Borderline Personality (BPD) Therapists in Phillipsburg, NJ
I believe that listening is crucial in counseling; listening not just to words, but also for feelings. Sometimes people seek therapy to clarify their thoughts and emotions; or they may be looking for specific strategies to find relief from worry or sadness, or for help with a relationship. My experience and training in multiple modes of psychotherapy allows me to help people with these concerns. While starting counseling may seem scary, it can be the first step toward feeling happier and less worried.
I believe that listening is crucial in counseling; listening not just to words, but also for feelings. Sometimes people seek therapy to clarify their thoughts and emotions; or they may be looking for specific strategies to find relief from worry or sadness, or for help with a relationship. My experience and training in multiple modes of psychotherapy allows me to help people with these concerns. While starting counseling may seem scary, it can be the first step toward feeling happier and less worried.
![Photo of Shelley Reiche, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/401e74ac-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I have worked in community mental health for over 10 years and have found that we all struggle at times and benefit from the support of others. I have a great deal of experience in the treatment of mood disorders, anxiety, crisis, life-transitions, stress-related disorders and vocational counseling. I work with each individual to develop a goal plan that is person-centered and based on their strengths and abilities.
I have worked in community mental health for over 10 years and have found that we all struggle at times and benefit from the support of others. I have a great deal of experience in the treatment of mood disorders, anxiety, crisis, life-transitions, stress-related disorders and vocational counseling. I work with each individual to develop a goal plan that is person-centered and based on their strengths and abilities.
![Photo of Laurie Dickerson Lcsw, MSW, LCSW, BCD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4f7edb56-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Laurie Dickerson Lcsw
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, BCD
Verified Verified
Phillipsburg, NJ 08865
For over 35 years, I have been helping people resolve their problems, improve relationships, and live more fulfilling lives. It is important and helpful to understand how our past has influenced our choices, personality, and worldview. However, therapy must focus on the present, helping you see perspectives and options that were not clear to you before. Good therapy can help you see how you may get in your own way, and make needed changes. Of course, listening in a warm supportive atmosphere is essential, but feedback and guidance are important, too. I am an active partner in the therapeutic relationship.
For over 35 years, I have been helping people resolve their problems, improve relationships, and live more fulfilling lives. It is important and helpful to understand how our past has influenced our choices, personality, and worldview. However, therapy must focus on the present, helping you see perspectives and options that were not clear to you before. Good therapy can help you see how you may get in your own way, and make needed changes. Of course, listening in a warm supportive atmosphere is essential, but feedback and guidance are important, too. I am an active partner in the therapeutic relationship.
![Photo of Christopher Lombardi, LCSW, LCADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ce3e0656-0891-4261-a28b-524265317025/2/320x400.jpeg)
Christopher Lombardi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCADC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Phillipsburg, NJ 08865
Worry. Restlessness. Poor Concentration. Intrusive Thoughts. Panic. Our mental health can serve as a major disruption to our lives. I admire your courage in taking this step to seek out help. As your therapist, I will first strive to understand your story. Then, we will collaboratively identify a therapeutic approach that will best fit your goals. Often times, our past impacts our present . Therefore, we can strive to not only address your current symptoms, but attempt to resolve the root causes to your problems, such as unresolved trauma. We don’t always realize how much old emotional wounds are still causing us pain.
Worry. Restlessness. Poor Concentration. Intrusive Thoughts. Panic. Our mental health can serve as a major disruption to our lives. I admire your courage in taking this step to seek out help. As your therapist, I will first strive to understand your story. Then, we will collaboratively identify a therapeutic approach that will best fit your goals. Often times, our past impacts our present . Therefore, we can strive to not only address your current symptoms, but attempt to resolve the root causes to your problems, such as unresolved trauma. We don’t always realize how much old emotional wounds are still causing us pain.
![Photo of Michael McNeill, MSW, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/083f27e7-7c3f-4205-b858-bf8ba3000c80/6/320x400.jpeg)
I see in person and telehealth clients in Pennsylvania. I also see Telehealth patients from New Jersey. Everyone goes through mental health phases. These phases can range from misunderstandings among couples, adjusting to life after the death of a loved one, and or major depression. All of these Issues have one thing in common. They all can be managed. People can live a high quality of life despite being challenged with mental health obstacles.
I see in person and telehealth clients in Pennsylvania. I also see Telehealth patients from New Jersey. Everyone goes through mental health phases. These phases can range from misunderstandings among couples, adjusting to life after the death of a loved one, and or major depression. All of these Issues have one thing in common. They all can be managed. People can live a high quality of life despite being challenged with mental health obstacles.
![Photo of Ashley Lauren Papazian, MSW, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f2092e3b-9ff8-4b85-88ae-76b948136c44/3/320x400.jpeg)
Ashley Lauren Papazian
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phillipsburg, NJ 08865
Everyone has struggles in life especially with these isolating times during the pandemic. I believe we can benefit from having a empathetic, understanding person to discuss these stresses and challenges with. An important part of the therapeutic relationship is finding the right therapist for each individual. While establishing an engaging patient client relationship, I can provide tools to assist and manage these challenges.
Everyone has struggles in life especially with these isolating times during the pandemic. I believe we can benefit from having a empathetic, understanding person to discuss these stresses and challenges with. An important part of the therapeutic relationship is finding the right therapist for each individual. While establishing an engaging patient client relationship, I can provide tools to assist and manage these challenges.
![Photo of Bahiyyah Williams, LCSW, CAGCS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c202b12f-33f0-4e27-bd58-6b3959d3159c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Bahiyyah Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CAGCS
Verified Verified
Phillipsburg, NJ 08865 (Online Only)
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I earned my masters at Rutgers University. My background includes experience with adolescents, adults, and families in private practice, residential, and educational settings. In my most recent role, I focused on supporting adolescents and adults facing challenges with depression, anxiety, grief, communication, anger, transitions, and other stress related challenges.I thrive most with clients dedicated to self-improvement and willing to put effort into positive change. Motivation is key for effective therapy, enabling clients to confront obstacles and utilize available resources.
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I earned my masters at Rutgers University. My background includes experience with adolescents, adults, and families in private practice, residential, and educational settings. In my most recent role, I focused on supporting adolescents and adults facing challenges with depression, anxiety, grief, communication, anger, transitions, and other stress related challenges.I thrive most with clients dedicated to self-improvement and willing to put effort into positive change. Motivation is key for effective therapy, enabling clients to confront obstacles and utilize available resources.
![Photo of Christina Mercado (Owner) Chrysalis Therapy Services, MS, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8f3d50a2-2dc0-4490-ac83-5afc7c517571/1/320x400.jpeg)
Christina Mercado (Owner) Chrysalis Therapy Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Phillipsburg, NJ 08865
Are you struggling with setting boundaries with loved ones? Do you have difficulty saying “no” to others? Do you tend to put the needs of others before your own? Do you have trouble regulating your emotions? Are you trying to come to terms with your ADHD diagnosis/symptoms as an adult? Did you experience trauma in childhood and want to understand how it may be impacting you in the present? If you answered yes to any of these questions, you have come to the right space.
Are you struggling with setting boundaries with loved ones? Do you have difficulty saying “no” to others? Do you tend to put the needs of others before your own? Do you have trouble regulating your emotions? Are you trying to come to terms with your ADHD diagnosis/symptoms as an adult? Did you experience trauma in childhood and want to understand how it may be impacting you in the present? If you answered yes to any of these questions, you have come to the right space.
![Photo of Brianne (Brie) N. Shappell, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4873658a-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Brianne (Brie) N. Shappell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Phillipsburg, NJ 08865
Not accepting new clients
I believe that awareness is the first step toward positive change. Awareness can lead to a deeper understanding of oneself and help refocus you to the future instead of the past. Through a strong therapeutic relationship I provide a combination of support and challenge, which can help cultivate trust, confidence and assertiveness. I work with my clients collaboratively to develop interventions that consider the individual needs and strengths of my clients.
I believe that awareness is the first step toward positive change. Awareness can lead to a deeper understanding of oneself and help refocus you to the future instead of the past. Through a strong therapeutic relationship I provide a combination of support and challenge, which can help cultivate trust, confidence and assertiveness. I work with my clients collaboratively to develop interventions that consider the individual needs and strengths of my clients.
![Photo of Bernadette Bodogh, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bc503433-c951-4526-8620-cd151209a557/3/320x400.jpeg)
Bernadette Bodogh
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Phillipsburg, NJ 08865
Not accepting new clients
Through individual, couples and family therapy, I provide compassionate and caring real life solutions for real life problems. With more than 30 years experience as a clinical social worker, I assist others through life transitions and times of crisis by bringing a fresh vision to each unique situation. I conduct person-centered, goal-oriented treatment for various mental health issues such as depression, anxiety and grief. I work with all age groups, from 10 years of age through the senior years, in examining behaviors and beliefs while learning healthier coping skills.There is no problem too small or too great that cannot benefit.
Through individual, couples and family therapy, I provide compassionate and caring real life solutions for real life problems. With more than 30 years experience as a clinical social worker, I assist others through life transitions and times of crisis by bringing a fresh vision to each unique situation. I conduct person-centered, goal-oriented treatment for various mental health issues such as depression, anxiety and grief. I work with all age groups, from 10 years of age through the senior years, in examining behaviors and beliefs while learning healthier coping skills.There is no problem too small or too great that cannot benefit.
Online Therapists
![Photo of Yonetta Bloomfield, LCSW , Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/31592e2e-6a4a-416d-87a6-e123c6b0b03f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Yonetta Bloomfield
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Paterson, NJ 07504 (Online Only)
I work with clients who present with a wide range of mental health disordrers, including Anxiety, Depression, Borderline Personality Disorder and Post-traumatic Stress Disorder.
I obtained a Bachelor’s Degree in Family and Child Studies from Montclair State University, and a Master’s Degree in Social Work at Rutgers University. My goal in working with clients is to empower clients to rebuild their sense of self-efficacy and human agency over their lives. I utilize a strength based, resiliency focused, and solution focused approach in working with clients in meeting each client's unique needs in therapy with individually tailored interventions.
I work with clients who present with a wide range of mental health disordrers, including Anxiety, Depression, Borderline Personality Disorder and Post-traumatic Stress Disorder.
I obtained a Bachelor’s Degree in Family and Child Studies from Montclair State University, and a Master’s Degree in Social Work at Rutgers University. My goal in working with clients is to empower clients to rebuild their sense of self-efficacy and human agency over their lives. I utilize a strength based, resiliency focused, and solution focused approach in working with clients in meeting each client's unique needs in therapy with individually tailored interventions.
![Photo of Dominique Focazio, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/08f42605-6db1-4222-bb80-8a910e737fa2/1/320x400.jpeg)
My experience has been with individuals, couples, and groups in an array of areas including Stress Management, Relationships, both PTSD and C-PTSD, BPD, Emotional Dysregulation, Non-Suicidal Self- Harm and LGBTQ+ identity formation.
I get it. Life happens. Sometimes you just need to talk and have someone listen. Whether therapy is new for you or you are revisiting it, my goal is help you create a fulfilling and happy life that you are excited to live. Whether you are looking to develop healthy coping skills or seek to dig deeper inside, I will work with you on your journey to a better understanding of who you are and who you may want to become. Note- To all the early birds: there is always time for therapy. I offer virtual sessions as early as 5am. There is always time for therapy!
My experience has been with individuals, couples, and groups in an array of areas including Stress Management, Relationships, both PTSD and C-PTSD, BPD, Emotional Dysregulation, Non-Suicidal Self- Harm and LGBTQ+ identity formation.
I get it. Life happens. Sometimes you just need to talk and have someone listen. Whether therapy is new for you or you are revisiting it, my goal is help you create a fulfilling and happy life that you are excited to live. Whether you are looking to develop healthy coping skills or seek to dig deeper inside, I will work with you on your journey to a better understanding of who you are and who you may want to become. Note- To all the early birds: there is always time for therapy. I offer virtual sessions as early as 5am. There is always time for therapy!
![Photo of Amanda Perez, LCSW, DBT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8347acbd-a4af-49e5-a57f-077409b27cac/2/320x400.png)
Amanda Perez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, DBT
Verified Verified
Morristown, NJ 07960 (Online Only)
I am a licensed clinical social worker intensively trained in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) specializing in the treatment of adolescents, young adults and adults suffering from mood disorders, depression, anxiety and borderline personality disorder (BPD). DBT is a therapy designed to teach people how to live in the moment, cope healthily with stress, regulate emotions and improve relationships with others. In DBT you and I will work to together to resolve the seeming contradiction between self-acceptance and change in order to bring about positive changes in your life.
I am a licensed clinical social worker intensively trained in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) specializing in the treatment of adolescents, young adults and adults suffering from mood disorders, depression, anxiety and borderline personality disorder (BPD). DBT is a therapy designed to teach people how to live in the moment, cope healthily with stress, regulate emotions and improve relationships with others. In DBT you and I will work to together to resolve the seeming contradiction between self-acceptance and change in order to bring about positive changes in your life.
![Photo of Meredith O'Brien, LCSW, CCIEDC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/071f871f-9e74-4b38-8bcf-66b33feb2455/1/320x400.jpeg)
Are you looking to find some balance in your lives? Are you looking to learn ways to manage your mental health and move forward in your life? My name is Meredith O'Brien and I run a private practice in Red Bank and Fair Haven, New Jersey. I have over 18 years of clinical experience with treating adolescents, adults and families. I specialize in treating individuals who suffer from addiction, depression, anxiety, eating disorders, borderline personality disorder, and other mental health issues. Please check out my website at: https://www.meredithobrienlcsw.com. Please check out my blog at https://www.recoveryfromanorexia.com.
Are you looking to find some balance in your lives? Are you looking to learn ways to manage your mental health and move forward in your life? My name is Meredith O'Brien and I run a private practice in Red Bank and Fair Haven, New Jersey. I have over 18 years of clinical experience with treating adolescents, adults and families. I specialize in treating individuals who suffer from addiction, depression, anxiety, eating disorders, borderline personality disorder, and other mental health issues. Please check out my website at: https://www.meredithobrienlcsw.com. Please check out my blog at https://www.recoveryfromanorexia.com.
![Photo of Julia Farrell, LAC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f9afbb0a-f2df-4095-b80e-4c0508affb59/3/320x400.jpeg)
Julia offers versatile counseling, drawing on approaches that meet the needs of each unique individual. Julia emphasizes how a holistic approach can be beneficial to improving all aspects of well-being. Experience consists of being employed at Philadelphia's Ronald McDonald House and Seabrook house in her early experiences within the field providing therapeutic supports. Additionally, she has worked with children, adolescents and adults, while at Genpsych PC Partial Hospital and Short Hillls Counseling PC as a clinician, treating diagnosis of anxiety, depression, OCD, Bipolar, Borderline Personality Disorder and Substance Abuse.
Julia offers versatile counseling, drawing on approaches that meet the needs of each unique individual. Julia emphasizes how a holistic approach can be beneficial to improving all aspects of well-being. Experience consists of being employed at Philadelphia's Ronald McDonald House and Seabrook house in her early experiences within the field providing therapeutic supports. Additionally, she has worked with children, adolescents and adults, while at Genpsych PC Partial Hospital and Short Hillls Counseling PC as a clinician, treating diagnosis of anxiety, depression, OCD, Bipolar, Borderline Personality Disorder and Substance Abuse.
![Photo of Dr. Alyssa B. Catuogno, PsyD, NCSP, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/504b5911-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Alyssa B. Catuogno
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD, NCSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pennington, NJ 08534
My specialties range from anxiety to borderline personality disorder.
My treatment approaches include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Mindfulness-Based Therapy for individuals suffering from various disorders and psychological distress including but not limited to eating disorders, depression, anxiety, LGBTQ, suicidal ideation, and family issues. In addition to psychotherapy, I conduct psychological evaluations/testing, psychoeducational testing, and biopsychosocial evaluations. I conduct testing for ADHD, gifted/talented, and special education services. I provide a compassionate, holistic, and caring atmosphere in order to provide my clients a trusting and supportive therapeutic experience.
My specialties range from anxiety to borderline personality disorder.
My treatment approaches include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Mindfulness-Based Therapy for individuals suffering from various disorders and psychological distress including but not limited to eating disorders, depression, anxiety, LGBTQ, suicidal ideation, and family issues. In addition to psychotherapy, I conduct psychological evaluations/testing, psychoeducational testing, and biopsychosocial evaluations. I conduct testing for ADHD, gifted/talented, and special education services. I provide a compassionate, holistic, and caring atmosphere in order to provide my clients a trusting and supportive therapeutic experience.
![Photo of Courtney E Battista, EdM, LPC, LCADC, ACS, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6d01b7cd-2813-4fe6-8725-643d49217ab9/2/320x400.jpeg)
Courtney E Battista
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdM, LPC, LCADC, ACS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Somerville, NJ 08876
Welcome! I am a Psychotherapist (in practice since 2010) and owner of Mindful Life Therapy LLC in Somerville, NJ. MLT (est. 2012) is a team of professional, compassionate, and skillful Clinicians. Treating adolescents through adults who struggle with a variety of psychiatric, emotional and behavioral issues in individual and family counseling. Specialties include: Mood Disorders, Addiction Recovery, Anxiety, OCD, Trauma, PTSD, Adjustment concerns, and Borderline Personality Disorder. In addition we work with individuals who are struggling with everyday issues and adjustments.
Welcome! I am a Psychotherapist (in practice since 2010) and owner of Mindful Life Therapy LLC in Somerville, NJ. MLT (est. 2012) is a team of professional, compassionate, and skillful Clinicians. Treating adolescents through adults who struggle with a variety of psychiatric, emotional and behavioral issues in individual and family counseling. Specialties include: Mood Disorders, Addiction Recovery, Anxiety, OCD, Trauma, PTSD, Adjustment concerns, and Borderline Personality Disorder. In addition we work with individuals who are struggling with everyday issues and adjustments.
![Photo of Krystle Lind, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/746a1e6a-99dc-449d-a4d9-fbf8aa2dfcda/1/320x400.jpeg)
Krystle Lind
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Turnersville, NJ 08012
Krystle is a Licensed Professional Counselor that provides high quality, compassionate, and ethical therapy to consumers. Krystle promotes wellness by maintaining awareness of psychiatric medications, medical issues, and environmental struggles. She works with varying reasons for referral such as, depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, trauma, self-esteem, domestic violence, DCP&P, self-harm, suicide attempts, ASD, health anxiety, co-dependency, substance abuse, gender dysphoria, LBGTQ, post-incarceration, BPD, grief, anger management, and acculturation.
Krystle is a Licensed Professional Counselor that provides high quality, compassionate, and ethical therapy to consumers. Krystle promotes wellness by maintaining awareness of psychiatric medications, medical issues, and environmental struggles. She works with varying reasons for referral such as, depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, trauma, self-esteem, domestic violence, DCP&P, self-harm, suicide attempts, ASD, health anxiety, co-dependency, substance abuse, gender dysphoria, LBGTQ, post-incarceration, BPD, grief, anger management, and acculturation.
![Photo of Karen Greenberg, LCSW, Couples, Therapy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4bcea44d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Karen Greenberg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, Couples, Therapy
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Montclair, NJ 07042
Having relationship problems? Feeling stuck or in a downward spiral? I work in a confidential setting where you find solutions and make changes to live a more satisfying and meaningful life. I work with individuals and couples experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma/recovery, grief, difficult relationships, and major life transitions. I also treat borderline, narcissistic personality and mood disorders. A combination of advanced training in various modalities and experience allows me to custom treatment to your needs and concerns. A strong connection to the therapist is the most important factor in a successful therapy.
Having relationship problems? Feeling stuck or in a downward spiral? I work in a confidential setting where you find solutions and make changes to live a more satisfying and meaningful life. I work with individuals and couples experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma/recovery, grief, difficult relationships, and major life transitions. I also treat borderline, narcissistic personality and mood disorders. A combination of advanced training in various modalities and experience allows me to custom treatment to your needs and concerns. A strong connection to the therapist is the most important factor in a successful therapy.
See more therapy options for Phillipsburg
Nearby Borderline Personality (BPD) Therapists Searches for Phillipsburg
- Andover
- Bedminster
- Branchburg
- Chester
- Clinton
- Flemington
- Frenchtown
- Hackettstown
- Lambertville
- Lebanon
- Long Valley
- Somerville
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.