Marriage and Family Therapists focus on relationships, and every relationship we have begins with what we bring into it, so that is where our work begins. We often repeat patterns of interacting without knowing we are doing so. The result is frustration, disappointment, and a host of other emotions. Sometimes we just find it safe to shut down or we give up in despair. These reactions can affect not only our close relationships with family, lovers, and friends, but also with co-workers, employers, and strangers.