Borderline Personality (BPD) Treatment Centers in Chestnut Hill, MA

Hillside works to offer the highest quality treatment. We believe in looking deep within and treating the underlying causes of our clients alcoholism and substance use. We look at each clients case on a personalized level. Our program is centered around clinical treatment delivered by our masters level clinicians but is not limited to it. We offer a full continuum of care and a wholistic approach including nutritional counseling, employment counseling, yoga, mindfulness therapy, 12 step immersion and more. Conveniently located outside of Boston, MA.
Hillside works to offer the highest quality treatment. We believe in looking deep within and treating the underlying causes of our clients alcoholism and substance use. We look at each clients case on a personalized level. Our program is centered around clinical treatment delivered by our masters level clinicians but is not limited to it. We offer a full continuum of care and a wholistic approach including nutritional counseling, employment counseling, yoga, mindfulness therapy, 12 step immersion and more. Conveniently located outside of Boston, MA.
(617) 622-5147 View (617) 622-5147
Photo of Bournewood Health Systems - Bournewood Health Systems, Treatment Center
Bournewood Health Systems
Treatment Center
Chestnut Hill, MA 02467
Bournewood is a full-service, independent, privately-owned psychiatric facility located in Brookline, Massachusetts, providing mental health and substance use treatment services and programs in a safe, respectful, and nurturing environment. We serve adults and adolescents ages 12 to 18 in all diagnostic categories. Our approach is trauma-informed and person-centered with recovery the focus of our treatment, services, and supports.
Bournewood is a full-service, independent, privately-owned psychiatric facility located in Brookline, Massachusetts, providing mental health and substance use treatment services and programs in a safe, respectful, and nurturing environment. We serve adults and adolescents ages 12 to 18 in all diagnostic categories. Our approach is trauma-informed and person-centered with recovery the focus of our treatment, services, and supports.
(617) 765-9857 View (617) 765-9857
Photo of Helen Michael - The Therapy Center at BGSP, Treatment Center, PsyaD
The Therapy Center at BGSP
Treatment Center
Serves Area
The Therapy Center focuses on affordable, confidential, individualized psychotherapy to help people examine problems, find freedom from troubling patterns of behavior, and make long-lasting change. We have found that mutual trust and respect is the foundation of the therapeutic relationship that allows people to express themselves freely. With a focus on in-person care and over 45 therapists who are able to serve diverse population in an array of world languages, our individualized approach allows for treatment tailored to your needs.
The Therapy Center focuses on affordable, confidential, individualized psychotherapy to help people examine problems, find freedom from troubling patterns of behavior, and make long-lasting change. We have found that mutual trust and respect is the foundation of the therapeutic relationship that allows people to express themselves freely. With a focus on in-person care and over 45 therapists who are able to serve diverse population in an array of world languages, our individualized approach allows for treatment tailored to your needs.
(617) 934-6085 View (617) 934-6085
Photo of Kristina Marik - Arbour Counseling Services, Allston, Treatment Center
Arbour Counseling Services, Allston
Treatment Center
Serves Area
With many locations throughout Eastern Massachusetts, Arbour Counseling Services (ACS) offers a full range of programs & clinical specialties. Our team of therapists provide comprehensive outpatient counseling services to children, adolescents, & adults. Our facility has offered long term support to the Boston area and is a trusted provider for many. ACS, Allston provides compassionate care for all. The Boston Center offers a year-round hybrid Partial Hospitalization day program M-F for children & adolescents ages 10-18 and a hybrid evening Intensive Outpatient Program adult program for all ages 18+ on M, W, Th from 3:30-7 p.m.
With many locations throughout Eastern Massachusetts, Arbour Counseling Services (ACS) offers a full range of programs & clinical specialties. Our team of therapists provide comprehensive outpatient counseling services to children, adolescents, & adults. Our facility has offered long term support to the Boston area and is a trusted provider for many. ACS, Allston provides compassionate care for all. The Boston Center offers a year-round hybrid Partial Hospitalization day program M-F for children & adolescents ages 10-18 and a hybrid evening Intensive Outpatient Program adult program for all ages 18+ on M, W, Th from 3:30-7 p.m.
(617) 829-9567 View (617) 829-9567

More Treatment Centers Nearby

Photo of Our Admissions Team - Austen Riggs Center, Treatment Center
Austen Riggs Center
Treatment Center
Serves Area
Located in Stockbridge, MA, with a national referral base, Riggs is an open and voluntary continuum of care for adults (18+) with complex psychiatric problems. We offer a range of interventions within an integrated psychodynamic framework. An emphasis is placed on patient authority and responsibility while examining the meaning behind behaviors and how behaviors impact relationships. Patients come to us with multiple diagnoses, but these labels do not necessarily capture the essence of their struggles or strengths. Our Online Intensive Outpatient Program offers online treatment to college students and emerging adults (18-30) in MA.
Located in Stockbridge, MA, with a national referral base, Riggs is an open and voluntary continuum of care for adults (18+) with complex psychiatric problems. We offer a range of interventions within an integrated psychodynamic framework. An emphasis is placed on patient authority and responsibility while examining the meaning behind behaviors and how behaviors impact relationships. Patients come to us with multiple diagnoses, but these labels do not necessarily capture the essence of their struggles or strengths. Our Online Intensive Outpatient Program offers online treatment to college students and emerging adults (18-30) in MA.
(855) 338-0060 View (855) 338-0060
Photo of Molly Ruiz - DBT Works, Treatment Center
DBT Works
Treatment Center
Concord, MA 01742
We specialize in treating all forms of emotion dysregulation, including: borderline personality disorder, depression, anxiety, and PTSD.
We offer a day program and outpatient programs. We’re passionate about dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), a powerful tool for helping individuals build resilience, regulate their emotions, and create fulfilling lives. We offer select adjunctive services to support clients needing related treatment (e.g., DBT-Prolonged Exposure (DBT-PE) for trauma).
We specialize in treating all forms of emotion dysregulation, including: borderline personality disorder, depression, anxiety, and PTSD.
We offer a day program and outpatient programs. We’re passionate about dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), a powerful tool for helping individuals build resilience, regulate their emotions, and create fulfilling lives. We offer select adjunctive services to support clients needing related treatment (e.g., DBT-Prolonged Exposure (DBT-PE) for trauma).
(857) 420-5097 View (857) 420-5097
Photo of Amber Miles - DJS Psychiatry and Services LLC , Treatment Center, NP, LDAC, LICSW, LMSW
DJS Psychiatry and Services LLC
Treatment Center
Reading, MA 01867
DJS Psychiatry & Services serves a diverse range of clients from various age groups and backgrounds, each with unique mental health needs. The facility works with individuals dealing with issues such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, bipolar disorder, OCD, and more complex conditions like schizoaffective disorder and personality disorders. They also support clients navigating grief, life transitions, family and relational difficulties, trauma, and personal growth challenges. The clients at DJS Psychiatry come from a variety of cultural and linguistic backgrounds, and the facility offers interpretation services to make treatment accessible to all. Many clients seek help for issues related to emotional regulation, coping skills, self-esteem, and managing mental health symptoms that impact their daily lives, work, or academic performance. The facility recognizes that each client’s needs are distinct, and the intake team carefully matches clients with providers who can address these needs effectively, ensuring a personalized and culturally sensitive approach. Our dedicated team(Myself Amber, Silvia, Amanda, Susan Nikki, Amelia and Stacy will ensure your loved one is well taken care.
DJS Psychiatry & Services serves a diverse range of clients from various age groups and backgrounds, each with unique mental health needs. The facility works with individuals dealing with issues such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, bipolar disorder, OCD, and more complex conditions like schizoaffective disorder and personality disorders. They also support clients navigating grief, life transitions, family and relational difficulties, trauma, and personal growth challenges. The clients at DJS Psychiatry come from a variety of cultural and linguistic backgrounds, and the facility offers interpretation services to make treatment accessible to all. Many clients seek help for issues related to emotional regulation, coping skills, self-esteem, and managing mental health symptoms that impact their daily lives, work, or academic performance. The facility recognizes that each client’s needs are distinct, and the intake team carefully matches clients with providers who can address these needs effectively, ensuring a personalized and culturally sensitive approach. Our dedicated team(Myself Amber, Silvia, Amanda, Susan Nikki, Amelia and Stacy will ensure your loved one is well taken care.
(978) 384-6546 View (978) 384-6546
Photo of Matty Andrews - Meta Addiction Treatment - Marlborough, MA, Treatment Center
Meta Addiction Treatment in Marlborough, MA, provides outpatient treatment that meets the unique needs of each client, with customized treatment plans, group support, and holistic approaches to healing. Our clients typically struggle with anxiety, depression, trauma, mood and personality disorders, and other emotional or behavioral issues. Our clients also seek help with substance use and addiction. We provide individual and group therapy, coping strategies, and support in a safe, compassionate outpatient treatment environment.
Meta Addiction Treatment in Marlborough, MA, provides outpatient treatment that meets the unique needs of each client, with customized treatment plans, group support, and holistic approaches to healing. Our clients typically struggle with anxiety, depression, trauma, mood and personality disorders, and other emotional or behavioral issues. Our clients also seek help with substance use and addiction. We provide individual and group therapy, coping strategies, and support in a safe, compassionate outpatient treatment environment.
(978) 404-4808 View (978) 404-4808
Photo of Caroline Elizabeth Gregorio - Clear Steps Recovery - Massachusetts, Treatment Center
Clear Steps Recovery - Massachusetts
Treatment Center
1 Endorsed
Needham, MA 02492
Conveniently located in both New Hampshire and Massachusetts, Clear Steps Recovery is a short drive away from Boston, the Beach, or the White Mountains. At Clear Steps Recovery, our team of compassionate professionals offers you and your loved ones a unique, health-based, intimate approach, ultimately providing you with a clear pathway to successful, long-term recovery. Health realization is a treatment program based on the principle that individuals have an innate capacity for health and well-being. This means the program is designed to empower individuals to tap into their inner resources to achieve sobriety and recovery. The program is based on the latest research in psychology and addiction recovery. Some of the benefits of the health realization program include empowering individuals to harness their own inner resources, addressing the underlying causes of addiction, offering a non-judgmental and supportive environment, creating a customized treatment plan for everyone, and providing a robust support network.
Conveniently located in both New Hampshire and Massachusetts, Clear Steps Recovery is a short drive away from Boston, the Beach, or the White Mountains. At Clear Steps Recovery, our team of compassionate professionals offers you and your loved ones a unique, health-based, intimate approach, ultimately providing you with a clear pathway to successful, long-term recovery. Health realization is a treatment program based on the principle that individuals have an innate capacity for health and well-being. This means the program is designed to empower individuals to tap into their inner resources to achieve sobriety and recovery. The program is based on the latest research in psychology and addiction recovery. Some of the benefits of the health realization program include empowering individuals to harness their own inner resources, addressing the underlying causes of addiction, offering a non-judgmental and supportive environment, creating a customized treatment plan for everyone, and providing a robust support network.
(857) 832-2004 View (857) 832-2004
Photo of Avalon Admissions - Avalon Malibu, Treatment Center, PsyD
Avalon Malibu
Treatment Center
Serves Area
Avalon Malibu Mental Health & Addiction Treatment Center is a Licensed Addiction & Mental Health Treatment Center. Utilizing experiential methodologies, expressive arts and research based psychotherapies, we offer a place which provides a nurturing and therapeutic environment. Clients are encouraged to participate actively in their recovery. We provide five levels of care: Licensed Addiction Residential Treatment (Detoxification), Licensed Mental Health Residential Treatment, Partial Hospitalization Program, Intensive Outpatient Treatment Program Happiness is a choice of attitude. Resolve to choose gratefulness over regret until joy becomes your default setting. The process of healing is one of self-realization, the peeling away of the fears and negativity that obscure the light of your core self.
Avalon Malibu Mental Health & Addiction Treatment Center is a Licensed Addiction & Mental Health Treatment Center. Utilizing experiential methodologies, expressive arts and research based psychotherapies, we offer a place which provides a nurturing and therapeutic environment. Clients are encouraged to participate actively in their recovery. We provide five levels of care: Licensed Addiction Residential Treatment (Detoxification), Licensed Mental Health Residential Treatment, Partial Hospitalization Program, Intensive Outpatient Treatment Program Happiness is a choice of attitude. Resolve to choose gratefulness over regret until joy becomes your default setting. The process of healing is one of self-realization, the peeling away of the fears and negativity that obscure the light of your core self.
(310) 359-0186 View (310) 359-0186
Photo of April Rickard - Luna Recovery for Women, Treatment Center
Luna Recovery for Women
Treatment Center
North Andover, MA 01845
Luna Recovery for Women, located in North Andover, MA, specializes in supporting women from diverse backgrounds facing addiction and mental health challenges. Our clients come seeking a safe, nurturing environment where they can heal and grow. We address a wide range of issues, including substance abuse, anxiety, depression, and trauma-related disorders. Our services are tailored to meet the unique psychological, emotional, and physical needs of women, providing them with the tools and support necessary to reclaim their lives and foster lasting recovery.
Luna Recovery for Women, located in North Andover, MA, specializes in supporting women from diverse backgrounds facing addiction and mental health challenges. Our clients come seeking a safe, nurturing environment where they can heal and grow. We address a wide range of issues, including substance abuse, anxiety, depression, and trauma-related disorders. Our services are tailored to meet the unique psychological, emotional, and physical needs of women, providing them with the tools and support necessary to reclaim their lives and foster lasting recovery.
(508) 290-2318 View (508) 290-2318
Photo of Mass General Brigham - Brigham and Women's Faulkner Partial Program (PHP), Treatment Center
Brigham and Women’s Faulkner Hospital Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP) is an in-person, short-term stabilization and treatment program for individuals aged 18 or older who are trying to cope with psychiatric issues, such as mood disorders, anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder. The PHP also helps those with co-occurring substance use disorders. Many individuals attend the PHP for additional treatment while receiving outpatient therapy or after an inpatient psychiatric hospital stay to prevent further worsening of symptoms that may lead to readmission or hospitalization.
Brigham and Women’s Faulkner Hospital Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP) is an in-person, short-term stabilization and treatment program for individuals aged 18 or older who are trying to cope with psychiatric issues, such as mood disorders, anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder. The PHP also helps those with co-occurring substance use disorders. Many individuals attend the PHP for additional treatment while receiving outpatient therapy or after an inpatient psychiatric hospital stay to prevent further worsening of symptoms that may lead to readmission or hospitalization.
(857) 342-1740 View (857) 342-1740
Photo of Shylanda Johnson - Uplift Behavioral Health Services , Treatment Center
Uplift Behavioral Health Services
Treatment Center
Boston, MA 02132
At Uplift Behavioral Health Services, we work hard to meet the overall needs of our clients by providing high-quality services. Uplift Mission is to provide clinically and culturally effective mental health prevention and intervention services to children, adolescents, adults and families at risk.
At Uplift Behavioral Health Services, we work hard to meet the overall needs of our clients by providing high-quality services. Uplift Mission is to provide clinically and culturally effective mental health prevention and intervention services to children, adolescents, adults and families at risk.
(339) 900-3724 View (339) 900-3724
Photo of Newport Newport - Newport Academy Teen and Adolescent Outpatient, Treatment Center
Newport Academy is the leading provider of behavioral health treatment for children ages 7–11 and teens ages 12–18. Our family-centered, integrated approach fosters sustainable healing from mental health and co-occurring disorders such as anxiety, depression, trauma, psychosis, eating disorders, and substance use. Individualized treatment plans include medical and psychiatric care, strengths-based academics, and experiential modalities including, art, music, yoga, and outdoor adventure therapy. With residential and outpatient locations nationwide and partnerships with major insurance providers, we make quality care accessible.
Newport Academy is the leading provider of behavioral health treatment for children ages 7–11 and teens ages 12–18. Our family-centered, integrated approach fosters sustainable healing from mental health and co-occurring disorders such as anxiety, depression, trauma, psychosis, eating disorders, and substance use. Individualized treatment plans include medical and psychiatric care, strengths-based academics, and experiential modalities including, art, music, yoga, and outdoor adventure therapy. With residential and outpatient locations nationwide and partnerships with major insurance providers, we make quality care accessible.
(866) 868-2042 View (866) 868-2042
Photo of Kara Gross - Evolve Mental Health Residential Treatment Center, Treatment Center
We treat complex conditions including borderline personality disorder ( BPD), psychosis, and other co-occurring disorders.
Evolve offers proven, evidence-based therapy programs for teens struggling with mental health, substance use, or behavioral challenges. Our short-term residential treatment center (RTC) provides 24/7 supervision and individualized care in a safe, supportive setting. With only six teens in the program at a time, we deliver highly focused and personalized treatment. We also provide structured outpatient therapy through our full-day teen Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP) and after-school teen Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP). Families can expect compassionate care and meaningful progress at every step.
We treat complex conditions including borderline personality disorder ( BPD), psychosis, and other co-occurring disorders.
Evolve offers proven, evidence-based therapy programs for teens struggling with mental health, substance use, or behavioral challenges. Our short-term residential treatment center (RTC) provides 24/7 supervision and individualized care in a safe, supportive setting. With only six teens in the program at a time, we deliver highly focused and personalized treatment. We also provide structured outpatient therapy through our full-day teen Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP) and after-school teen Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP). Families can expect compassionate care and meaningful progress at every step.
(925) 297-6848 View (925) 297-6848
Photo of David Perna - Copernican Clinical Services, Treatment Center
Copernican Clinical Services
Treatment Center
Newton, MA 02458
At Copernican we utilize a combination of traditional therapy techniques and cutting-edge clinical interventions to help support your treatment experience. Our staff functions as an integrated, CLINICAL TEAM as we coordinate with other professionals in a seamless manner. Our approach to continuity of care that is packed with relevant clinical information. We believe that KNOWLEDGE IS POWER. The usual response we receive from other professionals is, "Thanks! You guys are always so helpful."
At Copernican we utilize a combination of traditional therapy techniques and cutting-edge clinical interventions to help support your treatment experience. Our staff functions as an integrated, CLINICAL TEAM as we coordinate with other professionals in a seamless manner. Our approach to continuity of care that is packed with relevant clinical information. We believe that KNOWLEDGE IS POWER. The usual response we receive from other professionals is, "Thanks! You guys are always so helpful."
(617) 405-3203 View (617) 405-3203
Photo of Colin Navarro - Crown Adolescent Health, Treatment Center
Crown Adolescent Health
Treatment Center
Norwell, MA 02061
Adolescent mental health treatment programs, such as our adolescent partial hospitalization program (PHP) at Crown Adolescent Health, provide a safe and supportive environment where teens can access comprehensive mental health care. A PHP is designed to help teens manage their symptoms and learn the skills needed to improve their emotional well-being. Through therapy, medication management, and group activities, PHP provides adolescents with individualized care and the resources necessary for healing. We focus on providing a warm, engaging, and supportive atmosphere so teens feel comfortable and secure as they work towards their goals. Call us today at 888.557.1552 to learn more about our mental health treatment programs for adolescents and help your child find their way to wellness.
Adolescent mental health treatment programs, such as our adolescent partial hospitalization program (PHP) at Crown Adolescent Health, provide a safe and supportive environment where teens can access comprehensive mental health care. A PHP is designed to help teens manage their symptoms and learn the skills needed to improve their emotional well-being. Through therapy, medication management, and group activities, PHP provides adolescents with individualized care and the resources necessary for healing. We focus on providing a warm, engaging, and supportive atmosphere so teens feel comfortable and secure as they work towards their goals. Call us today at 888.557.1552 to learn more about our mental health treatment programs for adolescents and help your child find their way to wellness.
(781) 429-3646 View (781) 429-3646
Photo of Andrea Stanford - Aurora Healing and Recovery for Women, Treatment Center
Aurora Healing & Recovery for Women, located in Danvers, Massachusetts, is a women-owned, women-only outpatient behavioral health program serving women from diverse backgrounds in a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment. We specialize in treating mental health conditions and co-occurring substance use disorders. We serve women experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD, postpartum mood disorders, life transitions, and emotional distress. Our trauma-informed approach recognizes that every woman’s healing journey is unique and provides compassionate, individualized care designed to help women heal, grow, and thrive.
Aurora Healing & Recovery for Women, located in Danvers, Massachusetts, is a women-owned, women-only outpatient behavioral health program serving women from diverse backgrounds in a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment. We specialize in treating mental health conditions and co-occurring substance use disorders. We serve women experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD, postpartum mood disorders, life transitions, and emotional distress. Our trauma-informed approach recognizes that every woman’s healing journey is unique and provides compassionate, individualized care designed to help women heal, grow, and thrive.
(351) 529-7280 View (351) 529-7280
Photo of Gordon Dickler - Turnbridge, Treatment Center
Turnbridge
Treatment Center
Serves Area
Since its founding in 2003, Turnbridge has been setting the standard for the diagnosis and treatment of mental health disorders in adolescents and young adults. Turnbridge treatment programs provide high-quality, whole-person care to restore well-being and help clients learn to lead lives worth protecting. Here, behavioral health luminaries and experienced care providers deliver individualized care that addresses every aspect of client life. Turnbridge treatment campuses are home to leading adolescent and young adult treatment experts and researchers using the latest therapies and research to effectively treat underlying conditions and initiate lasting change.
Since its founding in 2003, Turnbridge has been setting the standard for the diagnosis and treatment of mental health disorders in adolescents and young adults. Turnbridge treatment programs provide high-quality, whole-person care to restore well-being and help clients learn to lead lives worth protecting. Here, behavioral health luminaries and experienced care providers deliver individualized care that addresses every aspect of client life. Turnbridge treatment campuses are home to leading adolescent and young adult treatment experts and researchers using the latest therapies and research to effectively treat underlying conditions and initiate lasting change.
(475) 252-8424 View (475) 252-8424
Photo of Jennifer Padre - Agape Mental Health, Treatment Center
Agape Mental Health
Treatment Center
Tewksbury, MA 01876
We provide comprehensive mental health services with both in‑person and virtual options for individuals, families, and children. Our licensed, board‑certified providers deliver therapy, psychiatric care, and medication management tailored to each person’s needs. We also offer advanced neuropsychological and neurocognitive testing to support accurate diagnosis and effective treatment planning. Our team is committed to compassionate, personalized care for every stage of life.
We provide comprehensive mental health services with both in‑person and virtual options for individuals, families, and children. Our licensed, board‑certified providers deliver therapy, psychiatric care, and medication management tailored to each person’s needs. We also offer advanced neuropsychological and neurocognitive testing to support accurate diagnosis and effective treatment planning. Our team is committed to compassionate, personalized care for every stage of life.
(978) 878-7144 View (978) 878-7144

See more therapy options for Chestnut Hill

Borderline Personality (BPD) Treatment Centers
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.