Photo of Aeonic Medicine, Psychiatrist in Florida
Aeonic Medicine
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32206  (Online Only)
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist with an interest in holistic health, spiritual problems, trauma, Borderline Personality Disorder, sexual or relationship problems as well as psychological problems underlying or associated with Chronic Disease.
In my experience as a physician and psychiatrist all diseases, whether mental or physical, are a product of ancestral or generational trauma, which we have to resolve in this life. The symptoms and signs of disease tend to be entangled with our Unconscious Mind. We often times end up doing things, we are not aware of as a unresolved coping mechanism of trauma, like our family has done for ages. I am looking for clients who wish to address the deeper psychological conflicts that underlie their disease and who are ready to transform and let go of the past.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist with an interest in holistic health, spiritual problems, trauma, Borderline Personality Disorder, sexual or relationship problems as well as psychological problems underlying or associated with Chronic Disease.
In my experience as a physician and psychiatrist all diseases, whether mental or physical, are a product of ancestral or generational trauma, which we have to resolve in this life. The symptoms and signs of disease tend to be entangled with our Unconscious Mind. We often times end up doing things, we are not aware of as a unresolved coping mechanism of trauma, like our family has done for ages. I am looking for clients who wish to address the deeper psychological conflicts that underlie their disease and who are ready to transform and let go of the past.
(786) 724-0143 View (786) 724-0143
Photo of Novva Care LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Florida
Novva Care LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Weston, FL 33326  (Online Only)
I specialize in numerous diagnoses, including anxiety, depression, MDD, PTSD, bipolar d/o, ADHD, and ODD, borderline personality d/o, and schizophrenia, just to name a few.
Hi, my name is Linda. Do you ever feel like you’re struggling just to stay afloat? Does it all seem almost unbearable at times? I want you to know that you’re not alone. I am here to support you during those dark times. For the last 10 years, I have been helping individuals from different walks of life find hope.
I specialize in numerous diagnoses, including anxiety, depression, MDD, PTSD, bipolar d/o, ADHD, and ODD, borderline personality d/o, and schizophrenia, just to name a few.
Hi, my name is Linda. Do you ever feel like you’re struggling just to stay afloat? Does it all seem almost unbearable at times? I want you to know that you’re not alone. I am here to support you during those dark times. For the last 10 years, I have been helping individuals from different walks of life find hope.
(954) 280-2232 View (954) 280-2232
Photo of Ample Grace Psychiatry , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Florida
Ample Grace Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Boynton Beach, FL 33426
We can assess, diagnose, and treat the following conditions such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, PTSD, ADHD, and adult autism.
We are currently accepting new patients for ADHD Neuropsychological testing. Think you have ADHD? No problem! We offer ADHD Objective Testing that can be used to guide ADHD diagnosis for patients. The testing can also be done at the office and via telehealth. We also offer adult autism assessment and DBT-informed therapy. At Ample Grace Psychiatry, we offer a custom approach for each client! We start with understanding where you are now and your challenges. We help you put a plan in place to help you move forward, and we celebrate your successes along the way. We offer an inclusive, safe space with visits to suit your schedule.
We can assess, diagnose, and treat the following conditions such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, PTSD, ADHD, and adult autism.
We are currently accepting new patients for ADHD Neuropsychological testing. Think you have ADHD? No problem! We offer ADHD Objective Testing that can be used to guide ADHD diagnosis for patients. The testing can also be done at the office and via telehealth. We also offer adult autism assessment and DBT-informed therapy. At Ample Grace Psychiatry, we offer a custom approach for each client! We start with understanding where you are now and your challenges. We help you put a plan in place to help you move forward, and we celebrate your successes along the way. We offer an inclusive, safe space with visits to suit your schedule.
(603) 207-3133 View (603) 207-3133
Photo of Ample Grace Psychiatry , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Florida
Ample Grace Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Gainesville, FL 32606
We can assess, diagnose, and treat the following conditions such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, PTSD, ADHD, and adult autism.
We are currently accepting new patients for ADHD Neuropsychological testing. Think you have ADHD? No problem! We offer ADHD Objective Testing that can be used to guide ADHD diagnosis for patients. The testing can also be done at the office and via telehealth. We also offer adult autism assessment and DBT-informed therapy. At Ample Grace Psychiatry, we offer a custom approach for each client! We start with understanding where you are now and your challenges. We help you put a plan in place to help you move forward, and we celebrate your successes along the way. We offer an inclusive, safe space with visits to suit your schedule.
We can assess, diagnose, and treat the following conditions such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, PTSD, ADHD, and adult autism.
We are currently accepting new patients for ADHD Neuropsychological testing. Think you have ADHD? No problem! We offer ADHD Objective Testing that can be used to guide ADHD diagnosis for patients. The testing can also be done at the office and via telehealth. We also offer adult autism assessment and DBT-informed therapy. At Ample Grace Psychiatry, we offer a custom approach for each client! We start with understanding where you are now and your challenges. We help you put a plan in place to help you move forward, and we celebrate your successes along the way. We offer an inclusive, safe space with visits to suit your schedule.
(623) 304-7774 View (623) 304-7774
Photo of Ample Grace Psychiatry, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Florida
Ample Grace Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP , PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Pembroke Pines, FL 33028  (Online Only)
We can assess, diagnose, and treat the following conditions such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, PTSD, ADHD, and adult autism.
We are currently accepting new patients for ADHD Neuropsychological testing. Think you have ADHD? No problem! We offer ADHD Objective Testing that can be used to guide ADHD diagnosis for patients. The testing can also be done at the office and via telehealth. We also offer adult autism assessment and DBT-informed therapy. At Ample Grace Psychiatry, we offer a custom approach for each client! We start with understanding where you are now and your challenges. We help you put a plan in place to help you move forward, and we celebrate your successes along the way. We offer an inclusive, safe space with visits to suit your schedule.
We can assess, diagnose, and treat the following conditions such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, PTSD, ADHD, and adult autism.
We are currently accepting new patients for ADHD Neuropsychological testing. Think you have ADHD? No problem! We offer ADHD Objective Testing that can be used to guide ADHD diagnosis for patients. The testing can also be done at the office and via telehealth. We also offer adult autism assessment and DBT-informed therapy. At Ample Grace Psychiatry, we offer a custom approach for each client! We start with understanding where you are now and your challenges. We help you put a plan in place to help you move forward, and we celebrate your successes along the way. We offer an inclusive, safe space with visits to suit your schedule.
(603) 338-6027 View (603) 338-6027
Photo of Harmony United Psychiatric Care , Psychiatrist in Florida
Harmony United Psychiatric Care
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33142
Accepting New Clients. Appointments are typically available within 7 days. We offer Medication Management, Counseling/Psychotherapy, and Neuropsychological Testing online via our Telepsychiatry Services throughout Florida. Our team of experienced mental health professionals includes Psychiatrists, Psychologists, Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners, Certified Physician Assistants, and Licensed Therapists. We care for adults, adolescents, and children, ages 5 and above. We accept most insurance plans including Medicare.
Accepting New Clients. Appointments are typically available within 7 days. We offer Medication Management, Counseling/Psychotherapy, and Neuropsychological Testing online via our Telepsychiatry Services throughout Florida. Our team of experienced mental health professionals includes Psychiatrists, Psychologists, Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners, Certified Physician Assistants, and Licensed Therapists. We care for adults, adolescents, and children, ages 5 and above. We accept most insurance plans including Medicare.
(321) 257-3568 View (321) 257-3568
Photo of Harmony United Psychiatric Care, Psychiatrist in Florida
Harmony United Psychiatric Care
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
Gainesville, FL 32605
Accepting New Clients. Appointments are typically available within 7 days. We offer Medication Management, Counseling/Psychotherapy, and Neuropsychological Testing in our network of clinics and online via our Telepsychiatry Services throughout Florida. Our team of experienced mental health professionals includes Psychiatrists, Psychologists, Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners, Certified Physician Assistants, and Licensed Therapists. We care for adults, adolescents, and children, ages 5 and above. We accept most insurance plans including Medicare.
Accepting New Clients. Appointments are typically available within 7 days. We offer Medication Management, Counseling/Psychotherapy, and Neuropsychological Testing in our network of clinics and online via our Telepsychiatry Services throughout Florida. Our team of experienced mental health professionals includes Psychiatrists, Psychologists, Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners, Certified Physician Assistants, and Licensed Therapists. We care for adults, adolescents, and children, ages 5 and above. We accept most insurance plans including Medicare.
(352) 251-0837 View (352) 251-0837
Photo of Jean Marchand, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Florida
Jean Marchand
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Homestead, FL 33030
Jean Marchand believes, “recovery is still possible in psychiatry especially when health care providers, patients, family, and community work together.”
Jean Marchand believes, “recovery is still possible in psychiatry especially when health care providers, patients, family, and community work together.”
(786) 671-0531 View (786) 671-0531
Photo of Julie Cruse, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Florida
Julie Cruse
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, AGACNP, FNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ocala, FL 34471
Ideally, I prefer to work with clients who are ready for change. They have taken a look at their mental health, and while they may not know exactly what is going on, they know something is not right and they want help. I love to work with people who want to partner with me to come up with a treatment plan, and then own that treatment, participating fully in their care. I strongly believe medication management can be an integral part of mental health, but without psychotherapy and embracing changing what is not working, it cannot do the job alone.
Ideally, I prefer to work with clients who are ready for change. They have taken a look at their mental health, and while they may not know exactly what is going on, they know something is not right and they want help. I love to work with people who want to partner with me to come up with a treatment plan, and then own that treatment, participating fully in their care. I strongly believe medication management can be an integral part of mental health, but without psychotherapy and embracing changing what is not working, it cannot do the job alone.
(352) 660-1518 View (352) 660-1518
Photo of Courtney Tibbetts, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Florida
Courtney Tibbetts
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Saint Petersburg, FL 33702  (Online Only)
Courtney Tibbetts, PMHNP- BC, helps patients explore their feelings, behaviors, and thoughts, with the goal of identifying and addressing the underlying causes of mental health problems. She treatments patient with a wide range of disorders including depression, ADHD, anxiety, personality disorder, and PTSD.
Courtney Tibbetts, PMHNP- BC, helps patients explore their feelings, behaviors, and thoughts, with the goal of identifying and addressing the underlying causes of mental health problems. She treatments patient with a wide range of disorders including depression, ADHD, anxiety, personality disorder, and PTSD.
(727) 591-7745 View (727) 591-7745
Photo of Harmony United Psychiatric Care, Psychiatrist in Florida
Harmony United Psychiatric Care
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
Saint Augustine, FL 32084  (Online Only)
Accepting New Clients. Appointments are typically available within 7 days. We offer Medication Management, Counseling/Psychotherapy, and Neuropsychological Testing online via our Telepsychiatry Services throughout Florida. Our team of experienced mental health professionals includes Psychiatrists, Psychologists, Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners, Certified Physician Assistants, and Licensed Therapists. We care for adults, adolescents, and children, ages 5 and above. We accept most insurance plans including Medicare.
Accepting New Clients. Appointments are typically available within 7 days. We offer Medication Management, Counseling/Psychotherapy, and Neuropsychological Testing online via our Telepsychiatry Services throughout Florida. Our team of experienced mental health professionals includes Psychiatrists, Psychologists, Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners, Certified Physician Assistants, and Licensed Therapists. We care for adults, adolescents, and children, ages 5 and above. We accept most insurance plans including Medicare.
(321) 221-5817 View (321) 221-5817
Photo of Monarch Mental Health & Wellness Services, LLC, Psychiatrist in Florida
Monarch Mental Health & Wellness Services, LLC
Psychiatrist, MPAS, PA-C
Verified Verified
Plantation, FL 33324
When an individual is exposed to trauma or any significant life events, it is not uncommon for their lives to unravel. Our greatest passion is working with individuals who have been impacted by these events and helping them to rebuild their ideal self-image. We find great pride in helping individuals to achieve healthy perceptions of themselves and strengthening their interpersonal relationships. There's no single approach in helping individuals achieve their optimal mental aptitude. We're always patient, provide a non-judgmental environment with clinicians that listen to your concerns and strive to give optimal service to all.
When an individual is exposed to trauma or any significant life events, it is not uncommon for their lives to unravel. Our greatest passion is working with individuals who have been impacted by these events and helping them to rebuild their ideal self-image. We find great pride in helping individuals to achieve healthy perceptions of themselves and strengthening their interpersonal relationships. There's no single approach in helping individuals achieve their optimal mental aptitude. We're always patient, provide a non-judgmental environment with clinicians that listen to your concerns and strive to give optimal service to all.
(754) 704-5338 View (754) 704-5338
Photo of Steven Stein, Psychiatrist in Florida
Steven Stein
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sarasota, FL 34231
I am a board-certified general psychiatrist who works with adolescents, adults and geriatric patients. I specialize in the evaluation and treatment of psychiatric conditions including depressive and mood disorders, anxiety and panic disorders, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, personality disorders, and bipolar and schizophrenia spectrum illnesses. I can provide psychopharmacological interventions, implement supportive and motivational psychotherapies, and provide comprehensive care with a patient-centered approach that is tailored to each patient's biological dispositions, as well as their psychological factors and social stressors.
I am a board-certified general psychiatrist who works with adolescents, adults and geriatric patients. I specialize in the evaluation and treatment of psychiatric conditions including depressive and mood disorders, anxiety and panic disorders, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, personality disorders, and bipolar and schizophrenia spectrum illnesses. I can provide psychopharmacological interventions, implement supportive and motivational psychotherapies, and provide comprehensive care with a patient-centered approach that is tailored to each patient's biological dispositions, as well as their psychological factors and social stressors.
(941) 218-8523 View (941) 218-8523
Photo of Ugonna Duru, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Florida
Ugonna Duru
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP-C, FNP-BC, PMHNP
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Saint Petersburg, FL 33702  (Online Only)
Hi, I am a dual Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner residing in Tampa Florida. I bring over 10 years of experience in health care and majority of them in Nursing. Throughout my career, I have worked in diverse specialties but I found my passion in the field of mental health and was inspired to further my learning and earned a Post Masters Certification as a PMHNP-BC.
Hi, I am a dual Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner residing in Tampa Florida. I bring over 10 years of experience in health care and majority of them in Nursing. Throughout my career, I have worked in diverse specialties but I found my passion in the field of mental health and was inspired to further my learning and earned a Post Masters Certification as a PMHNP-BC.
(813) 370-1841 View (813) 370-1841
Photo of Online Psychiatrist in Palm Beach, Florida, Psychiatrist in Florida
Online Psychiatrist in Palm Beach, Florida
Psychiatrist, MD, MBBS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Palm Beach, FL 33480  (Online Only)
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist in New York City. I have trained in Psychodynamic psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Family and Marital therapy, as well as Psychiatric Medication Management. I have always believed that brain health is the key to every form of well being and every individual regardless of their diagnosis or symptoms has the potential to be healthier. Whether your reasons for seeking treatment include treatment-resistant hallucinations, persistent irritability, dysphoria, insomnia, wanting to perform better at work- the core principles of treatment are often similar.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist in New York City. I have trained in Psychodynamic psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Family and Marital therapy, as well as Psychiatric Medication Management. I have always believed that brain health is the key to every form of well being and every individual regardless of their diagnosis or symptoms has the potential to be healthier. Whether your reasons for seeking treatment include treatment-resistant hallucinations, persistent irritability, dysphoria, insomnia, wanting to perform better at work- the core principles of treatment are often similar.
(561) 944-7960 View (561) 944-7960
Photo of Harmony United Psychiatric Care, Psychiatrist in Florida
Harmony United Psychiatric Care
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
Lake Worth, FL 33462
Accepting New Clients. Appointments are typically available within 7 days. We offer Medication Management, Counseling/Psychotherapy, and Neuropsychological Testing online via our Telepsychiatry Services throughout Florida. Our team of experienced mental health professionals includes Psychiatrists, Psychologists, Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners, Certified Physician Assistants, and Licensed Therapists. We care for adults, adolescents, and children, ages 5 and above. We accept most insurance plans including Medicare.
Accepting New Clients. Appointments are typically available within 7 days. We offer Medication Management, Counseling/Psychotherapy, and Neuropsychological Testing online via our Telepsychiatry Services throughout Florida. Our team of experienced mental health professionals includes Psychiatrists, Psychologists, Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners, Certified Physician Assistants, and Licensed Therapists. We care for adults, adolescents, and children, ages 5 and above. We accept most insurance plans including Medicare.
(321) 306-0686 View (321) 306-0686
Photo of Achieve Psychiatric Wellness Center, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Florida
Achieve Psychiatric Wellness Center
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMH-BC
Verified Verified
Saint Johns, FL 32259  (Online Only)
With a balanced blend of lifestyle enhancements and the right prescription medications, our goal is to restore you to feeling your very best.
With a balanced blend of lifestyle enhancements and the right prescription medications, our goal is to restore you to feeling your very best.
(904) 329-7547 View (904) 329-7547
Photo of Harmony United Psychiatric Care, Psychiatrist in Florida
Harmony United Psychiatric Care
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
Lutz, FL 33559
Accepting New Clients. Appointments are typically available within 7 days. We offer Medication Management, Counseling/Psychotherapy, and Neuropsychological Testing in our network of clinics and online via our Telepsychiatry Services throughout Florida. Our team of experienced mental health professionals includes Psychiatrists, Psychologists, Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners, Certified Physician Assistants, and Licensed Therapists. We care for adults, adolescents, and children, ages 5 and above. We accept most insurance plans including Medicare.
Accepting New Clients. Appointments are typically available within 7 days. We offer Medication Management, Counseling/Psychotherapy, and Neuropsychological Testing in our network of clinics and online via our Telepsychiatry Services throughout Florida. Our team of experienced mental health professionals includes Psychiatrists, Psychologists, Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners, Certified Physician Assistants, and Licensed Therapists. We care for adults, adolescents, and children, ages 5 and above. We accept most insurance plans including Medicare.
(813) 796-8147 View (813) 796-8147
Photo of OPA Behavioral Health, Psychiatrist in Florida
OPA Behavioral Health
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
Orlando, FL 32809
OPA Behavioral Health was established in 2005. Our ultimate goal is to ensure we do everything possible to help our patients maintain happy, productive and successful lives. Please visit one of our 6 beautiful locations in Central FL: Lakeland, Lake Mary, Ocoee, Kissimmee, Orlando, and Jacksonville. OPA prides itself on having Providers (MD, PMHNP, APRN, PA-C) and Mental Health Counselors and FL Registered Interns that are dedicated, compassionate, and innovative. Our excellent reputation is a reflection of our commitment to actively support continuous quality improvement and providing exceptional care via proven treatments.
OPA Behavioral Health was established in 2005. Our ultimate goal is to ensure we do everything possible to help our patients maintain happy, productive and successful lives. Please visit one of our 6 beautiful locations in Central FL: Lakeland, Lake Mary, Ocoee, Kissimmee, Orlando, and Jacksonville. OPA prides itself on having Providers (MD, PMHNP, APRN, PA-C) and Mental Health Counselors and FL Registered Interns that are dedicated, compassionate, and innovative. Our excellent reputation is a reflection of our commitment to actively support continuous quality improvement and providing exceptional care via proven treatments.
(407) 440-0643 View (407) 440-0643
Photo of Harmony United Psychiatric Care, Psychiatrist in Florida
Harmony United Psychiatric Care
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
Lady Lake, FL 32159
Accepting New Clients. Appointments are typically available within 7 days. We offer Medication Management, Counseling/Psychotherapy, and Neuropsychological Testing in our network of clinics and online via our Telepsychiatry Services throughout Florida. Our team of experienced mental health professionals includes Psychiatrists, Psychologists, Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners, Certified Physician Assistants, and Licensed Therapists. We care for adults, adolescents, and children, ages 5 and above. We accept most insurance plans including Medicare.
Accepting New Clients. Appointments are typically available within 7 days. We offer Medication Management, Counseling/Psychotherapy, and Neuropsychological Testing in our network of clinics and online via our Telepsychiatry Services throughout Florida. Our team of experienced mental health professionals includes Psychiatrists, Psychologists, Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners, Certified Physician Assistants, and Licensed Therapists. We care for adults, adolescents, and children, ages 5 and above. We accept most insurance plans including Medicare.
(352) 268-9087 View (352) 268-9087
Borderline Personality (BPD) Psychiatrists

What is the most successful approach to treating borderline personality disorder?

Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) is considered the gold standard of treatment for borderline personality disorder. An evidence-based treatment, it addresses the extreme emotional reactivity, the relationship difficulties, and the acts of self-harm that create so much distress for BPD patients. DBT is a comprehensive program that includes both regular individual psychotherapy sessions and weekly group sessions of skills training.

What happens in treatment of borderline personality disorder?

Treatment typically consists of weekly individual therapy sessions that last an hour and group skill-focused instructional sessions that may last up to two hours. Patients are typically given homework “assignments” in which they are asked to practice in their daily life the skills they acquire in therapy. Patients also keep a diary tracking their emotions and impulses as a way to know which situations are most problematic and to help them gain control over their own behavior. Difficult situations and feelings are typically reviewed in therapy sessions and more constructive solutions found.

What kinds of problems does BPD treatment help with?

DBT was initially developed to dampen the self-destructive impulses of chronically suicidal patients. It is now the treatment of choice for borderline personality disorder, a serious condition marked by extreme emotional reactivity, relationship instability, and self-injurious behaviors. Treatment of BPD helps patients tolerate the flux of emotions without acting on them, often with a specific focus on tolerating negative emotions. DBT addresses the core problems of BPD—fear of abandonment, low self-esteem, and impulsivity.

What is the goal of treatment in borderline personality disorder?

The goal of treatment for borderline personality disorder (BPD) is to relieve the extreme emotional distress that patients experience—to curb their emotional reactivity, to minimize their inclination to self-harm, and to reduce their impulsivity. Toward these ends, patients are not only taught an array of new coping skills and techniques for emotional regulation, they are given opportunities to practice them. Another major goal of treatment is interpersonal effectiveness; patients learn and problem-solve ways to effectively communicate in relationships, especially how to ask for what they need as a way to minimize hurt feelings.