Borderline Personality (BPD) Therapists in Birmingham, MI

Photo of Megan Fordon, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Birmingham, MI
Megan Fordon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Verified Verified
Birmingham, MI 48009
Meet Megan, a dedicated therapist specializing in anxiety, trauma, attachment wounds, and Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD).
Do your emotions ever feel overpowering or too intense? It's as if you're riding an emotional rollercoaster, and even the slightest trigger can propel you into a state of panic or overwhelming rage. Are you grappling with the challenges of regulating these emotions, with feelings such as anxiety, anger, or numbness, frequently taking the reins and controlling your every day life?
Meet Megan, a dedicated therapist specializing in anxiety, trauma, attachment wounds, and Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD).
Do your emotions ever feel overpowering or too intense? It's as if you're riding an emotional rollercoaster, and even the slightest trigger can propel you into a state of panic or overwhelming rage. Are you grappling with the challenges of regulating these emotions, with feelings such as anxiety, anger, or numbness, frequently taking the reins and controlling your every day life?
(248) 845-3008 View (248) 845-3008
Photo of Ashley E. Drogs, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Birmingham, MI
Ashley E. Drogs
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MA, BA
Verified Verified
Birmingham, MI 48009
Ashley Drogs is a clinical therapist who specializes in individual and family therapy. With 6 years of experience as a therapist, she is currently working in metro detroit, Michigan. Among her areas of expertise are anxiety, depression, narcissistic abuse, borderline personality disorder, OCD, trauma focused therapy, and teenage anxiety. Ashley is an interactive, solution-focused clinician. Her therapeutic approach is to provide support and clinical feedback to help clients effectively navigate life’s challenges. She integrates complementary methodologies and techniques to offer a highly personalized approach tailored to each client
Ashley Drogs is a clinical therapist who specializes in individual and family therapy. With 6 years of experience as a therapist, she is currently working in metro detroit, Michigan. Among her areas of expertise are anxiety, depression, narcissistic abuse, borderline personality disorder, OCD, trauma focused therapy, and teenage anxiety. Ashley is an interactive, solution-focused clinician. Her therapeutic approach is to provide support and clinical feedback to help clients effectively navigate life’s challenges. She integrates complementary methodologies and techniques to offer a highly personalized approach tailored to each client
(248) 306-8930 View (248) 306-8930
Photo of Aspen Behavioral Health, PC, Psychologist in Birmingham, MI
Aspen Behavioral Health, PC
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
Birmingham, MI 48009
What do patients say about Eric Pihlgren, PhD, owner of Aspen Behavioral Health, PC? Here are some comments from online reviews: "Very dedicated and thorough. Effectively teaches the methods of DBT"..."He made me feel comfortable and knew so much about the issues I needed help with...best Psychologist in Oakland County!!!"..."He's really good at what he does." Dr. Pihlgren is a fully-licensed Clinical Psychologist specializing in the treatment of adolescents and adults with moderate to severe psychological disorders. Through his extensive educational, training and work experience, Dr. Pihlgren is uniquely qualified to provide psychotherapy to treat a broad range of problems.
What do patients say about Eric Pihlgren, PhD, owner of Aspen Behavioral Health, PC? Here are some comments from online reviews: "Very dedicated and thorough. Effectively teaches the methods of DBT"..."He made me feel comfortable and knew so much about the issues I needed help with...best Psychologist in Oakland County!!!"..."He's really good at what he does." Dr. Pihlgren is a fully-licensed Clinical Psychologist specializing in the treatment of adolescents and adults with moderate to severe psychological disorders. Through his extensive educational, training and work experience, Dr. Pihlgren is uniquely qualified to provide psychotherapy to treat a broad range of problems.
(248) 565-3198 View (248) 565-3198
Photo of Laura Fishman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Birmingham, MI
Laura Fishman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
Birmingham, MI 48009  (Online Only)
Vulnerability and shame is often at the core of most mental health issues. Without treatment, these core issues can frequently manifest into anxiety, depression, and addictive or self destructive behaviors. When our sense of self is fragile and the story we've created about who we are is distorted, it can become extremely difficult to feel fulfilled, connected, or joyful. My goal as a therapist is to help you feel safe and comfortable so you can explore and evolve into living and being the best version of YourSelf.
Vulnerability and shame is often at the core of most mental health issues. Without treatment, these core issues can frequently manifest into anxiety, depression, and addictive or self destructive behaviors. When our sense of self is fragile and the story we've created about who we are is distorted, it can become extremely difficult to feel fulfilled, connected, or joyful. My goal as a therapist is to help you feel safe and comfortable so you can explore and evolve into living and being the best version of YourSelf.
(248) 243-7251 View (248) 243-7251
Photo of Diane Levy-Rubinstein, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Birmingham, MI
Diane Levy-Rubinstein
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
Birmingham, MI 48009
Are you tired of living in an emotional hell where your relationships are struggles instead of pleasurable meaningful experiences? Do you have trouble with interpersonal effectiveness as well as controlling your emotions? Do you find yourself battling with depression and anxiety? Are you frequently experiencing conflicts with you partner? Considered marriage or couples counseling ? Do you find that your communication skills are indirect and you are not getting what you want? Are you grieving the loss of a spouse, child or friend? Do you feel stuck and unable to move forward? Are you looking for your a life worth living?
Are you tired of living in an emotional hell where your relationships are struggles instead of pleasurable meaningful experiences? Do you have trouble with interpersonal effectiveness as well as controlling your emotions? Do you find yourself battling with depression and anxiety? Are you frequently experiencing conflicts with you partner? Considered marriage or couples counseling ? Do you find that your communication skills are indirect and you are not getting what you want? Are you grieving the loss of a spouse, child or friend? Do you feel stuck and unable to move forward? Are you looking for your a life worth living?
(248) 826-2456 View (248) 826-2456
Photo of Kathleen A Becker, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Birmingham, MI
Kathleen A Becker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Birmingham, MI 48009
I believe life is both wonderful and challenging. During challenging times people often feel stuck - it's an awful place to be and finding someone to help you out of stuck can be of great comfort and assistance. I provide compassionate, supportive therapy in a professional and comfortable environment. I explore thoughts, feelings and behaviors that cause people to become stuck and work on practicing new thoughts, feelings and behaviors to become "unstuck". Therapy is a collaborative and dynamic process and I enjoy working with a wide variety of individuals to assist them in getting the most out of their life.
I believe life is both wonderful and challenging. During challenging times people often feel stuck - it's an awful place to be and finding someone to help you out of stuck can be of great comfort and assistance. I provide compassionate, supportive therapy in a professional and comfortable environment. I explore thoughts, feelings and behaviors that cause people to become stuck and work on practicing new thoughts, feelings and behaviors to become "unstuck". Therapy is a collaborative and dynamic process and I enjoy working with a wide variety of individuals to assist them in getting the most out of their life.
(248) 331-8936 View (248) 331-8936
Photo of Ellie Mental Health Birmingham in Birmingham, MI
Ellie Mental Health Birmingham
LMSW, LICSW, LPC, LPC-S
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Birmingham, MI 48009
We currently have immediate openings for kids ages 4 and up, adults, couples, and families-NO waitlist! Our therapists at the Birmingham, Michigan location are skilled at treating people throughout the lifespan with an array of diagnoses. These include postpartum depression, anxiety, depression, life transitions including divorce, career changes, and grief and loss. We have clinicians who love working with kids, couples, families, and individuals!
We currently have immediate openings for kids ages 4 and up, adults, couples, and families-NO waitlist! Our therapists at the Birmingham, Michigan location are skilled at treating people throughout the lifespan with an array of diagnoses. These include postpartum depression, anxiety, depression, life transitions including divorce, career changes, and grief and loss. We have clinicians who love working with kids, couples, families, and individuals!
(248) 621-8746 View (248) 621-8746
Photo of Nicole Rachel Martinez, Limited Licensed Psychologist in Birmingham, MI
Nicole Rachel Martinez
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MA, LLP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Birmingham, MI 48009
You can master out-of-control feelings and transcend ingrained ways of being. I specialize in treating individuals with constellations of issues including emotional dysregulation, spiraling thoughts, feeling empty, fear of abandonment, incoherent identity, a history of intense/unstable relationships, and self-destructive behaviors i.e. disordered eating, compulsive sex, substance abuse. I help clients understand how they have been affected by experiences such as childhood neglect and abuse, emotional invalidation and manipulation, harshly critical or demanding parents, parental addiction, and family boundary violations.
You can master out-of-control feelings and transcend ingrained ways of being. I specialize in treating individuals with constellations of issues including emotional dysregulation, spiraling thoughts, feeling empty, fear of abandonment, incoherent identity, a history of intense/unstable relationships, and self-destructive behaviors i.e. disordered eating, compulsive sex, substance abuse. I help clients understand how they have been affected by experiences such as childhood neglect and abuse, emotional invalidation and manipulation, harshly critical or demanding parents, parental addiction, and family boundary violations.
(586) 217-3852 View (586) 217-3852
Photo of Pamela H. Minelli, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Birmingham, MI
Pamela H. Minelli
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Birmingham, MI 48009
Client needs are my FIRST priority. I am a specialist in evidence-based treatments (EBT), which radically improves my client's success rates, increases effectiveness of treatment, and gets results quickly. The majority of my client's report improvements, within the first session: life-functioning (work- home-school-relationships) and report immediate reduction in symptoms. Reducing anxiety/panic, decreasing depression, developing stronger coping strategies to stress and balancing mood dysregulation are my specialty, as symptoms can result from adjustment challenges to sudden life changes: parenthood/divorce/grief/college. We collaborate on thinking traps, tracking triggers, modifying behavior, successful coping skills and strengthening resiliency.
Client needs are my FIRST priority. I am a specialist in evidence-based treatments (EBT), which radically improves my client's success rates, increases effectiveness of treatment, and gets results quickly. The majority of my client's report improvements, within the first session: life-functioning (work- home-school-relationships) and report immediate reduction in symptoms. Reducing anxiety/panic, decreasing depression, developing stronger coping strategies to stress and balancing mood dysregulation are my specialty, as symptoms can result from adjustment challenges to sudden life changes: parenthood/divorce/grief/college. We collaborate on thinking traps, tracking triggers, modifying behavior, successful coping skills and strengthening resiliency.
(248) 243-9214 View (248) 243-9214
Photo of Sollars and Associates, Psychologist in Birmingham, MI
Sollars and Associates
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Birmingham, MI 48009
I am a licensed psychologist and the clinical director of Sollars and Associates Integrative Counseling and Psychological Services. I have been providing counseling and psychotherapy for over 30 years in the Metro Detroit area and our group practice spans across the state of Michigan. With support, encouragement and expert insight many people begin to feel better after their first session.
I am a licensed psychologist and the clinical director of Sollars and Associates Integrative Counseling and Psychological Services. I have been providing counseling and psychotherapy for over 30 years in the Metro Detroit area and our group practice spans across the state of Michigan. With support, encouragement and expert insight many people begin to feel better after their first session.
(248) 862-1171 View (248) 862-1171
Photo of Lena Agree, Psychologist in Birmingham, MI
Lena Agree
Psychologist, JD, PsyD, LP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Birmingham, MI 48009
I will help you become the architect of your own life - overcoming the internal obstacles that prevent you from experiencing, freedom, control & happiness. You may wish to conquer a strategic goal, or address a more complex problem - relational, emotional, professional or behavioral - or perhaps something you cannot define. I am adept at understanding human dynamics, and can bring clarity to your mental chaos or confusion. I'm comfortable with all manner of personal experience and emotional expression. I will approach you with genuine interest, compassion & non-judgmental curiosity.
I will help you become the architect of your own life - overcoming the internal obstacles that prevent you from experiencing, freedom, control & happiness. You may wish to conquer a strategic goal, or address a more complex problem - relational, emotional, professional or behavioral - or perhaps something you cannot define. I am adept at understanding human dynamics, and can bring clarity to your mental chaos or confusion. I'm comfortable with all manner of personal experience and emotional expression. I will approach you with genuine interest, compassion & non-judgmental curiosity.
(248) 213-6421 View (248) 213-6421
Photo of Suanne Zager, LMSW, Inc., Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Birmingham, MI
Suanne Zager, LMSW, Inc.
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Birmingham, MI 48009  (Online Only)
I have found that people tend to seek therapy when they are experiencing some kind of stressful situation in their life. You may have found that you keep repeating bad patterns or that you feel stuck in your relationships or your job and you don't know what to do to get unstuck. We all need to find someone we can feel safe sharing our deepest concerns with and we want to feel understood. Whether the work is brief, or more long-term, I am passionate about helping you to develop behavior changes that will lead to healing and eventually to you fulfilling your potential.
I have found that people tend to seek therapy when they are experiencing some kind of stressful situation in their life. You may have found that you keep repeating bad patterns or that you feel stuck in your relationships or your job and you don't know what to do to get unstuck. We all need to find someone we can feel safe sharing our deepest concerns with and we want to feel understood. Whether the work is brief, or more long-term, I am passionate about helping you to develop behavior changes that will lead to healing and eventually to you fulfilling your potential.
(248) 291-3919 View (248) 291-3919
Photo of David P. Stanislaw, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Birmingham, MI
David P. Stanislaw
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, BCD
Verified Verified
Birmingham, MI 48009
You are likely considering therapy or counseling for yourself, a family member, or a friend. A person considers treatment for two reasons. Either you are reacting to an immediate event or crisis in your life, or have been thinking about addressing ongoing issues. My approach to therapy is empathic, interactive and rooted in time-tested techniques that produce deep, long-lasting change. Numerous studies have shown that results in therapy have less to do with a particular "brand" of therapy, and more to do with an outgrowth of the quality of relationship between a skilled practitioner and an invested patient.
You are likely considering therapy or counseling for yourself, a family member, or a friend. A person considers treatment for two reasons. Either you are reacting to an immediate event or crisis in your life, or have been thinking about addressing ongoing issues. My approach to therapy is empathic, interactive and rooted in time-tested techniques that produce deep, long-lasting change. Numerous studies have shown that results in therapy have less to do with a particular "brand" of therapy, and more to do with an outgrowth of the quality of relationship between a skilled practitioner and an invested patient.
(248) 645-2777 View (248) 645-2777
Photo of Sydney Walsh, Psychologist in Birmingham, MI
Sydney Walsh
Psychologist, PhD, LP, CEDS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Birmingham, MI 48009
I provide a warm, accepting and nonjudgmental approach, emphasizing the use of evidence-based treatments such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT). In addition, I have received training and experience with Radically Open Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (RO-DBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). I focus on applying mindfulness and related behavioral skills to help clients learn to tolerate distress, manage emotions, and increase their overall coping ability and quality of life.
I provide a warm, accepting and nonjudgmental approach, emphasizing the use of evidence-based treatments such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT). In addition, I have received training and experience with Radically Open Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (RO-DBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). I focus on applying mindfulness and related behavioral skills to help clients learn to tolerate distress, manage emotions, and increase their overall coping ability and quality of life.
(248) 558-2242 View (248) 558-2242
Photo of Tranquil Awakenings Counseling Center, PLLC, Limited Licensed Psychologist in Birmingham, MI
Tranquil Awakenings Counseling Center, PLLC
Limited Licensed Psychologist
Verified Verified
Birmingham, MI 48009
As life begins and we transition through the phases of adolescence into adulthood, our minds begin to develop perspectives, personality characteristics, or a personally derived set of rules governing how we live or who we are as individuals. In relation, the mind develops cognitive scars that require nurturing based on your past experiences or observed experiences. These manifestations of life circumstances can then transition into symptoms related to Anxiety, Depression, Personality Disorders, Trauma Disorders, Obsessive Compulsive Disorders, Interpersonal Struggles and so much more.
As life begins and we transition through the phases of adolescence into adulthood, our minds begin to develop perspectives, personality characteristics, or a personally derived set of rules governing how we live or who we are as individuals. In relation, the mind develops cognitive scars that require nurturing based on your past experiences or observed experiences. These manifestations of life circumstances can then transition into symptoms related to Anxiety, Depression, Personality Disorders, Trauma Disorders, Obsessive Compulsive Disorders, Interpersonal Struggles and so much more.
(248) 406-6696 View (248) 406-6696
Photo of Alyssa Jesselaitis, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Birmingham, MI
Alyssa Jesselaitis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Birmingham, MI 48009
Hi there, I'm so happy you're here! I can appreciate that therapy is an incredibly vulnerable experience, and it's most important to feel heard, understood, and truly connected with your therapist. That's why I hope to create a space that is relaxing and warm, and to bring a touch of humor to help you feel at ease! I want you to know that as your therapist, I am here to work alongside you, and to be my authentic self in order to build a strong and empathetic connection with you. Together, we can explore new connections, challenge old beliefs, and navigate even the most difficult emotions with gentleness and compassion.
Hi there, I'm so happy you're here! I can appreciate that therapy is an incredibly vulnerable experience, and it's most important to feel heard, understood, and truly connected with your therapist. That's why I hope to create a space that is relaxing and warm, and to bring a touch of humor to help you feel at ease! I want you to know that as your therapist, I am here to work alongside you, and to be my authentic self in order to build a strong and empathetic connection with you. Together, we can explore new connections, challenge old beliefs, and navigate even the most difficult emotions with gentleness and compassion.
(586) 580-8135 View (586) 580-8135
Photo of Brandy Goins, Licensed Professional Counselor in Birmingham, MI
Brandy Goins
Licensed Professional Counselor, Phd,ABD, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Birmingham, MI 48009  (Online Only)
Do you have feelings of frustration and anger? In addition, the feeling that no one understands you or they say the wrong thing to you without thinking of the impact. Dealing with chronic illness and pain is a consistent struggle. Sometimes getting through a day to just support a decent lifestyle is excruciating. The isolation is troubling because a social life feels so out of reach Top that off with a relationship and a healthy sex life seems impossible at the moment. Everyday feels like a marathon of how much can be done while feeling a consistent exhaustion that never goes away. Waking up feeling refreshed seems like a fantasy.
Do you have feelings of frustration and anger? In addition, the feeling that no one understands you or they say the wrong thing to you without thinking of the impact. Dealing with chronic illness and pain is a consistent struggle. Sometimes getting through a day to just support a decent lifestyle is excruciating. The isolation is troubling because a social life feels so out of reach Top that off with a relationship and a healthy sex life seems impossible at the moment. Everyday feels like a marathon of how much can be done while feeling a consistent exhaustion that never goes away. Waking up feeling refreshed seems like a fantasy.
(248) 965-0474 View (248) 965-0474
Photo of Kristina Belzer, Limited Licensed Psychologist in Birmingham, MI
Kristina Belzer
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MA, LLP
Verified Verified
Birmingham, MI 48009  (Online Only)
Are you looking to become the best version of yourself? I believe through psychotherapy you can become a highly functioning, self- actualized and happy individualized. Together, we will work towards helping you be the person you wish to be and project to the world. My goal is to help you heal from your past, grow, and move forward with your life.
Are you looking to become the best version of yourself? I believe through psychotherapy you can become a highly functioning, self- actualized and happy individualized. Together, we will work towards helping you be the person you wish to be and project to the world. My goal is to help you heal from your past, grow, and move forward with your life.
(947) 333-8291 View (947) 333-8291
Photo of Susan Baron, Limited Licensed Psychologist in Birmingham, MI
Susan Baron
Limited Licensed Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Birmingham, MI 48009
With over 23 years of experience, I work compassionately with individuals to help alleviate the painful symptoms associated with anxiety, depression, trauma, and loss. Life transitions and events including relationship issues, college, marriage, childbirth, divorce, death of a loved one, chronic illness, and retirement present new challenges and often touch upon unresolved past issues as well. Working collaboratively with clients through insight oriented psychotherapy, I can help to enhance one's ability to make desired life changes, and to provide a greater sense of well being overall.
With over 23 years of experience, I work compassionately with individuals to help alleviate the painful symptoms associated with anxiety, depression, trauma, and loss. Life transitions and events including relationship issues, college, marriage, childbirth, divorce, death of a loved one, chronic illness, and retirement present new challenges and often touch upon unresolved past issues as well. Working collaboratively with clients through insight oriented psychotherapy, I can help to enhance one's ability to make desired life changes, and to provide a greater sense of well being overall.
(947) 888-9495 View (947) 888-9495
Photo of Haley Ann Dorion (Accepting New Clients This Week!), Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Birmingham, MI
Haley Ann Dorion (Accepting New Clients This Week!)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Birmingham, MI 48009  (Online Only)
You’re defeated, broken, and feeling trapped in your past. Life has not been easy for you and along the way you seem to have lost who you are. The trauma you have experienced is affecting you daily, making you feel helpless. Unable to love yourself you struggle to set and maintain boundaries. The pressure to please others is exhausting and you can't seem to find balance or support in your life. Your history of abuse triggers you to impulsively react- rather than logically respond during difficult situations. You’re looking for guidance to process through all the baggage, uncertainty, and stress.
You’re defeated, broken, and feeling trapped in your past. Life has not been easy for you and along the way you seem to have lost who you are. The trauma you have experienced is affecting you daily, making you feel helpless. Unable to love yourself you struggle to set and maintain boundaries. The pressure to please others is exhausting and you can't seem to find balance or support in your life. Your history of abuse triggers you to impulsively react- rather than logically respond during difficult situations. You’re looking for guidance to process through all the baggage, uncertainty, and stress.
(248) 916-0295 View (248) 916-0295

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.