Borderline Personality (BPD) Therapists in Westchester, Los Angeles, CA
![Photo of Carrie L McElwee, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bf63394b-5311-44ec-aa09-98fbf100506a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Carrie L McElwee
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Westchester, Los Angeles, CA 90045 (Online Only)
Are you ready to begin your journey of healing? Do you feel stuck in your current relationships? You've come to the right place. It's time to uncover the source of your concerns and be unapologetic! I work with my clients to create a safe space to feel empowered, as positive change occurs, judgement-free and unapologetically. I promote positive mental health services through prevention, education, and interventions. I specialize in working with adolescents, teens, and adults within several demographics, including BIPOC and LGBTQ communities. I also work with couples facing relationship and sexual issues.
Are you ready to begin your journey of healing? Do you feel stuck in your current relationships? You've come to the right place. It's time to uncover the source of your concerns and be unapologetic! I work with my clients to create a safe space to feel empowered, as positive change occurs, judgement-free and unapologetically. I promote positive mental health services through prevention, education, and interventions. I specialize in working with adolescents, teens, and adults within several demographics, including BIPOC and LGBTQ communities. I also work with couples facing relationship and sexual issues.
![Photo of Leticia Servin, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/63f77c0d-8a10-4400-9c61-730bbe0275ed/1/320x400.jpeg)
Leticia Servin
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA
Verified Verified
Westchester, Los Angeles, CA 90045 (Online Only)
Welcome! I am a licensed therapist providing to adults and couples. I work with individuals that are struggling with depression, low motivation, worry, past trauma, stress and more. I am very understanding, non-judgement, down to earth, easy going, support and kind.
Welcome! I am a licensed therapist providing to adults and couples. I work with individuals that are struggling with depression, low motivation, worry, past trauma, stress and more. I am very understanding, non-judgement, down to earth, easy going, support and kind.
![Photo of Judy Ho, PhD, ABPP, CFMHE, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/50d792af-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I conduct psychological testing for a variety of purposes, including forensic evaluations and expert witness work, neuropsychological evaluations to assess cognitive functioning and damage from brain injury, and psychoeducational evaluations to examine whether learning disorders exist.These evaluations conclude with detailed written reports use for diagnosis/treatment planning, individualized educational plans (IEP), and criminal and civil courtroom cases including fitness for duty, workers' compensation, harassment issues, ability to parent, and professional board licensing disputes. In all evaluations. I utilize Best Practices and empirically proven instruments, and provide recommendations based on the testing results.
I conduct psychological testing for a variety of purposes, including forensic evaluations and expert witness work, neuropsychological evaluations to assess cognitive functioning and damage from brain injury, and psychoeducational evaluations to examine whether learning disorders exist.These evaluations conclude with detailed written reports use for diagnosis/treatment planning, individualized educational plans (IEP), and criminal and civil courtroom cases including fitness for duty, workers' compensation, harassment issues, ability to parent, and professional board licensing disputes. In all evaluations. I utilize Best Practices and empirically proven instruments, and provide recommendations based on the testing results.
![Photo of Kathleen Murphy, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9fe71775-131f-43ea-af11-7e00bb81e2c4/3/320x400.jpeg)
Kathleen Murphy
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Westchester, Los Angeles, CA 90045 (Online Only)
Kathleen earned both her Bachelor of Arts and Masters Degree from Chapman University College in Orange, California. Her years of specialized training and experience have equipped her with skills in various therapeutic approaches including solution focused therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and EMDR. She has a background in treating co-occurring disorders (substance abuse treatment and mental health). She customizes her approach to meet the needs and presenting problems of her clients and directs their treatment to establish a therapeutic alliance in order to facilitate the bridge to health.
Kathleen earned both her Bachelor of Arts and Masters Degree from Chapman University College in Orange, California. Her years of specialized training and experience have equipped her with skills in various therapeutic approaches including solution focused therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and EMDR. She has a background in treating co-occurring disorders (substance abuse treatment and mental health). She customizes her approach to meet the needs and presenting problems of her clients and directs their treatment to establish a therapeutic alliance in order to facilitate the bridge to health.
![Photo of Jennifer Beers, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e4768de-9f73-4d88-9f04-f966b6459c40/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jennifer Beers
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Westchester, Los Angeles, CA 90045 (Online Only)
Hello, hello! I am Jennifer Beers (she/her), a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist providing telehealth therapy coast to coast in CA. I am passionate about mental health and breaking generational barriers of mental illness. I provide a safe non judgemental place where clients can become the best versions of themselves. I believe past experiences affect our current functioning and through integration of our whole self there can be healing. I work from a lens of unconditional positive regard for each of my clients, embracing the awkward of therapy and a space where authenticity flourishes.
Hello, hello! I am Jennifer Beers (she/her), a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist providing telehealth therapy coast to coast in CA. I am passionate about mental health and breaking generational barriers of mental illness. I provide a safe non judgemental place where clients can become the best versions of themselves. I believe past experiences affect our current functioning and through integration of our whole self there can be healing. I work from a lens of unconditional positive regard for each of my clients, embracing the awkward of therapy and a space where authenticity flourishes.
![Photo of Kurt Vaillancourt, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a4953d59-c21b-4f73-9afb-c783059b30f6/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kurt Vaillancourt
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Westchester, Los Angeles, CA 90045 (Online Only)
Is life becoming unmanageable? Looking for real answers? Seeking the best group of clinicians who accept your insurance? Welcome to WellPsyche Medical Group! WellPsyche providers are experts in Wellness and Mental Health. Our providers take a Thoughtful, Practical, and Caring approach to therapy and can help you balance your life. WellPsyche is also a leader in Telemedicine. Now you can visit with your provider from the privacy and convenience of your home or work.
Is life becoming unmanageable? Looking for real answers? Seeking the best group of clinicians who accept your insurance? Welcome to WellPsyche Medical Group! WellPsyche providers are experts in Wellness and Mental Health. Our providers take a Thoughtful, Practical, and Caring approach to therapy and can help you balance your life. WellPsyche is also a leader in Telemedicine. Now you can visit with your provider from the privacy and convenience of your home or work.
![Photo of Ruby Pena, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e984a137-bd17-41b0-ab24-4dbb74b0ff2a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ruby Pena
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westchester, Los Angeles, CA 90045 (Online Only)
Hello all, my name is Ruby. I am a bilingual Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have been in the mental health field for over 6 years working in many different capacities. I have experience working with children, families, transitional aged youth and adults.
Hello all, my name is Ruby. I am a bilingual Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have been in the mental health field for over 6 years working in many different capacities. I have experience working with children, families, transitional aged youth and adults.
![Photo of Cynthia Stern, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/44ff8c8b-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Cynthia Stern
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Westchester, Los Angeles, CA 90094 (Online Only)
The individuals, families, and couples I treat should expect to produce true fundamental change.I practice a brief systemic solution focused treatment. Be ready to work with me to construct a clear understanding of the problem/symptom in order to co-create an action plan. Clients should expect to practice new patterns of behavior both in and out of sessions. I prescribe strategic interventions such as tasks, rituals, enactments, and assignments. I have integrated my expertise as a psychotherapist with my life coaching skills.I see my role as a change agent. I specialize in high conflict relational challenges and divorce.
The individuals, families, and couples I treat should expect to produce true fundamental change.I practice a brief systemic solution focused treatment. Be ready to work with me to construct a clear understanding of the problem/symptom in order to co-create an action plan. Clients should expect to practice new patterns of behavior both in and out of sessions. I prescribe strategic interventions such as tasks, rituals, enactments, and assignments. I have integrated my expertise as a psychotherapist with my life coaching skills.I see my role as a change agent. I specialize in high conflict relational challenges and divorce.
![Photo of Rick Williamson - Emmada Psychology Center, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c67517a7-fb5b-4a75-9e2b-432daaf9a063/2/320x400.jpeg)
Looking for the "right" therapist? Emmada's therapists are here to help. We specialize in helping clients understand themselves and navigate their lives in light of the cultural complexities that influence their experience. We offer an interpersonal approach to the whole person that addresses the emotional and relational challenges that hamper your vitality and ability to thrive.
Looking for the "right" therapist? Emmada's therapists are here to help. We specialize in helping clients understand themselves and navigate their lives in light of the cultural complexities that influence their experience. We offer an interpersonal approach to the whole person that addresses the emotional and relational challenges that hamper your vitality and ability to thrive.
![Photo of Marcela Rondani, MA, LMFT, CEDS, PsyD, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ca4239e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Marcela Rondani
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CEDS, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Westchester, Los Angeles, CA 90045
I believe that psychotherapy can be a tool to help someone to increase their self-awareness and promote healing and reparation to the life's pain and struggles. If you would like someone on your side to the new journey of rediscovering who you are and who you want to be, that is my goal. To provide support through this new path with the objective that life will unfold with more joy and happiness.
I believe that psychotherapy can be a tool to help someone to increase their self-awareness and promote healing and reparation to the life's pain and struggles. If you would like someone on your side to the new journey of rediscovering who you are and who you want to be, that is my goal. To provide support through this new path with the objective that life will unfold with more joy and happiness.
![Photo of Margena Carter - Carter Care Therapeutic Services, Margena Carter, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/70419f8b-3860-45a5-97ea-b11b09e9acc0/3/320x400.jpeg)
Carter Care Therapeutic Services, Margena Carter
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Westchester, Los Angeles, CA 90045
Are you interested in living life to the fullest but struggle to achieve it? You've taken the first steps towards healing. Carter Care Therapeutic Services is dedicated to you! Regardless of what you're going through, our team of Licensed Therapist will strive to bring out the best in you. You're not alone. We can assist you in resolving your past pain! We will affirm your strengths and challenge you to use them. While promoting insight, healing and change in an environment full of warmth and genuineness. Carter Care Therapist are here to provide a safe, unbiased and non-judgmental environment.
Are you interested in living life to the fullest but struggle to achieve it? You've taken the first steps towards healing. Carter Care Therapeutic Services is dedicated to you! Regardless of what you're going through, our team of Licensed Therapist will strive to bring out the best in you. You're not alone. We can assist you in resolving your past pain! We will affirm your strengths and challenge you to use them. While promoting insight, healing and change in an environment full of warmth and genuineness. Carter Care Therapist are here to provide a safe, unbiased and non-judgmental environment.
![Photo of Melanie Mulligan, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3fa2c968-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
As a psychologist with doctoral and post-doctoral training in psychotherapy I work with people across the lifespan to achieve their fullest potential. Many adults come to me struggling with anxiety, depression, or relationships issues; lacking satisfaction in their academic or professional lives; or wrestling with life transitions. Young adults and teens need help navigating complex social terrain, managing stress, and risky behaviors while their parents benefit from guidance and support. Children benefit from play therapy and the involvement of their families in treatment.
As a psychologist with doctoral and post-doctoral training in psychotherapy I work with people across the lifespan to achieve their fullest potential. Many adults come to me struggling with anxiety, depression, or relationships issues; lacking satisfaction in their academic or professional lives; or wrestling with life transitions. Young adults and teens need help navigating complex social terrain, managing stress, and risky behaviors while their parents benefit from guidance and support. Children benefit from play therapy and the involvement of their families in treatment.
![Photo of Kris Winslow, MA, MBA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c69f317f-b92b-4083-991d-5379bae35788/4/320x400.jpeg)
Kris Winslow
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MBA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Westchester, Los Angeles, CA 90045 (Online Only)
There is really no issue to big or too small to bring to therapy. I have seen people go through so much positive change because of their work in therapy and think it is such an awesome process. Just because we can go through life in survival mode and bouncing off our ups and downs, does not mean we should. I love to talk about everything therapy, so I encourage people to reach out.
There is really no issue to big or too small to bring to therapy. I have seen people go through so much positive change because of their work in therapy and think it is such an awesome process. Just because we can go through life in survival mode and bouncing off our ups and downs, does not mean we should. I love to talk about everything therapy, so I encourage people to reach out.
![Photo of Lindsey Garber, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d0b07cc3-1e7a-4539-b89b-0d081bc01302/1/320x400.jpeg)
Lindsey Garber
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Westchester, Los Angeles, CA 90045
Hi! I'm Lindsey Garber, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have worked in a variety of different settings to help individuals work through life's challenges while providing support and empathy. I feel truly privileged to be able to provide a safe space to work with you through whatever it is that brings you to therapy! I enjoy working with adult clients in varying life stages with a variety of needs.
Hi! I'm Lindsey Garber, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have worked in a variety of different settings to help individuals work through life's challenges while providing support and empathy. I feel truly privileged to be able to provide a safe space to work with you through whatever it is that brings you to therapy! I enjoy working with adult clients in varying life stages with a variety of needs.
![Photo of Laura Lynn Reed, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/75ba34d6-6130-401f-8d6c-19ca7d5c7880/3/320x400.jpeg)
Laura Lynn Reed
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Westchester, Los Angeles, CA 90045 (Online Only)
Hello there, I'm Laura, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, specializing in trauma with a transpersonal approach to therapy, to support you in how you want to show up in the world. Together we will explore how you can align with your values and feel empowered to manifest positive changes in your life. I incorporate cognitive, narrative, and somatic therapies with highly personalized sound, energy-based, and meditative processes tailored for you individually. Fostering resiliency and focusing on your individual strengths empowers you to draw upon your inner resources and resilience to enhance your overall well-being.
Hello there, I'm Laura, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, specializing in trauma with a transpersonal approach to therapy, to support you in how you want to show up in the world. Together we will explore how you can align with your values and feel empowered to manifest positive changes in your life. I incorporate cognitive, narrative, and somatic therapies with highly personalized sound, energy-based, and meditative processes tailored for you individually. Fostering resiliency and focusing on your individual strengths empowers you to draw upon your inner resources and resilience to enhance your overall well-being.
![Photo of Denise Maratos, PhD, EdM, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7fcf039a-3f5f-452c-9ece-ffcb6800b329/2/320x400.jpeg)
Denise Maratos
Pre-Licensed Professional, PhD, EdM
Verified Verified
Westchester, Los Angeles, CA 90094
Do you need support finding your life’s purpose? Do you feel overwhelmed? Do you find it difficult to feel pain and face your shadows? While considering the whole person- heart, soul, mind and body, I trust that you enter therapy having the insight you need to navigate your distress. I use the term "depth emergence" to explain my orientation and approach. It stems from depth psychology, which emphasizes gaining access to the unconscious and bringing it into consciousness. While increasing awareness we derive meaning, evolve, and transform.
Do you need support finding your life’s purpose? Do you feel overwhelmed? Do you find it difficult to feel pain and face your shadows? While considering the whole person- heart, soul, mind and body, I trust that you enter therapy having the insight you need to navigate your distress. I use the term "depth emergence" to explain my orientation and approach. It stems from depth psychology, which emphasizes gaining access to the unconscious and bringing it into consciousness. While increasing awareness we derive meaning, evolve, and transform.
Online Therapists
![Photo of Ryan Silva, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3340439f-cd7c-4648-8f01-b11f4b2ed750/2/320x400.jpeg)
My professional focus primarily centers on providing therapy for individuals experiencing a range of mental health challenges, including but not limited to Anxiety, Depression, Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Borderline Personality Disorder, and Bipolar Disorder.
My name is Ryan Silva, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. My approach to therapy remains consistent and authentic in all interactions, emphasizing the importance of trust and openness within the therapeutic relationship. My goal is to collaboratively set meaningful and achievable objectives with clients to empower them to achieve personal growth and well-being.
My professional focus primarily centers on providing therapy for individuals experiencing a range of mental health challenges, including but not limited to Anxiety, Depression, Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Borderline Personality Disorder, and Bipolar Disorder.
My name is Ryan Silva, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. My approach to therapy remains consistent and authentic in all interactions, emphasizing the importance of trust and openness within the therapeutic relationship. My goal is to collaboratively set meaningful and achievable objectives with clients to empower them to achieve personal growth and well-being.
![Photo of Jennifer Bieler, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ca11dc1d-6820-4c10-aa81-1e6975a77d02/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hi, I'm currently accepting new clients. Glad you're here & please know you are not alone. Therapy is great place for any person, no matter how small or big of an issue you are going through. I see therapy like going to the gym but for your mind & soul. I specialize in working with trauma & addictions along with relationships, substance use, identity, eating disorders, mood disorders, BPD, ADHD, & ASD. As a queer therapist, I work closely with my LGBQ+ community and trans & gender diverse people. My goal is to be here for you in the way you need, support you, and help you reach your goals .
Hi, I'm currently accepting new clients. Glad you're here & please know you are not alone. Therapy is great place for any person, no matter how small or big of an issue you are going through. I see therapy like going to the gym but for your mind & soul. I specialize in working with trauma & addictions along with relationships, substance use, identity, eating disorders, mood disorders, BPD, ADHD, & ASD. As a queer therapist, I work closely with my LGBQ+ community and trans & gender diverse people. My goal is to be here for you in the way you need, support you, and help you reach your goals .
![Photo of Shira B Feinstein, MA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b2d59ccc-06ee-4b6b-9e43-8e54c931be8c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Shira B Feinstein
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90064
Do you keep having the same argument over and over with your partner? Let's figure out the underlying needs so you can change the dance. Are you constantly in your head with fear, anxiety, or traumatic memories running your life? Let's get you back in the driver's seat. Is a pattern of "blowing things up" ruining your relationships? I'll teach you tools to help you get what you really want. I specialize in couples therapy and treating adults with trauma, OCD, BPD, and anxiety disorders. Clients describe me as warm, non-judgmental, and validating.
Do you keep having the same argument over and over with your partner? Let's figure out the underlying needs so you can change the dance. Are you constantly in your head with fear, anxiety, or traumatic memories running your life? Let's get you back in the driver's seat. Is a pattern of "blowing things up" ruining your relationships? I'll teach you tools to help you get what you really want. I specialize in couples therapy and treating adults with trauma, OCD, BPD, and anxiety disorders. Clients describe me as warm, non-judgmental, and validating.
![Photo of Catherine Speckmann, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e7cc18a5-640c-4c02-8f57-779da43df04d/1/320x400.png)
I am comfortable and have experience treating Addictions, ADHD, Adjustment Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, Behavior Disorders, Borderline Personality Disorders, Dual Diagnosis, Grief and Loss, LGBTQIA+ Populations, Mood Disorders, Self-harm, Trauma and PTSD.
My name is Catherine, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker/Psychotherapist with a solid background working with clients that are experiencing Substance Use Disorders, Mood Disorders, Anxiety, and Grief Issues. I accept clients at all stages of the lifespan from 12 and up. My approach is client-centered and focused on empowerment. I use a strength-based philosophy and feel that the therapeutic relationship is of utmost importance. I use Cognitive Behavioral and Dialectical Behavioral Therapies to improve coping strategies. I meet my clients where they are and assist them to get to where they want to be.
I am comfortable and have experience treating Addictions, ADHD, Adjustment Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, Behavior Disorders, Borderline Personality Disorders, Dual Diagnosis, Grief and Loss, LGBTQIA+ Populations, Mood Disorders, Self-harm, Trauma and PTSD.
My name is Catherine, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker/Psychotherapist with a solid background working with clients that are experiencing Substance Use Disorders, Mood Disorders, Anxiety, and Grief Issues. I accept clients at all stages of the lifespan from 12 and up. My approach is client-centered and focused on empowerment. I use a strength-based philosophy and feel that the therapeutic relationship is of utmost importance. I use Cognitive Behavioral and Dialectical Behavioral Therapies to improve coping strategies. I meet my clients where they are and assist them to get to where they want to be.
See more therapy options for Westchester, Los Angeles
Nearby Borderline Personality (BPD) Therapists Searches for Westchester, Los Angeles
- Century City
- Crenshaw
- Hyde Park
- Jefferson Park
- Mar Vista
- McLaughlin
- Palms
- Pico-Robertson
- Playa Vista
- Sawtelle
- South Los Angeles
- West Los Angeles
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.