Relationship Issues Therapists in Sunset Valley, TX

Photo of Gerry Lowe, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Gerry Lowe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Sunset Valley, TX 78745  (Online Only)
Do you have relationship problems or are you anxious, depressed or merely want to understand yourself better and increase the quality of your life? I'm a psychotherapist, licensed clinical social worker, and have worked with individuals, couples and groups for over 30 years. I value and continue to receive professional training and consultation. Using an eclectic approach, I draw upon a variety of theories, methods, and experiences to individualize your therapy, and to help you experience an improvement in or resolution of your problems and conflicts and an increase in the overall quality of your relationships and your life.
Do you have relationship problems or are you anxious, depressed or merely want to understand yourself better and increase the quality of your life? I'm a psychotherapist, licensed clinical social worker, and have worked with individuals, couples and groups for over 30 years. I value and continue to receive professional training and consultation. Using an eclectic approach, I draw upon a variety of theories, methods, and experiences to individualize your therapy, and to help you experience an improvement in or resolution of your problems and conflicts and an increase in the overall quality of your relationships and your life.
(512) 540-5614 View (512) 540-5614
Photo of Mary H Boone, LCSW, LCDC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mary H Boone
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCDC
Verified Verified
Sunset Valley, TX 78735
I am experienced and skilled in working with clients who have chemical dependency, codependency, depression, bipolar, anxiety disorders, trauma, and/or relationship issues. I see individuals and couples. I also work with parents of adolescents and offer family therapy sessions. I am excited about the good results that can be achieved with EMDR and EFT. Reducing the level of emotional disturbance, can clear the way for problem solving and healing.
I am experienced and skilled in working with clients who have chemical dependency, codependency, depression, bipolar, anxiety disorders, trauma, and/or relationship issues. I see individuals and couples. I also work with parents of adolescents and offer family therapy sessions. I am excited about the good results that can be achieved with EMDR and EFT. Reducing the level of emotional disturbance, can clear the way for problem solving and healing.
(361) 437-0924 View (361) 437-0924
Photo of Anna Graybeal, PhD, CGP, SEP, Psychologist
Anna Graybeal
Psychologist, PhD, CGP, SEP
Verified Verified
Sunset Valley, TX 78735
Waitlist for new clients
I work with my clients to examine various aspects of their experience, including thoughts, feelings, behaviors, and relationship patterns and, through this work, to develop more flexible and adaptive solutions to their problems.
I am a clinical psychologist specializing in the treatment of anxiety, depression, and relationship issues. I establish a strong alliance with my clients through empathy and respect and work collaboratively with them to achieve their goals. Other areas of my expertise include parenting, divorce, health problems such as illness and chronic pain, grief and loss, trauma, substance abuse, low self-esteem and identity issues.
I work with my clients to examine various aspects of their experience, including thoughts, feelings, behaviors, and relationship patterns and, through this work, to develop more flexible and adaptive solutions to their problems.
I am a clinical psychologist specializing in the treatment of anxiety, depression, and relationship issues. I establish a strong alliance with my clients through empathy and respect and work collaboratively with them to achieve their goals. Other areas of my expertise include parenting, divorce, health problems such as illness and chronic pain, grief and loss, trauma, substance abuse, low self-esteem and identity issues.
(512) 540-5328 View (512) 540-5328
Photo of Melissa M Hargrave - Hill Country Therapy, MS, LMFT-S, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Hill Country Therapy
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LMFT-S, LPC-S
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Sunset Valley, TX 78735
You want your relationship to feel alive, engaging, like the both of you are truly partners, lovers, and friends.
As far as anyone can tell, you’ve got a great marriage and life. You’re accomplished, always loving to each other and close with friends and family. But on the inside, you have never felt so alone. Over the years you have tried to rationalize, fix, and excuse your relationship growing apart, yet it is disheartening. Something just does not feel right anymore, and you begin to realize you feel like you have a roommate rather than a partnership. Maintaining a fulfilling and loving relationship can be a challenge in today's fast paced environment.
You want your relationship to feel alive, engaging, like the both of you are truly partners, lovers, and friends.
As far as anyone can tell, you’ve got a great marriage and life. You’re accomplished, always loving to each other and close with friends and family. But on the inside, you have never felt so alone. Over the years you have tried to rationalize, fix, and excuse your relationship growing apart, yet it is disheartening. Something just does not feel right anymore, and you begin to realize you feel like you have a roommate rather than a partnership. Maintaining a fulfilling and loving relationship can be a challenge in today's fast paced environment.
(512) 649-0090 View (512) 649-0090
Photo of Leslie Larson, MA, LPC-S, EMDR, Licensed Professional Counselor
Leslie Larson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S, EMDR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Sunset Valley, TX 78735  (Online Only)
Though I have experience with most types of problems from job stress, substance abuse, relationship issues, depression, anxiety, and life transitions, my specialty is trauma work.
I believe therapy is a process helps people to fully participate in their lives. I use several therapeutic styles and a collaborative approach. Together, we identify "the problem," then explore obstacles that block the process. The goal is wholeness and healing and you, as the client, decide what that looks like. Building a safe, respectful and trusting relationship is essential for success ---- as the client defines "success." I also believe that even in the most dire of circumstances, we can find joy, hope and even laughter. I enjoy playing a part in that with my clients.
Though I have experience with most types of problems from job stress, substance abuse, relationship issues, depression, anxiety, and life transitions, my specialty is trauma work.
I believe therapy is a process helps people to fully participate in their lives. I use several therapeutic styles and a collaborative approach. Together, we identify "the problem," then explore obstacles that block the process. The goal is wholeness and healing and you, as the client, decide what that looks like. Building a safe, respectful and trusting relationship is essential for success ---- as the client defines "success." I also believe that even in the most dire of circumstances, we can find joy, hope and even laughter. I enjoy playing a part in that with my clients.
(512) 540-5595 View (512) 540-5595
Photo of Jennifer Spradley Jones, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer Spradley Jones
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Sunset Valley, TX 78735
A psychotherapist practicing for 25 years, I'm passionate about treating couples and individuals with relationship issues, anxiety and depression.
I believe that we all have the strengths necessary to shift thoughts, feelings and behaviors in order to meet our full potential, and I enjoy helping people on their journey of self-awareness, healing, and empowerment. I approach therapy with compassion and great respect for my clients, and am able to help people identify and access their personal strengths necessary to overcome challenges so that they can live a more satisfying life.
A psychotherapist practicing for 25 years, I'm passionate about treating couples and individuals with relationship issues, anxiety and depression.
I believe that we all have the strengths necessary to shift thoughts, feelings and behaviors in order to meet our full potential, and I enjoy helping people on their journey of self-awareness, healing, and empowerment. I approach therapy with compassion and great respect for my clients, and am able to help people identify and access their personal strengths necessary to overcome challenges so that they can live a more satisfying life.
(512) 523-5696 View (512) 523-5696
Photo of Robert M Seidel, MSSW, LCSW, BCD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Robert M Seidel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW, BCD
Verified Verified
Sunset Valley, TX 78735
Relationship issues, communication, parent-child issues, anxiety & depression, divorce adjustment, best parenting practices in families with or without divorce, blended families, sexual/intimacy issues including abuse & trauma, loss, bullying, cyber-bullying, ADHD, school problems, workplace issues, addictions including drug and alcohol abuse, and career counseling.
I am an Honors graduate of The University of Texas at Austin with over 30 years experience helping people overcome anxiety & depression, resolve conflicts, deal with past hurts & traumas, improve communication and self esteem, and increase the quality of their relationships, as well as their work or school performance, in order that they may lead happier and more fulfilling lives. I also recently completed training to become a state-licensed, Clinical Social Work Supervisor for newly-graduated clinicians-in-training.
Relationship issues, communication, parent-child issues, anxiety & depression, divorce adjustment, best parenting practices in families with or without divorce, blended families, sexual/intimacy issues including abuse & trauma, loss, bullying, cyber-bullying, ADHD, school problems, workplace issues, addictions including drug and alcohol abuse, and career counseling.
I am an Honors graduate of The University of Texas at Austin with over 30 years experience helping people overcome anxiety & depression, resolve conflicts, deal with past hurts & traumas, improve communication and self esteem, and increase the quality of their relationships, as well as their work or school performance, in order that they may lead happier and more fulfilling lives. I also recently completed training to become a state-licensed, Clinical Social Work Supervisor for newly-graduated clinicians-in-training.
(512) 957-2693 View (512) 957-2693
Photo of Karen Thompson - Karen Thompson, Ph.D., PhD, Psychologist
Karen Thompson, Ph.D.
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Sunset Valley, TX 78735
I am a licensed psychologist with over 30 years of experience working with clients. My work is based upon my belief that human beings are inherently good and yet all too often adopt limiting belief systems and habitual behavioral patterns which keep us from realizing our true nature. I work with clients who wish to regain their balance and integrity and assist them in learning how to live the lives they intuitively know they are meant to live. Clients often present with depression, anxiety and/or relationship difficulties and seek to feel better and sustain more on-going joy, love, and harmony in their lives.
I am a licensed psychologist with over 30 years of experience working with clients. My work is based upon my belief that human beings are inherently good and yet all too often adopt limiting belief systems and habitual behavioral patterns which keep us from realizing our true nature. I work with clients who wish to regain their balance and integrity and assist them in learning how to live the lives they intuitively know they are meant to live. Clients often present with depression, anxiety and/or relationship difficulties and seek to feel better and sustain more on-going joy, love, and harmony in their lives.
(512) 391-0426 View (512) 391-0426
Photo of Tina Strarup, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tina Strarup
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Sunset Valley, TX 78735  (Online Only)
Counseling is a trusting relationship where someone is actively seeking help from a professional who is willing to help. My goal is to explore my client's needs for therapy. From there, I will try to find out what they might expect from therapy such as developing the mental/emotional strength necessary to relate well with others, making decisions about relationship or career issues, reducing anxiety, improving self-esteem, or decreasing depressive symptoms that make their day difficult. I will be honest and understanding. It is my hope that each and everyone finds happiness, peace, and hope.
Counseling is a trusting relationship where someone is actively seeking help from a professional who is willing to help. My goal is to explore my client's needs for therapy. From there, I will try to find out what they might expect from therapy such as developing the mental/emotional strength necessary to relate well with others, making decisions about relationship or career issues, reducing anxiety, improving self-esteem, or decreasing depressive symptoms that make their day difficult. I will be honest and understanding. It is my hope that each and everyone finds happiness, peace, and hope.
(512) 523-5644 View (512) 523-5644
Photo of Susan Gonzales - Susan Gonzales—Neurodivergence•Couples•Stress•Men, MA, LPC, LMFT, Pre-Licensed Professional
Susan Gonzales—Neurodivergence•Couples•Stress•Men
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sunset Valley, TX 78745
Are you tired, overwhelmed, or stressed? Let’s face it—life is stressful! Your kid is having a tantrum in the middle of the store, your boss is breathing down your neck, and you and your partner keep having the same arguments on repeat. Anxiety sucks up energy, makes us irritable, and weakens our immune systems. All of this leaves you feeling frustrated, hopeless, and exhausted. Therapy can help you gain practical tools for improving communication in your relationship, understanding your emotions, and coping with stress. Couples therapy. Family counseling. Parent coaching. Group therapy for men. Not sure where to turn? Call now.
Are you tired, overwhelmed, or stressed? Let’s face it—life is stressful! Your kid is having a tantrum in the middle of the store, your boss is breathing down your neck, and you and your partner keep having the same arguments on repeat. Anxiety sucks up energy, makes us irritable, and weakens our immune systems. All of this leaves you feeling frustrated, hopeless, and exhausted. Therapy can help you gain practical tools for improving communication in your relationship, understanding your emotions, and coping with stress. Couples therapy. Family counseling. Parent coaching. Group therapy for men. Not sure where to turn? Call now.
(512) 430-4425 View (512) 430-4425
Photo of Marina Solis, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Marina Solis
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Sunset Valley, TX 78745  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am curious and invested in your story and how therapy can help improve your relationship or help you to overcome hard places in life.
You have taken a wonderful first step to figuring out what brings you joy, understanding, hope, and healing. Therapy is a safe space to hold hope. Hope for relief from what life brings you and at times is overwhelming…and hope that you can be heard and validated. My view of counseling is that each client and their story is unique and deserves a collaborative, person-centered approach. My therapeutic approach is based on attachment theory, Gottman Method couple's therapy, interpersonal neurobiology, family therapy models, and trauma modalities such as cognitive processing therapy.
I am curious and invested in your story and how therapy can help improve your relationship or help you to overcome hard places in life.
You have taken a wonderful first step to figuring out what brings you joy, understanding, hope, and healing. Therapy is a safe space to hold hope. Hope for relief from what life brings you and at times is overwhelming…and hope that you can be heard and validated. My view of counseling is that each client and their story is unique and deserves a collaborative, person-centered approach. My therapeutic approach is based on attachment theory, Gottman Method couple's therapy, interpersonal neurobiology, family therapy models, and trauma modalities such as cognitive processing therapy.
(512) 686-2627 View (512) 686-2627
Photo of Nancy Willbern, PhD, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nancy Willbern
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sunset Valley, TX 78735  (Online Only)
I work with adults dealing with anxiety, depression, life crisis, women's issues, relationship issues, parenting, addiction/recovery and the mind/body/spirit connection.
'Ring the bells that still can ring; forget your perfect offering; there is a crack in everything; it's how the light gets in.' (Leonard Cohen) When clients come in with cracks in their lives, I am committed to pointing towards the light. I love my job. Although I am educated and experienced in classical psychotherapeutic theory and practice, I have a spiritual foundation to my work. I encourage my clients to connect to an inner, Loving Wisdom -- and I am committed to doing the same. It is through that connection that we both are healed.
I work with adults dealing with anxiety, depression, life crisis, women's issues, relationship issues, parenting, addiction/recovery and the mind/body/spirit connection.
'Ring the bells that still can ring; forget your perfect offering; there is a crack in everything; it's how the light gets in.' (Leonard Cohen) When clients come in with cracks in their lives, I am committed to pointing towards the light. I love my job. Although I am educated and experienced in classical psychotherapeutic theory and practice, I have a spiritual foundation to my work. I encourage my clients to connect to an inner, Loving Wisdom -- and I am committed to doing the same. It is through that connection that we both are healed.
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Photo of Elizanda de la Sota, Psychologist
Elizanda de la Sota
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Sunset Valley, TX 78745
If you want to create change in your life and prefer a therapist who is dynamic and directive, then I could be a good fit for you. Clients who do well with me want to understand themselves and are willing to be challenged and are committed to growth. I am best suited to dealing with depression, anxiety, health issues, substance abuse problems, and relationship issues. I have special training in Pain Management, Mind-Body Issues in Health, and Sexual Dysfunction
If you want to create change in your life and prefer a therapist who is dynamic and directive, then I could be a good fit for you. Clients who do well with me want to understand themselves and are willing to be challenged and are committed to growth. I am best suited to dealing with depression, anxiety, health issues, substance abuse problems, and relationship issues. I have special training in Pain Management, Mind-Body Issues in Health, and Sexual Dysfunction
(512) 379-6526 View (512) 379-6526
Photo of Stephanie Trueblood - Firefly Therapy Austin, PLLC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Firefly Therapy Austin, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Sunset Valley, TX 78745
Are you feeling stuck in the same old patterns in your life and ready for a change? Maybe you're feeling the weight of anxiety, depression, grief, or trauma and could use a hand in healing the past to experience freedom from it in the future. Have you noticed you keep getting into the same types of relationship challenges? It is normal for people to feel conflicted and get in our own way - it's part of being human! And we often need someone outside ourselves, friends, and family to help sort through the nitty-gritty thoughts, feelings, and fears. You don't have to face these issues alone.
Are you feeling stuck in the same old patterns in your life and ready for a change? Maybe you're feeling the weight of anxiety, depression, grief, or trauma and could use a hand in healing the past to experience freedom from it in the future. Have you noticed you keep getting into the same types of relationship challenges? It is normal for people to feel conflicted and get in our own way - it's part of being human! And we often need someone outside ourselves, friends, and family to help sort through the nitty-gritty thoughts, feelings, and fears. You don't have to face these issues alone.
(737) 210-3441 View (737) 210-3441
Photo of Andrea Rábago, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Andrea Rábago
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Sunset Valley, TX 78735  (Online Only)
As a multi-licensed relationship therapist, I specialize in helping individuals heal from complex trauma, empath/narcissism spectrum, & PTSD symptoms.
I work closely with Highly Sensitive People, Austin spectrum, medical personnel, first responders, & those seeking to restore nervous system capacity, enhance Self understanding & experience intimate, grounded, & growth oriented relationships. My focus areas also include conscious integration, psychedelic preparation & integration, addiction recovery, & trauma resolution PTSD & CPTSD. Let's develop space together for you to relax, restore, explore, & prioritize what matters most in your life.
As a multi-licensed relationship therapist, I specialize in helping individuals heal from complex trauma, empath/narcissism spectrum, & PTSD symptoms.
I work closely with Highly Sensitive People, Austin spectrum, medical personnel, first responders, & those seeking to restore nervous system capacity, enhance Self understanding & experience intimate, grounded, & growth oriented relationships. My focus areas also include conscious integration, psychedelic preparation & integration, addiction recovery, & trauma resolution PTSD & CPTSD. Let's develop space together for you to relax, restore, explore, & prioritize what matters most in your life.
(512) 865-5284 View (512) 865-5284
Photo of De Sellers, LPC, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor
De Sellers
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA
Verified Verified
Sunset Valley, TX 78735
I draw on a wide range of psychological theories and techniques to assist my clients in cutting through the confusion and beliefs that may be holding them back from achieving their personal and professional goals. I encourage pragmatic solutions to the complexities of modern life. My practice focuses on adults, both individuals and couples. Common topics include: depression and anxiety, relationships, stress management, mid-life, chronic pain/health concerns, confidence/self esteem, parenting, addiction and recovery, sexual identity, aging. I also give individual consultations on career choice, career advancement, improving work performance, managing employees, project completion.
I draw on a wide range of psychological theories and techniques to assist my clients in cutting through the confusion and beliefs that may be holding them back from achieving their personal and professional goals. I encourage pragmatic solutions to the complexities of modern life. My practice focuses on adults, both individuals and couples. Common topics include: depression and anxiety, relationships, stress management, mid-life, chronic pain/health concerns, confidence/self esteem, parenting, addiction and recovery, sexual identity, aging. I also give individual consultations on career choice, career advancement, improving work performance, managing employees, project completion.
(512) 649-0444 View (512) 649-0444
Photo of Kevin A Fall, PhD, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kevin A Fall
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC-S
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Sunset Valley, TX 78735
Changing anything in life can feel like a struggle and seeking help is an important part of the process. During my time as counselor, I have had the privilege to collaborate with adults, adolescents, couples and families as they courageously embark on the pathway to change. I value working with my clients to gain awareness of the patterns in life and finding ways of adjusting them to meet current needs. Whether you are feeling stuck or completely lost, counseling can be a great tool for change. I look forward to working with you.
Changing anything in life can feel like a struggle and seeking help is an important part of the process. During my time as counselor, I have had the privilege to collaborate with adults, adolescents, couples and families as they courageously embark on the pathway to change. I value working with my clients to gain awareness of the patterns in life and finding ways of adjusting them to meet current needs. Whether you are feeling stuck or completely lost, counseling can be a great tool for change. I look forward to working with you.
(512) 649-0007 View (512) 649-0007
Photo of Christine Winston, LCSW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christine Winston
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sunset Valley, TX 78735
Through individual, couples, and group therapy, I help people better understand themselves and find more satisfaction in their relationships. With an eye toward your past but with feet firmly in the present, I work with folks to make sense of what they've tried sort it out their own, who want to feel more sturdy, steady, and comfortable moving through life. Therapy can be a fantastic tool for gaining greater insight about yourself and more comfort in the relationships you have and you'd like to have. I work with many busy professionals who are typically trying to find more balance and ease in their very complex lives.
Through individual, couples, and group therapy, I help people better understand themselves and find more satisfaction in their relationships. With an eye toward your past but with feet firmly in the present, I work with folks to make sense of what they've tried sort it out their own, who want to feel more sturdy, steady, and comfortable moving through life. Therapy can be a fantastic tool for gaining greater insight about yourself and more comfort in the relationships you have and you'd like to have. I work with many busy professionals who are typically trying to find more balance and ease in their very complex lives.
(512) 649-0080 View (512) 649-0080
Photo of Lindsay McCartney, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lindsay McCartney
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Sunset Valley, TX 78735
Making the decision to enter therapy can be a difficult decision, especially when trying to find a therapist who is the right fit. I don’t believe anyone should feel ambivalent about their therapist. The priority is finding someone who provides a safe space for sharing your story without judgment. Questions that might run through your mind: "Do I need therapy?" "Will talking to someone help me?" "I (we) went before and it didn’t really help. How will this time be different?" I recognize that not everyone "needs" therapy, but I think everyone can benefit from the support of an objective and compassionate person to empower growth.
Making the decision to enter therapy can be a difficult decision, especially when trying to find a therapist who is the right fit. I don’t believe anyone should feel ambivalent about their therapist. The priority is finding someone who provides a safe space for sharing your story without judgment. Questions that might run through your mind: "Do I need therapy?" "Will talking to someone help me?" "I (we) went before and it didn’t really help. How will this time be different?" I recognize that not everyone "needs" therapy, but I think everyone can benefit from the support of an objective and compassionate person to empower growth.
(512) 865-4844 View (512) 865-4844
Photo of Wanda Montemayor, LPC-S, ATCS, ATR-BC, RPT-S, EMDR, Licensed Professional Counselor
Wanda Montemayor
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, ATCS, ATR-BC, RPT-S, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sunset Valley, TX 78745
Clinical Supervisor Wanda Montemayor is a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor (LPC-S-AT), a Registered Art Therapist (ATR-BC, ATCS) , a Registered Play Therapy Supervisor ( RPT-S) with a specialty in EMDR and animal-assisted therapy. In addition to her traditional counseling and therapy (talk therapy) methods, she integrates art therapy for her clients, as well as in community art projects throughout her community. Her unique background and experience, along with her diverse toolset, allow her to help clients overcome obstacles, grow, and heal. Wanda is offering in person therapy and teletherapy.
Clinical Supervisor Wanda Montemayor is a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor (LPC-S-AT), a Registered Art Therapist (ATR-BC, ATCS) , a Registered Play Therapy Supervisor ( RPT-S) with a specialty in EMDR and animal-assisted therapy. In addition to her traditional counseling and therapy (talk therapy) methods, she integrates art therapy for her clients, as well as in community art projects throughout her community. Her unique background and experience, along with her diverse toolset, allow her to help clients overcome obstacles, grow, and heal. Wanda is offering in person therapy and teletherapy.
(737) 204-3260 View (737) 204-3260
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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.