Borderline Personality (BPD) Therapists in Waianae, HI

Photo of Zachary Rankin, Marriage & Family Therapist in Waianae, HI
Zachary Rankin
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Waianae, HI 96792
Hello! My name is Zachary Rankin, and I'm a licensed marriage and family therapist with over 10 years of experience as a mental health practitioner. I practice therapy from a collaborative perspective which emphasizes your agency, experiences and growth. I have experience working with all ages, relational dynamics, and mental health challenges. I can help whether you're struggling with relationship conflict, difficulty adjusting to planned or unexpected life changes, disturbing or uncomfortable thoughts or urges, behaviors you'd like to change, major mood disorders, or any other challenge of the human condition.
Hello! My name is Zachary Rankin, and I'm a licensed marriage and family therapist with over 10 years of experience as a mental health practitioner. I practice therapy from a collaborative perspective which emphasizes your agency, experiences and growth. I have experience working with all ages, relational dynamics, and mental health challenges. I can help whether you're struggling with relationship conflict, difficulty adjusting to planned or unexpected life changes, disturbing or uncomfortable thoughts or urges, behaviors you'd like to change, major mood disorders, or any other challenge of the human condition.
(808) 698-5852 View (808) 698-5852
Photo of Alison A Keamo-Carnate, Counselor in Waianae, HI
Alison A Keamo-Carnate
Counselor, MSCP, LMHC
Verified Verified
Waianae, HI 96792  (Online Only)
Aloha! If you're here, you are ready for change. In all hardships, pain and suffering, there are also blessings in disguise. Despite our challenges, we can always choose aloha! Remember it's not the destination that's important, but the journey. I'd love to help you find your way to a healthier and happier you. Choose a lifetime of struggle or choose aloha, the choice is always yours!
Aloha! If you're here, you are ready for change. In all hardships, pain and suffering, there are also blessings in disguise. Despite our challenges, we can always choose aloha! Remember it's not the destination that's important, but the journey. I'd love to help you find your way to a healthier and happier you. Choose a lifetime of struggle or choose aloha, the choice is always yours!
(808) 435-7099 View (808) 435-7099
Photo of Amanda Odish, Marriage & Family Therapist in Waianae, HI
Amanda Odish
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Waianae, HI 96792
Aloha! I'm Amanda Odish, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Hawai'i. My approach is compassion-based, existential, solution-focused, positive, and trauma-informed. My goal is to assist you with learning coping skills, tools, and experiential competence so that you need not rely on a therapist. I am here to support your transition to health on all levels! I have experience working with folks who have endured severe trauma of all kinds, along with accompanying symptoms such as severe anxiety, depression, and grief.
Aloha! I'm Amanda Odish, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Hawai'i. My approach is compassion-based, existential, solution-focused, positive, and trauma-informed. My goal is to assist you with learning coping skills, tools, and experiential competence so that you need not rely on a therapist. I am here to support your transition to health on all levels! I have experience working with folks who have endured severe trauma of all kinds, along with accompanying symptoms such as severe anxiety, depression, and grief.
(808) 468-7081 View (808) 468-7081
Photo of Elnora Waoala Hiers, Counselor in Waianae, HI
Elnora Waoala Hiers
Counselor, MSCP, LMHC, NCC, QMHP
Verified Verified
Waianae, HI 96792
Are you feeling as if your life isn’t going anywhere? Are you unsatisfied, unhappy, feeling depressed, anxious, or lacking purpose and meaning in your life? Have you felt “stuck” or “feel down in the pit” and lack motivation to accomplish your goals? Do you need balance and happiness in your life and strength to overcome obstacles? Are you feeling disconnected and alone from broken relationships? Turn adversity into opportunity by taking the first step to happiness and abundant living through a collaborative healing process.
Are you feeling as if your life isn’t going anywhere? Are you unsatisfied, unhappy, feeling depressed, anxious, or lacking purpose and meaning in your life? Have you felt “stuck” or “feel down in the pit” and lack motivation to accomplish your goals? Do you need balance and happiness in your life and strength to overcome obstacles? Are you feeling disconnected and alone from broken relationships? Turn adversity into opportunity by taking the first step to happiness and abundant living through a collaborative healing process.
(808) 400-6405 View (808) 400-6405
Photo of Tiffany Tanaka, Marriage & Family Therapist in Waianae, HI
Tiffany Tanaka
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Waianae, HI 96792  (Online Only)
Hello! I am a marriage and family therapist with a passion for helping others through their journey of self growth and healing. Through the years i've been fortunate to have worked with a very diverse group of individuals, families, and couples. My areas of specialties include anger management, substance abuse, PTSD, domestic violence, sexual abuse, behavioral issues, marital and relational counseling and treatment groups. I also work with a variety of mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, bipolar, and personality disorders.
Hello! I am a marriage and family therapist with a passion for helping others through their journey of self growth and healing. Through the years i've been fortunate to have worked with a very diverse group of individuals, families, and couples. My areas of specialties include anger management, substance abuse, PTSD, domestic violence, sexual abuse, behavioral issues, marital and relational counseling and treatment groups. I also work with a variety of mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, bipolar, and personality disorders.
(808) 445-6373 View (808) 445-6373
Photo of Kayla Ennett, Licensed Professional Counselor in Waianae, HI
Kayla Ennett
Licensed Professional Counselor, PsyD, LMHC
Verified Verified
Waianae, HI 96792  (Online Only)
Kayla Ennett, PsyD, LMHC, is a licensed therapist living in Colorado who is very motivated and excited to work with the residents of Hawaii via TeleHealth therapy. Kayla has an eclectic experience with counseling. She started off as a college career counselor and then moved on to school counseling. Later in her career, she began doing therapy with inmates at a state prison then veterans and their families on post. She currently focuses on working with clients and couples who suffer from depression, anxiety, personality disorders, LGBTQ+, and concerns related to intimacy and sex.
Kayla Ennett, PsyD, LMHC, is a licensed therapist living in Colorado who is very motivated and excited to work with the residents of Hawaii via TeleHealth therapy. Kayla has an eclectic experience with counseling. She started off as a college career counselor and then moved on to school counseling. Later in her career, she began doing therapy with inmates at a state prison then veterans and their families on post. She currently focuses on working with clients and couples who suffer from depression, anxiety, personality disorders, LGBTQ+, and concerns related to intimacy and sex.
(808) 720-2145 View (808) 720-2145
Photo of Emilee L Omoto, Marriage & Family Therapist in Waianae, HI
Emilee L Omoto
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Waianae, HI 96792
Not accepting new clients
Aloha! I am a licensed Marriage and Family therapist on the Leeward side of Oahu. I have experience working with individuals, families, and couples and specialize in issues including: PTSD (trauma), Anxiety, Depression, Narcisissm, Marital Conflict and Infidelity, Autism and ADHD, Parenting, Domestic Violence, Grief, Substance Abuse, and Anger Management. I specialize in the issues listed above, but welcome patients that may be facing other issues as well. I also offer Christian-based therapy for those who follow, and provide a Hawaiian cultural perspective as well. Call us to schedule and appointment with a therapist!
Aloha! I am a licensed Marriage and Family therapist on the Leeward side of Oahu. I have experience working with individuals, families, and couples and specialize in issues including: PTSD (trauma), Anxiety, Depression, Narcisissm, Marital Conflict and Infidelity, Autism and ADHD, Parenting, Domestic Violence, Grief, Substance Abuse, and Anger Management. I specialize in the issues listed above, but welcome patients that may be facing other issues as well. I also offer Christian-based therapy for those who follow, and provide a Hawaiian cultural perspective as well. Call us to schedule and appointment with a therapist!
(808) 272-5355 View (808) 272-5355

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Tuere Williams, Counselor in Waianae, HI
Tuere Williams
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Waipahu, HI 96797
My client focus is youth, adolescents, and adults ages 18- 30 who suffer from ADHD, Adolescents/Teens, Anger Management, Anxiety, Behavioral Issues, Bipolar Disorder, Borderline Personality, and many more.
Hi, my name is Tuere Williams. I am a licensed mental Health Therapist. I have also worked as a Behavioral Health Specialist, School Counselor, Suicide Prevention trainer, De-Escalation Trainer, Parent Educational Trainer, and Member of the Crisis Team. My focus is on helping individuals understand who they are and find ways to solve their problems. I favor cognitive behavioral theories, psychodynamic approaches, mindfulness, dialectical behavior therapy, person-centered Therapy, Adlerian therapy, and narrative therapy. I allow clients to take the lead in goal setting. Clients must become the leaders of their lives.
My client focus is youth, adolescents, and adults ages 18- 30 who suffer from ADHD, Adolescents/Teens, Anger Management, Anxiety, Behavioral Issues, Bipolar Disorder, Borderline Personality, and many more.
Hi, my name is Tuere Williams. I am a licensed mental Health Therapist. I have also worked as a Behavioral Health Specialist, School Counselor, Suicide Prevention trainer, De-Escalation Trainer, Parent Educational Trainer, and Member of the Crisis Team. My focus is on helping individuals understand who they are and find ways to solve their problems. I favor cognitive behavioral theories, psychodynamic approaches, mindfulness, dialectical behavior therapy, person-centered Therapy, Adlerian therapy, and narrative therapy. I allow clients to take the lead in goal setting. Clients must become the leaders of their lives.
(808) 736-4631 View (808) 736-4631
Photo of Noreen Joyce, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Waianae, HI
Noreen Joyce
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Schofield Barracks, HI 96857
I am particularly adept at working with adults with mood disorders, personality disorders especially Borderline Personality Disorder, and bereaved parents (who need special care after this loss.
Aloha! I am Noreen Joyce, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have been working with people for many years to help them live their best life with certainty and peace. I was classically trained in psychodynamic psychotherapy. Through the years, I have learned and utilized many effective therapeutic approaches that we will discuss together to choose the best approach for you to achieve your therapy goals.
I am particularly adept at working with adults with mood disorders, personality disorders especially Borderline Personality Disorder, and bereaved parents (who need special care after this loss.
Aloha! I am Noreen Joyce, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have been working with people for many years to help them live their best life with certainty and peace. I was classically trained in psychodynamic psychotherapy. Through the years, I have learned and utilized many effective therapeutic approaches that we will discuss together to choose the best approach for you to achieve your therapy goals.
(808) 353-5491 View (808) 353-5491
Photo of Neurofeedback Clinic of Hawaii, Psychologist in Waianae, HI
Neurofeedback Clinic of Hawaii
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Kapolei, HI 96707
Neurofeedback is a safe, non-invasive brain training method. The essence of neurofeedback is self-regulation, teaching the brain to properly regulate itself. Neurofeedback is essentially a brain workout. It trains your brain to be more flexible and resilient. Without pushing it in any specific direction, the neurofeedback system interacts with your central nervous system in a way that improves neural plasticity. A mind that is more flexible adapts and responds quicker and more appropriately to changes in your environment. The more easily your brain adjusts to changes encountered in a normal busy day, the better you feel.
Neurofeedback is a safe, non-invasive brain training method. The essence of neurofeedback is self-regulation, teaching the brain to properly regulate itself. Neurofeedback is essentially a brain workout. It trains your brain to be more flexible and resilient. Without pushing it in any specific direction, the neurofeedback system interacts with your central nervous system in a way that improves neural plasticity. A mind that is more flexible adapts and responds quicker and more appropriately to changes in your environment. The more easily your brain adjusts to changes encountered in a normal busy day, the better you feel.
(808) 353-4829 View (808) 353-4829
Photo of Miranda Stone, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Waianae, HI
Miranda Stone
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Schofield Barracks, HI 96857
Hi, my name is Miranda Stone, and I am an LCSW practicing in the state of Hawaii, providing therapy services to residents on all the islands via telehealth. I work with adults and specialize in treating anxiety, past trauma, depression, self-worth/self-love, OCD, those with past domestic violence and bullying experiences, substance use, and stress. My primary approach is to use cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness, and some psychodynamic psychology. I like to take a collaborative approach to therapy, continuously checking in with you and making it person-centered.
Hi, my name is Miranda Stone, and I am an LCSW practicing in the state of Hawaii, providing therapy services to residents on all the islands via telehealth. I work with adults and specialize in treating anxiety, past trauma, depression, self-worth/self-love, OCD, those with past domestic violence and bullying experiences, substance use, and stress. My primary approach is to use cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness, and some psychodynamic psychology. I like to take a collaborative approach to therapy, continuously checking in with you and making it person-centered.
(808) 353-6702 View (808) 353-6702
Photo of Jennifer O Cornwell, Marriage & Family Therapist in Waianae, HI
Jennifer O Cornwell
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, CSAC, SAP
Verified Verified
Kapolei, HI 96707
Aloha, my name is Jennifer Cornwell , MFT, CSAC, SAP. As a young girl living in a then rural Island of Hawaii, I loved to wonder, dream, explore, and question life! As you can imagine these traits sometimes put me on wild adventures but because of them I believe they have shaped my counseling style. With that same curiosity, I have come to believe that everyone has a special story unique to their own and as a therapist I am here to help clients understand, and navigate their personal story. Like every adventure in life there are challenges and that is where a trained ear can help make a world of difference.
Aloha, my name is Jennifer Cornwell , MFT, CSAC, SAP. As a young girl living in a then rural Island of Hawaii, I loved to wonder, dream, explore, and question life! As you can imagine these traits sometimes put me on wild adventures but because of them I believe they have shaped my counseling style. With that same curiosity, I have come to believe that everyone has a special story unique to their own and as a therapist I am here to help clients understand, and navigate their personal story. Like every adventure in life there are challenges and that is where a trained ear can help make a world of difference.
(808) 353-4489 View (808) 353-4489
Photo of Aleksandra Tosovic-Yamashiroya, Psychologist in Waianae, HI
Aleksandra Tosovic-Yamashiroya
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Kapolei, HI 96707
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist with a professional interest in working with adults, adolescents and couples. I treat depression, anxiety, trauma, substance problems, parenting, relationship concerns, grief, working with a diverse clientele including LGBTQ, police/military populations. My goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a fulfilled life. While we can not change difficult situations of your past, we can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in your life. Together we will uncover long-standing behavior patterns holding you back from experiencing a more rewarding and meaningful life.
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist with a professional interest in working with adults, adolescents and couples. I treat depression, anxiety, trauma, substance problems, parenting, relationship concerns, grief, working with a diverse clientele including LGBTQ, police/military populations. My goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a fulfilled life. While we can not change difficult situations of your past, we can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in your life. Together we will uncover long-standing behavior patterns holding you back from experiencing a more rewarding and meaningful life.
(808) 518-4277 View (808) 518-4277
Photo of Chonell Candace Woode, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Waianae, HI
Chonell Candace Woode
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Kapolei, HI 96707
Aloha, my name is Chonell Candace Woode and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) practicing across all of Hawaii. I specialize in working with adults and couples in focus areas of anxiety, depression, stress management, relationships, trauma, PTSD, grief and substance abuse. My background also includes an extensive history in working with active-duty service members and their families. My approach to therapy aligns to the unique needs of each client. I most frequently employ modalities of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Behavioral Activation, Problem Solving Therapy, Mindfulness, Supportive and Strength Based Therapy.
Aloha, my name is Chonell Candace Woode and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) practicing across all of Hawaii. I specialize in working with adults and couples in focus areas of anxiety, depression, stress management, relationships, trauma, PTSD, grief and substance abuse. My background also includes an extensive history in working with active-duty service members and their families. My approach to therapy aligns to the unique needs of each client. I most frequently employ modalities of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Behavioral Activation, Problem Solving Therapy, Mindfulness, Supportive and Strength Based Therapy.
(808) 755-2894 View (808) 755-2894
Photo of Aileen R Maertens, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Waianae, HI
Aileen R Maertens
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Kapolei, HI 96707
Feeling depressed or anxious? Having family or work problems and don't know how to make things better? I work with clients on finding ways to bring hope and purpose into their lives. As a wife and mother of adult children, chances are I've been through many of the same challenges you're currently facing. I have first hand knowledge of how difficult life can be but also how rewarding.
Feeling depressed or anxious? Having family or work problems and don't know how to make things better? I work with clients on finding ways to bring hope and purpose into their lives. As a wife and mother of adult children, chances are I've been through many of the same challenges you're currently facing. I have first hand knowledge of how difficult life can be but also how rewarding.
(808) 374-5838 View (808) 374-5838
Photo of Yumi Lemaster, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Waianae, HI
Yumi Lemaster
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Waipahu, HI 96797
Hello, my name is Yumi Lemaster, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and I'd love to get to know you and what your primary concerns and issues are that bring you for healing here first and foremost and then work to process deeper core trends and issues that might perpetuate your hurt and pain. I'm also very solution oriented and like to provide practical tools and spiritual inspirational words to help heal all of you. My specialties are in trauma treatment, PTSD, and an array of phases of life issues, grief and loss, and relationship issues as well as faith-based issues as a Christian.
Hello, my name is Yumi Lemaster, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and I'd love to get to know you and what your primary concerns and issues are that bring you for healing here first and foremost and then work to process deeper core trends and issues that might perpetuate your hurt and pain. I'm also very solution oriented and like to provide practical tools and spiritual inspirational words to help heal all of you. My specialties are in trauma treatment, PTSD, and an array of phases of life issues, grief and loss, and relationship issues as well as faith-based issues as a Christian.
(808) 862-2483 View (808) 862-2483
Photo of LaVon Petersen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Waianae, HI
LaVon Petersen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, MPH, BSCJ, C-DBT
Verified Verified
Kapolei, HI 96707
Aloha, my name is LaVon, and I want to first say great job on taking the first and necessary step to address your challenges. Therapy can provide you with the space you need to safely and openly explore your experiences of trauma, conflict, and loss. Addressing these experiences in therapy without the stigmas and fear of judgment can be useful in alleviating stress, anxiety, anger, and depression. The relationship that ensues between the client and therapist along with the client's strengths, insight, intrinsic and extrinsic motivation, facilitates growth toward goal achievement.
Aloha, my name is LaVon, and I want to first say great job on taking the first and necessary step to address your challenges. Therapy can provide you with the space you need to safely and openly explore your experiences of trauma, conflict, and loss. Addressing these experiences in therapy without the stigmas and fear of judgment can be useful in alleviating stress, anxiety, anger, and depression. The relationship that ensues between the client and therapist along with the client's strengths, insight, intrinsic and extrinsic motivation, facilitates growth toward goal achievement.
(808) 320-1493 View (808) 320-1493
Photo of David Sprouse, Counselor in Waianae, HI
David Sprouse
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Kapolei, HI 96707
Dave Sprouse: LMHC, NCC, CSAC, CCS, CCC Everything you've faced so far, you have survived. I believe it is within reach to not only survive but thrive". Common approaches used are CBT, Person-Centered, and integrated wellness approaches to incorporate physical and emotional wellness components. Dave has extensive experience helping those battling substance use. Dave has experience in vocational and academic counseling with individuals ages ten and older.
Dave Sprouse: LMHC, NCC, CSAC, CCS, CCC Everything you've faced so far, you have survived. I believe it is within reach to not only survive but thrive". Common approaches used are CBT, Person-Centered, and integrated wellness approaches to incorporate physical and emotional wellness components. Dave has extensive experience helping those battling substance use. Dave has experience in vocational and academic counseling with individuals ages ten and older.
(808) 435-6073 View (808) 435-6073
Photo of Sonja Bigalke-Bannan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Waianae, HI
Sonja Bigalke-Bannan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Waialua, HI 96791
I am here to support your healing and growth, with an emphases in complex trauma work. My approach is trauma focused, using EMDR and Structural Dissociation Theory, Equine Assisted Psychotherapy, Harm Reduction and Motivational Interviewing. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, with a Master's of Social Work, from the University of Hawai'i, specializing in Mental Health.
I am here to support your healing and growth, with an emphases in complex trauma work. My approach is trauma focused, using EMDR and Structural Dissociation Theory, Equine Assisted Psychotherapy, Harm Reduction and Motivational Interviewing. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, with a Master's of Social Work, from the University of Hawai'i, specializing in Mental Health.
(808) 400-4218 View (808) 400-4218
Photo of Kenneth Kim, Psychologist in Waianae, HI
Kenneth Kim
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Kapolei, HI 96707  (Online Only)
Greetings. I have been working as a licensed psychologist for a little over 20 years. I did my pre-doc at UH Manoa so have had experiences working with college aged students. I have also worked in Hawaii with individuals with disabilities by working with individuals with ASD and I have worked as a psychologist at Developmental Disabilities Division here in Honolulu. I also have experiences with teens working within HYCF and have worked overseas for 10 years as a DOD Civilian Contractor working with our active duty service members and their families in Seoul, Korea. Please reach out and look forward to speaking with you!
Greetings. I have been working as a licensed psychologist for a little over 20 years. I did my pre-doc at UH Manoa so have had experiences working with college aged students. I have also worked in Hawaii with individuals with disabilities by working with individuals with ASD and I have worked as a psychologist at Developmental Disabilities Division here in Honolulu. I also have experiences with teens working within HYCF and have worked overseas for 10 years as a DOD Civilian Contractor working with our active duty service members and their families in Seoul, Korea. Please reach out and look forward to speaking with you!
(808) 774-3886 View (808) 774-3886

See more therapy options for Waianae


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.