Borderline Personality (BPD) Therapists in Hopkins, MN

Photo of Sonia M Cobos, MS, CRC, LPC, Counselor
Sonia M Cobos
Counselor, MS, CRC, LPC
Verified Verified
Hopkins, MN 55343  (Online Only)
Embarking on the therapeutic journey, whether it's your initial step or a continuation, can be a transformative and empowering process. Choosing the right therapist to share your vulnerabilities with is crucial, and I am here to make that decision feel reassuring and positive. In my practice, therapy is not just a conversation; it's an opportunity for growth, acceptance, healing, and positive change. I foster a judgment-free environment, drawing on a diverse range of therapeutic models to tailor our sessions to your unique needs. Together, we will navigate the challenges you're facing in life, as invitations for personal growth.
Embarking on the therapeutic journey, whether it's your initial step or a continuation, can be a transformative and empowering process. Choosing the right therapist to share your vulnerabilities with is crucial, and I am here to make that decision feel reassuring and positive. In my practice, therapy is not just a conversation; it's an opportunity for growth, acceptance, healing, and positive change. I foster a judgment-free environment, drawing on a diverse range of therapeutic models to tailor our sessions to your unique needs. Together, we will navigate the challenges you're facing in life, as invitations for personal growth.
(651) 661-2938 x813 View (651) 661-2938 x813
Photo of Ira Shai, MA, MS
Ira Shai
MA, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hopkins, MN 55305
People say you are a good person with a perfect life, yet you don't feel like it. People say it will work out, yet nothing changes. Some people even say you should wait it out, pray it off, or let it be, yet your heart is not letting you forget about it. In the end, you feel alone. You may feel afraid or ashamed to even talk about it with people close to you. You wonder if others will truly understand you and your situation. You struggle to open up because you do not want to be judged. And I get it.
People say you are a good person with a perfect life, yet you don't feel like it. People say it will work out, yet nothing changes. Some people even say you should wait it out, pray it off, or let it be, yet your heart is not letting you forget about it. In the end, you feel alone. You may feel afraid or ashamed to even talk about it with people close to you. You wonder if others will truly understand you and your situation. You struggle to open up because you do not want to be judged. And I get it.
(651) 927-4414 View (651) 927-4414
Photo of Mpsi Psychotherapy Center - MPSI Psychotherapy Center, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
MPSI Psychotherapy Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Hopkins, MN 55343
Has the cost of therapy been a barrier to you in receiving the support that you would like? Our vision is to make quality psychotherapy available to all. Our clinical staff offers day and evening appointment times.
Has the cost of therapy been a barrier to you in receiving the support that you would like? Our vision is to make quality psychotherapy available to all. Our clinical staff offers day and evening appointment times.
(612) 400-7023 View (612) 400-7023
Photo of Susan Davis - Choices Psychotherapy, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Choices Psychotherapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Hopkins, MN 55343
Choices Psychotherapy offers psychotherapy and psychiatry services for adults and children located throughout the Twin Cities. We're located in St. Louis Park and Chanhassen. Established in 1993 by Susan Davis, LICSW, Choices Psychotherapy has grown into a thriving mental health practice offering a diverse clinical team of Masters & Doctorate level therapists along with Psychiatrists who provide comprehensive therapeutic services for a multitude of concerns to clients from age 5 to senior adults. Two of our psychiatrists specializes in working with children & adolescents while the other three work with adults from age 18.
Choices Psychotherapy offers psychotherapy and psychiatry services for adults and children located throughout the Twin Cities. We're located in St. Louis Park and Chanhassen. Established in 1993 by Susan Davis, LICSW, Choices Psychotherapy has grown into a thriving mental health practice offering a diverse clinical team of Masters & Doctorate level therapists along with Psychiatrists who provide comprehensive therapeutic services for a multitude of concerns to clients from age 5 to senior adults. Two of our psychiatrists specializes in working with children & adolescents while the other three work with adults from age 18.
(952) 314-5535 View (952) 314-5535

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Tammie Rosenbloom, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tammie Rosenbloom
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Minnetonka, MN 55345
Do you feel stuck? Do you want a proven way to feel better? I have years of experience working with Adolescents and Adults struggling with Anxiety, Depression, OCD, PTSD, Borderline Personality Disorder,, Impulsive Behaviors and Substance Abuse. LGBTQ Allied. See me if you like a direct straightforward approach. I will hold you accountable in a compassionate caring way. We will break down big problems into manageable parts. You will learn practical, hands-on strategies that work even if your life is messy, painful or difficult. I am enthusiastic about my work; there's always room for fun and laughter. I won't let you stay stuck!
Do you feel stuck? Do you want a proven way to feel better? I have years of experience working with Adolescents and Adults struggling with Anxiety, Depression, OCD, PTSD, Borderline Personality Disorder,, Impulsive Behaviors and Substance Abuse. LGBTQ Allied. See me if you like a direct straightforward approach. I will hold you accountable in a compassionate caring way. We will break down big problems into manageable parts. You will learn practical, hands-on strategies that work even if your life is messy, painful or difficult. I am enthusiastic about my work; there's always room for fun and laughter. I won't let you stay stuck!
(952) 260-1005 View (952) 260-1005
Photo of Rachel Rippel, MA, LP, Psychologist
Rachel Rippel
Psychologist, MA, LP
Verified Verified
Minnetonka, MN 55343
I have been in practice for 20 years working with Adults and Adolescents struggling with PTSD, OCD, Attachment issues, Borderline Personality Disorder, Anxiety, Depression, Phobias, Couples Therapy, Eating Disorders and ADHD.
I AM NOT THE SMILE AND NOD THERAPIST! If you are fed up with feeling miserable I can help you get the life you want. I love helping people achieve what they didn't think they could. My clients tell me I am tough but they know I care about them. I work best with people who are sick of being unhappy and willing to DO work to make some changes. I have a great BS detector, I will call you on your stuff and we will laugh (a lot)! I am passionate about therapy and assissting people in reaching their goals. I work best with people who are ready for change and want a more active approach to therapy.
I have been in practice for 20 years working with Adults and Adolescents struggling with PTSD, OCD, Attachment issues, Borderline Personality Disorder, Anxiety, Depression, Phobias, Couples Therapy, Eating Disorders and ADHD.
I AM NOT THE SMILE AND NOD THERAPIST! If you are fed up with feeling miserable I can help you get the life you want. I love helping people achieve what they didn't think they could. My clients tell me I am tough but they know I care about them. I work best with people who are sick of being unhappy and willing to DO work to make some changes. I have a great BS detector, I will call you on your stuff and we will laugh (a lot)! I am passionate about therapy and assissting people in reaching their goals. I work best with people who are ready for change and want a more active approach to therapy.
(952) 529-4884 View (952) 529-4884
Photo of Bob Thiele, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Bob Thiele
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Saint Louis Park, MN 55426
I have been trained and supervised in both transference-focused psychotherapy (TFP) and mentalization-based therapy (MBT), evidence-based psychodynamic therapies specifically developed for treating borderline and other personality disorders which focus on strengthening and clarifying social interactions, organizing self-image, and revaluing feelings.
Are you not feeling quite right, and maybe not even sure why? Is it hard to be around others (partners, family, friends) and perhaps even be alone with yourself? Being misunderstood is exhausting. Working collaboratively with you, I would like to understand your personal experiences and problems so that we can work toward a life that is more meaningful and less distressing.
I have been trained and supervised in both transference-focused psychotherapy (TFP) and mentalization-based therapy (MBT), evidence-based psychodynamic therapies specifically developed for treating borderline and other personality disorders which focus on strengthening and clarifying social interactions, organizing self-image, and revaluing feelings.
Are you not feeling quite right, and maybe not even sure why? Is it hard to be around others (partners, family, friends) and perhaps even be alone with yourself? Being misunderstood is exhausting. Working collaboratively with you, I would like to understand your personal experiences and problems so that we can work toward a life that is more meaningful and less distressing.
(612) 416-0871 View (612) 416-0871
Photo of Rachel Rippel - Minnetonka Counseling, LLC, MA, LP, LLC, Psychologist
Minnetonka Counseling, LLC
Psychologist, MA, LP, LLC
Verified Verified
Minnetonka, MN 55343
Who's ready for a change? Looking for a proven way to feel better? If you are fed up with feeling miserable we can help you get the life you want and deserve. We are a collective of five licensed clinicians working with children, adults and adolescents struggling with attachment issues, PTSD, Anxiety, Depression, Borderline Personality Disorder, Eating Disorders, Phobias, OCD, couples therapy and Substance Abuse. We are committed to providing high quality evidence-based treatment. We look forward to talking with you more.
Who's ready for a change? Looking for a proven way to feel better? If you are fed up with feeling miserable we can help you get the life you want and deserve. We are a collective of five licensed clinicians working with children, adults and adolescents struggling with attachment issues, PTSD, Anxiety, Depression, Borderline Personality Disorder, Eating Disorders, Phobias, OCD, couples therapy and Substance Abuse. We are committed to providing high quality evidence-based treatment. We look forward to talking with you more.
(651) 356-8481 View (651) 356-8481
Photo of Bret P Schneider, PsyD, LP, Psychologist
Bret P Schneider
Psychologist, PsyD, LP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Minnetonka, MN 55345
My areas of focus include ADHD, learning disorders, trauma, emotional/behavioral disorders, BPD, OCD, depression, & anxiety.
Are you or someone you care about going through a difficult time? Is your child/adolescent struggling at home or school with emotions, difficult behavior, or attention concerns? Whether you are looking for answers or seeking personal growth, I can help. I am a clinical psychologist who specializes in assessment and therapy with children, adolescents, and adults. My professional approach is one that encourages one's strengths, internal traits, and individual differences that contribute to personal and professional growth and an improved quality of life and understanding.
My areas of focus include ADHD, learning disorders, trauma, emotional/behavioral disorders, BPD, OCD, depression, & anxiety.
Are you or someone you care about going through a difficult time? Is your child/adolescent struggling at home or school with emotions, difficult behavior, or attention concerns? Whether you are looking for answers or seeking personal growth, I can help. I am a clinical psychologist who specializes in assessment and therapy with children, adolescents, and adults. My professional approach is one that encourages one's strengths, internal traits, and individual differences that contribute to personal and professional growth and an improved quality of life and understanding.
(952) 260-3810 View (952) 260-3810
Photo of Christina L Kress, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christina L Kress
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Minnetonka, MN 55345
Waitlist for new clients
Are you (or your family) stuck? Have you been trying the same things over and over and nothing is changing? Time to try a more direct approach! I can help. My work with clients is rooted in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT). DBT is not for the faint-hearted! It is direct, evidence-based and it works. DBT has been proven useful in treating mood disorders, suicidal ideation, and for change in behavioral patterns such as self-harm, and substance abuse. At Minnetonka Counseling I lead adolescent and family DBT groups, adult DBT groups as well as advance DBT workshops for DBT graduates.
Are you (or your family) stuck? Have you been trying the same things over and over and nothing is changing? Time to try a more direct approach! I can help. My work with clients is rooted in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT). DBT is not for the faint-hearted! It is direct, evidence-based and it works. DBT has been proven useful in treating mood disorders, suicidal ideation, and for change in behavioral patterns such as self-harm, and substance abuse. At Minnetonka Counseling I lead adolescent and family DBT groups, adult DBT groups as well as advance DBT workshops for DBT graduates.
(651) 967-8762 View (651) 967-8762
Photo of Tammie Rosenbloom - Walk Talk Therapy, LLC Tammie Rosenbloom, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Walk Talk Therapy, LLC Tammie Rosenbloom
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Minnetonka, MN 55345
Walk Talk Therapy is just like it sounds-we are outdoors walking side by side during therapy instead of sitting inside an office. Walk Talk Therapy is a more relaxed environment than the counseling office. Walking while sharing your struggles and life situations can also be meditative. Research has consistently shown that exercise can significantly impact anxiety and stress while improving overall mood. I work with teens, adults, couples and families. If you're feeling stuck and disconnected from others, you have trouble sitting still or you want a new perspective, I welcome your email or phone call.
Walk Talk Therapy is just like it sounds-we are outdoors walking side by side during therapy instead of sitting inside an office. Walk Talk Therapy is a more relaxed environment than the counseling office. Walking while sharing your struggles and life situations can also be meditative. Research has consistently shown that exercise can significantly impact anxiety and stress while improving overall mood. I work with teens, adults, couples and families. If you're feeling stuck and disconnected from others, you have trouble sitting still or you want a new perspective, I welcome your email or phone call.
(612) 260-4827 View (612) 260-4827
Photo of Dr. Sonal Markanda, PhD, LP, HSP, Psychologist
Dr. Sonal Markanda
Psychologist, PhD, LP, HSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edina, MN 55343
I'd be a good fit if you're motivated, curious, open, flexible in thought, committed to the therapy process, and willing to do hard work. I'll work hard, too. If your needs and goals are to feel calmer, have a more integrated sense of self, feel more secure and confident, to grow and expand your thought processes, to organize past life events, develop/increase spirituality, work towards independence, and promote holistic well-being through the use of evidenced-based techniques and theories, I'd be a good fit! I also love pets. I have 2 dogs & 2 cats. I have training and certification in pet loss and grief. I value all relationships.
I'd be a good fit if you're motivated, curious, open, flexible in thought, committed to the therapy process, and willing to do hard work. I'll work hard, too. If your needs and goals are to feel calmer, have a more integrated sense of self, feel more secure and confident, to grow and expand your thought processes, to organize past life events, develop/increase spirituality, work towards independence, and promote holistic well-being through the use of evidenced-based techniques and theories, I'd be a good fit! I also love pets. I have 2 dogs & 2 cats. I have training and certification in pet loss and grief. I value all relationships.
(612) 389-0779 View (612) 389-0779
Photo of Ann Trench, MSSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ann Trench
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Minnetonka, MN 55305
Reducing or eliminating emotional eating is my therapeutic focus. At this time I am only able to accept clients interested in our "Why Can't I Stop Eating?" program. If you are eating secretly, eating past fullness or when not hungry, feeling shame after eating or using food to deal with emotions, consider attending the "Why Can't I Stop Eating?" program which includes a weekly 2 hour Skills (classroom-type) group and weekly individual therapy. Persons participating in bariatric programs are also welcome in the Why Can't I Stop Eating? group.
Reducing or eliminating emotional eating is my therapeutic focus. At this time I am only able to accept clients interested in our "Why Can't I Stop Eating?" program. If you are eating secretly, eating past fullness or when not hungry, feeling shame after eating or using food to deal with emotions, consider attending the "Why Can't I Stop Eating?" program which includes a weekly 2 hour Skills (classroom-type) group and weekly individual therapy. Persons participating in bariatric programs are also welcome in the Why Can't I Stop Eating? group.
(952) 800-9766 View (952) 800-9766
Photo of Erica Lynne Gruidl, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Erica Lynne Gruidl
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Minnetonka, MN 55305  (Online Only)
Are you lacking courage in tackling the day to day tasks of life? Are you finding it difficult to manage stress? Are life issues taking you away from finding joy in your journey? I specialize in managing stress, anxiety, parenting and blended family issues, depression, substance abuse, trauma, empty nest, infertility issues, grief and loss, anger management, and abuse. In the past I have worked at as a Mental Health Therapist in a faith-based addiction treatment facility, as a family and parenting coach, as well as in private practice.
Are you lacking courage in tackling the day to day tasks of life? Are you finding it difficult to manage stress? Are life issues taking you away from finding joy in your journey? I specialize in managing stress, anxiety, parenting and blended family issues, depression, substance abuse, trauma, empty nest, infertility issues, grief and loss, anger management, and abuse. In the past I have worked at as a Mental Health Therapist in a faith-based addiction treatment facility, as a family and parenting coach, as well as in private practice.
(763) 703-1550 View (763) 703-1550
Photo of Connie Dummer, MA, LP, LMFT, Psychologist
Connie Dummer
Psychologist, MA, LP, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Minnetonka, MN 55345
Do you feel weighed down by trauma, grief, or loss? Do you experience sadness, or intrusive memories of previous experiences? If so, my specialty is working with people like you. I have extensive experience with all types of trauma survivors, including survivors of sexual and physical abuse. I am grounded in a solid Christian faith and am comfortable exploring aspects of spirituality. I have strengths in the areas of empathy, positivity, winning others over, and strategy.
Do you feel weighed down by trauma, grief, or loss? Do you experience sadness, or intrusive memories of previous experiences? If so, my specialty is working with people like you. I have extensive experience with all types of trauma survivors, including survivors of sexual and physical abuse. I am grounded in a solid Christian faith and am comfortable exploring aspects of spirituality. I have strengths in the areas of empathy, positivity, winning others over, and strategy.
(952) 657-7695 View (952) 657-7695
Photo of Bruce E Fischer, PhD, LP, LMFT, Psychologist
Bruce E Fischer
Psychologist, PhD, LP, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Minnetonka, MN 55305  (Online Only)
I've been working with adults and teens for over 47 years. My approach is empathic, direct, and thoughtful. Given I have a wide background in my training, I adapt my therapeutic approach to your needs. I find that effective therapy is a collaborative approach where we work together to understand your concerns, their origins and most importantly what can be done to bring about both the internal and behavioral changes that will be beneficial to you. My goal in therapy is to help integrate your shame and vulnerabilities into a healthy identity grounded in self-esteem and pride.
I've been working with adults and teens for over 47 years. My approach is empathic, direct, and thoughtful. Given I have a wide background in my training, I adapt my therapeutic approach to your needs. I find that effective therapy is a collaborative approach where we work together to understand your concerns, their origins and most importantly what can be done to bring about both the internal and behavioral changes that will be beneficial to you. My goal in therapy is to help integrate your shame and vulnerabilities into a healthy identity grounded in self-esteem and pride.
(612) 223-7345 View (612) 223-7345
Photo of Julie De Wilde, MA, LPCC, Counselor
Julie De Wilde
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Minnetonka, MN 55305  (Online Only)
Do you find yourself discouraged with the demands of life or with not finding healthy relationships? Do you feel alone with the circumstances in your life? I specialize in working with depression, anxiety, chronic health, chronic pain, grief, abuse, trauma, autism, ADHD, mental illness, marriage issues, and parenting.
Do you find yourself discouraged with the demands of life or with not finding healthy relationships? Do you feel alone with the circumstances in your life? I specialize in working with depression, anxiety, chronic health, chronic pain, grief, abuse, trauma, autism, ADHD, mental illness, marriage issues, and parenting.
(651) 439-2059 x1 View (651) 439-2059 x1
Photo of Bee Thomas, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Bee Thomas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edina, MN 55343
Hey There! I'm Bee. I am a quirky, non binary, queer and neurodivergent therapist who has a social justice, existential and feminist lens when it comes to therapy. My focus is on exploring personal identity. What does it mean to be Queer in a heteronormative world? What are your own values versus values imposed by society? I bring authenticity to the therapy room, creating a comfortable space for you to express yourself as you wish (slippers and coziness welcome!). I specialize in working with the LGBTQIA+ community, addressing complex trauma and exploring gender/identity.
Hey There! I'm Bee. I am a quirky, non binary, queer and neurodivergent therapist who has a social justice, existential and feminist lens when it comes to therapy. My focus is on exploring personal identity. What does it mean to be Queer in a heteronormative world? What are your own values versus values imposed by society? I bring authenticity to the therapy room, creating a comfortable space for you to express yourself as you wish (slippers and coziness welcome!). I specialize in working with the LGBTQIA+ community, addressing complex trauma and exploring gender/identity.
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Photo of Devin Bard, LPC, LMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Devin Bard
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edina, MN 55343
Satisfying relationships, personal fulfillment, and vocational flourishing are essential components to a joyful life. Insecurity, self-doubt, anxiety and avoidance often stand between us and all of the above. Depending on who you are, being in therapy might be a practical and strategic process, for others a deeply emotional and interpersonal one. As I enjoy working with clients from all walks of life, I take a flexible and curious approach to attend to my clients' specific needs in the therapy process. Ultimately, my goal as a therapist is to support you in caring for yourself more deeply and personally in all aspects of life.
Satisfying relationships, personal fulfillment, and vocational flourishing are essential components to a joyful life. Insecurity, self-doubt, anxiety and avoidance often stand between us and all of the above. Depending on who you are, being in therapy might be a practical and strategic process, for others a deeply emotional and interpersonal one. As I enjoy working with clients from all walks of life, I take a flexible and curious approach to attend to my clients' specific needs in the therapy process. Ultimately, my goal as a therapist is to support you in caring for yourself more deeply and personally in all aspects of life.
(612) 662-4644 View (612) 662-4644
Photo of Jennifer Marks, LCSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer Marks
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Edina, MN 55343  (Online Only)
Have you ever felt the weight of unresolved pain holding you back from the life you envision? Taking that first step towards healing can seem daunting, yet it's often the crucial leap towards reclaiming our happiness. We may find ourselves entangled in suffering, losing sight of our core values as we attempt to evade discomfort. But here's the truth: confronting our pain, guided with compassion, can lead us to a life grounded in authenticity and purpose.
Have you ever felt the weight of unresolved pain holding you back from the life you envision? Taking that first step towards healing can seem daunting, yet it's often the crucial leap towards reclaiming our happiness. We may find ourselves entangled in suffering, losing sight of our core values as we attempt to evade discomfort. But here's the truth: confronting our pain, guided with compassion, can lead us to a life grounded in authenticity and purpose.
(612) 255-9621 View (612) 255-9621

See more therapy options for Hopkins

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.