Relationship Issues Therapists in City Center West, Philadelphia, PA

Photo of Ellen Singer Coleman, LCSW, CGP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ellen Singer Coleman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CGP
Verified Verified
City Center West, Philadelphia, PA 19102
Through a therapeutic relationship built on trust and attunement to each person's unique feelings, needs and circumstances, individuals gain clarity about their emotional difficulties.
I am a licensed clinical social worker, psychotherapist and certified relational psychoanalyst with 35+ years of advanced training and clinical experience with adults. My extensive clinical experience working with both women and men has prepared me to understand and address a wide range of emotional issues and concerns that may trigger such feelings as stress, anxiety, depression or low self-esteem. Some areas of special interest include: women's issues; young adulthood; pregnancy and postpartum adjustment; parenthood concerns; separation and divorce; family, peer and work relationships. My approach in all my therapeutic relationships is supportive, human and compassionate.
Through a therapeutic relationship built on trust and attunement to each person's unique feelings, needs and circumstances, individuals gain clarity about their emotional difficulties.
I am a licensed clinical social worker, psychotherapist and certified relational psychoanalyst with 35+ years of advanced training and clinical experience with adults. My extensive clinical experience working with both women and men has prepared me to understand and address a wide range of emotional issues and concerns that may trigger such feelings as stress, anxiety, depression or low self-esteem. Some areas of special interest include: women's issues; young adulthood; pregnancy and postpartum adjustment; parenthood concerns; separation and divorce; family, peer and work relationships. My approach in all my therapeutic relationships is supportive, human and compassionate.
(215) 703-8833 View (215) 703-8833
Photo of Anne Lukins, LSW, MSS, MFA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Anne Lukins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW, MSS, MFA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
City Center West, Philadelphia, PA 19102  (Online Only)
Are you experiencing overwhelming emotion, relationship challenges, or difficulty parenting? I work with parents, coparents, partners, and individuals 13 or older. As a clinician at Daisy + Co. Therapy, an all-queer and gender-affirming private practice, I am here to offer unwavering hope and compassion. I use a trauma informed approach, and I offer full program DBT, as well as Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy.
Are you experiencing overwhelming emotion, relationship challenges, or difficulty parenting? I work with parents, coparents, partners, and individuals 13 or older. As a clinician at Daisy + Co. Therapy, an all-queer and gender-affirming private practice, I am here to offer unwavering hope and compassion. I use a trauma informed approach, and I offer full program DBT, as well as Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy.
(484) 372-4422 View (484) 372-4422
Photo of Heidi Hutman, PhD, Psychologist
Heidi Hutman
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
City Center West, Philadelphia, PA 19102  (Online Only)
I am trained to work with a range of issues, including work transitions, relationship/family difficulties, and general life stress.
So many of us are feeling stuck or lost lately. I work collaboratively with clients to get a sense of relief from the daily grind and uncover patterns that are getting in their way. I tailor my approach to each client’s unique background, context, and personality with the goal of developing supportive and productive therapeutic relationships. As a result, clients are able to cope more effectively with whatever immediate concerns or stressors they are experiencing as well as work toward long-term changes that will make a meaningful difference in their lives.
I am trained to work with a range of issues, including work transitions, relationship/family difficulties, and general life stress.
So many of us are feeling stuck or lost lately. I work collaboratively with clients to get a sense of relief from the daily grind and uncover patterns that are getting in their way. I tailor my approach to each client’s unique background, context, and personality with the goal of developing supportive and productive therapeutic relationships. As a result, clients are able to cope more effectively with whatever immediate concerns or stressors they are experiencing as well as work toward long-term changes that will make a meaningful difference in their lives.
(484) 275-1364 View (484) 275-1364
Photo of Dr. Jeff J. Rocker, PhD, NCC, LPC, LMHC, LCPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Jeff J. Rocker
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, NCC, LPC, LMHC, LCPC
Verified Verified
City Center West, Philadelphia, PA 19103
Rocker is nationally recognized for his innovative techniques and approaches towards troubled teens, interpersonal relationship partner conflicts, and professionals struggling with work-life balance.
With 12 years of experience working with clients going through individual, relationship, and family issues, Celebrity Therapist Dr. Jeff Rocker has provided therapeutic services to clients nationwide. He is Licensed in 14 states and has served clients from all age groups. Over the years, Dr. Jeff has organized lectures and various events in the community, including excursions and retreats for couples to improve their communication and better understand each other. He has experience working with athletes in the NFL, NBA, and MLB. In addition, Dr. Jeff has also worked with clients in the Movie, Music, and Entertainment Industries.
Rocker is nationally recognized for his innovative techniques and approaches towards troubled teens, interpersonal relationship partner conflicts, and professionals struggling with work-life balance.
With 12 years of experience working with clients going through individual, relationship, and family issues, Celebrity Therapist Dr. Jeff Rocker has provided therapeutic services to clients nationwide. He is Licensed in 14 states and has served clients from all age groups. Over the years, Dr. Jeff has organized lectures and various events in the community, including excursions and retreats for couples to improve their communication and better understand each other. He has experience working with athletes in the NFL, NBA, and MLB. In addition, Dr. Jeff has also worked with clients in the Movie, Music, and Entertainment Industries.
(484) 249-0659 View (484) 249-0659
Photo of Brian Swope, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Brian Swope
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
City Center West, Philadelphia, PA 19110
As an attachment and relationship therapist - we will curiously look back and into family, culture, race, religion, sexuality, etc.
I believe that everyone has their potential already within them. Because of this, therapy is a place to discover what is possible and to provide the structure, tools, and outside perspective to more consistently bring your authentic self into your everyday. As we grow, we find that the ways we’ve seen and known ourselves no longer work for us, and the people around us change the dynamics in which we operate. Whether it is big life changes and self image issues to sexuality and relationship challenges, we have to take responsibility for our part and direct our effort to the areas where we have influence and control.
As an attachment and relationship therapist - we will curiously look back and into family, culture, race, religion, sexuality, etc.
I believe that everyone has their potential already within them. Because of this, therapy is a place to discover what is possible and to provide the structure, tools, and outside perspective to more consistently bring your authentic self into your everyday. As we grow, we find that the ways we’ve seen and known ourselves no longer work for us, and the people around us change the dynamics in which we operate. Whether it is big life changes and self image issues to sexuality and relationship challenges, we have to take responsibility for our part and direct our effort to the areas where we have influence and control.
(215) 764-5469 View (215) 764-5469
Photo of Courtney Marcellus, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Courtney Marcellus
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
City Center West, Philadelphia, PA 19102
I believe therapy is most productive when the relationship between client and therapist is collaborative.
Do you struggle with feelings of frustration, insecurity, or just being stuck? Do you feel overwhelmed and unsure how to make it through the day? Are you engaged in a toxic relationship, either personal or work related? If this sounds familiar, you are not alone and there is help. I would like to help you feel like yourself again. Together, we will identify strategies and motivation for change so you can achieve a healthy and balanced lifestyle, that aligns with your values.
I believe therapy is most productive when the relationship between client and therapist is collaborative.
Do you struggle with feelings of frustration, insecurity, or just being stuck? Do you feel overwhelmed and unsure how to make it through the day? Are you engaged in a toxic relationship, either personal or work related? If this sounds familiar, you are not alone and there is help. I would like to help you feel like yourself again. Together, we will identify strategies and motivation for change so you can achieve a healthy and balanced lifestyle, that aligns with your values.
(215) 769-9710 View (215) 769-9710
Photo of Angelique Frazier, MEd, Pre-Licensed Professional
Angelique Frazier
Pre-Licensed Professional, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
City Center West, Philadelphia, PA 19102
I affirm diverse sexual orientations, gender identities, relationship configurations, and sexual practices, including but not limited to: Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Queer, Asexual, Aromantic, Transgender, Genderqueer, Non-Binary, Polyamory, Kink and Sex Work.
While starting therapy can seem intimidating or daunting, I want you to know that you always deserve to take up space in therapy. I aim to help clients uncover the strengths they already possess. My work with clients involves the following: celebrating culture, acknowledging marginalization & privilege, multiracial identities, interracial couples, navigating cishet-white spaces, balancing conflicting expectations, processing current events, challenging anxious thoughts, separating me (the person) from anxiety (the fear and uncertainty), unpacking past events, reducing miscommunication, and feeling seen/heard.
I affirm diverse sexual orientations, gender identities, relationship configurations, and sexual practices, including but not limited to: Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Queer, Asexual, Aromantic, Transgender, Genderqueer, Non-Binary, Polyamory, Kink and Sex Work.
While starting therapy can seem intimidating or daunting, I want you to know that you always deserve to take up space in therapy. I aim to help clients uncover the strengths they already possess. My work with clients involves the following: celebrating culture, acknowledging marginalization & privilege, multiracial identities, interracial couples, navigating cishet-white spaces, balancing conflicting expectations, processing current events, challenging anxious thoughts, separating me (the person) from anxiety (the fear and uncertainty), unpacking past events, reducing miscommunication, and feeling seen/heard.
(484) 214-2610 View (484) 214-2610
Photo of Gabriela Grosser, PsyD, MEd, Psychologist
Gabriela Grosser
Psychologist, PsyD, MEd
Verified Verified
City Center West, Philadelphia, PA 19102
Clients come to see me for many different issues, including anxiety, depression, couples therapy and sex therapy, parenting support, ADHD, HIV+/AIDS, LGBTQAI+ issues, OCD, relationship issues, and workplace transitions.
I am a licensed psychologist and sexologist in the state of Pennsylvania. I strongly believe that every single person can benefit from some type of therapy, to better understand themselves, their past, their relationships, and their future goals. The therapeutic space is a unique one not found many other places, where you can shut out daily distractions to focus on what you need to make your life more fulfilling and rewarding. This is your time, and I am here to help and support you in reaching your goals.
Clients come to see me for many different issues, including anxiety, depression, couples therapy and sex therapy, parenting support, ADHD, HIV+/AIDS, LGBTQAI+ issues, OCD, relationship issues, and workplace transitions.
I am a licensed psychologist and sexologist in the state of Pennsylvania. I strongly believe that every single person can benefit from some type of therapy, to better understand themselves, their past, their relationships, and their future goals. The therapeutic space is a unique one not found many other places, where you can shut out daily distractions to focus on what you need to make your life more fulfilling and rewarding. This is your time, and I am here to help and support you in reaching your goals.
(484) 699-9202 View (484) 699-9202
Photo of Heather M. Pederson, PhD, ABPP, Psychologist
Heather M. Pederson
Psychologist, PhD, ABPP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
City Center West, Philadelphia, PA 19102
I have advanced training and 12+ years of experience in helping couples and families, and I can work with you to change this dynamic in your relationship.
I believe most people benefit from a therapist who can share an understanding of their situation or relationship, while also providing a new perspective and feedback on what is getting in their way. Whether you want to take better care of yourself or your relationship with an important person, or you want to address a big stressor, I can help you feel more self-assured and make constructive changes.
I have advanced training and 12+ years of experience in helping couples and families, and I can work with you to change this dynamic in your relationship.
I believe most people benefit from a therapist who can share an understanding of their situation or relationship, while also providing a new perspective and feedback on what is getting in their way. Whether you want to take better care of yourself or your relationship with an important person, or you want to address a big stressor, I can help you feel more self-assured and make constructive changes.
(267) 930-1380 View (267) 930-1380
Photo of Liza Haas, PhD, Psychologist
Liza Haas
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
City Center West, Philadelphia, PA 19102
I provide individual therapy with specialties in the treatment of mood and anxiety disorders, relationship difficulties, and adjustment to life transitions.
No matter the reason you are seeking help, you may have the sense that now is the time to begin. Therapy can help you learn more about yourself, establish goals, and work towards improving your overall well-being. In my practice, I approach psychotherapy with an empathic drive to help people understand themselves more deeply. I embrace a balance between targeting the immediate problem and providing space to build a relationship grounded in trust, openness, and flexibility.
I provide individual therapy with specialties in the treatment of mood and anxiety disorders, relationship difficulties, and adjustment to life transitions.
No matter the reason you are seeking help, you may have the sense that now is the time to begin. Therapy can help you learn more about yourself, establish goals, and work towards improving your overall well-being. In my practice, I approach psychotherapy with an empathic drive to help people understand themselves more deeply. I embrace a balance between targeting the immediate problem and providing space to build a relationship grounded in trust, openness, and flexibility.
(484) 214-2692 View (484) 214-2692
Photo of Viridiana Villasenor, MFT, Pre-Licensed Professional
Viridiana Villasenor
Pre-Licensed Professional, MFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
City Center West, Philadelphia, PA 19103  (Online Only)
As an Individual, Relationship, and Family Therapist, I am dedicated to helping individuals, couples, and families navigate their unique challenges. My goal is to support my clients in forming healthy, fulfilling, compassionate, and understanding relationships. I believe in creating a safe, non-judgmental, and culturally sensitive environment where all clients feel supported and heard.
As an Individual, Relationship, and Family Therapist, I am dedicated to helping individuals, couples, and families navigate their unique challenges. My goal is to support my clients in forming healthy, fulfilling, compassionate, and understanding relationships. I believe in creating a safe, non-judgmental, and culturally sensitive environment where all clients feel supported and heard.
(267) 500-9362 View (267) 500-9362
Photo of Iris Abreu, PhD, Psychologist
Iris Abreu
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
City Center West, Philadelphia, PA 19103  (Online Only)
Life can be difficult. Why go through it all alone? Are you struggling to find love and connection? Perhaps you are looking improve the relationship(s) you already have in your life - be it with with family, friends, significant others, and/or at work? Or, looking to let go of relationship(s) or patterns of relating to others that may be ineffective? Are you facing struggles related to intersections of your identity? Trying to find, or land that job that you are looking for? Feeling lost about how to hone in your personal strengths in order to live your best life? Let's talk about ways I could help.
Life can be difficult. Why go through it all alone? Are you struggling to find love and connection? Perhaps you are looking improve the relationship(s) you already have in your life - be it with with family, friends, significant others, and/or at work? Or, looking to let go of relationship(s) or patterns of relating to others that may be ineffective? Are you facing struggles related to intersections of your identity? Trying to find, or land that job that you are looking for? Feeling lost about how to hone in your personal strengths in order to live your best life? Let's talk about ways I could help.
(215) 330-2167 View (215) 330-2167
Photo of Meghan DeFino, MA, MSEd, LPC, HC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Meghan DeFino
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MSEd, LPC, HC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
City Center West, Philadelphia, PA 19102
I primarily practice CBT but believe the client/therapist relationship is the primary agent of healing.
I see adults and teens seeking to better manage anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, relationship issues, and eating disorders/addictions. My style can be described as warm and collaborative. My clients prefer a therapist who is approachable and "real." They value some direction or new ideas balanced with just having a space to be seen and cared for as they are. I see therapy as a vehicle for people to find their own answers but I also value empirically supported techniques for helping clients feel better. I utilize humor and helps clients set actionable goals so they can make measurable changes.
I primarily practice CBT but believe the client/therapist relationship is the primary agent of healing.
I see adults and teens seeking to better manage anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, relationship issues, and eating disorders/addictions. My style can be described as warm and collaborative. My clients prefer a therapist who is approachable and "real." They value some direction or new ideas balanced with just having a space to be seen and cared for as they are. I see therapy as a vehicle for people to find their own answers but I also value empirically supported techniques for helping clients feel better. I utilize humor and helps clients set actionable goals so they can make measurable changes.
(484) 652-8077 View (484) 652-8077
Photo of Rachel Frome, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rachel Frome
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
City Center West, Philadelphia, PA 19102
Feeling like you see what the problems are, yet you still feel stuck? Together we can help you transform that awareness into change. Many of my clients are painfully aware of their patterns, but despite their best efforts, they struggle to embody their values. I know firsthand how hard and frustrating therapy can be for just this reason, as well as how life-changing a good therapeutic relationship can be. In my practice, I work with individuals who have experienced trauma, relationship issues, and want to work through life transitions, and boundary setting.
Feeling like you see what the problems are, yet you still feel stuck? Together we can help you transform that awareness into change. Many of my clients are painfully aware of their patterns, but despite their best efforts, they struggle to embody their values. I know firsthand how hard and frustrating therapy can be for just this reason, as well as how life-changing a good therapeutic relationship can be. In my practice, I work with individuals who have experienced trauma, relationship issues, and want to work through life transitions, and boundary setting.
View
Photo of Natasha Metzger, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Natasha Metzger
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
City Center West, Philadelphia, PA 19103
I carry this holistic approach into relationship and sex therapy work by layering in communication technique, skill building around connection, safety, security, trust, and vulnerability, exploration of individual and relational wants, needs, limits, and expectations, and a lot of practice!.
Do you have trouble knowing what you want or asking for it? Do your feelings seem overwhelming at times? Do you find yourself giving in to avoid conflict or banging your emotional head against a wall? Do you find that your behavior and values sometimes don't align? Are you frustrated or disappointed by the lack of physical and emotional connection with the people closest to you? Are you and your partner concerned by your differing levels of sexual desire? Do you feel stuck and lethargic or that your thoughts spiral out of your control? Do you want to develop insight and create change in your own life? If so, let's talk!
I carry this holistic approach into relationship and sex therapy work by layering in communication technique, skill building around connection, safety, security, trust, and vulnerability, exploration of individual and relational wants, needs, limits, and expectations, and a lot of practice!.
Do you have trouble knowing what you want or asking for it? Do your feelings seem overwhelming at times? Do you find yourself giving in to avoid conflict or banging your emotional head against a wall? Do you find that your behavior and values sometimes don't align? Are you frustrated or disappointed by the lack of physical and emotional connection with the people closest to you? Are you and your partner concerned by your differing levels of sexual desire? Do you feel stuck and lethargic or that your thoughts spiral out of your control? Do you want to develop insight and create change in your own life? If so, let's talk!
(856) 644-1359 View (856) 644-1359
Photo of Heather Novack Robinson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Heather Novack Robinson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
City Center West, Philadelphia, PA 19110
I approach treatment as a collaboration between two partners, working together to deepen our understanding of your concerns, and construct alternative ways of thinking, being, relating and feeling. As a relational psychodynamic therapist, I consider our relationship an essential mechanism of change.
I approach treatment as a collaboration between two partners, working together to deepen our understanding of your concerns, and construct alternative ways of thinking, being, relating and feeling. As a relational psychodynamic therapist, I consider our relationship an essential mechanism of change.
(410) 469-6344 View (410) 469-6344
Photo of Hadley Roberts-Donnelly, MPhilEd, MSEd, Pre-Licensed Professional
Hadley Roberts-Donnelly
Pre-Licensed Professional, MPhilEd, MSEd
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
City Center West, Philadelphia, PA 19102
I work with adults, children, and couples with a range of presenting issues, including anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship and family issues, chronic health issues, and more.
We all need space to feel heard and understood. Whether you are managing a big life change, the aftermath of trauma, difficulties or discomfort with your sexuality, ongoing anxiety, or are just feeling generally crappy, you deserve to feel supported in your journey to find contentment. If you're struggling to make sense of your inner world, we can work together to make better understandings of you, your wants, and your needs.
I work with adults, children, and couples with a range of presenting issues, including anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship and family issues, chronic health issues, and more.
We all need space to feel heard and understood. Whether you are managing a big life change, the aftermath of trauma, difficulties or discomfort with your sexuality, ongoing anxiety, or are just feeling generally crappy, you deserve to feel supported in your journey to find contentment. If you're struggling to make sense of your inner world, we can work together to make better understandings of you, your wants, and your needs.
(484) 759-9245 View (484) 759-9245
Photo of Megan Connors, LPC, LCPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Megan Connors
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCPC
Verified Verified
City Center West, Philadelphia, PA 19102  (Online Only)
The most important driver of success in therapy is creating a comfortable and safe therapeutic relationship.
Do you ever feel like anxiety is taking control of your life not only mentally, but also physically? Have you ever felt like you can no longer do the things that you once used to enjoy due to anxiety? Are you struggling with managing relationships in your life whether it be with friends, family or a partner? I specialize in working with adults with anxiety disorders, relationship struggles, adjustment disorders and life transitions. I also specialize in couples therapy. My approach to therapy is one that is collaborative and empathetic while it also challenges you to reach your optimal wellness.
The most important driver of success in therapy is creating a comfortable and safe therapeutic relationship.
Do you ever feel like anxiety is taking control of your life not only mentally, but also physically? Have you ever felt like you can no longer do the things that you once used to enjoy due to anxiety? Are you struggling with managing relationships in your life whether it be with friends, family or a partner? I specialize in working with adults with anxiety disorders, relationship struggles, adjustment disorders and life transitions. I also specialize in couples therapy. My approach to therapy is one that is collaborative and empathetic while it also challenges you to reach your optimal wellness.
(484) 759-7905 View (484) 759-7905
Photo of Evan Kardon - The Empowerment Collective, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
The Empowerment Collective
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
City Center West, Philadelphia, PA 19103
Do your thoughts or feelings seem overwhelming at times? Do you want to explore how your brain works and what's going on with your feelings? When in an argument, do you give in, people-please, or bang your emotional head against a wall? Do you and your partner struggle to communicate? Are you frustrated by the lack of physical and emotional connection with the people closest to you? Are you and your partner concerned by your differing levels of sexual desire? Do you experience pelvic pain, sexual pain, or sexual difficulty? Are you wanting to open your relationship or explore your gender sexual identity? If so, reach out!
Do your thoughts or feelings seem overwhelming at times? Do you want to explore how your brain works and what's going on with your feelings? When in an argument, do you give in, people-please, or bang your emotional head against a wall? Do you and your partner struggle to communicate? Are you frustrated by the lack of physical and emotional connection with the people closest to you? Are you and your partner concerned by your differing levels of sexual desire? Do you experience pelvic pain, sexual pain, or sexual difficulty? Are you wanting to open your relationship or explore your gender sexual identity? If so, reach out!
(215) 484-3378 View (215) 484-3378
Photo of Sofie Messone Tapia, Pre-Licensed Professional
Sofie Messone Tapia
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
City Center West, Philadelphia, PA 19103  (Online Only)
Whether you're looking to enhance your relationship with your partner, navigate adult life's challenges, or find greater emotional well-being, I am here to support and guide you every step of the way.
Are you navigating the complexities of depression, anxiety, ADHD, or PTSD? Do you seek a deeper connection and harmony within your relationships? I am a licensure-track therapist dedicated to supporting you on your path to emotional wellness and fulfilling relationships. With experience in working with couples, families, and children, I bring a compassionate and knowledgeable approach to therapy. My passion lies in working primarily with couples and adults, helping you overcome challenges and build stronger, healthier relationships.
Whether you're looking to enhance your relationship with your partner, navigate adult life's challenges, or find greater emotional well-being, I am here to support and guide you every step of the way.
Are you navigating the complexities of depression, anxiety, ADHD, or PTSD? Do you seek a deeper connection and harmony within your relationships? I am a licensure-track therapist dedicated to supporting you on your path to emotional wellness and fulfilling relationships. With experience in working with couples, families, and children, I bring a compassionate and knowledgeable approach to therapy. My passion lies in working primarily with couples and adults, helping you overcome challenges and build stronger, healthier relationships.
(267) 500-9459 View (267) 500-9459
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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.