Relationship Issues Therapists in Des Moines, IA

Photo of Devin Waterhouse, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Devin Waterhouse
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Des Moines, IA 50309
Not accepting new clients
Something feels off. Sometimes it’s obvious what is affecting you, but often you’re less certain. Perhaps you have some ideas about what’s wrong, but you aren’t sure how to feel better. Maybe you are experiencing relationship issues, or just feel like you are alone even when you know you have people who care about you. It may even be possible that you are uncertain there is anything wrong at all because you’ve always felt this way - but is it really this hard for everyone? There are many people just like you that could be living happier and healthier lives - they just don’t know how to get there.
Something feels off. Sometimes it’s obvious what is affecting you, but often you’re less certain. Perhaps you have some ideas about what’s wrong, but you aren’t sure how to feel better. Maybe you are experiencing relationship issues, or just feel like you are alone even when you know you have people who care about you. It may even be possible that you are uncertain there is anything wrong at all because you’ve always felt this way - but is it really this hard for everyone? There are many people just like you that could be living happier and healthier lives - they just don’t know how to get there.
(515) 219-4620 View (515) 219-4620
Photo of Lauren Martin, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lauren Martin
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Des Moines, IA 50309
Not accepting new clients
I aim to support you in finding the balance and peace in your life to reach you and your relationship's full potential.
I believe people heal through healthy connections and relationships, whether these relationships be parent-child, family systems, romantic connection, supportive friendship or a healthy relationship with yourself. As a clinician, developing a trusting, supportive relationship with my clients is vital to provide a comfortable, non-judgmental, and compassionate space to work through life's challenges. I am experienced with individuals, couples, and families experiencing complex trauma and mental health difficulties. I enjoy working with clients ages 3 through the lifespan emphasizing work with children, teens, and young adults.
I aim to support you in finding the balance and peace in your life to reach you and your relationship's full potential.
I believe people heal through healthy connections and relationships, whether these relationships be parent-child, family systems, romantic connection, supportive friendship or a healthy relationship with yourself. As a clinician, developing a trusting, supportive relationship with my clients is vital to provide a comfortable, non-judgmental, and compassionate space to work through life's challenges. I am experienced with individuals, couples, and families experiencing complex trauma and mental health difficulties. I enjoy working with clients ages 3 through the lifespan emphasizing work with children, teens, and young adults.
(515) 375-7437 View (515) 375-7437
Photo of Elizabeth Young, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Elizabeth Young
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Des Moines, IA 50312
I am a licensed Marriage and Family therapy who enjoys working clients 16 and older. My passion is working with both individuals and couples and helping them navigate life graciously and with self compassion. I view the therapeutic relationship to be compassion filled and client-centered, meeting the client where they are at. I believe in utilizing a strength-based, holistic approach in working with clients, and I focus on relationships for the basis of making change.
I am a licensed Marriage and Family therapy who enjoys working clients 16 and older. My passion is working with both individuals and couples and helping them navigate life graciously and with self compassion. I view the therapeutic relationship to be compassion filled and client-centered, meeting the client where they are at. I believe in utilizing a strength-based, holistic approach in working with clients, and I focus on relationships for the basis of making change.
(515) 575-4291 View (515) 575-4291
Photo of Matthew Becker, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Matthew Becker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Des Moines, IA 50309
It is a sacred act for me to create a safe, trusting relationship with you and an accepting environment where you can be fully yourself.
I have worked with individuals and couples for eight years and utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. I enjoy helping adults learn new skills to deal with anxiety, codependency, romantic relationships, depression, grief and loss, life transitions, peer relationships, personal growth, low self-esteem, spirituality, stress, trauma & PTSD, and work-life balance.
It is a sacred act for me to create a safe, trusting relationship with you and an accepting environment where you can be fully yourself.
I have worked with individuals and couples for eight years and utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. I enjoy helping adults learn new skills to deal with anxiety, codependency, romantic relationships, depression, grief and loss, life transitions, peer relationships, personal growth, low self-esteem, spirituality, stress, trauma & PTSD, and work-life balance.
(515) 827-2237 View (515) 827-2237
Photo of Jen Gauerke, MS, LMHC, CADC, CGP, Counselor
Jen Gauerke
Counselor, MS, LMHC, CADC, CGP
Verified Verified
Des Moines, IA 50309
Waitlist for new clients
Every person has the potential for growth. Yet, people can work very hard and not make progress. Old ineffective patterns, habits, even addictions, dominate and prevent happiness and growth. Hope can dwindle and lead many to believe they are broken or defective. There is hope! With extensive training and experience in treating trauma and addiction, I explore with you the reasons that patterns persist. I am invested in helping people understand themselves, as they build personal and relationship satisfaction. You can create a life, not simply existing, but full of creativity, connection and enjoyment.
Every person has the potential for growth. Yet, people can work very hard and not make progress. Old ineffective patterns, habits, even addictions, dominate and prevent happiness and growth. Hope can dwindle and lead many to believe they are broken or defective. There is hope! With extensive training and experience in treating trauma and addiction, I explore with you the reasons that patterns persist. I am invested in helping people understand themselves, as they build personal and relationship satisfaction. You can create a life, not simply existing, but full of creativity, connection and enjoyment.
(515) 414-7921 View (515) 414-7921
Photo of Tiffany Costello, MA, LPC, NCC, Counselor
Tiffany Costello
Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Des Moines, IA 50312  (Online Only)
I believe that healing and growth takes place in the context of relationships. Unfortunately, our relationships can sometimes become distant, disconnected and a place of conflict, leaving us with unmet needs and just feeling “stuck.” We don’t feel safe asking for what we need, and maybe don’t even know what we need ourselves. The therapeutic relationship in counseling provides an authentic and safe place in which healing can begin to take place.
I believe that healing and growth takes place in the context of relationships. Unfortunately, our relationships can sometimes become distant, disconnected and a place of conflict, leaving us with unmet needs and just feeling “stuck.” We don’t feel safe asking for what we need, and maybe don’t even know what we need ourselves. The therapeutic relationship in counseling provides an authentic and safe place in which healing can begin to take place.
(515) 855-6845 View (515) 855-6845
Photo of Amber Sampson - Sampson Family Therapy Services, LLC, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sampson Family Therapy Services, LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Des Moines, IA 50309
We strive to schedule clients in a timely fashion with commitment to cultivating a good working relationship between clients and therapists.
Sampson Family Therapy Services staff strive to engage in a collaborative process with clients, coworkers, and the community to welcome growth, embrace strengths and successes, and acknowledge our role in making wellness a priority for others and ourselves. We work with many client needs and make it a priority to provide attentive and consistently accessible therapy services. It is the mission of Sampson Family Therapy Services, LLC to embody a dynamic and progressive therapeutic service environment for the cultivation of health and well-being for clients served, employees, and the community at large.
We strive to schedule clients in a timely fashion with commitment to cultivating a good working relationship between clients and therapists.
Sampson Family Therapy Services staff strive to engage in a collaborative process with clients, coworkers, and the community to welcome growth, embrace strengths and successes, and acknowledge our role in making wellness a priority for others and ourselves. We work with many client needs and make it a priority to provide attentive and consistently accessible therapy services. It is the mission of Sampson Family Therapy Services, LLC to embody a dynamic and progressive therapeutic service environment for the cultivation of health and well-being for clients served, employees, and the community at large.
(515) 421-9313 View (515) 421-9313
Photo of Mary Meyer - Full Heart Family Therapy, PhD, LMFT, CSAT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Full Heart Family Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, CSAT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Des Moines, IA 50312
We also treat depression, anxiety, relationship concerns, infidelity, marital issues and more.
At Full Heart Family Therapy, we work with individuals, couples, and families on a variety of mental, emotional, and relational issues. Your therapist will strive to understand your story and your vision for your future, so we can help you overcome obstacles and create the life that you hope for. Our goal is to help you create a full life and a full heart!
We also treat depression, anxiety, relationship concerns, infidelity, marital issues and more.
At Full Heart Family Therapy, we work with individuals, couples, and families on a variety of mental, emotional, and relational issues. Your therapist will strive to understand your story and your vision for your future, so we can help you overcome obstacles and create the life that you hope for. Our goal is to help you create a full life and a full heart!
(515) 414-7966 View (515) 414-7966
Photo of Monique And Rick Elgersma - Real Connections Counseling, A Cotherapy company!, LMFT, M Litt, Marriage & Family Therapist
Real Connections Counseling, A Cotherapy company!
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, M Litt
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Des Moines, IA 50310
Instead of staring at a therapist staring back at you, you join up with a TEAM in a place where you belong, in a way where we all show up for practice together. Together we create your dream relationship. You work hard ... blood, sweat, and tears kind of hard sometimes. At the end of it you'll have the kind of love you may never have dreamed you could have. This isn't just therapy, it's co-therapy. A philosophy that empowers couples like you to discover the magic of "us." We're your team, and your needs come first. Sessions START at 85 mins. The RCC-System means you succeed, all outside the constraints and limitations of insurance.
Instead of staring at a therapist staring back at you, you join up with a TEAM in a place where you belong, in a way where we all show up for practice together. Together we create your dream relationship. You work hard ... blood, sweat, and tears kind of hard sometimes. At the end of it you'll have the kind of love you may never have dreamed you could have. This isn't just therapy, it's co-therapy. A philosophy that empowers couples like you to discover the magic of "us." We're your team, and your needs come first. Sessions START at 85 mins. The RCC-System means you succeed, all outside the constraints and limitations of insurance.
(515) 346-6075 View (515) 346-6075
Photo of LeAnn Waterhouse - Willow Grove Therapy Group, PhD, Psychologist
Willow Grove Therapy Group
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Des Moines, IA 50312
Providers have experience with many concerns - anxiety, depression, family problems, relationship problems, and trauma.
We're accepting new clients! Willow Grove Therapy strives to be a welcoming, safe space. Our therapists enjoy helping a variety of people - from age 10 through retirement - to feel more fulfilled and grounded in their daily lives. Our goal is always to meet clients where they are and offer support to move in the direction of their goals.
Providers have experience with many concerns - anxiety, depression, family problems, relationship problems, and trauma.
We're accepting new clients! Willow Grove Therapy strives to be a welcoming, safe space. Our therapists enjoy helping a variety of people - from age 10 through retirement - to feel more fulfilled and grounded in their daily lives. Our goal is always to meet clients where they are and offer support to move in the direction of their goals.
(515) 393-6894 View (515) 393-6894
Photo of Carrie Leaf, MS, LMFT
Carrie Leaf
MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Des Moines, IA 50311
I am here for you! I can help in areas of Anger management, Mindfulness practice, EMDR, Hypnosis, Smoking Cessation, Personal Development and Self-Care/Self-Love, Relationship guidance, Mindset work, Identifying and Clearing out Negative Beliefs, Integrating mind/body/soul, Finding your truth (unlearning), Building a strong Wellness Foundation.
Hello and welcome! For two decades now, I have helped clients break through the obstacles that seem to be holding them back in life. Life's too short to be unhappy, unsure, or unfulfilled. I will help you learn and develop better ways to handle the issues that are keeping you stuck. I take a holistic approach. Offering: Psychotherapy, Hypnotherapy, EMDR, & more: Are you ready for a change? You don't have to do it alone. My goal is to work together with you to help you better understand yourself in a way that promotes growth and change as well as to help you & your relationships reach their maximum potential.
I am here for you! I can help in areas of Anger management, Mindfulness practice, EMDR, Hypnosis, Smoking Cessation, Personal Development and Self-Care/Self-Love, Relationship guidance, Mindset work, Identifying and Clearing out Negative Beliefs, Integrating mind/body/soul, Finding your truth (unlearning), Building a strong Wellness Foundation.
Hello and welcome! For two decades now, I have helped clients break through the obstacles that seem to be holding them back in life. Life's too short to be unhappy, unsure, or unfulfilled. I will help you learn and develop better ways to handle the issues that are keeping you stuck. I take a holistic approach. Offering: Psychotherapy, Hypnotherapy, EMDR, & more: Are you ready for a change? You don't have to do it alone. My goal is to work together with you to help you better understand yourself in a way that promotes growth and change as well as to help you & your relationships reach their maximum potential.
(515) 619-6737 View (515) 619-6737
Photo of Julie McClatchey - Julie McClatchey, LISW, PC, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Julie McClatchey, LISW, PC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
Des Moines, IA 50312
My areas of interest and strength include depression and anxiety; relationship issues; caregiving stress; aging issues; work issues, life transition; and grief.
I have been in the mental health field for over 30 years. My first goal is to help you feel safe to share your story. We will work together to identify where you are feeling stuck; better understand your issues; experience healing from recent and past hurts; learn new ways to manage stress; identify solutions, and take action toward your goals. I am an interactive therapist who believes in the importance of non-judgmental listening and emotional support while providing feedback, guidance, and education. I currently have a wait list of 4-6 wks.
My areas of interest and strength include depression and anxiety; relationship issues; caregiving stress; aging issues; work issues, life transition; and grief.
I have been in the mental health field for over 30 years. My first goal is to help you feel safe to share your story. We will work together to identify where you are feeling stuck; better understand your issues; experience healing from recent and past hurts; learn new ways to manage stress; identify solutions, and take action toward your goals. I am an interactive therapist who believes in the importance of non-judgmental listening and emotional support while providing feedback, guidance, and education. I currently have a wait list of 4-6 wks.
(515) 585-1272 View (515) 585-1272
Photo of Krystyna Thompson, LMFT, MS, Marriage & Family Therapist
Krystyna Thompson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Des Moines, IA 50320
My specializations include working with couples and relationship concerns.
Currently accepting individual clients! My name is Krystyna Thompson and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, as well as a clinician trained in EMDR. I work with couples, individuals, and families on a variety of emotional and relational issues. As a therapist, it is important to me that I partner with my clients to create an individualized plan that fits best to encourage recovery. Each person is different and I hope to help you overcome the obstacles that have stopped you from feeling happy, fulfilled, and joyous in your life. You have taken the first step in achieving these goals, so congratulations!
My specializations include working with couples and relationship concerns.
Currently accepting individual clients! My name is Krystyna Thompson and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, as well as a clinician trained in EMDR. I work with couples, individuals, and families on a variety of emotional and relational issues. As a therapist, it is important to me that I partner with my clients to create an individualized plan that fits best to encourage recovery. Each person is different and I hope to help you overcome the obstacles that have stopped you from feeling happy, fulfilled, and joyous in your life. You have taken the first step in achieving these goals, so congratulations!
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Photo of Dr. Ashley Nicole Frazier, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr. Ashley Nicole Frazier
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Des Moines, IA 50301
I also see a lot of patients seeking help with relationship development, anxiety and depression.
As a Marriage and Family Therapist, it is my goal to help any and everyone who needs it. I am a multicultural therapist whose main goal is to assist my clients in being the best person they can be. When you come to Strength in Diversity therapy center you will feel welcomed and accepted no matter your creed, color, race, gender, ethnicity, sexual orientation, etc. It is my hope that once you leave my therapy room you will feel rejuvenated, full of life, and ready to take on the world.
I also see a lot of patients seeking help with relationship development, anxiety and depression.
As a Marriage and Family Therapist, it is my goal to help any and everyone who needs it. I am a multicultural therapist whose main goal is to assist my clients in being the best person they can be. When you come to Strength in Diversity therapy center you will feel welcomed and accepted no matter your creed, color, race, gender, ethnicity, sexual orientation, etc. It is my hope that once you leave my therapy room you will feel rejuvenated, full of life, and ready to take on the world.
(319) 318-0643 View (319) 318-0643
Photo of Brian L Bentley, MA, LMFT, CADC, EMDR, Marriage & Family Therapist
Brian L Bentley
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CADC, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Des Moines, IA 50309
I am an emotion focused and cognitive behavioral therapist that incorporates a systemic, relational perspective to my work. I am passionate about helping individuals and couples create the relationship they desire, providing families with the tools necessary to create meaningful relationships, and assisting those in need of support and counsel with a variety of mental health issues. I use 28 years of marital and family counseling experience to provide therapy in the areas of marital therapy, affair reconciliation, divorce adjustment, sexual & drug addictions, depression, and anxiety.
I am an emotion focused and cognitive behavioral therapist that incorporates a systemic, relational perspective to my work. I am passionate about helping individuals and couples create the relationship they desire, providing families with the tools necessary to create meaningful relationships, and assisting those in need of support and counsel with a variety of mental health issues. I use 28 years of marital and family counseling experience to provide therapy in the areas of marital therapy, affair reconciliation, divorce adjustment, sexual & drug addictions, depression, and anxiety.
(515) 393-2774 View (515) 393-2774
Photo of Elizabeth J. Huebsch, LISW, CADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elizabeth J. Huebsch
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW, CADC
Verified Verified
Des Moines, IA 50312
Experiencing grief, loss, or trauma? Feeling disconnected, alone, and generally unhappy? Struggling with relationships, addiction, or painful wounds from childhood? Powerful emotions holding you back from finding enjoyment in life? If you answered yes to any of these, I can help. Oftentimes, the burdens of trauma manifest in mysterious ways and can lead to various concerns such as depression, anxiety, addiction, relationship difficulties, trust issues, isolation, numbness, and shame. These challenges can impede our ability to have healthy relationships and care for ourselves.
Experiencing grief, loss, or trauma? Feeling disconnected, alone, and generally unhappy? Struggling with relationships, addiction, or painful wounds from childhood? Powerful emotions holding you back from finding enjoyment in life? If you answered yes to any of these, I can help. Oftentimes, the burdens of trauma manifest in mysterious ways and can lead to various concerns such as depression, anxiety, addiction, relationship difficulties, trust issues, isolation, numbness, and shame. These challenges can impede our ability to have healthy relationships and care for ourselves.
(515) 373-5950 View (515) 373-5950
Photo of Valerie Marsh, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Valerie Marsh
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Des Moines, IA 50305  (Online Only)
Utilizing my 20 years of counseling experience, I provide positive therapeutic interventions for many different individual and relationship issues that provide optimal personal growth and change, so that you will experience more joy in your life and in your relationships.
Are you feeling stressed out, unhappy and want your life and/or your relationship to change, but thinking there is nothing you can do? Do you feel that no one can understand what you are going through and don't know where to turn? These feelings of frustration and pain can be very hard to handle alone. In this turbulent time of confusion, worry and sadness that you may be experiencing, (dealing with emotionally abusive relationships, infidelity, divorce, depression, anxiety, grief and loss), just call now for your 20 minute complimentary strategy session, and feel hopeful again! Today you are one step closer to a positive new you!
Utilizing my 20 years of counseling experience, I provide positive therapeutic interventions for many different individual and relationship issues that provide optimal personal growth and change, so that you will experience more joy in your life and in your relationships.
Are you feeling stressed out, unhappy and want your life and/or your relationship to change, but thinking there is nothing you can do? Do you feel that no one can understand what you are going through and don't know where to turn? These feelings of frustration and pain can be very hard to handle alone. In this turbulent time of confusion, worry and sadness that you may be experiencing, (dealing with emotionally abusive relationships, infidelity, divorce, depression, anxiety, grief and loss), just call now for your 20 minute complimentary strategy session, and feel hopeful again! Today you are one step closer to a positive new you!
(612) 834-4338 View (612) 834-4338
Photo of Lars Peterson - Lars Peterson, LISW, LLC, MSW, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lars Peterson, LISW, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW
Verified Verified
Des Moines, IA 50312
Not accepting new clients
Have you been struggling with anxiety that gets in the way of the life you want to live? Is past trauma sabotaging your life? Are relationship issues or work stressors just “too much” right now? Has the communication broken down in your relationship and you don't know how to fix it? Therapy that is based on your goals and needs can help you learn important skills and heal the past. This can include managing and reducing anxiety, living more fully in the present, gaining clarity, healing past trauma, addressing work or relationship issues, and helping you gain tools to manage your emotions.
Have you been struggling with anxiety that gets in the way of the life you want to live? Is past trauma sabotaging your life? Are relationship issues or work stressors just “too much” right now? Has the communication broken down in your relationship and you don't know how to fix it? Therapy that is based on your goals and needs can help you learn important skills and heal the past. This can include managing and reducing anxiety, living more fully in the present, gaining clarity, healing past trauma, addressing work or relationship issues, and helping you gain tools to manage your emotions.
(515) 512-5009 View (515) 512-5009
Photo of Shoshannah Guerrero, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Shoshannah Guerrero
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Des Moines, IA 50325  (Online Only)
South Dakota and Iowa telehealth. Emotional self-management and self-leadership skills are crucial for individual well-being. For couples, integrating fair play concepts aligns partners in nurturing their relationship. This includes open communication and personal emotional development. Both partners building emotional maturity is crucial. Contributing to a marriage involves supportive attitudes, emotional support, and shared responsibilities for a sense of partnership. Quality time and collaborative conflict resolution are essential. Each partner engages in individual work for personal growth, fostering love and appreciation.
South Dakota and Iowa telehealth. Emotional self-management and self-leadership skills are crucial for individual well-being. For couples, integrating fair play concepts aligns partners in nurturing their relationship. This includes open communication and personal emotional development. Both partners building emotional maturity is crucial. Contributing to a marriage involves supportive attitudes, emotional support, and shared responsibilities for a sense of partnership. Quality time and collaborative conflict resolution are essential. Each partner engages in individual work for personal growth, fostering love and appreciation.
(319) 220-3646 View (319) 220-3646
Photo of Alicia Wright, MSW, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alicia Wright
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW
Verified Verified
Des Moines, IA 50310
I have experience working with clients with depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship issues, life stressors, grief and loss, family conflict, Bipolar, ADD/ADHD, borderline personality disorder, substance use and mood disorders.
I am trained in several different therapeutic approaches including cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused therapy, narrative therapy, person-centered therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, etc. I enjoy working with teens, young adults and adults. I have a passion for giving every client an equal opportunity to thrive in their mental, emotional and behavioral realms. I offer both in person and telehealth therapy. I strive to to create a comfortable environment that allows clients to feel safe and supported.
I have experience working with clients with depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship issues, life stressors, grief and loss, family conflict, Bipolar, ADD/ADHD, borderline personality disorder, substance use and mood disorders.
I am trained in several different therapeutic approaches including cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused therapy, narrative therapy, person-centered therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, etc. I enjoy working with teens, young adults and adults. I have a passion for giving every client an equal opportunity to thrive in their mental, emotional and behavioral realms. I offer both in person and telehealth therapy. I strive to to create a comfortable environment that allows clients to feel safe and supported.
(515) 758-5980 View (515) 758-5980
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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.