Borderline Personality (BPD) Therapists in 90402

Photo of Natalie Guerra-Crowe, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in 90402, CA
Natalie Guerra-Crowe
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90402  (Online Only)
I primarily work with teens, young adults & adults to treat anxiety, depression, BPD, trauma, overall self-esteem, and much more.
Therapy can be a helpful and beautiful transforming tool. My primary goal is to create a space for you to feel safe to share whatever you need in our sessions. It is your time, and I am here to help guide you and work with you. You are the expert in your story, and together, we will work hard to find solutions and peace. I specialize in working with teens and young adults but have clients of all ages. I also specialize in OCD, trichotillomania (hair-pulling disorder), ADHD, and anxiety. Seeing all clients residing in CA via telehealth.
I primarily work with teens, young adults & adults to treat anxiety, depression, BPD, trauma, overall self-esteem, and much more.
Therapy can be a helpful and beautiful transforming tool. My primary goal is to create a space for you to feel safe to share whatever you need in our sessions. It is your time, and I am here to help guide you and work with you. You are the expert in your story, and together, we will work hard to find solutions and peace. I specialize in working with teens and young adults but have clients of all ages. I also specialize in OCD, trichotillomania (hair-pulling disorder), ADHD, and anxiety. Seeing all clients residing in CA via telehealth.
(805) 600-3902 View (805) 600-3902
Photo of Lauren Kerwin, Psychologist in 90402, CA
Lauren Kerwin
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90402  (Online Only)
I am a licensed psychologist primarily serving adults and adolescents who struggle with depression and anxiety; borderline personality disorder; substance and alcohol use; relationship distress; emptiness; intolerable emotions; impulsive behaviors including suicidal and self-injurious behavior; eating concerns; and histories of trauma. My therapeutic approach centers on utilizing Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). DBT was initially developed to treat borderline personality disorder but is now used to effectively treat a broad spectrum of psychological problems by focusing on enhancing the skills necessary to not only cope but thrive in a world full of obstacles.
I am a licensed psychologist primarily serving adults and adolescents who struggle with depression and anxiety; borderline personality disorder; substance and alcohol use; relationship distress; emptiness; intolerable emotions; impulsive behaviors including suicidal and self-injurious behavior; eating concerns; and histories of trauma. My therapeutic approach centers on utilizing Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). DBT was initially developed to treat borderline personality disorder but is now used to effectively treat a broad spectrum of psychological problems by focusing on enhancing the skills necessary to not only cope but thrive in a world full of obstacles.
(424) 488-0922 View (424) 488-0922
Photo of Joanne Mednick, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90402, CA
Joanne Mednick
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90402
Dr. Mednick is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who specialized in a unique blend of various methodologies to offer her clients the deepest possible healing. Dr. Mednick has built her practice with clients worldwide. Through illness,trauma and addictions therapy, she transitions clients with the identification of living as "victims" or "survivors" all the way to that of living as "thrivers." Dr. Mednick strives to bring her clients completion in the trauma/addiction/illness cycle, and to move them from pull into the trauma vortex (pain and chaos) towards easily and consciously choosing the healing vortex (calm and relaxed).
Dr. Mednick is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who specialized in a unique blend of various methodologies to offer her clients the deepest possible healing. Dr. Mednick has built her practice with clients worldwide. Through illness,trauma and addictions therapy, she transitions clients with the identification of living as "victims" or "survivors" all the way to that of living as "thrivers." Dr. Mednick strives to bring her clients completion in the trauma/addiction/illness cycle, and to move them from pull into the trauma vortex (pain and chaos) towards easily and consciously choosing the healing vortex (calm and relaxed).
(310) 627-2241 View (310) 627-2241
Photo of Grace Catherine Mickle, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in 90402, CA
Grace Catherine Mickle
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90402  (Online Only)
I am a plant-based psychotherapist highlighting the importance of nutrition, movement, spirituality and environmentalism in connecting the mind, body and soul. I am also a practicing yogi, nature lover and avid self-healer. I am tender, integrative, grounded and nurturing. I center my work around connecting the mind, body and soul to find peace and energetic balance with various holistic and somatic practices. In using these approaches, clients learn their abilities to address any anxiety, depression, traumas, loss of self, difficult relationships and other maladaptive behaviors to become their most desired and divine selves.
I am a plant-based psychotherapist highlighting the importance of nutrition, movement, spirituality and environmentalism in connecting the mind, body and soul. I am also a practicing yogi, nature lover and avid self-healer. I am tender, integrative, grounded and nurturing. I center my work around connecting the mind, body and soul to find peace and energetic balance with various holistic and somatic practices. In using these approaches, clients learn their abilities to address any anxiety, depression, traumas, loss of self, difficult relationships and other maladaptive behaviors to become their most desired and divine selves.
(619) 374-4417 View (619) 374-4417
Photo of Jordanne Stacy, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90402, CA
Jordanne Stacy
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90402  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, panic attacks, addiction, relationship struggles, or generally missing something in life? Feeling stuck in an endless cycle of procrastination, fears about the uncertainty of the future, or guilt, shame and resentments from the past? If so, you are not alone! Many people spend their entire lives in this mental and emotional agony and that doesn't have to be you! Overcoming these challenges can be difficult on your own, working with a licensed professional may save you years of learning by trial and error. You can overcome and balance the emotional and behavioral impediments in your life.
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, panic attacks, addiction, relationship struggles, or generally missing something in life? Feeling stuck in an endless cycle of procrastination, fears about the uncertainty of the future, or guilt, shame and resentments from the past? If so, you are not alone! Many people spend their entire lives in this mental and emotional agony and that doesn't have to be you! Overcoming these challenges can be difficult on your own, working with a licensed professional may save you years of learning by trial and error. You can overcome and balance the emotional and behavioral impediments in your life.
(310) 943-1059 View (310) 943-1059
Photo of Shelley Pusich, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90402, CA
Shelley Pusich
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90402
I have been in practice for 34 years. I earned a B.A. from UCLA in Philosophy, and an M.A. in Clinical Psychology from Antioch University. I have extensive training in Hypnosis and am certified in EMDR since l994. I use these modalities for the problems and issues listed below. I am an artist, and work with artists of all kinds, helping to unblock creativity and help focus their work. I have taught psychology and philosophy classes at local colleges for many years and I also supervise interns in my private practice and at Antioch University Counseling Center.
I have been in practice for 34 years. I earned a B.A. from UCLA in Philosophy, and an M.A. in Clinical Psychology from Antioch University. I have extensive training in Hypnosis and am certified in EMDR since l994. I use these modalities for the problems and issues listed below. I am an artist, and work with artists of all kinds, helping to unblock creativity and help focus their work. I have taught psychology and philosophy classes at local colleges for many years and I also supervise interns in my private practice and at Antioch University Counseling Center.
(310) 895-9006 View (310) 895-9006
Photo of Tanya Hope Peters PhD, Psychologist in 90402, CA
Tanya Hope Peters PhD
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90402
I appreciate your interest in psychotherapy and commend your effort in finding a therapist. It is an important step to take towards feeling better. I am a clinical psychologist with several years of experience working with adolescents, adults, and families. I have worked with people who have experienced trauma, depression, eating disorders, addiction, anxiety, loss, and life transitions. I work collaboratively with my clients, and am supportive and dedicated to their increased well being. My approach to therapy is to be genuine, open and honest, supportive, and curious.
I appreciate your interest in psychotherapy and commend your effort in finding a therapist. It is an important step to take towards feeling better. I am a clinical psychologist with several years of experience working with adolescents, adults, and families. I have worked with people who have experienced trauma, depression, eating disorders, addiction, anxiety, loss, and life transitions. I work collaboratively with my clients, and am supportive and dedicated to their increased well being. My approach to therapy is to be genuine, open and honest, supportive, and curious.
(424) 416-2428 View (424) 416-2428
Photo of Tracy A. Pollack, Psychologist in 90402, CA
Tracy A. Pollack
Psychologist, PsyD, MSEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90402  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist with many years of experience providing psychotherapy to adults, couples and families. I offer a warm, collaborative and confidential place where you will feel heard and understood while working together to identify issues of conflict and remove the obstacles that are getting in the way of your life. My specialties include eating disorders and body image issues, also self-injurious behaviors. My practice also focuses on women's issues such as those related to beginning a family, fertility challenges and perinatal and postpartum anxiety and depression. I am EMDR trained and incorporate as needed
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist with many years of experience providing psychotherapy to adults, couples and families. I offer a warm, collaborative and confidential place where you will feel heard and understood while working together to identify issues of conflict and remove the obstacles that are getting in the way of your life. My specialties include eating disorders and body image issues, also self-injurious behaviors. My practice also focuses on women's issues such as those related to beginning a family, fertility challenges and perinatal and postpartum anxiety and depression. I am EMDR trained and incorporate as needed
(424) 322-6709 View (424) 322-6709
Photo of Lexi Welanetz-Bursin, Psychologist in 90402, CA
Lexi Welanetz-Bursin
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90402
My approach is direct, but kind. To make effective changes, I believe developing self-awareness about what drives your behavior and focusing on improving relationships is an important component of therapy. It is my goal to help you develop strategies and skills that will directly affect the way that you relate to the world around you. A good therapist is like a personal trainer at the gym - someone that pushes you further than you would ever push yourself. Improving your quality of life is my number one priority.
My approach is direct, but kind. To make effective changes, I believe developing self-awareness about what drives your behavior and focusing on improving relationships is an important component of therapy. It is my goal to help you develop strategies and skills that will directly affect the way that you relate to the world around you. A good therapist is like a personal trainer at the gym - someone that pushes you further than you would ever push yourself. Improving your quality of life is my number one priority.
(424) 543-7910 View (424) 543-7910
Photo of Dr. Tanya Hope Peters, Psychologist in 90402, CA
Dr. Tanya Hope Peters
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90402
I appreciate your interest in psychotherapy and commend your effort in finding a therapist. It is an important step to take towards feeling better. I am a clinical psychologist with several years of experience working with adolescents, adults, and families. I have worked with people who have experienced trauma, depression, eating disorders, addiction, anxiety, loss, and life transitions. I work collaboratively with my clients, and am supportive and dedicated to their increased well being. My approach to therapy is to be genuine, open and honest, supportive, and curious.
I appreciate your interest in psychotherapy and commend your effort in finding a therapist. It is an important step to take towards feeling better. I am a clinical psychologist with several years of experience working with adolescents, adults, and families. I have worked with people who have experienced trauma, depression, eating disorders, addiction, anxiety, loss, and life transitions. I work collaboratively with my clients, and am supportive and dedicated to their increased well being. My approach to therapy is to be genuine, open and honest, supportive, and curious.
(310) 997-2527 View (310) 997-2527
Photo of Iris Sabbah, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90402, CA
Iris Sabbah
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90402
Today you are one step closer to a new you where you feel empowered and on a positive path to growth and well-being. My goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. While we can't change difficult situations of the past, we can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in your life. Our goal is to change the long-standing behavior patterns or negative perceptions that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life. I look forward to working with you to achieve your goals.
Today you are one step closer to a new you where you feel empowered and on a positive path to growth and well-being. My goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. While we can't change difficult situations of the past, we can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in your life. Our goal is to change the long-standing behavior patterns or negative perceptions that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life. I look forward to working with you to achieve your goals.
(818) 869-2098 View (818) 869-2098
Photo of Annie Armstrong Miyao, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90402, CA
Annie Armstrong Miyao
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90402
As a psychotherapist I work from a compassionate and practical perspective. My work is holistic and includes a creative exploration of the client's life experience, building awareness and mindfulness, reconnecting to the cues the body gives, and reinforcing positive experiences. I help clients to identify undiscovered potential, create change, and work through a myriad of issues. These issues range from depression and anxiety to questions about where to go next in career and, "Why do I keep dating the wrong person?". Clients come to me to work through trauma, eating disorders, substance abuse, low self-esteem, loss of meaning, and relationship issues.
As a psychotherapist I work from a compassionate and practical perspective. My work is holistic and includes a creative exploration of the client's life experience, building awareness and mindfulness, reconnecting to the cues the body gives, and reinforcing positive experiences. I help clients to identify undiscovered potential, create change, and work through a myriad of issues. These issues range from depression and anxiety to questions about where to go next in career and, "Why do I keep dating the wrong person?". Clients come to me to work through trauma, eating disorders, substance abuse, low self-esteem, loss of meaning, and relationship issues.
(424) 903-2854 View (424) 903-2854
Photo of Chelsea Gottfurcht, Psychologist in 90402, CA
Chelsea Gottfurcht
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90402
Many of us have gone through experiences that leave us feeling stuck, unmotivated, or without hope for change. The promise of psychotherapy is that it offers a path that illuminates the conscious and unconscious limiting beliefs we unknowingly come to identify with. It allows us a framework where insight becomes possible - and the opportunity for a relationship that is dedicated to knowing you deeply. In this sense, I believe we are partners working to understand your motivations, fears, and deepest hopes so that you can feel a greater sense of freedom and empowerment in your life and in your future.
Many of us have gone through experiences that leave us feeling stuck, unmotivated, or without hope for change. The promise of psychotherapy is that it offers a path that illuminates the conscious and unconscious limiting beliefs we unknowingly come to identify with. It allows us a framework where insight becomes possible - and the opportunity for a relationship that is dedicated to knowing you deeply. In this sense, I believe we are partners working to understand your motivations, fears, and deepest hopes so that you can feel a greater sense of freedom and empowerment in your life and in your future.
(310) 651-7208 View (310) 651-7208
Photo of Brittany Couture, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in 90402, CA
Brittany Couture
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, PsyD, AMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90402  (Online Only)
Hi, I’m Dr. Brittany Couture. In my virtual therapy practice I welcome individuals and couples with sensitivity to diverse backgrounds and identities as well as all kinds of relationships. I am passionate about working with patients who struggle with anxiety, depression, relationships, motherhood, life transitions and those who are suffering from inner conflicts and/or life stressors. I specialize in anxiety and relationship counseling. I can help you create strong and healthy relationships and develop emotional connections.
Hi, I’m Dr. Brittany Couture. In my virtual therapy practice I welcome individuals and couples with sensitivity to diverse backgrounds and identities as well as all kinds of relationships. I am passionate about working with patients who struggle with anxiety, depression, relationships, motherhood, life transitions and those who are suffering from inner conflicts and/or life stressors. I specialize in anxiety and relationship counseling. I can help you create strong and healthy relationships and develop emotional connections.
(424) 239-1783 View (424) 239-1783
Photo of Julia Xiao-Rodriguez, Pre-Licensed Professional in 90402, CA
Julia Xiao-Rodriguez
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90402
Julia Xiao-Rodriguez provides supervised evidence-based cognitive behavioral therapies (CBTs) for children, adolescents, and young adults with complex diagnostic presentations, including co-occurring anxiety, mood, personality, substance use and eating disorders. She specializes in delivering Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) for high-risk, suicidal, and self-harming youth and their families. She is especially interested in walking alongside parents as they navigate parenting challenges and collaboration with providers. Julia is committed to providing identity-informed, culturally responsive and values-based interventions.
Julia Xiao-Rodriguez provides supervised evidence-based cognitive behavioral therapies (CBTs) for children, adolescents, and young adults with complex diagnostic presentations, including co-occurring anxiety, mood, personality, substance use and eating disorders. She specializes in delivering Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) for high-risk, suicidal, and self-harming youth and their families. She is especially interested in walking alongside parents as they navigate parenting challenges and collaboration with providers. Julia is committed to providing identity-informed, culturally responsive and values-based interventions.
(424) 401-5795 View (424) 401-5795
Photo of Robin Wolvek, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90402, CA
Robin Wolvek
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90402
Every person is a compilation of unique traits, experiences, personality, physiology, and socio-cultural factors. All of these things shaped you into who you are. Some of these factors and experiences may have been painful, making life difficult to navigate or cope with. These experiences may have changed how you function, your relationship with others, how you see and attract others, and the relationship with yourself. Therapy is for you if you are looking to process trauma, lessen symptoms, learn coping skills, unlearn harmful patterns, grow, and have more insight into yourself and your unconscious processes.
Every person is a compilation of unique traits, experiences, personality, physiology, and socio-cultural factors. All of these things shaped you into who you are. Some of these factors and experiences may have been painful, making life difficult to navigate or cope with. These experiences may have changed how you function, your relationship with others, how you see and attract others, and the relationship with yourself. Therapy is for you if you are looking to process trauma, lessen symptoms, learn coping skills, unlearn harmful patterns, grow, and have more insight into yourself and your unconscious processes.
(805) 600-5423 View (805) 600-5423
Photo of Nicola Silver Persky, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90402, CA
Nicola Silver Persky
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90402
I come from a psychodynamic perspective and bring somatic tools, EMDR training and mindfulness practice to the healing space. I offer a warm, open heart and deeply curious, intuitive mind, utilizing the therapeutic relationship to foster safe healing.
I come from a psychodynamic perspective and bring somatic tools, EMDR training and mindfulness practice to the healing space. I offer a warm, open heart and deeply curious, intuitive mind, utilizing the therapeutic relationship to foster safe healing.
(818) 276-9482 View (818) 276-9482
Photo of Dr. Yi-Xian Li, Psychologist in 90402, CA
Dr. Yi-Xian Li
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90402  (Online Only)
Yi-Xian Li is a licensed clinical psychologist in the state of California (PSY34118). She earned her doctoral and master's degrees (Psy.D., M.A.) in Clinical Psychology from The Wright Institute in Berkeley, CA and a bachelor's degree in East Asian Studies from Brandeis University. Prior to her current career in psychology, Dr. Li worked in media strategy and advertising in Beijing and Shanghai, China. She completed her postdoctoral fellowship at the UCSF Faculty & Staff Assistance Program where she worked with physicians, faculty, nurses, administrators, and other UCSF staff members in therapy.
Yi-Xian Li is a licensed clinical psychologist in the state of California (PSY34118). She earned her doctoral and master's degrees (Psy.D., M.A.) in Clinical Psychology from The Wright Institute in Berkeley, CA and a bachelor's degree in East Asian Studies from Brandeis University. Prior to her current career in psychology, Dr. Li worked in media strategy and advertising in Beijing and Shanghai, China. She completed her postdoctoral fellowship at the UCSF Faculty & Staff Assistance Program where she worked with physicians, faculty, nurses, administrators, and other UCSF staff members in therapy.
(424) 444-0834 View (424) 444-0834
Photo of Nakisa Choupani, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 90402, CA
Nakisa Choupani
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90402
Nakisa is a licensed psychotherapist and clinical supervisor at Feya Health, utilizing eclectic and holistic approaches to support clients in engaging in meaningful self discovery via effective clinical models alongside Ketamine and Oxytocin Assisted Psychotherapy. Nakisa believes in the efficacy of a holistic and client centered approach, utilizing compassion and non-judgment to guide individuals in healing and developing a strong relationship with themselves, others and their environments.
Nakisa is a licensed psychotherapist and clinical supervisor at Feya Health, utilizing eclectic and holistic approaches to support clients in engaging in meaningful self discovery via effective clinical models alongside Ketamine and Oxytocin Assisted Psychotherapy. Nakisa believes in the efficacy of a holistic and client centered approach, utilizing compassion and non-judgment to guide individuals in healing and developing a strong relationship with themselves, others and their environments.
(424) 622-0613 View (424) 622-0613
Photo of Veronica Calkins, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 90402, CA
Veronica Calkins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90402
A Licensed Psychotherapist specializing in trauma, crisis, grief, anxiety, depression, and relationships. Veronica provides an empathetic and caring environment to work through challenges without judgment. Veronica obtained her B.A. in Psychology with a minor in Applied Developmental Psychology and Master’s in Social Welfare at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). She is trained in CBT, DBT, and family and couples therapy. She is also certified in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and the administration of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) and Deep-Brain Theta Stimulation.
A Licensed Psychotherapist specializing in trauma, crisis, grief, anxiety, depression, and relationships. Veronica provides an empathetic and caring environment to work through challenges without judgment. Veronica obtained her B.A. in Psychology with a minor in Applied Developmental Psychology and Master’s in Social Welfare at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). She is trained in CBT, DBT, and family and couples therapy. She is also certified in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and the administration of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) and Deep-Brain Theta Stimulation.
(833) 918-2676 View (833) 918-2676
Borderline Personality (BPD) Therapists

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.