Relationship Issues Therapists in Baltimore, MD

Photo of Nadia Williams - Nadia Williams LCPC, CST, MA, LCPC, CST, CSCT
Nadia Williams LCPC, CST
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC, CST, CSCT
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21224  (Online Only)
I am a Certified Sex Therapist and trained in treating a wide range of mental health issues including anxiety, sexual health issues, mood disorders, relationship problems, and life transitions.
In my practice, I believe in taking a friendly and non-judgmental manner with clients and view therapy as a collaboration. Seeking out a therapist can be a daunting task for anyone and I hope to make clients feel heard and comfortable by personalizing therapy to their needs. I utilize a variety of integrative therapeutic techniques ranging from cognitive behavioral, mindfulness, dialectical behavior therapy, and solution-focused to assist clients facing many difficulties within their lives.
I am a Certified Sex Therapist and trained in treating a wide range of mental health issues including anxiety, sexual health issues, mood disorders, relationship problems, and life transitions.
In my practice, I believe in taking a friendly and non-judgmental manner with clients and view therapy as a collaboration. Seeking out a therapist can be a daunting task for anyone and I hope to make clients feel heard and comfortable by personalizing therapy to their needs. I utilize a variety of integrative therapeutic techniques ranging from cognitive behavioral, mindfulness, dialectical behavior therapy, and solution-focused to assist clients facing many difficulties within their lives.
(443) 483-4192 View (443) 483-4192
Photo of Vicki Vandenburg, LCSW-C, BCD, C-SWHC, C-ASWCM, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Vicki Vandenburg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, BCD, C-SWHC, C-ASWCM
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21230
Vicki is a certified licensed clinical Social Worker who has practiced for over 25 years. Vicki has held positions at a local hospital, crisis center and other clinical settings in and around the Baltimore area. Vicki has advanced training in CBT in treating anxiety, depression and other mood disturbances. Vicki also specializes in relationship issues, employment and academic issues, grief, loss and caregiver issues. Vicki offers tools to enhance and strengthen communication skills and offers tangible strategies to those dealing with depression, anxiety and other life challenges or stressors.
Vicki is a certified licensed clinical Social Worker who has practiced for over 25 years. Vicki has held positions at a local hospital, crisis center and other clinical settings in and around the Baltimore area. Vicki has advanced training in CBT in treating anxiety, depression and other mood disturbances. Vicki also specializes in relationship issues, employment and academic issues, grief, loss and caregiver issues. Vicki offers tools to enhance and strengthen communication skills and offers tangible strategies to those dealing with depression, anxiety and other life challenges or stressors.
(443) 991-7204 View (443) 991-7204
Photo of Susan Stork, LCPC, LPCC, LPCMH, CST
Susan Stork
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, LPCC, LPCMH, CST
Verified Verified
17 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21201
Relationship sessions range from 90 mins to 6 hours, fostering authentic connection.
In the intricate web of modern existence, where complexity thrives and our social circles contract, the vitality of our relationships, partnerships, and unions is elevated to unprecedented significance. As a practitioner deeply immersed in contemporary Jungian insights and inspired by the relational wisdom of Ester Perel, I serve as a guide—a Licensed Psychotherapist and Certified Sex Therapist—committed to navigating individuals, couples, and families toward the realization of profound and nourishing connections.
Relationship sessions range from 90 mins to 6 hours, fostering authentic connection.
In the intricate web of modern existence, where complexity thrives and our social circles contract, the vitality of our relationships, partnerships, and unions is elevated to unprecedented significance. As a practitioner deeply immersed in contemporary Jungian insights and inspired by the relational wisdom of Ester Perel, I serve as a guide—a Licensed Psychotherapist and Certified Sex Therapist—committed to navigating individuals, couples, and families toward the realization of profound and nourishing connections.
(443) 355-4740 View (443) 355-4740
Photo of Rachel Keller, LCSW-C, AASECT, CST, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rachel Keller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, AASECT, CST
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21225  (Online Only)
I'm also dedicated to improving the quality of relationships, through increasing awareness, facilitating self growth, and teaching key relationship skills.
Would you like to feel closer to your partner? Are obstacles, conflict, or past trauma getting in the way of the intimacy and connection that you desire? Would you like to feel more alive and empowered in your relationships? Relationships are challenging, and there are many valid reasons why couples struggle to connect in healthy ways. Whether you are seeking couples or individual therapy, I will walk with you as a fellow traveler, guiding and supporting each step of the way towards greater relational health. For individual therapy, I mainly work with women or nonbinary folks.
I'm also dedicated to improving the quality of relationships, through increasing awareness, facilitating self growth, and teaching key relationship skills.
Would you like to feel closer to your partner? Are obstacles, conflict, or past trauma getting in the way of the intimacy and connection that you desire? Would you like to feel more alive and empowered in your relationships? Relationships are challenging, and there are many valid reasons why couples struggle to connect in healthy ways. Whether you are seeking couples or individual therapy, I will walk with you as a fellow traveler, guiding and supporting each step of the way towards greater relational health. For individual therapy, I mainly work with women or nonbinary folks.
(410) 874-4009 View (410) 874-4009
Photo of Courtney Cox, LCPC, NCC
Courtney Cox
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21211
Finding a therapist you can trust with your most important relationship is a tall order.
Most clients seen within a week of consultation. Whether you’ve just moved in together and can’t seem to talk about the dishes without ruining your Sunday night, or you’ve been married for years and are coping with parenting differences, intimacy problems, or affair recovery, couples therapy can be a game-changer for your relationship. When your relationship is in distress, it can feel all-consuming. Instead of laughter, friendship and intimacy, you find yourselves snapping at each other, walking on eggshells, or having blow-out fights. Your best attempts to get things back on track seem to set your partner off or push them away.
Finding a therapist you can trust with your most important relationship is a tall order.
Most clients seen within a week of consultation. Whether you’ve just moved in together and can’t seem to talk about the dishes without ruining your Sunday night, or you’ve been married for years and are coping with parenting differences, intimacy problems, or affair recovery, couples therapy can be a game-changer for your relationship. When your relationship is in distress, it can feel all-consuming. Instead of laughter, friendship and intimacy, you find yourselves snapping at each other, walking on eggshells, or having blow-out fights. Your best attempts to get things back on track seem to set your partner off or push them away.
(443) 232-9235 View (443) 232-9235
Photo of Rachael Spenadel, LCPC, Counselor
Rachael Spenadel
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21224  (Online Only)
I can help with life transitions, relationship issues, family-of-origin issues, ADHD, self-esteem, depression, anxiety, and childhood or relationship trauma processing.
Please note I am only seeing clients via telehealth. I have convenient evening hours and some daytime hours. Currently my openings are as follows: Weekly: Monday-4Pm. Tuesday- 11am. Bi-weekly: Tuesday- 3pm and 4pm. Wednesday- 3pm. My ideal client is motivated to change and build a deeper understanding of self. They may be feeling stuck or lost and need an external push. I provide compassion, humor, and insight, and tailored strategies to empower you to finding your way. I have a lot of experience working with college students and post-grads, but love working with teenagers and adults of any age.
I can help with life transitions, relationship issues, family-of-origin issues, ADHD, self-esteem, depression, anxiety, and childhood or relationship trauma processing.
Please note I am only seeing clients via telehealth. I have convenient evening hours and some daytime hours. Currently my openings are as follows: Weekly: Monday-4Pm. Tuesday- 11am. Bi-weekly: Tuesday- 3pm and 4pm. Wednesday- 3pm. My ideal client is motivated to change and build a deeper understanding of self. They may be feeling stuck or lost and need an external push. I provide compassion, humor, and insight, and tailored strategies to empower you to finding your way. I have a lot of experience working with college students and post-grads, but love working with teenagers and adults of any age.
(240) 453-4029 View (240) 453-4029
Photo of Karen Mandwelle Caplan, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Karen Mandwelle Caplan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21215
I believe that a trusting therapeutic relationship is the foundation of a successful outcome, whether healing from trauma or loss or working on issues of depression, anxiety, bereavement, or family conflict. My aim is to help people become their authentic selves, improve problem solving abilities, and achieve their goals. My approach is individualized, informed by one's particular needs and strengths. I integrate techniques from cognitive behavioral and solution focused therapies, mindfulness training, and psychodynamic therapy.
I believe that a trusting therapeutic relationship is the foundation of a successful outcome, whether healing from trauma or loss or working on issues of depression, anxiety, bereavement, or family conflict. My aim is to help people become their authentic selves, improve problem solving abilities, and achieve their goals. My approach is individualized, informed by one's particular needs and strengths. I integrate techniques from cognitive behavioral and solution focused therapies, mindfulness training, and psychodynamic therapy.
(443) 847-1866 View (443) 847-1866
Photo of Rob Rogers, MA, LCPC, NCC, Counselor
Rob Rogers
Counselor, MA, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21212  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Feeling stuck? Looking to strengthen the intimacy and communication within your relationship? Ready for pre-marital or marriage counseling? Have parenting issues become to overwhelming to know what to do next? Are you having difficulty setting boundaries with your parents or in-laws? It can be beneficial to meet with a professional who specializes in deepening relationships, expanding insight, is sincerely supportive while able to teach you helpful skills like effective communication and emotion management. Together we'll create a space where you'll learn a better way to connect with others and live out what you truly value.
Feeling stuck? Looking to strengthen the intimacy and communication within your relationship? Ready for pre-marital or marriage counseling? Have parenting issues become to overwhelming to know what to do next? Are you having difficulty setting boundaries with your parents or in-laws? It can be beneficial to meet with a professional who specializes in deepening relationships, expanding insight, is sincerely supportive while able to teach you helpful skills like effective communication and emotion management. Together we'll create a space where you'll learn a better way to connect with others and live out what you truly value.
(443) 378-3562 View (443) 378-3562
Photo of Tyrone Obaseki, MDiv, LPC, LCDC
Tyrone Obaseki
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MDiv, LPC, LCDC
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21214
Welcome to Transformative Counseling & Wellness Solutions! We believe in renewing the mind and dealing with the total person! Healing starts with being transparent, and opening up about your life’s journey to your therapist, who responds with compassion, empathy, and wisdom. Our therapeutic relationship can be the building block and the catalyst towards your new life! We provide affordable counseling, traditional & wellness services. If you want to journey beyond life's obstacles, don't hesitate to call. Together we will navigate your path towards freedom, success, and happiness.
Welcome to Transformative Counseling & Wellness Solutions! We believe in renewing the mind and dealing with the total person! Healing starts with being transparent, and opening up about your life’s journey to your therapist, who responds with compassion, empathy, and wisdom. Our therapeutic relationship can be the building block and the catalyst towards your new life! We provide affordable counseling, traditional & wellness services. If you want to journey beyond life's obstacles, don't hesitate to call. Together we will navigate your path towards freedom, success, and happiness.
(410) 896-1453 View (410) 896-1453
Photo of Alana Serfaty, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alana Serfaty
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21202  (Online Only)
Although most people will experience anxiety, depression, trauma, self esteem and relationship issues at some point in their life, some issues affect women differently and thus they need a different approach. Women deal with many unique issues like carrying the emotional burden in relationships, having different standards of physical beauty, being discriminated against at work, struggling with fertility issues, and experiencing intersectional racism. Women are often told to "deal with it" or that they are being too emotional, but I am here to tell you that your feelings are completely valid!
Although most people will experience anxiety, depression, trauma, self esteem and relationship issues at some point in their life, some issues affect women differently and thus they need a different approach. Women deal with many unique issues like carrying the emotional burden in relationships, having different standards of physical beauty, being discriminated against at work, struggling with fertility issues, and experiencing intersectional racism. Women are often told to "deal with it" or that they are being too emotional, but I am here to tell you that your feelings are completely valid!
(301) 701-3292 View (301) 701-3292
Photo of Jennifer Cleanthous, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer Cleanthous
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21239  (Online Only)
You made the brave step to search for a therapist! Maybe you are struggling with a relationship with a partner or family member? Maybe you are struggling with your relationship with yourself? Maybe something has happened or is happening to you such as fighting with family, separation from a partner, birth trauma or parenting challenges and you need help sorting it all out. At BMORE Curious Counseling we will work together to take you from "I don't know what to do..." to "I've noticed.... or "I'm realizing...". I will help you move from the back seat to the driver seat of your life. I look forward to working with you!
You made the brave step to search for a therapist! Maybe you are struggling with a relationship with a partner or family member? Maybe you are struggling with your relationship with yourself? Maybe something has happened or is happening to you such as fighting with family, separation from a partner, birth trauma or parenting challenges and you need help sorting it all out. At BMORE Curious Counseling we will work together to take you from "I don't know what to do..." to "I've noticed.... or "I'm realizing...". I will help you move from the back seat to the driver seat of your life. I look forward to working with you!
(410) 453-8488 View (410) 453-8488
Photo of Barry A Bass, PhD, Psychologist
Barry A Bass
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21210
Where does sexual intimacy fit into a loving relationship? As a certified AASECT sex therapist I help couples to see that sexual satisfaction is not an optional but rather is an essential component of a long term happy marriage.
Although the desire for romantic intimacy is perfectly natural, long term intimate relationships are rarely naturally perfect. For over 30 years I have dedicated my professional life to helping individuals and couples fine tune their not-always naturally perfect relationships. Although I am a clinical psychologist who continues to treat individuals suffering from the full spectrum of psychological disorders, most of my career has been devoted to working with individuals and couples experiencing marital, relationship, and/or sexual concerns; to assisting couples seeking relief from the trauma of infidelity; and to treating individuals suffering from obsessive compulsive disorder or anger control issues.
Where does sexual intimacy fit into a loving relationship? As a certified AASECT sex therapist I help couples to see that sexual satisfaction is not an optional but rather is an essential component of a long term happy marriage.
Although the desire for romantic intimacy is perfectly natural, long term intimate relationships are rarely naturally perfect. For over 30 years I have dedicated my professional life to helping individuals and couples fine tune their not-always naturally perfect relationships. Although I am a clinical psychologist who continues to treat individuals suffering from the full spectrum of psychological disorders, most of my career has been devoted to working with individuals and couples experiencing marital, relationship, and/or sexual concerns; to assisting couples seeking relief from the trauma of infidelity; and to treating individuals suffering from obsessive compulsive disorder or anger control issues.
(410) 305-9329 View (410) 305-9329
Photo of Marc J Weinstein, PsyD, Psychologist
Marc J Weinstein
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21210
In my experience, a person who seeks therapy wants solutions that work. And since two heads are better than one, I believe an effective therapeutic alliance can help people attain the happiness and fulfillment they desire. When a safe and trusting environment is established, people can learn to value themselves, develop healthy relationships and heal from painful experiences. My therapy style is direct and active. I rely on honesty and authenticity in therapy to guide our collaborative efforts. Therapy can only be successful when the client and therapist have a good working relationship and the client participates fully.
In my experience, a person who seeks therapy wants solutions that work. And since two heads are better than one, I believe an effective therapeutic alliance can help people attain the happiness and fulfillment they desire. When a safe and trusting environment is established, people can learn to value themselves, develop healthy relationships and heal from painful experiences. My therapy style is direct and active. I rely on honesty and authenticity in therapy to guide our collaborative efforts. Therapy can only be successful when the client and therapist have a good working relationship and the client participates fully.
(410) 205-1022 View (410) 205-1022
Photo of Sarah Hofsommer, LCSW-C, BCD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarah Hofsommer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, BCD
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21209
Waitlist for new clients
Are symptoms related to anxiety, depression, trauma or stress causing you to feel stuck? Do you want to improve your relationship? Together, we can increase your awareness of the thoughts and behaviors that prevent you from living your fullest life. We can explore important experiences which have informed your beliefs about yourself and the world. I will assist you in developing healthy coping skills and support you in moving away from less effective, short-term coping strategies. We will use your strengths to empower you to live in a way that is consistent with your values.
Are symptoms related to anxiety, depression, trauma or stress causing you to feel stuck? Do you want to improve your relationship? Together, we can increase your awareness of the thoughts and behaviors that prevent you from living your fullest life. We can explore important experiences which have informed your beliefs about yourself and the world. I will assist you in developing healthy coping skills and support you in moving away from less effective, short-term coping strategies. We will use your strengths to empower you to live in a way that is consistent with your values.
(443) 384-7366 View (443) 384-7366
Photo of Brittany Spencer, LCPC, Counselor
Brittany Spencer
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21201
I support individuals & couples navigating, trauma within family of origin, high demand job stress, LGBTQIA concerns, nontraditional relationship support, BIPOC support, sexual health, life transitions.
Therapy, we all have been given different messages (good & bad) about what it “means” to utilize it. In case no one has told you lately, seeking therapy does not mean something is wrong with you. Rather you are new to therapy and wondering what to discuss in session or have intermittently done therapy, I work to ensure my clients therapeutic journey is catered to meet their wants and needs.
I support individuals & couples navigating, trauma within family of origin, high demand job stress, LGBTQIA concerns, nontraditional relationship support, BIPOC support, sexual health, life transitions.
Therapy, we all have been given different messages (good & bad) about what it “means” to utilize it. In case no one has told you lately, seeking therapy does not mean something is wrong with you. Rather you are new to therapy and wondering what to discuss in session or have intermittently done therapy, I work to ensure my clients therapeutic journey is catered to meet their wants and needs.
(202) 759-6027 View (202) 759-6027
Photo of Sarah Adams, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarah Adams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21210
The therapeutic relationship is one of the most crucial indicators of success in therapy.
I work with young people and adults to identify problems, understand emotions, and improve our relationships with ourselves, our loved ones, and our world. I believe you are the expert on your own life. My role is to create a space for you to rest, explore vulnerability, and develop tools for introspection. I strive to create a non-judgmental atmosphere where you can become the best version of yourself. My approach to therapy is eclectic. I see our work through a trauma-informed, person-centered, culturally-sensitive lens.
The therapeutic relationship is one of the most crucial indicators of success in therapy.
I work with young people and adults to identify problems, understand emotions, and improve our relationships with ourselves, our loved ones, and our world. I believe you are the expert on your own life. My role is to create a space for you to rest, explore vulnerability, and develop tools for introspection. I strive to create a non-judgmental atmosphere where you can become the best version of yourself. My approach to therapy is eclectic. I see our work through a trauma-informed, person-centered, culturally-sensitive lens.
(443) 241-9146 View (443) 241-9146
Photo of Ruth L Klein, PhD, Psychologist
Ruth L Klein
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21209
Training, experience and expertise are all important, but ultimately the healing factor in psychotherapy depends upon the relationship between the client and therapist.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with more than 20 years' experience treating adults, adolescents, couples and families. Trained in insight-oriented treatment, I primarily identify as a "systems" therapist who helps clients understand their behavior and emotions not only as individuals but in the context of their family and relationships. I have an interest and expertise in Cognitive-Behavioral approaches to health (insomnia and weight issues in particular). I work with you to identify your concerns and goals, and to develop and implement a plan for working together to address them.
Training, experience and expertise are all important, but ultimately the healing factor in psychotherapy depends upon the relationship between the client and therapist.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with more than 20 years' experience treating adults, adolescents, couples and families. Trained in insight-oriented treatment, I primarily identify as a "systems" therapist who helps clients understand their behavior and emotions not only as individuals but in the context of their family and relationships. I have an interest and expertise in Cognitive-Behavioral approaches to health (insomnia and weight issues in particular). I work with you to identify your concerns and goals, and to develop and implement a plan for working together to address them.
(410) 618-0882 View (410) 618-0882
Photo of Sharon Calvano - Stone Soup Counseling, LLC, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stone Soup Counseling, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21210
** WE ARE ACCEPTING NEW APPOINTMENTS** Therapy is great way to begin looking at your patterns, past behaviors, and current situation in order to make that change. We can help you look into what you are experiencing, understand why it is happening, and figure out how to make changes for a deeper and more satisfying life. ​Many clients we see deal with depression, anxiety, bipolar illness, relationship issues, trauma, life transitions, lack of meaning, or other life issues. Whether you are experiencing any of these issues or just feel a general need for a change, call us and see if therapy is right for you.
** WE ARE ACCEPTING NEW APPOINTMENTS** Therapy is great way to begin looking at your patterns, past behaviors, and current situation in order to make that change. We can help you look into what you are experiencing, understand why it is happening, and figure out how to make changes for a deeper and more satisfying life. ​Many clients we see deal with depression, anxiety, bipolar illness, relationship issues, trauma, life transitions, lack of meaning, or other life issues. Whether you are experiencing any of these issues or just feel a general need for a change, call us and see if therapy is right for you.
(443) 376-7878 View (443) 376-7878
Photo of Colleen Quinn, PhD, Psychologist
Colleen Quinn
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21209
I teach you how to develop a relationship with your own soul that holds all of the wisdom and all of the tools you seek.
When it comes to developing effective means to obtain our desired outcomes, we have all created conditioned patterns early in life that were designed by our very young psyches as our best bet to never feel certain painful experiences again. These patterns were likely adaptive when we were children but they come at a cost for us as adults, leading us to live smaller than our heart’s truest desires. My ideal client is ready to travel into his/her own heart, to learn how to listen and honor the wisdom inherent therein creating their best, most fulfilling life.
I teach you how to develop a relationship with your own soul that holds all of the wisdom and all of the tools you seek.
When it comes to developing effective means to obtain our desired outcomes, we have all created conditioned patterns early in life that were designed by our very young psyches as our best bet to never feel certain painful experiences again. These patterns were likely adaptive when we were children but they come at a cost for us as adults, leading us to live smaller than our heart’s truest desires. My ideal client is ready to travel into his/her own heart, to learn how to listen and honor the wisdom inherent therein creating their best, most fulfilling life.
(410) 775-5510 View (410) 775-5510
Photo of Michael C Heitt, PsyD, Psychologist
Michael C Heitt
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21208
Are you a busy professional or college or grad student dealing with personal, relationship or work-related challenges? As a licensed psychologist, I help individuals and couples like you who are facing difficult life transitions and changes, have experienced trauma or loss, or are dealing with psychiatric illnesses, such as depression and anxiety. Because I understand how hard it can be to ask for assistance, I respond to all email and voicemail messages in a timely manner to make this first step toward growth and healing easier. Please note, I tend to respond email more quickly than voicemail messages.
Are you a busy professional or college or grad student dealing with personal, relationship or work-related challenges? As a licensed psychologist, I help individuals and couples like you who are facing difficult life transitions and changes, have experienced trauma or loss, or are dealing with psychiatric illnesses, such as depression and anxiety. Because I understand how hard it can be to ask for assistance, I respond to all email and voicemail messages in a timely manner to make this first step toward growth and healing easier. Please note, I tend to respond email more quickly than voicemail messages.
(410) 774-6828 x2 View (410) 774-6828 x2
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.