Relationship Issues Therapists in Westminster, MD

Photo of Alexandra Goerl Rickeman, Marriage & Family Therapist in Westminster, MD
Alexandra Goerl Rickeman
Marriage & Family Therapist, LCMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westminster, MD 21157
I help people communicate effectively and build better connections with the ones they love. I see individuals and couples. For those who are experiencing fighting, betrayal or 'falling out of love,' I help you rebuild the the relationship you've been craving. I coach you in opening lines of communication, gaining insight into yourselves and achieving the relationship goals you set. Some couples who see me are looking for a safe place to talk because they are considering separation/divorce; I help them share their worries, process the range of feeling and prioritize their children's well-being during this difficult family time.
I help people communicate effectively and build better connections with the ones they love. I see individuals and couples. For those who are experiencing fighting, betrayal or 'falling out of love,' I help you rebuild the the relationship you've been craving. I coach you in opening lines of communication, gaining insight into yourselves and achieving the relationship goals you set. Some couples who see me are looking for a safe place to talk because they are considering separation/divorce; I help them share their worries, process the range of feeling and prioritize their children's well-being during this difficult family time.
(410) 861-5547 View (410) 861-5547
Photo of Molly Letsch, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westminster, MD
Molly Letsch
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Westminster, MD 21158  (Online Only)
I have a wide range of clinical experience including: anxiety and mood disorders, substance use disorders, eating disorders, interpersonal relationship issues, trauma, grief/loss, LGBTQIA+ concerns, and life transitions.
Therapy is a unique relationship that allows you to discover who you really are and the patterns that shape your life. It can foster emotional growth, affirm your identity and curiosity, and gently challenge you to create change. As a therapist who values a deep and meaningful connection with my clients, I offer a safe, authentic space that invites the process of healing to begin. Whether you face difficulty coping with anxiety, life transitions or negative body image, have a tendency to experience the same problems repeatedly, feel stuck, or just want to increase self-awareness and gain insight, I will meet you where you are.
I have a wide range of clinical experience including: anxiety and mood disorders, substance use disorders, eating disorders, interpersonal relationship issues, trauma, grief/loss, LGBTQIA+ concerns, and life transitions.
Therapy is a unique relationship that allows you to discover who you really are and the patterns that shape your life. It can foster emotional growth, affirm your identity and curiosity, and gently challenge you to create change. As a therapist who values a deep and meaningful connection with my clients, I offer a safe, authentic space that invites the process of healing to begin. Whether you face difficulty coping with anxiety, life transitions or negative body image, have a tendency to experience the same problems repeatedly, feel stuck, or just want to increase self-awareness and gain insight, I will meet you where you are.
(410) 775-5689 View (410) 775-5689
Photo of Carolyn Ann Hunsicker, Licensed Professional Counselor in Westminster, MD
Carolyn Ann Hunsicker
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Westminster, MD 21157
Waitlist for new clients
Hello! I want to begin by acknowledging that no one visits these pages without a reason. Though our existing relationships can include periods of enjoyment and peace, we can also find ourselves in situations and seasons that may appear to be hopeless with no obvious way forward. But hope exists. Licensed in MD. and SC, I'm eager to help you and your loved one to see that and experience it. Through building a strong therapeutic relationship with you as a couple, I'll help you to become friends again and to find greater understanding as you create the best relationship possible here on earth. We can do it together.
Hello! I want to begin by acknowledging that no one visits these pages without a reason. Though our existing relationships can include periods of enjoyment and peace, we can also find ourselves in situations and seasons that may appear to be hopeless with no obvious way forward. But hope exists. Licensed in MD. and SC, I'm eager to help you and your loved one to see that and experience it. Through building a strong therapeutic relationship with you as a couple, I'll help you to become friends again and to find greater understanding as you create the best relationship possible here on earth. We can do it together.
(843) 258-1638 View (843) 258-1638
Photo of Rachel Cochran, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westminster, MD
Rachel Cochran
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westminster, MD 21157
If you're looking for extra support and guidance through a challenging situation or you're just ready to move in a new direction in your life, I look forward to working with you to achieve your goals. I work with individuals, couples and families in multiple areas including trauma, anxiety, mood disorders, relationship/family conflict, self-esteem issues, grief, eating disorder and food addiction, learning disorders, anger management, self-harm, LGBT issues, reaction to divorce, mediation, and forensic evaluation. I am more than happy to consult with you to see if we are a good fit to work together!
If you're looking for extra support and guidance through a challenging situation or you're just ready to move in a new direction in your life, I look forward to working with you to achieve your goals. I work with individuals, couples and families in multiple areas including trauma, anxiety, mood disorders, relationship/family conflict, self-esteem issues, grief, eating disorder and food addiction, learning disorders, anger management, self-harm, LGBT issues, reaction to divorce, mediation, and forensic evaluation. I am more than happy to consult with you to see if we are a good fit to work together!
(410) 457-3281 View (410) 457-3281
Photo of Laura June, Psychologist in Westminster, MD
Laura June
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Westminster, MD 21157  (Online Only)
I am trained in a clinical psychology background of verbal therapies, with additional specialized training in Imago Relationship Therapy.
I work with adults of any age, gender, ethnicity, and sexual orientation. Together we address a range of issues including depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, work and career challenges, and self-image and self-worth. Often there are deeper and more long-standing issues stemming from early life experiences. I specialize in helping people to connect with the unconscious script they are enacting, which is often in contradiction to their stated desires for their lives. To read more about my approach please visit my website at "www.drlaurajune.com"
I am trained in a clinical psychology background of verbal therapies, with additional specialized training in Imago Relationship Therapy.
I work with adults of any age, gender, ethnicity, and sexual orientation. Together we address a range of issues including depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, work and career challenges, and self-image and self-worth. Often there are deeper and more long-standing issues stemming from early life experiences. I specialize in helping people to connect with the unconscious script they are enacting, which is often in contradiction to their stated desires for their lives. To read more about my approach please visit my website at "www.drlaurajune.com"
(410) 449-4436 View (410) 449-4436
Photo of Carol A. Levine, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Westminster, MD
Carol A. Levine
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MS, LCPC, LLC
Verified Verified
Westminster, MD 21157  (Online Only)
Together, we will explore your past to look at who loved you, who didn’t, and how your first caregivers shaped your current relationship patterns, choices and emotions.
Do you experience anxiety, including social fear and avoidance? Do you feel anxious in romantic relationships or just want to feel less worried and depressed? I get it! Does your angst leave you feeling empty, angry and irritable? Life can be absolutely overwhelming and actually scary, at times, especially when stress piles up and we’re trying to juggle a career, a marriage and parenting. Unhealed wounds and traumatic experiences from our past wreak havoc on our present and we don’t know how to repair the damage. But there are answers!
Together, we will explore your past to look at who loved you, who didn’t, and how your first caregivers shaped your current relationship patterns, choices and emotions.
Do you experience anxiety, including social fear and avoidance? Do you feel anxious in romantic relationships or just want to feel less worried and depressed? I get it! Does your angst leave you feeling empty, angry and irritable? Life can be absolutely overwhelming and actually scary, at times, especially when stress piles up and we’re trying to juggle a career, a marriage and parenting. Unhealed wounds and traumatic experiences from our past wreak havoc on our present and we don’t know how to repair the damage. But there are answers!
(240) 557-3739 View (240) 557-3739
Photo of Lorena P Lues, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westminster, MD
Lorena P Lues
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C , RYT-200
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westminster, MD 21157  (Online Only)
Weekend appointments available. I appreciate an open dialogue with my clients that incorporates feedback to ensure their needs are being met during our time together.  In my view, the client-therapist relationship should prioritize honesty and respect and while diagnosing is one aspect of psychotherapy, I am most interested in how your daily life is being impacted and what we can do in our work together to develop coping and awareness that will bring more harmony and help you lead a more fulfilled life.
Weekend appointments available. I appreciate an open dialogue with my clients that incorporates feedback to ensure their needs are being met during our time together.  In my view, the client-therapist relationship should prioritize honesty and respect and while diagnosing is one aspect of psychotherapy, I am most interested in how your daily life is being impacted and what we can do in our work together to develop coping and awareness that will bring more harmony and help you lead a more fulfilled life.
(410) 835-9351 View (410) 835-9351
Photo of Alena R. Alsruhe, Counselor in Westminster, MD
Alena R. Alsruhe
Counselor, MA, LCPC, NCC, CPT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Westminster, MD 21157
Hello, it is wonderful to connect with you! I want you to know that whatever life challenge is in front of you now, I believe there is hope. My desire is to be able to listen and encourage you during this season of life. I want to foster a relationship of trust in order to promote a life change that you can feel passionate about. I am a graduate of the McDaniel College Masters Program in Counseling. I have 7 years of combined School Counseling and School Therapy experience and 7 years in the clinical counseling field. I currently work with clients 18 and up!
Hello, it is wonderful to connect with you! I want you to know that whatever life challenge is in front of you now, I believe there is hope. My desire is to be able to listen and encourage you during this season of life. I want to foster a relationship of trust in order to promote a life change that you can feel passionate about. I am a graduate of the McDaniel College Masters Program in Counseling. I have 7 years of combined School Counseling and School Therapy experience and 7 years in the clinical counseling field. I currently work with clients 18 and up!
(443) 233-6756 View (443) 233-6756
Bernadette McGee
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Westminster, MD 21157
You are the most integral part of the counseling relationship.
If you are considering entering into counseling or therapy I would like to warmly welcome you to join my practice. Each individual brings a unique and deeply personal perspective to the counseling relationship. It is my intention to encourage that relationship by providing a safe and comfortable environment where we can explore, clarify, and heal those areas of life causing pain or difficulty and, just as importantly, nurture those areas bringing success and joy. Ideally our work together will grow your own personal resources, knowledge, stability, and strength.
You are the most integral part of the counseling relationship.
If you are considering entering into counseling or therapy I would like to warmly welcome you to join my practice. Each individual brings a unique and deeply personal perspective to the counseling relationship. It is my intention to encourage that relationship by providing a safe and comfortable environment where we can explore, clarify, and heal those areas of life causing pain or difficulty and, just as importantly, nurture those areas bringing success and joy. Ideally our work together will grow your own personal resources, knowledge, stability, and strength.
(443) 334-8592 View (443) 334-8592
Photo of Kathleen A Mahony, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Westminster, MD
Kathleen A Mahony
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Westminster, MD 21157  (Online Only)
Practice areas of focus and experience include depression, anxiety disorders, adjustments disorders, panic disorders, self-harm behaviors, anger management difficulties, grief/loss/bereavement, self-esteem issues, life transitions, relationship issues, and parenting and family issues.
I am a board certified LCPC licensed in MD, PA, VA, NY, and DE with experience in both non-profit outpatient mental health clinics and private practice serving individuals and families. My primary client focus is currently high school to adult. I look forward to meeting and getting to know you and helping you to reach your goals. Please follow this link, select Westminster as your requested location, my name as preferred provider to request a new appointment:https://www.cedarridgecounseling.com/request-appointment
Practice areas of focus and experience include depression, anxiety disorders, adjustments disorders, panic disorders, self-harm behaviors, anger management difficulties, grief/loss/bereavement, self-esteem issues, life transitions, relationship issues, and parenting and family issues.
I am a board certified LCPC licensed in MD, PA, VA, NY, and DE with experience in both non-profit outpatient mental health clinics and private practice serving individuals and families. My primary client focus is currently high school to adult. I look forward to meeting and getting to know you and helping you to reach your goals. Please follow this link, select Westminster as your requested location, my name as preferred provider to request a new appointment:https://www.cedarridgecounseling.com/request-appointment
(443) 241-2980 View (443) 241-2980
Photo of Ashley Sweet, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westminster, MD
Ashley Sweet
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, MEd, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Westminster, MD 21157
I get it: opening up to someone new is scary. But if you’re reading this, you’ve probably been thinking about making a change. Maybe you’re ready to grow, expand your awareness of yourself and your relationships. Maybe you’re struggling with life’s ups and downs. The first step is the hardest, and you’ve already done that! I believe in building trust in a non-judgmental, accepting space where we can develop a strong therapeutic relationship. Together, we explore your world, the influences of people and society around you, the history that informs where you are now, and how we can facilitate healing from past and current pain.
I get it: opening up to someone new is scary. But if you’re reading this, you’ve probably been thinking about making a change. Maybe you’re ready to grow, expand your awareness of yourself and your relationships. Maybe you’re struggling with life’s ups and downs. The first step is the hardest, and you’ve already done that! I believe in building trust in a non-judgmental, accepting space where we can develop a strong therapeutic relationship. Together, we explore your world, the influences of people and society around you, the history that informs where you are now, and how we can facilitate healing from past and current pain.
(443) 233-0179 View (443) 233-0179
Photo of Carrie Schurtz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westminster, MD
Carrie Schurtz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Westminster, MD 21157
I have been working in the mental health field for nearly 20 years. Licensed as a clinical social worker in MD, I have experience working with clients in outpatient, inpatient, and residential settings. I view the therapeutic relationship as one of collaboration between therapist and client. My therapeutic approach is a strengths-based, perspective with the primary focus of treatment being enhancing skills to attain overall physical, spiritual, and mental wellness.
I have been working in the mental health field for nearly 20 years. Licensed as a clinical social worker in MD, I have experience working with clients in outpatient, inpatient, and residential settings. I view the therapeutic relationship as one of collaboration between therapist and client. My therapeutic approach is a strengths-based, perspective with the primary focus of treatment being enhancing skills to attain overall physical, spiritual, and mental wellness.
(443) 737-4478 View (443) 737-4478
Photo of Kim Rhoton, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westminster, MD
Kim Rhoton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Westminster, MD 21157  (Online Only)
Areas of specialization include: *Relationship Issues *Marital Conflicts *Communication *Adjusting to being newly married or to being new Parents *Recovering from an extramarital affair *Parenting/co-parenting issues *Anxiety and Depression.
Is your family life stressful? Are you and your spouse having difficulties? Has there been an increase in arguments with your partner or a feeling of disconnect in the relationship? Do you feel overwhelmed in your own life? I have over 25 years of experience working with individuals, couples and families. I have had my Private Practice office in downtown Westminster for the last 20 of those years. I use a relational, strengths-based approach to help my clients lead happier, more successful individual and family lives.
Areas of specialization include: *Relationship Issues *Marital Conflicts *Communication *Adjusting to being newly married or to being new Parents *Recovering from an extramarital affair *Parenting/co-parenting issues *Anxiety and Depression.
Is your family life stressful? Are you and your spouse having difficulties? Has there been an increase in arguments with your partner or a feeling of disconnect in the relationship? Do you feel overwhelmed in your own life? I have over 25 years of experience working with individuals, couples and families. I have had my Private Practice office in downtown Westminster for the last 20 of those years. I use a relational, strengths-based approach to help my clients lead happier, more successful individual and family lives.
(410) 941-8938 x2 View (410) 941-8938 x2
Photo of Amy Heikkinen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westminster, MD
Amy Heikkinen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Westminster, MD 21157
Though each clinician in our practice has their own unique style and expertise, as a practice we are most focused on the relationship between client and therapist, and which serves as the primary vehicle for nearly all therapeutic change.
Carroll Creative Therapy is a psychotherapy practice serving clients of all ages, and provides evidence-based play therapy for children. For older children and teens, we combine strategies and wisdom from play therapy along with traditional talk therapy, often using age-appropriate tools like the creative arts, video games, and social media. Our work with adults tends to look more like traditional talk therapy, but incorporates many of these same elements through conversation. We are also proud to support gender-diverse and LGBTQ+ clients of all ages, and have a deep knowledge of the community.
Though each clinician in our practice has their own unique style and expertise, as a practice we are most focused on the relationship between client and therapist, and which serves as the primary vehicle for nearly all therapeutic change.
Carroll Creative Therapy is a psychotherapy practice serving clients of all ages, and provides evidence-based play therapy for children. For older children and teens, we combine strategies and wisdom from play therapy along with traditional talk therapy, often using age-appropriate tools like the creative arts, video games, and social media. Our work with adults tends to look more like traditional talk therapy, but incorporates many of these same elements through conversation. We are also proud to support gender-diverse and LGBTQ+ clients of all ages, and have a deep knowledge of the community.
(443) 201-7850 View (443) 201-7850
Photo of Brittany Goff, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westminster, MD
Brittany Goff
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Westminster, MD 21157
suffering from harm and violent OCD, contamination OCD, Just right/perfectionism OCD, relationship OCD, religious/scrupulosity OCD, symmetry OCD, sexual orientation OCD, existential OCD, sensimotor OCD, pedophilia OCD, suicidal OCD, or health anxiety, let’s work together as a team to quit giving your intrusive thoughts meaning and live a happier life.
Are you consumed with disturbing automatic thoughts, and spending hours chasing, analyzing, reviewing, and giving meaning to the intrusive thoughts? As someone that’s been in your shoes, there is hope and recovery from OCD. I will teach you how to change your relationship with anxiety by looking it in the face and walking towards it instead of walking away. It is easy to stay trapped and believe the false messages that your OCD feeds you. I will teach you how to rewire your brain into no longer believing those false threats that your brain is torturing you with. My treatment approach teaches you how to stop competing
suffering from harm and violent OCD, contamination OCD, Just right/perfectionism OCD, relationship OCD, religious/scrupulosity OCD, symmetry OCD, sexual orientation OCD, existential OCD, sensimotor OCD, pedophilia OCD, suicidal OCD, or health anxiety, let’s work together as a team to quit giving your intrusive thoughts meaning and live a happier life.
Are you consumed with disturbing automatic thoughts, and spending hours chasing, analyzing, reviewing, and giving meaning to the intrusive thoughts? As someone that’s been in your shoes, there is hope and recovery from OCD. I will teach you how to change your relationship with anxiety by looking it in the face and walking towards it instead of walking away. It is easy to stay trapped and believe the false messages that your OCD feeds you. I will teach you how to rewire your brain into no longer believing those false threats that your brain is torturing you with. My treatment approach teaches you how to stop competing
(301) 396-7939 View (301) 396-7939
Photo of New Path Counseling Center LLC, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Westminster, MD
New Path Counseling Center LLC
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LCADC, CCDC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westminster, MD 21157
We treat Adolescents and Adults in the area of Addiction, Substance Abuse, Dual-Diagnosis, Anxiety, Depression, Stress, Trauma (EMDR), and Relationship difficulties. We offer a straightforward, friendly, effective approach to assist you in accomplishing your goals for counseling. We work with individuals, couples and families.
We treat Adolescents and Adults in the area of Addiction, Substance Abuse, Dual-Diagnosis, Anxiety, Depression, Stress, Trauma (EMDR), and Relationship difficulties. We offer a straightforward, friendly, effective approach to assist you in accomplishing your goals for counseling. We work with individuals, couples and families.
(410) 305-7232 View (410) 305-7232
Joyce Schaum
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Westminster, MD 21157
The therapeutic relationship itself is the single most important predictor of successful therapy.
As a therapist, I use an eclectic approach pulling from various methods to best meet your individual needs. I also work closely with other practitioners as needed. My clients often find me to be relaxed, empathic and nurturing. My style is marked by warmth, empathy, candor and a bit of humor. I work to build a respectful, trusting environment where clients feel confident and safe discussing their issues. As a state-approved clinical supervisor, I provide a safe, respectful environment for LGPC's to pursue their state licensure. I now have telehealth available for therapy as well as supervision.
The therapeutic relationship itself is the single most important predictor of successful therapy.
As a therapist, I use an eclectic approach pulling from various methods to best meet your individual needs. I also work closely with other practitioners as needed. My clients often find me to be relaxed, empathic and nurturing. My style is marked by warmth, empathy, candor and a bit of humor. I work to build a respectful, trusting environment where clients feel confident and safe discussing their issues. As a state-approved clinical supervisor, I provide a safe, respectful environment for LGPC's to pursue their state licensure. I now have telehealth available for therapy as well as supervision.
(410) 881-4595 View (410) 881-4595
Photo of Judith Viers, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westminster, MD
Judith Viers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westminster, MD 21157
If you or your child are struggling with feelings of depression, anxiety, feeling misunderstood, struggling with a loss or having conflict in a relationship, I would be honored to help you on your healing journey! Sessions are individualized; tailored to your goals. I use supportive reflection and can use CBT, provide trauma informed care, studied Gottman and many other therapeutic approaches. I am also an Art Therapy Practitioner and specialize in memorial art (memorial bookmarks, magnets, buttons, painted rocks, picture frames). I hope therapy is a positive empowering chapter in clients' lives.
If you or your child are struggling with feelings of depression, anxiety, feeling misunderstood, struggling with a loss or having conflict in a relationship, I would be honored to help you on your healing journey! Sessions are individualized; tailored to your goals. I use supportive reflection and can use CBT, provide trauma informed care, studied Gottman and many other therapeutic approaches. I am also an Art Therapy Practitioner and specialize in memorial art (memorial bookmarks, magnets, buttons, painted rocks, picture frames). I hope therapy is a positive empowering chapter in clients' lives.
(410) 559-9414 View (410) 559-9414
Photo of Path to Peace Wellness, Counselor in Westminster, MD
Path to Peace Wellness
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westminster, MD 21157
Therapy is not a solo mission; instead, it is a relationship built on trust. We work with you to uncover your goals and empower you to make positive changes in your life. We believe in taking a collaborative, strength-based approach with our clients. We have therapists that specialize in a variety of evidence based approaches such as mindfulness, CBT, DBT, art and play therapy. Our goal is to meet you where you are and help you get to where you want to be.
Therapy is not a solo mission; instead, it is a relationship built on trust. We work with you to uncover your goals and empower you to make positive changes in your life. We believe in taking a collaborative, strength-based approach with our clients. We have therapists that specialize in a variety of evidence based approaches such as mindfulness, CBT, DBT, art and play therapy. Our goal is to meet you where you are and help you get to where you want to be.
(443) 201-7662 View (443) 201-7662
Photo of Laura Lane Therapy, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Westminster, MD
Laura Lane Therapy
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westminster, MD 21157
I have worked with many clients who have experienced trauma as children, & teens and this emotional pain haunts them for years. Sometimes they know the reason for the emotional pain but often the reason is buried and all they have are the overwhelming feelings of depression, anxiety, panic attacks, fear, worthlessness, shame, and more. These feelings have them paralyzed, often unable to hold down a job or be in a relationship. I've worked with many of these clients to help them discover the cause of these feelings, to talk about the emotional pain, to help them heal. I offer Christian Counseling to those who are interested.
I have worked with many clients who have experienced trauma as children, & teens and this emotional pain haunts them for years. Sometimes they know the reason for the emotional pain but often the reason is buried and all they have are the overwhelming feelings of depression, anxiety, panic attacks, fear, worthlessness, shame, and more. These feelings have them paralyzed, often unable to hold down a job or be in a relationship. I've worked with many of these clients to help them discover the cause of these feelings, to talk about the emotional pain, to help them heal. I offer Christian Counseling to those who are interested.
(443) 251-3930 View (443) 251-3930

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.