and offers tools to help you live with meaning and clarity? We can discover your strengths and you CAN be your best self. See my website for full services.
(503) 405-4720 View (503) 405-4720
Photo of Jessica M Feinsmith, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jessica M Feinsmith
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Woodlawn, Portland, OR 97221  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
You have hopes and desires but feel a lack of motivation, energy, purpose or interest. The things that once brought you relief or joy no longer do or have become the problem. The world no longer feels like a safe place. You know that getting support would be helpful but where do you begin and how do you trust a stranger. You long to find support from a caring, compassionate person to help you learn self acceptance, develop resilience and move forward in your life. For there to be peace on Earth, we must each find peace within. I especially enjoy working with young adults, HSPs, "late bloomers" and creative artists.
You have hopes and desires but feel a lack of motivation, energy, purpose or interest. The things that once brought you relief or joy no longer do or have become the problem. The world no longer feels like a safe place. You know that getting support would be helpful but where do you begin and how do you trust a stranger. You long to find support from a caring, compassionate person to help you learn self acceptance, develop resilience and move forward in your life. For there to be peace on Earth, we must each find peace within. I especially enjoy working with young adults, HSPs, "late bloomers" and creative artists.
(517) 994-1188 View (517) 994-1188
Photo of Annie Vail, MA, LPC, CHT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Annie Vail
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CHT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Woodlawn, Portland, OR 97211
I believe in your capacity to find the healing you seek and create the life you envision. Perhaps you are dealing with anxiety or depression, grieving the death of a loved one or a painful breakup, struggle with belonging, or just feel stuck and know that you are ready to do something about it. Do you want more intimacy, connection, and joy in your relationships? Let me help you uncover unconscious patterns and beliefs and heal from old wounds that may be keeping you from living from your best self. Together we can bring more love, capacity, skill, and presence into your relationships.
I believe in your capacity to find the healing you seek and create the life you envision. Perhaps you are dealing with anxiety or depression, grieving the death of a loved one or a painful breakup, struggle with belonging, or just feel stuck and know that you are ready to do something about it. Do you want more intimacy, connection, and joy in your relationships? Let me help you uncover unconscious patterns and beliefs and heal from old wounds that may be keeping you from living from your best self. Together we can bring more love, capacity, skill, and presence into your relationships.
(503) 966-9615 View (503) 966-9615
Photo of Kimberly Louvin, LCSW, LSSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kimberly Louvin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LSSW
Verified Verified
Woodlawn, Portland, OR 97211  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I work with teens, young adults, families, and other humans navigating the waves of life who need someone in their corner. I help all of us remember that it’s okay to feel, it’s okay to be scared, it’s okay to not know what the next right thing is, and it’s okay to ask for support. I love getting to know clients and helping you integrate your story in a way that helps you regain a sense of control over your emotions, experiences, and future.Sometimes, our stories have chapters we didn’t expect. I help you figure out how to navigate the anxiety, grief, anger, guilt, shame, and sense of overwhelm that can accompany life.
I work with teens, young adults, families, and other humans navigating the waves of life who need someone in their corner. I help all of us remember that it’s okay to feel, it’s okay to be scared, it’s okay to not know what the next right thing is, and it’s okay to ask for support. I love getting to know clients and helping you integrate your story in a way that helps you regain a sense of control over your emotions, experiences, and future.Sometimes, our stories have chapters we didn’t expect. I help you figure out how to navigate the anxiety, grief, anger, guilt, shame, and sense of overwhelm that can accompany life.
(971) 231-3471 View (971) 231-3471
Photo of Amanda Genus, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amanda Genus
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Woodlawn, Portland, OR 97211  (Online Only)
Start. Restore. Heal. I would like to assist you with gaining control over your life through building positive coping strategies to help you address current psychosocial adaptations and poor coping skills. My focus will help you to reduce your mental health symptoms by developing healthy life choices, positive coping skills, and improved self image. I can assist you in building positive relationships and connections. I am currently providing Telehealth therapeutic services for individuals, couples and families, seeking therapeutic support.
Start. Restore. Heal. I would like to assist you with gaining control over your life through building positive coping strategies to help you address current psychosocial adaptations and poor coping skills. My focus will help you to reduce your mental health symptoms by developing healthy life choices, positive coping skills, and improved self image. I can assist you in building positive relationships and connections. I am currently providing Telehealth therapeutic services for individuals, couples and families, seeking therapeutic support.
(971) 247-1218 View (971) 247-1218
Photo of Jennifer Bimberg - Jennifer Bimberg Counseling , LCSW, CADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer Bimberg Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC
Verified Verified
Woodlawn, Portland, OR 97211  (Online Only)
Is anxiety, depression, complex grief, or chronic stress preventing you from feeling present in your life? Have you done a lot of therapy but continue to find yourself feeling stuck, hopeless, or full of dread? Are you struggling with chronic health conditions that don't seem to respond to traditional interventions or can't be explained by conventional medicine? My time as a healing professional has reinforced the awareness that trauma and chronic stress are stored not just in our minds, but in our bodies and nervous systems as well. That is often why talk therapy is just not enough.
Is anxiety, depression, complex grief, or chronic stress preventing you from feeling present in your life? Have you done a lot of therapy but continue to find yourself feeling stuck, hopeless, or full of dread? Are you struggling with chronic health conditions that don't seem to respond to traditional interventions or can't be explained by conventional medicine? My time as a healing professional has reinforced the awareness that trauma and chronic stress are stored not just in our minds, but in our bodies and nervous systems as well. That is often why talk therapy is just not enough.
(503) 964-4999 View (503) 964-4999
Photo of Jay Hopkins, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jay Hopkins
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Woodlawn, Portland, OR 97217
We all get stuck sometimes; and we suffer. Life often feels messy and chaotic, and in the midst of "the daily grind" we experience ourselves as unbalanced, fragmented, and "all over the place." Life is perpetually full of transition and change; and our habituated ways of being in the world are often at odds with the ebb and flow of life's events, and we experience stress, conflict and pain. Despite our resources, strategies and efforts to cope with challenges, we often get stuck; and end up feeling dissatisfied with ourselves, disenchanted with others, and disconnected from life, vitality, joy.
We all get stuck sometimes; and we suffer. Life often feels messy and chaotic, and in the midst of "the daily grind" we experience ourselves as unbalanced, fragmented, and "all over the place." Life is perpetually full of transition and change; and our habituated ways of being in the world are often at odds with the ebb and flow of life's events, and we experience stress, conflict and pain. Despite our resources, strategies and efforts to cope with challenges, we often get stuck; and end up feeling dissatisfied with ourselves, disenchanted with others, and disconnected from life, vitality, joy.
(503) 577-8115 View (503) 577-8115
Photo of Amanda Ogle, LCSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amanda Ogle
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Woodlawn, Portland, OR 97211  (Online Only)
Therapy with me is relaxed and collaborative. I help people who are experiencing overwhelm, low mood, and anxiety find solutions to better weather life’s ups and downs. Depression, anxiety, and trauma can all lead to feelings of hopelessness and isolation. When life becomes too much, we can retreat into ourselves and shy away from our support networks. We may never have had much of a formal support network to begin with and we struggle to establish meaningful relationships due to past trauma. Or, perhaps you are struggling with vicarious trauma or burnout related to your work serving others?
Therapy with me is relaxed and collaborative. I help people who are experiencing overwhelm, low mood, and anxiety find solutions to better weather life’s ups and downs. Depression, anxiety, and trauma can all lead to feelings of hopelessness and isolation. When life becomes too much, we can retreat into ourselves and shy away from our support networks. We may never have had much of a formal support network to begin with and we struggle to establish meaningful relationships due to past trauma. Or, perhaps you are struggling with vicarious trauma or burnout related to your work serving others?
(971) 299-7631 View (971) 299-7631
Photo of Dr. Dominique Morisano, PhD, CPsych, Psychologist
Dr. Dominique Morisano
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Woodlawn, Portland, OR 97217  (Online Only)
I treat issues of mood and anxiety as well as more complex issues involving substance use and trauma. I also have special expertise in personal goal-setting; cannabis dependence; and creative, gifted, and/or talented youth and adults with mood, underachievement, or multipotentiality issues. I work from a harm-reduction perspective and use a holistic lens to address problems. Using a mix of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing, and a systems view, I assess and address sleep hygiene, daily habits, personal relationships, and coping skills, and incorporate mindfulness and exercise into all treatment planning.
I treat issues of mood and anxiety as well as more complex issues involving substance use and trauma. I also have special expertise in personal goal-setting; cannabis dependence; and creative, gifted, and/or talented youth and adults with mood, underachievement, or multipotentiality issues. I work from a harm-reduction perspective and use a holistic lens to address problems. Using a mix of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing, and a systems view, I assess and address sleep hygiene, daily habits, personal relationships, and coping skills, and incorporate mindfulness and exercise into all treatment planning.
(646) 846-0281 View (646) 846-0281
Photo of Liz Ramirez, LPC, LMHC, NCC, CADC II, Counselor
Liz Ramirez
Counselor, LPC, LMHC, NCC, CADC II
Verified Verified
Woodlawn, Portland, OR 97217  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
My passion has always been helping people who feel the need for change in their lives. I have extensive experience assisting clients with trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship distress, legal challenges, substance abuse & recovery issues, transition difficulties, and other life challenges. My approach is direct, yet compassionate and non-judgmental. I utilize an eclectic approach to therapy, and partner with clients to reach mutually agreed upon goals. I believe that you are an expert in your own life, and I am simply there to guide you and challenge you toward a happier, healthier version of yourself.
My passion has always been helping people who feel the need for change in their lives. I have extensive experience assisting clients with trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship distress, legal challenges, substance abuse & recovery issues, transition difficulties, and other life challenges. My approach is direct, yet compassionate and non-judgmental. I utilize an eclectic approach to therapy, and partner with clients to reach mutually agreed upon goals. I believe that you are an expert in your own life, and I am simply there to guide you and challenge you toward a happier, healthier version of yourself.
(360) 524-3530 View (360) 524-3530

Online Therapists

Photo of Tiffany Machia, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Tiffany Machia
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97202  (Online Only)
I am passionate about the work that I do and specialize in couples counseling, relationship issues, anxiety/stress management, life transitions, parenting/parental skill building, self-esteem and codependency.
Hi there! I know that finding the right therapist can be challenging, especially when things may already feel overwhelming and you're doing your best to keep your head above water. Life gets busy, relationships get strained, and it can be tough to juggle all of the different hats you wear. I believe that everyone has strengths and my goal is to empower clients to work through barriers that may lead them to be feeling stuck. I take a holistic, client-centered, directive approach with individuals and couples. I show up in sessions as my genuine self and hope to create an environment where my clients feel safe to do the same.
I am passionate about the work that I do and specialize in couples counseling, relationship issues, anxiety/stress management, life transitions, parenting/parental skill building, self-esteem and codependency.
Hi there! I know that finding the right therapist can be challenging, especially when things may already feel overwhelming and you're doing your best to keep your head above water. Life gets busy, relationships get strained, and it can be tough to juggle all of the different hats you wear. I believe that everyone has strengths and my goal is to empower clients to work through barriers that may lead them to be feeling stuck. I take a holistic, client-centered, directive approach with individuals and couples. I show up in sessions as my genuine self and hope to create an environment where my clients feel safe to do the same.
(503) 465-4935 View (503) 465-4935
Photo of Cassandra Gardner, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Cassandra Gardner
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97212  (Online Only)
When working with clients I prioritize the therapeutic relationship. We become a team working toward your goals, and I place significant value on honesty, authenticity, humor, compassion, validation, and accountability into our work together. Since starting my counseling practice I have worked with people of all ages and backgrounds experiencing various challenges including but not limited to anxiety, depression, OCD, trauma, gender dysphoria, grief, interpersonal issues, life transitions, adoption, self-esteem, bipolar II disorder, and more.
When working with clients I prioritize the therapeutic relationship. We become a team working toward your goals, and I place significant value on honesty, authenticity, humor, compassion, validation, and accountability into our work together. Since starting my counseling practice I have worked with people of all ages and backgrounds experiencing various challenges including but not limited to anxiety, depression, OCD, trauma, gender dysphoria, grief, interpersonal issues, life transitions, adoption, self-esteem, bipolar II disorder, and more.
(503) 966-8721 View (503) 966-8721
Photo of Desmond Cohen, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Desmond Cohen
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97232  (Online Only)
I provide a therapeutic approach that bridges evidence-based modalities with experiential practices to create a space and relationship where my clients can feel safe and take the risks we need to grow and learn.
Trying to be a happy, healthy, creative human in today’s world requires new skills to face new challenges. Overwhelming anxiety, depression, and relationship instability are often products of our ancient nervous system struggling to adapt to an environment with new rules, new pressures, and old wounds. As a species we are subjected to increasing pressure to perform, produce, and project a life that is at once effortless and perfect. The reality is far from this however, and humans need support, love, and patience in the face of failure in order to thrive.
I provide a therapeutic approach that bridges evidence-based modalities with experiential practices to create a space and relationship where my clients can feel safe and take the risks we need to grow and learn.
Trying to be a happy, healthy, creative human in today’s world requires new skills to face new challenges. Overwhelming anxiety, depression, and relationship instability are often products of our ancient nervous system struggling to adapt to an environment with new rules, new pressures, and old wounds. As a species we are subjected to increasing pressure to perform, produce, and project a life that is at once effortless and perfect. The reality is far from this however, and humans need support, love, and patience in the face of failure in order to thrive.
(971) 715-2675 View (971) 715-2675
Photo of Andrea Williams, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Andrea Williams
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97225  (Online Only)
If you're seeking clarity and healing for depression, anxiety, or relationship issues, I'm here to help.
Depression, anxiety, and relationship issues can profoundly impact your life, creating feelings of isolation and confusion. My practice is devoted to individuals seeking to understand and navigate these challenges. By exploring the intricacies of your experiences, we'll uncover the underlying causes of your feelings. Recognizing that understanding the 'why' behind your emotions is crucial, we delve into your past, particularly your family of origin, to identify patterns and sources of trauma, aiming to foster healing and growth.
If you're seeking clarity and healing for depression, anxiety, or relationship issues, I'm here to help.
Depression, anxiety, and relationship issues can profoundly impact your life, creating feelings of isolation and confusion. My practice is devoted to individuals seeking to understand and navigate these challenges. By exploring the intricacies of your experiences, we'll uncover the underlying causes of your feelings. Recognizing that understanding the 'why' behind your emotions is crucial, we delve into your past, particularly your family of origin, to identify patterns and sources of trauma, aiming to foster healing and growth.
(971) 290-6079 View (971) 290-6079

See more therapy options for Woodlawn, Portland

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.