Relationship Issues Therapists in Tigard, OR
![Photo of Eileen Brandt, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f7afd659-c8a4-4e34-a880-d28411d709d8/1/320x400.jpeg)
I find it meaningful to work with issues such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, childhood aggression and relationship distress.
I believe relationships shape our lives and our stories. They can be our greatest struggles, but also our greatest sources of meaning and joy. I work with children, couples and families, to manage challenges, process trauma, develop coping skills, and, so importantly, find connection points.
I find it meaningful to work with issues such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, childhood aggression and relationship distress.
I believe relationships shape our lives and our stories. They can be our greatest struggles, but also our greatest sources of meaning and joy. I work with children, couples and families, to manage challenges, process trauma, develop coping skills, and, so importantly, find connection points.
![Photo of Mary Cameron, LPC, LMFT, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c3a660e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
My goal is to increase communication between the couple to enhance their relationship.
Life is about relationships, with self, family, friends, co-workers and God. When we experience difficulties in one or more of these relationships it is helpful to seek counsel. I enjoy counseling with individuals or families to facilitate healthy relationships. I use Solution Focused/Strength Based and Cognitive Behavioral and draw from other theories to create the best course of counseling for each client.
My goal is to increase communication between the couple to enhance their relationship.
Life is about relationships, with self, family, friends, co-workers and God. When we experience difficulties in one or more of these relationships it is helpful to seek counsel. I enjoy counseling with individuals or families to facilitate healthy relationships. I use Solution Focused/Strength Based and Cognitive Behavioral and draw from other theories to create the best course of counseling for each client.
![Photo of Sharon Hale, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f69762e4-1012-48e9-adcd-4ff1ac73c446/2/320x400.jpeg)
Using Emotionally Focused Therapy, a proven method for repairing and building relationships, I help couples learn how to use conflict and communication to build their relationship and connect on a much deeper level.
It happened again, last night. You and your partner got into a big fight over something so small, you can’t even remember how it started. How did it get so big, so fast? You don’t know how to make it clear that you’re listening, you get it. You know you sound harsh, and that you’re defensive. But what else can you do? The past comes up, your character goes on trial, and whatever you say just makes things worse. And saying nothing feels like taking all the blame. You can’t let things go because you’ve done so much of that already. You’re in such a sensitive place that you’re losing hope, and that’s the scariest part.
Using Emotionally Focused Therapy, a proven method for repairing and building relationships, I help couples learn how to use conflict and communication to build their relationship and connect on a much deeper level.
It happened again, last night. You and your partner got into a big fight over something so small, you can’t even remember how it started. How did it get so big, so fast? You don’t know how to make it clear that you’re listening, you get it. You know you sound harsh, and that you’re defensive. But what else can you do? The past comes up, your character goes on trial, and whatever you say just makes things worse. And saying nothing feels like taking all the blame. You can’t let things go because you’ve done so much of that already. You’re in such a sensitive place that you’re losing hope, and that’s the scariest part.
![Photo of McKayla Dulski, LPCA, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/00390580-1729-429b-8622-225f81bd53a2/2/320x400.jpeg)
McKayla Dulski
Pre-Licensed Professional, LPCA
Verified Verified
Tigard, OR 97223
Waitlist for new clients
You are the expert of your own life experiences, and it is my goal to establish an authentic and empathetic relationship with you.
In therapy, I firmly believe in tailoring my approach to meet the unique needs and goals of each individual client, couple, or family. I take into consideration your personal beliefs about therapy, as well as the specific issues you are facing. Some of the theories I have worked with include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Art Therapy, Client Centered Therapy, Family Systems Approach, and Solution Focused Therapy.
You are the expert of your own life experiences, and it is my goal to establish an authentic and empathetic relationship with you.
In therapy, I firmly believe in tailoring my approach to meet the unique needs and goals of each individual client, couple, or family. I take into consideration your personal beliefs about therapy, as well as the specific issues you are facing. Some of the theories I have worked with include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Art Therapy, Client Centered Therapy, Family Systems Approach, and Solution Focused Therapy.
![Photo of Will Howell, MA, LPC, CCTP, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/876a08f6-475b-4a44-a6b9-ab8cac053a11/2/320x400.jpeg)
Will Howell
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CCTP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Tigard, OR 97223 (Online Only)
I specialize in anxiety, addiction, trauma, low self-esteem, emotional regulation and relationship issues.
It seems we often desire a sense of secure connection while also living in line with our authentic self. My therapeutic style is integrative and relational based, emphasizing mind-body work and self-compassion. My clients might experience: addiction, panic, worry, codependency, perfectionism, depression, impulsivity, interpersonal conflict, avoidance, attachment wounds, people pleasing, shame, trauma, loneliness, trouble relaxing, life adjustments, limiting core beliefs, mood swings. Client needs/goals might include: attunement, decreasing stress, learning to ground mindfully, building insight, coping and communication skills.
I specialize in anxiety, addiction, trauma, low self-esteem, emotional regulation and relationship issues.
It seems we often desire a sense of secure connection while also living in line with our authentic self. My therapeutic style is integrative and relational based, emphasizing mind-body work and self-compassion. My clients might experience: addiction, panic, worry, codependency, perfectionism, depression, impulsivity, interpersonal conflict, avoidance, attachment wounds, people pleasing, shame, trauma, loneliness, trouble relaxing, life adjustments, limiting core beliefs, mood swings. Client needs/goals might include: attunement, decreasing stress, learning to ground mindfully, building insight, coping and communication skills.
![Photo of Andrea Lynne Woodward, MFT-A, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8c7746da-3d41-4f7b-8e30-708bed9becb9/1/320x400.jpeg)
Andrea Lynne Woodward
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MFT-A
Verified Verified
Tigard, OR 97223 (Online Only)
Informed by two decades as an innovation consultant, business and life coach, Andrea specializes in helping individuals address anxiety, stress, depression, life transitions, weight loss, health challenges, family and relationship conflict. As a culturally sensitive Marriage and Family Therapy Associate, she aligns with challenges faced by LGBTQ+, polyamorous and Latinx communities. Bilingual in Spanish, Andrea enjoys working with Spanish-speaking clients. With over 12 years’ experience as a sex coach, Andrea helps women, men and couples to resolve obstacles to communication and intimacy.
Informed by two decades as an innovation consultant, business and life coach, Andrea specializes in helping individuals address anxiety, stress, depression, life transitions, weight loss, health challenges, family and relationship conflict. As a culturally sensitive Marriage and Family Therapy Associate, she aligns with challenges faced by LGBTQ+, polyamorous and Latinx communities. Bilingual in Spanish, Andrea enjoys working with Spanish-speaking clients. With over 12 years’ experience as a sex coach, Andrea helps women, men and couples to resolve obstacles to communication and intimacy.
![Photo of Michael Wilson, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dee9feec-e46b-4692-8a75-a8e8007a7680/2/320x400.jpeg)
Michael Wilson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Tigard, OR 97223
What was once an exciting and vibrant relationship has become stale and unfulfilling. You may feel like you don't know who your partner is anymore. Or who you are, for that matter. You aren't sure you're meeting your partner's needs, and you certainly aren't feeling as though they are meeting yours. You are probably wondering if it's possible for the two of you to ever be happy again. But you aren't ready to give up just yet.
What was once an exciting and vibrant relationship has become stale and unfulfilling. You may feel like you don't know who your partner is anymore. Or who you are, for that matter. You aren't sure you're meeting your partner's needs, and you certainly aren't feeling as though they are meeting yours. You are probably wondering if it's possible for the two of you to ever be happy again. But you aren't ready to give up just yet.
![Photo of David S Corse - David Corse, LPC: Psychotherapy., LPC, CADCIII, CGACII, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b26d527b-f634-4523-8c4b-5ef0d79e2d63/2/320x400.jpeg)
David Corse, LPC: Psychotherapy.
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CADCIII, CGACII
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Tigard, OR 97223
Challenges we encounter in our lives are indicators of being "stuck" in our personal and relational growth. Psychotherapy can help us get "unstuck".... My approach is process and relationally oriented - "solutions" can come from changing our relationships with ourselves and others in our lives, and restructuring ourselves as we work with our life challenges. Depression, anxiety, trauma, men's issues, relationship strain, addictions -substances/alcohol, gambling, shopping, pornography, gaming. My experience can be helpful - psychotherapist, crisis worker, clinical supervisor, administrator, manager, policy analyst and educator.
Challenges we encounter in our lives are indicators of being "stuck" in our personal and relational growth. Psychotherapy can help us get "unstuck".... My approach is process and relationally oriented - "solutions" can come from changing our relationships with ourselves and others in our lives, and restructuring ourselves as we work with our life challenges. Depression, anxiety, trauma, men's issues, relationship strain, addictions -substances/alcohol, gambling, shopping, pornography, gaming. My experience can be helpful - psychotherapist, crisis worker, clinical supervisor, administrator, manager, policy analyst and educator.
![Photo of Trudi Hanks - TruCourage LLC, MA](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f3abc4cd-3514-4210-a4e1-d2404baffe8e/3/320x400.jpeg)
TruCourage LLC
Professional Counselor Associate, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Tigard, OR 97223 (Online Only)
Research shows that anxiety, panic, and trauma are extremely treatable conditions with clear methods and a good relationship established.
It is normal to feel anxious when going through something hard. You may feel it has been a long time since you felt like yourself. You may wonder who you really are? You may feel blocked by the past and worried about the future. You want to feel better fast and to feel safe and secure inside and out. You want help and you want to know it is with someone who just gets you!
Research shows that anxiety, panic, and trauma are extremely treatable conditions with clear methods and a good relationship established.
It is normal to feel anxious when going through something hard. You may feel it has been a long time since you felt like yourself. You may wonder who you really are? You may feel blocked by the past and worried about the future. You want to feel better fast and to feel safe and secure inside and out. You want help and you want to know it is with someone who just gets you!
![Photo of Will Hale, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e82f6231-75c3-4430-9f44-c6283e706cff/2/320x400.jpeg)
You may feel unbalanced in your relationship, wondering "Do we want the same things?" "Are we still a team?" You may deal with it by reaching out repeatedly hoping your partner's response eases your concern. You care so much! Or you hope your partner gives you space to process because you don't always know what to do in the moment, but you do want things to get better! When these strategies don’t work, the relationship can start to feel stuck in a pattern neither of you want. In our counseling sessions, my goal is to help you find new patterns of deeper intimacy and stronger communication so you can enjoy the life you live together.
You may feel unbalanced in your relationship, wondering "Do we want the same things?" "Are we still a team?" You may deal with it by reaching out repeatedly hoping your partner's response eases your concern. You care so much! Or you hope your partner gives you space to process because you don't always know what to do in the moment, but you do want things to get better! When these strategies don’t work, the relationship can start to feel stuck in a pattern neither of you want. In our counseling sessions, my goal is to help you find new patterns of deeper intimacy and stronger communication so you can enjoy the life you live together.
![Photo of Babak Govan, PhD, MAOB, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b7eeb449-3635-4b00-8c5f-1a1461694d4a/1/320x400.jpeg)
I specialize in helping to manage and overcome self-defeating behaviors, relationship problems, depression, and anxiety.
Whether life is going well or you are struggling to feel well, therapy could be a helpful and powerful tool in moving forward. Finding the right therapist, however, could be overwhelming. With investments of energy, time, and money, it is important to select a therapist with whom you feel comfortable—someone that "gets" you and in whom you have trust and confidence. I enjoy helping adults understand their barriers and strengths to help them meet their goals in the various aspects of their lives, such as relationships, work, school, and health.
I specialize in helping to manage and overcome self-defeating behaviors, relationship problems, depression, and anxiety.
Whether life is going well or you are struggling to feel well, therapy could be a helpful and powerful tool in moving forward. Finding the right therapist, however, could be overwhelming. With investments of energy, time, and money, it is important to select a therapist with whom you feel comfortable—someone that "gets" you and in whom you have trust and confidence. I enjoy helping adults understand their barriers and strengths to help them meet their goals in the various aspects of their lives, such as relationships, work, school, and health.
15 Second Videos
Sharon Hale
TruCourage LLC
Will Hale
Sarah Felsted
Danielle Zandbergen
David C Manfield
George A Howard
Kristina Wells
Angelie Karabatsos
Deborah Hadley
Jason Wilkinson
Esther Cho
Heather Baucum
Kelsey McVeigh
Greg Fischer
Stacie Elkins
Brian Longworth
Avid Farahani
Alannah Purdie
Kierra Baretich
Holly S. Garrett
Kit Sluys
Brian E Shimer
Sprout Therapy PDX
Joshua Bogart
Patrick Ethel-King
Brett Johnson
Renee Boles
Peter Ragen
Lynda Romero
Michelle Emery, LLC
Kitty Kloud
Tailwind ADHD
Caressa Kruth
⚚ Dr. Sanjay Kumar Psychotherapy LLC
Fir Counseling, LLC
Sienna Church
Charlotte H Cheney
![Photo of DeLyn Griffin, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5104136f-f7d4-46c3-a4e7-642dcc86bcac/2/320x400.jpeg)
DeLyn Griffin
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tigard, OR 97223
I welcome children, individuals, couples, and families dealing with relationship conflicts, parenting, depression, anxiety, trauma, life stress & balance, developing sexual health, or personal identity. I was a teacher for many years and welcome children ages 3 and up for play therapy to help them communicate their inner experiences as they learn new skills and practice new ways of coping.
I welcome children, individuals, couples, and families dealing with relationship conflicts, parenting, depression, anxiety, trauma, life stress & balance, developing sexual health, or personal identity. I was a teacher for many years and welcome children ages 3 and up for play therapy to help them communicate their inner experiences as they learn new skills and practice new ways of coping.
![Photo of Wanda Tucker, MA, LPC, LMT, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/374759fd-e728-4319-8636-4f7767e7ab42/1/320x400.jpeg)
Wanda Tucker
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LMT
Verified Verified
Tigard, OR 97223 (Online Only)
Whatever you're facing, I'll help: Depression, anxiety, grief, pain, sleep problems, health issues, relationship struggles, trauma, stress, or desire for personal growth. Just be yourself. I provide safety and acceptance to explore difficult situations, thoughts, and emotions. I interact. I offer information and insights. I listen intently. People say I get to the heart of the matter quickly and concisely. You'll learn skills to better manage life. Couples often need a third party to see issues and change what isn't working. If you're willing to take a new look, I'll help figure out how to make the relationship work.
Whatever you're facing, I'll help: Depression, anxiety, grief, pain, sleep problems, health issues, relationship struggles, trauma, stress, or desire for personal growth. Just be yourself. I provide safety and acceptance to explore difficult situations, thoughts, and emotions. I interact. I offer information and insights. I listen intently. People say I get to the heart of the matter quickly and concisely. You'll learn skills to better manage life. Couples often need a third party to see issues and change what isn't working. If you're willing to take a new look, I'll help figure out how to make the relationship work.
![Photo of Madeline Ball, MFTA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/61e864e3-d129-4b78-a91d-d65a418a1556/2/320x400.jpeg)
Madeline Ball
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MFTA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Tigard, OR 97224
Are you an individual or couple looking for more fulfillment? I specialize in working with relationships to create change. Monogamous, poly, or open my desire is to work towards your common goals to create lasting change. I love working with couples developing healthy sexualities, LGBTQIA+ individuals developing their sexual and gender expression, and people on the journey of healing. I use a person-centered approach, with a whole lot of fun and humor, to authentically provide a space for a collaborative, non-judgmental relationship. Creating mindful awareness into your lived experience we gently address patterns and build insight.
Are you an individual or couple looking for more fulfillment? I specialize in working with relationships to create change. Monogamous, poly, or open my desire is to work towards your common goals to create lasting change. I love working with couples developing healthy sexualities, LGBTQIA+ individuals developing their sexual and gender expression, and people on the journey of healing. I use a person-centered approach, with a whole lot of fun and humor, to authentically provide a space for a collaborative, non-judgmental relationship. Creating mindful awareness into your lived experience we gently address patterns and build insight.
![Photo of Sarah Felsted, MA](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/439905d5-d359-4e45-8fcb-8d0f956a1001/1/320x400.jpeg)
Every relationship and individual has different needs, so I tailor my approach to meet your unique goals.
Is your teenager extra moody? Are you and your partner at an impasse and don't know how to move on?I look at issues through the lens of relationships: we impact those around us and they impact us. I believe that we all want and need connection, but relationships and life can make us feel disconnected and hurt. Using EMDR and IFS, I help individuals build a healthy self image and develop coping strategies to handle anxiety and depression. With couples and families, I use restoration therapy to go to the heart of the problem by looking at the emotions that we feel when we are in conflict and define the cycles that we get trapped in.
Every relationship and individual has different needs, so I tailor my approach to meet your unique goals.
Is your teenager extra moody? Are you and your partner at an impasse and don't know how to move on?I look at issues through the lens of relationships: we impact those around us and they impact us. I believe that we all want and need connection, but relationships and life can make us feel disconnected and hurt. Using EMDR and IFS, I help individuals build a healthy self image and develop coping strategies to handle anxiety and depression. With couples and families, I use restoration therapy to go to the heart of the problem by looking at the emotions that we feel when we are in conflict and define the cycles that we get trapped in.
![Photo of Stacy Henne, MFTA, NCC, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/238e3cb1-7e0d-4497-9ad3-7df0c16c0ddc/1/320x400.jpeg)
I believe that change is always possible. While often intimidating, therapy can be the first step toward improving your life. Whether struggling with a relationship, anger management, communication skills, parenting, self-identity, depression or anxiety, I work with my clients to identify the maladaptive thought processes, roadblocks and circumstances that have led to feelings of frustration, dissatisfaction, or helplessness. I have a passion for working with individuals, couples and families to identify life goals, improve self-awareness and communication, and implement lasting change.
I believe that change is always possible. While often intimidating, therapy can be the first step toward improving your life. Whether struggling with a relationship, anger management, communication skills, parenting, self-identity, depression or anxiety, I work with my clients to identify the maladaptive thought processes, roadblocks and circumstances that have led to feelings of frustration, dissatisfaction, or helplessness. I have a passion for working with individuals, couples and families to identify life goals, improve self-awareness and communication, and implement lasting change.
![Photo of Michelle Robertson, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0ceecc19-950b-4632-acb6-8280cea2f2af/2/320x400.jpeg)
Michelle Robertson
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tigard, OR 97223
Life can be challenging. At times it can be filled with obstacles that seem insurmountable. Anxiety, depression, stress, relationships, work, low self-esteem and trauma can make one’s life even more difficult to navigate. Learning skills to help you through these challenges can be key to helping you overcome them. I work individually with middle school aged children through adults, including those within the military community. I also work with couples, partners, families and groups. I specialize in trauma, anxiety, depression, self-esteem and relationship challenges.
Life can be challenging. At times it can be filled with obstacles that seem insurmountable. Anxiety, depression, stress, relationships, work, low self-esteem and trauma can make one’s life even more difficult to navigate. Learning skills to help you through these challenges can be key to helping you overcome them. I work individually with middle school aged children through adults, including those within the military community. I also work with couples, partners, families and groups. I specialize in trauma, anxiety, depression, self-esteem and relationship challenges.
![Photo of Kelle DeBruin - Kelle DeBruin Counseling, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/958ba8cf-cace-40df-aaa2-6a8b238f1061/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kelle DeBruin Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tigard, OR 97223
Life transitions bring new opportunities for personal growth, communication development, and emotional connectedness. With couples & families, our approach is to deepen the bond by focusing more effective communication while understanding the needs of the relationship, Individual therapy centers from life experiences of resilience & strength, redefinition of self, challenges around family history, or a recognition of new life boundaries. As we work with younger clients, we utilize interventions in our play therapy room to provide an environment open and welcoming to the needs of everyone.
Life transitions bring new opportunities for personal growth, communication development, and emotional connectedness. With couples & families, our approach is to deepen the bond by focusing more effective communication while understanding the needs of the relationship, Individual therapy centers from life experiences of resilience & strength, redefinition of self, challenges around family history, or a recognition of new life boundaries. As we work with younger clients, we utilize interventions in our play therapy room to provide an environment open and welcoming to the needs of everyone.
![Photo of Susan Butler, MA-MFT, LMFT, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3cdb3fcb-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Susan Butler
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA-MFT, LMFT, LPC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Tigard, OR 97224 (Online Only)
My focus is on post graduate supervision, helping women with self-esteem issues, couple relationship issues, couples and families working and living internationally, and adoption related issues.
My passion is to work with couples: pre-marital, couple's with children, empty nesters, and couples entering retirement. We go through so many transitions in our lifetime and each transition brings stresses and issues of it's own. I am a level-3 trained Gottman Therapist and use many modalities as well designed to fit the needs of each couple and individual. I approach my work through a systems perspective. I integrate genograms, Sand Tray therapy, Art therapy, and other interventions to help clients to fine relief from their struggles.
My focus is on post graduate supervision, helping women with self-esteem issues, couple relationship issues, couples and families working and living internationally, and adoption related issues.
My passion is to work with couples: pre-marital, couple's with children, empty nesters, and couples entering retirement. We go through so many transitions in our lifetime and each transition brings stresses and issues of it's own. I am a level-3 trained Gottman Therapist and use many modalities as well designed to fit the needs of each couple and individual. I approach my work through a systems perspective. I integrate genograms, Sand Tray therapy, Art therapy, and other interventions to help clients to fine relief from their struggles.
![Photo of Dr. Shannon Dalley, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/94e0880e-32ac-455d-a4be-22bcc99999a9/1/320x400.jpeg)
I believe anyone can benefit from therapy, and I commend you for taking the first step towards change. I offer a non-judgmental, insight-oriented approach to meet your specific needs with respect to your circumstances and intersecting identities. I have experience working with college and graduate students, as well as young and middle-aged adults, coping with phase of life issues, interpersonal challenges, and eating and body image concerns. I am especially interested in working with individuals who want to focus on relationship concerns, issues related to family-of-origin, trauma, identity development, and life transitions.
I believe anyone can benefit from therapy, and I commend you for taking the first step towards change. I offer a non-judgmental, insight-oriented approach to meet your specific needs with respect to your circumstances and intersecting identities. I have experience working with college and graduate students, as well as young and middle-aged adults, coping with phase of life issues, interpersonal challenges, and eating and body image concerns. I am especially interested in working with individuals who want to focus on relationship concerns, issues related to family-of-origin, trauma, identity development, and life transitions.
See more therapy options for Tigard
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.