Borderline Personality (BPD) Therapists in City Park, Denver, CO

Photo of Marissa Chabai, MS, BSN, LPC, RN, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Marissa Chabai
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, BSN, LPC, RN, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
City Park, Denver, CO 80218
Often individuals believe therapy is a monotonous, painful process that requires sitting on the couch for hours over the course of several months or years. As someone who works in the medical and mental health fields, it is an honor to be a part of BLND Health, a company that sees the whole person and brings creativity and fun into counseling. I tailor therapy to meet the unique needs of each individual. It is a great joy to empower people on their journey of growth, healing, and creating a life of fulfillment in unique ways.
Often individuals believe therapy is a monotonous, painful process that requires sitting on the couch for hours over the course of several months or years. As someone who works in the medical and mental health fields, it is an honor to be a part of BLND Health, a company that sees the whole person and brings creativity and fun into counseling. I tailor therapy to meet the unique needs of each individual. It is a great joy to empower people on their journey of growth, healing, and creating a life of fulfillment in unique ways.
(571) 570-9845 View (571) 570-9845
Photo of Anthony Sosa - Neurosculpting & Ketamine Assisted Therapy , MA, LPCC, NSF, Counselor
Neurosculpting & Ketamine Assisted Therapy
Counselor, MA, LPCC, NSF
Verified Verified
City Park, Denver, CO 80218
The affordable therapy at the Neurosculpting Institute help you reduce your suffering by getting you into your body. There's no need to struggle any longer with the results of being stuck in your thoughts! Anxiety, depression, self-doubt, relationship challenges, PTSD and much of the other issues of life can be relieved by getting out of that monkey-mind and into your body. Think about it. When you feel dis-ease don't you notice it in your body first? Come work one-on-one with your personal guide to reduce your stress by becoming embodied.
The affordable therapy at the Neurosculpting Institute help you reduce your suffering by getting you into your body. There's no need to struggle any longer with the results of being stuck in your thoughts! Anxiety, depression, self-doubt, relationship challenges, PTSD and much of the other issues of life can be relieved by getting out of that monkey-mind and into your body. Think about it. When you feel dis-ease don't you notice it in your body first? Come work one-on-one with your personal guide to reduce your stress by becoming embodied.
(720) 706-8534 View (720) 706-8534
Photo of Naomi Krajewski, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Naomi Krajewski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
City Park, Denver, CO 80218
Negative experiences shape how we think about ourselves, but they don't have to define us forever. We can learn new ways of relating to ourselves and the people around us via a variety of therapeutic modalities. With a therapist who can hold space for you with compassion and wisdom, you can overcome obstacles and cultivate resilient wellbeing. ​ I might be helpful to you if: You know what it is like to feel held back from life, but don’t know how to engage; You crave connection and community, but feel uncomfortable reaching out to others; You feel disconnected from your body – you may not recognize there is a disconnect.
Negative experiences shape how we think about ourselves, but they don't have to define us forever. We can learn new ways of relating to ourselves and the people around us via a variety of therapeutic modalities. With a therapist who can hold space for you with compassion and wisdom, you can overcome obstacles and cultivate resilient wellbeing. ​ I might be helpful to you if: You know what it is like to feel held back from life, but don’t know how to engage; You crave connection and community, but feel uncomfortable reaching out to others; You feel disconnected from your body – you may not recognize there is a disconnect.
(720) 627-7525 View (720) 627-7525
Photo of Lana Gollyhorn - Lana Gollyhorn M.A., Psychotherapist, LLC, MA, Registered Psychotherapist
Lana Gollyhorn M.A., Psychotherapist, LLC
Registered Psychotherapist, MA
Verified Verified
City Park, Denver, CO 80206
Lana Gollyhorn specializes in treating adolescents, young adults, families, and children ages 7+. With 17 years of experience, she is a dynamic clinician known for establishing immediate rapport with clients. Lana's treatment approach is supportive, authentic, and evidence-based. She received an M.A. in Clinical Psychology from the University of Colorado at Denver, and has extensive experience treating adolescents, ADHD, learning differences, parent-child conflict, depression, anxiety, life transitions. Lana offers parent education through dynamic and interactive lectures, and through small group sessions on a variety of parenting topics.
Lana Gollyhorn specializes in treating adolescents, young adults, families, and children ages 7+. With 17 years of experience, she is a dynamic clinician known for establishing immediate rapport with clients. Lana's treatment approach is supportive, authentic, and evidence-based. She received an M.A. in Clinical Psychology from the University of Colorado at Denver, and has extensive experience treating adolescents, ADHD, learning differences, parent-child conflict, depression, anxiety, life transitions. Lana offers parent education through dynamic and interactive lectures, and through small group sessions on a variety of parenting topics.
(720) 408-2885 View (720) 408-2885
Photo of Lena Kotani, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lena Kotani
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
City Park, Denver, CO 80218  (Online Only)
My expertise is trauma-informed therapy with a specialization in attachment styles, and unresolved childhood trauma. I work with children, teens, adults, and families to explore generational trauma at the individual and familial level. As a first generation Asian American with immigrant parents, I recognize the complexities of being a minority, navigating intersectionality, and understanding your cultural identity. You're taking the first step to heal your trauma, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, cultural identity & relational issues from the inside out, and I'm here to guide you.
My expertise is trauma-informed therapy with a specialization in attachment styles, and unresolved childhood trauma. I work with children, teens, adults, and families to explore generational trauma at the individual and familial level. As a first generation Asian American with immigrant parents, I recognize the complexities of being a minority, navigating intersectionality, and understanding your cultural identity. You're taking the first step to heal your trauma, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, cultural identity & relational issues from the inside out, and I'm here to guide you.
(720) 734-5461 View (720) 734-5461
Photo of Meg'n E Deaner, MA, LPC, Coach, Licensed Professional Counselor
Meg'n E Deaner
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, Coach
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
City Park, Denver, CO 80206
Mantis Counseling and Coaching Services, LLC is committed to serving adults, adolescents, families, couples, and children by providing psychotherapy and coaching sessions to fit your personal goals. We believe you are the expert regarding your own path to growth and success. We create collaborative treatment plans for mind, body, and spirit to allow you to access your innate potential.
Mantis Counseling and Coaching Services, LLC is committed to serving adults, adolescents, families, couples, and children by providing psychotherapy and coaching sessions to fit your personal goals. We believe you are the expert regarding your own path to growth and success. We create collaborative treatment plans for mind, body, and spirit to allow you to access your innate potential.
(303) 500-3887 View (303) 500-3887
Photo of Laura Lovato, PhD, Psychologist
Laura Lovato
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
City Park, Denver, CO 80218
Therapy helps you access your inherent ability to heal and find sovereignty. We all have the innate capacity for cultivating joy, to love and be loved; but the ways we have learned to cope and relate to others in the past are not necessarily the ways to thrive now. Your physical and emotional experiences are messages that can help you understand your needs and values, providing the insight and motivation to change and grow. When we learn to respond to these messages with care and wisdom, we begin to serve our deeper purpose and selves.
Therapy helps you access your inherent ability to heal and find sovereignty. We all have the innate capacity for cultivating joy, to love and be loved; but the ways we have learned to cope and relate to others in the past are not necessarily the ways to thrive now. Your physical and emotional experiences are messages that can help you understand your needs and values, providing the insight and motivation to change and grow. When we learn to respond to these messages with care and wisdom, we begin to serve our deeper purpose and selves.
(720) 575-3199 View (720) 575-3199
Photo of Megan Frazier - Megan Frazier, PsyD, CEDS, PsyD, CEDS, Psychologist
Megan Frazier, PsyD, CEDS
Psychologist, PsyD, CEDS
Verified Verified
City Park, Denver, CO 80206
Have you experienced trauma, anxiety, depression, or negative self-worth? Have you become stuck in negative patterns of poor self-care, disordered eating, or interpersonal relationships that are draining or even abusive? I have dedicated my practice to helping others heal and break free from negative cycles of abuse - both within and outside oneself.
Have you experienced trauma, anxiety, depression, or negative self-worth? Have you become stuck in negative patterns of poor self-care, disordered eating, or interpersonal relationships that are draining or even abusive? I have dedicated my practice to helping others heal and break free from negative cycles of abuse - both within and outside oneself.
(720) 706-9213 View (720) 706-9213
Photo of Leslie Hannon, PsyD, Psychologist
Leslie Hannon
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
City Park, Denver, CO 80206
Hello! I am a licensed clinical psychologist with extensive experience providing therapeutic services to individuals fifteen years and older who are experiencing various issues including, but not limited to, anxiety, depression, mood instability, substance abuse issues, trauma, and interpersonal difficulties. I also see people who choose to attend therapy during times of change in their lives and individuals who feel they just need a place to talk. Additionally, I complete diagnostic assessment and psychological testing, as well as evaluations for individuals involved in Social Security applications and legal proceedings.
Hello! I am a licensed clinical psychologist with extensive experience providing therapeutic services to individuals fifteen years and older who are experiencing various issues including, but not limited to, anxiety, depression, mood instability, substance abuse issues, trauma, and interpersonal difficulties. I also see people who choose to attend therapy during times of change in their lives and individuals who feel they just need a place to talk. Additionally, I complete diagnostic assessment and psychological testing, as well as evaluations for individuals involved in Social Security applications and legal proceedings.
(720) 336-4831 View (720) 336-4831
Photo of Martta Ensio, Counselor
Martta Ensio
Counselor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
City Park, Denver, CO 80218
Every individual is on a unique path filled with twists, turns, and challenges that shape their life. Sometimes, it can be helpful to walk alongside a companion who is dedicated to working with you to achieve your goals, bring you insight, and empower you to move towards genuine fulfillment. I am passionate about honoring your story and how it shapes your thoughts, behaviors, and beliefs. Because no two individuals are the same, your therapeutic work should reflect your needs and objectives. I blend narrative therapy, Brainspotting, parts work and somatic therapy to help you meet your therapy goals.
Every individual is on a unique path filled with twists, turns, and challenges that shape their life. Sometimes, it can be helpful to walk alongside a companion who is dedicated to working with you to achieve your goals, bring you insight, and empower you to move towards genuine fulfillment. I am passionate about honoring your story and how it shapes your thoughts, behaviors, and beliefs. Because no two individuals are the same, your therapeutic work should reflect your needs and objectives. I blend narrative therapy, Brainspotting, parts work and somatic therapy to help you meet your therapy goals.
(720) 459-9643 View (720) 459-9643
Photo of Michael Hooten, LCSW, MSW, AASW, BS, BA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michael Hooten
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, AASW, BS, BA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
City Park, Denver, CO 80206  (Online Only)
If you enjoy animals, nature or people, you already have a powerful foundation to create stability and momentum in your life. What you might struggle with isn't a label. It's an experience. Start where you're at, and explore it with somebody who will start there with you. Need change or just greater balance? Want more out of life? On a journey, but somehow lost? Feeling stuck, apathetic, burnt out or anxious is not uncommon! However, the tools and how to use them are not always obvious. Animal assisted, experiential, mindfulness and nature-based therapies are most clients' favorite tools.
If you enjoy animals, nature or people, you already have a powerful foundation to create stability and momentum in your life. What you might struggle with isn't a label. It's an experience. Start where you're at, and explore it with somebody who will start there with you. Need change or just greater balance? Want more out of life? On a journey, but somehow lost? Feeling stuck, apathetic, burnt out or anxious is not uncommon! However, the tools and how to use them are not always obvious. Animal assisted, experiential, mindfulness and nature-based therapies are most clients' favorite tools.
(720) 419-1657 View (720) 419-1657
Photo of Jonathan Shedler PhD, PhD, Psychologist
Jonathan Shedler PhD
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
City Park, Denver, CO 80206
Not accepting new clients
I take pride in helping people who have not found the help they need from other professionals. I believe psychotherapy should identify core issues and begin to make a difference from the get-go. I have 25+ years experience practicing psychotherapy and teaching and supervising psychologists, psychiatrists, and psychoanalysts. I am a Clinical Professor in the UCSF Department of Psychiatry and was formerly Director of Psychology at the University of Colorado Hospital Outpatient Psychiatry Department. Please visit my website for more information.
I take pride in helping people who have not found the help they need from other professionals. I believe psychotherapy should identify core issues and begin to make a difference from the get-go. I have 25+ years experience practicing psychotherapy and teaching and supervising psychologists, psychiatrists, and psychoanalysts. I am a Clinical Professor in the UCSF Department of Psychiatry and was formerly Director of Psychology at the University of Colorado Hospital Outpatient Psychiatry Department. Please visit my website for more information.
(415) 650-1910 View (415) 650-1910

Online Therapists

Photo of Jessica J Joslin - Joslin Therapy, MS, LMHC, Counselor
Joslin Therapy
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80202
We work with depression, anxiety, self harm, trauma, suicidal thoughts, and borderline personality disorder.
You may have been struggling to feel connected to others and overwhelmed a lot of the time. Is your anxiety high? Struggling with fears of rejection or not doing well enough? Using all the skills you know you have but still have a hard time seeing results? You're certainly not alone. Therapy can help you identify what the block is that keeps you from applying what you logically know to your emotional understanding. Let us help. We accept Anthem, Optum, Cigna, and Aetna. Telehealth offered in Colorado also.
We work with depression, anxiety, self harm, trauma, suicidal thoughts, and borderline personality disorder.
You may have been struggling to feel connected to others and overwhelmed a lot of the time. Is your anxiety high? Struggling with fears of rejection or not doing well enough? Using all the skills you know you have but still have a hard time seeing results? You're certainly not alone. Therapy can help you identify what the block is that keeps you from applying what you logically know to your emotional understanding. Let us help. We accept Anthem, Optum, Cigna, and Aetna. Telehealth offered in Colorado also.
(463) 210-1589 View (463) 210-1589
Photo of Jonathan Mindas, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jonathan Mindas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80238
I work very well with individuals with diagnosis of borderline personality disorder, PTSD, and bipolar disorder.
I am a Licensed clinical mental health and substance use therapist with 12+ years of experience in person centered therapeutic strategies, trauma based work, and cognitive behavioral mindfulness. I believe that understanding how we interact within our own environment greatly impacts our thoughts, feelings, and actions. It is a privilege to work with you as we navigate and better understand our mental health.
I work very well with individuals with diagnosis of borderline personality disorder, PTSD, and bipolar disorder.
I am a Licensed clinical mental health and substance use therapist with 12+ years of experience in person centered therapeutic strategies, trauma based work, and cognitive behavioral mindfulness. I believe that understanding how we interact within our own environment greatly impacts our thoughts, feelings, and actions. It is a privilege to work with you as we navigate and better understand our mental health.
(720) 964-2224 View (720) 964-2224
Photo of Alyssa Nazario, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alyssa Nazario
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80230  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
As an LCSW specializing in suicide prevention, Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), and PTSD treatment, I bring 9 years of dedicated experience in mental health to support your journey towards healing and empowerment. I offer a compassionate and evidence-based approach, providing a safe and nonjudgmental space to explore the complexities of these challenges. I collaborate closely with clients to develop personalized strategies for managing symptoms, fostering resilience, and promoting lasting recovery. I am here to provide the support and guidance you need to thrive.
As an LCSW specializing in suicide prevention, Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), and PTSD treatment, I bring 9 years of dedicated experience in mental health to support your journey towards healing and empowerment. I offer a compassionate and evidence-based approach, providing a safe and nonjudgmental space to explore the complexities of these challenges. I collaborate closely with clients to develop personalized strategies for managing symptoms, fostering resilience, and promoting lasting recovery. I am here to provide the support and guidance you need to thrive.
(720) 649-6361 View (720) 649-6361
Photo of Stacey M King, LPC -IT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Stacey M King
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC -IT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80210
I have been working with clients who suffer from, bipolar disorder, depression, borderline personality disorder.
As a licensed professional counselor, in specializing treating people, with mental health disorders. I have worked with clients who suffer, from major depression, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia clients. I have also worked with clients who suffer from borderline personality disorder. I have worked with children, adolescents, and adult clients. It's my duty, to make sure that you are coping well, with your mental health, and learning how to live a more fulfilling life. I will go out my way, to make sure my clients are getting what they need, to start to make healthier progress in their Everday life."
I have been working with clients who suffer from, bipolar disorder, depression, borderline personality disorder.
As a licensed professional counselor, in specializing treating people, with mental health disorders. I have worked with clients who suffer, from major depression, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia clients. I have also worked with clients who suffer from borderline personality disorder. I have worked with children, adolescents, and adult clients. It's my duty, to make sure that you are coping well, with your mental health, and learning how to live a more fulfilling life. I will go out my way, to make sure my clients are getting what they need, to start to make healthier progress in their Everday life."
(414) 622-7120 View (414) 622-7120
Photo of Dana Cohen, MA, LPCC, RYT, Counselor
Dana Cohen
Counselor, MA, LPCC, RYT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80212
I'm a specialized therapist who works primarily with neurodivergence, specifically ADHD, OCD, autism & borderline spectrums, and chronic depression, anxiety, & bipolar disorders. I also have expertise in complex trauma issues, often stemming from narcissistic family systems or relationship abuse. Many of my clients possess an excellent or above-average capacity for self-reflection and introspection. However, they feel their heightened self-awareness can sometimes backfire, magnifying feelings of powerlessness and frustration when they find themselves stuck in repetitive patterns and unable to make desired changes in their behaviors.
I'm a specialized therapist who works primarily with neurodivergence, specifically ADHD, OCD, autism & borderline spectrums, and chronic depression, anxiety, & bipolar disorders. I also have expertise in complex trauma issues, often stemming from narcissistic family systems or relationship abuse. Many of my clients possess an excellent or above-average capacity for self-reflection and introspection. However, they feel their heightened self-awareness can sometimes backfire, magnifying feelings of powerlessness and frustration when they find themselves stuck in repetitive patterns and unable to make desired changes in their behaviors.
(720) 807-5153 View (720) 807-5153
Photo of Kritika Dwivedi, PsyD, Pre-Licensed Professional
Kritika Dwivedi
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80222
Life can be tough sometimes, and so are you. We all go through difficult situations in our lives and while you may have navigated through those challenges, there’s nothing wrong with seeking extra support when you need it. I have an open and diverse approach to therapy and offer a fresh perspective with my non-judgmental, humurous, and supportive style in my engaging, client-centered practice. I have years of experience treating depression, anxiety, and borderline personality disorders, and I take the time needed to build a trusting relationship to ensure we are meeting your specific needs and goals.
Life can be tough sometimes, and so are you. We all go through difficult situations in our lives and while you may have navigated through those challenges, there’s nothing wrong with seeking extra support when you need it. I have an open and diverse approach to therapy and offer a fresh perspective with my non-judgmental, humurous, and supportive style in my engaging, client-centered practice. I have years of experience treating depression, anxiety, and borderline personality disorders, and I take the time needed to build a trusting relationship to ensure we are meeting your specific needs and goals.
(720) 744-3397 View (720) 744-3397
Photo of Tahleen Varian, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tahleen Varian
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80209  (Online Only)
I was extensively trained in third-wave CBT-based therapies at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, and have ample experience in utilizing CBT treatments for depression, anxiety, PTSD, BPD, and substance use.
I often wish I could change my professional moniker from “psychotherapist” to “life enhancer,” because that is truly what I do. I want to help you cultivate self-compassion and acceptance for who you are and where you are at in your life, while at the same time encouraging you to evaluate and change what is not productive. My style can be described as “radically genuine” – I communicate authentically, compassionately and openly. You won’t ever hear that space cadet therapist-y voice coming from me, but you will definitely hear an f-bomb or two.
I was extensively trained in third-wave CBT-based therapies at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, and have ample experience in utilizing CBT treatments for depression, anxiety, PTSD, BPD, and substance use.
I often wish I could change my professional moniker from “psychotherapist” to “life enhancer,” because that is truly what I do. I want to help you cultivate self-compassion and acceptance for who you are and where you are at in your life, while at the same time encouraging you to evaluate and change what is not productive. My style can be described as “radically genuine” – I communicate authentically, compassionately and openly. You won’t ever hear that space cadet therapist-y voice coming from me, but you will definitely hear an f-bomb or two.
(424) 369-7129 View (424) 369-7129
Photo of Dr. Leslie Merriman, PhD, MS, MS, Psychologist
Dr. Leslie Merriman
Psychologist, PhD, MS, MS
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80206  (Online Only)
I offer one-on-one psychotherapy with adults who wish to suffer less. As Haruki Murakami wrote, “Pain is inevitable. Suffering is optional.” I am an integrative therapist, drawing from various traditions to provide patients a unique, tailored therapeutic experience, generally working in a humanistic and contemplative framework. I treat a variety of conditions; please inquire about specific needs. Areas of specialty include trauma/PTSD (including chronic/complex trauma), grief/loss, mindfulness/meditation, support for chronic illness, relational issues, and dynamics related to narcissistic/borderline/personality disorders.
I offer one-on-one psychotherapy with adults who wish to suffer less. As Haruki Murakami wrote, “Pain is inevitable. Suffering is optional.” I am an integrative therapist, drawing from various traditions to provide patients a unique, tailored therapeutic experience, generally working in a humanistic and contemplative framework. I treat a variety of conditions; please inquire about specific needs. Areas of specialty include trauma/PTSD (including chronic/complex trauma), grief/loss, mindfulness/meditation, support for chronic illness, relational issues, and dynamics related to narcissistic/borderline/personality disorders.
(970) 341-2089 View (970) 341-2089

See more therapy options for City Park, Denver

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.