Therapists in Boston, MA
Stephanie Vaughn
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02110 (Online Only)
I'm a DBT-Linehan Board Certified Clinician and an expert in Borderline Personality Disorder, anxiety disorders, PTSD, self-harm, and oppositional adolescents.
My clients don't come to therapy to hear someone nod and agree with everything they say—that's not worth their time or money. They want real help. They want to know "what to do" and "how to fix it" because they're struggling with depression, severe anxiety, relationship problems, trauma, suicidal thoughts, parenting issues, and other painful situations. They're looking for a true expert that they can actually talk to. I am a member of PSYPACT which means I can see clients in every state that is a member of PSYPACT and I'm also licensed in MA.
I'm a DBT-Linehan Board Certified Clinician and an expert in Borderline Personality Disorder, anxiety disorders, PTSD, self-harm, and oppositional adolescents.
My clients don't come to therapy to hear someone nod and agree with everything they say—that's not worth their time or money. They want real help. They want to know "what to do" and "how to fix it" because they're struggling with depression, severe anxiety, relationship problems, trauma, suicidal thoughts, parenting issues, and other painful situations. They're looking for a true expert that they can actually talk to. I am a member of PSYPACT which means I can see clients in every state that is a member of PSYPACT and I'm also licensed in MA.
Sara Meldon
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02215 (Online Only)
I specialize in DBT, a treatment for Borderline Personality Disorder and related problems with emotion regulation.
I work with adults (18+) who have difficulty managing their emotions and who struggle with depression, anxiety, interpersonal problems, and problems functioning at work or school. I provide evidence-based treatments including Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help my clients change ineffective behavioral patterns, develop more helpful ways of thinking, and accept difficult realities to build the lives they want. I also see clients with Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders through all stages of the pregnancy and parenthood process.
I specialize in DBT, a treatment for Borderline Personality Disorder and related problems with emotion regulation.
I work with adults (18+) who have difficulty managing their emotions and who struggle with depression, anxiety, interpersonal problems, and problems functioning at work or school. I provide evidence-based treatments including Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help my clients change ineffective behavioral patterns, develop more helpful ways of thinking, and accept difficult realities to build the lives they want. I also see clients with Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders through all stages of the pregnancy and parenthood process.
Stephanie Hathcock Vaughn
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02110 (Online Only)
I specialize in relationship issues, life transitions such as grief and divorce, Borderline Personality Disorder, oppositional kids, Trauma/PTSD, panic disorder, factitious disorder, and OCD.
As a CBT and DBT Psychologist, National Speaker, hospital consultant, and clinical supervisor for Vanderbilt University, I have successfully helped veterans, teens, psychologists, physicians, attorneys, students, celebrities, and homemakers feel better and improve their lives. My business, PSYCHē, PLLC is founded upon the belief that going the extra mile makes all the difference. People need real support and real solutions—not just a nod and concerned look. My job is to help—my clients tell me how. I'm a member of PSYPACT which means I can see clients in every state that is a member of PSYPACT and I'm also licensed in MA.
I specialize in relationship issues, life transitions such as grief and divorce, Borderline Personality Disorder, oppositional kids, Trauma/PTSD, panic disorder, factitious disorder, and OCD.
As a CBT and DBT Psychologist, National Speaker, hospital consultant, and clinical supervisor for Vanderbilt University, I have successfully helped veterans, teens, psychologists, physicians, attorneys, students, celebrities, and homemakers feel better and improve their lives. My business, PSYCHē, PLLC is founded upon the belief that going the extra mile makes all the difference. People need real support and real solutions—not just a nod and concerned look. My job is to help—my clients tell me how. I'm a member of PSYPACT which means I can see clients in every state that is a member of PSYPACT and I'm also licensed in MA.
Sarah L. Darghouth
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02130
I work with a variety of issues including depression and mood disorders, anxiety, eating disorders, trauma, relationship issues/divorce, Borderline Personality Disorder, LGBTQ issues and others.
Update 4/15/24: I have an every other week virtual opening. I am a clinical psychologist, staff psychologist the Department of Psychiatry at Massachusetts General Hospital/Harvard Medical School, with a small private practice in Brookline. I provide cognitive-behavioral therapy(CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT) and psychodynamic therapy. I use skills training where it can be helpful. I work on tailoring my approach to patients' specific needs, and take on a pragmatic, engaged role in the therapy process. Please note- I am not in network with insurance but can provide claim forms.
I work with a variety of issues including depression and mood disorders, anxiety, eating disorders, trauma, relationship issues/divorce, Borderline Personality Disorder, LGBTQ issues and others.
Update 4/15/24: I have an every other week virtual opening. I am a clinical psychologist, staff psychologist the Department of Psychiatry at Massachusetts General Hospital/Harvard Medical School, with a small private practice in Brookline. I provide cognitive-behavioral therapy(CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT) and psychodynamic therapy. I use skills training where it can be helpful. I work on tailoring my approach to patients' specific needs, and take on a pragmatic, engaged role in the therapy process. Please note- I am not in network with insurance but can provide claim forms.
Laura B DeAngelo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AB, MBA, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02101 (Online Only)
I am trained in Dialetical Behavior Therapy (DBT), an evidence-based method to help symptoms of borderline personality disorder.
Are you facing challenges coping with life stressors or relationships? Do you need help learning to manage your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors in order to lead a productive and happy life? Are you a parent trying your best to parent a challenging child but still feel stuck? I offer compassionate, collaborative, results-oriented therapy and training for individuals and families who would like to improve the quality of life for themselves and/or their children. I use a warm and nonjudgmental approach to help you feel safe and comfortable. I want you to leave each session feeling hopeful, insightful, and empowered.
I am trained in Dialetical Behavior Therapy (DBT), an evidence-based method to help symptoms of borderline personality disorder.
Are you facing challenges coping with life stressors or relationships? Do you need help learning to manage your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors in order to lead a productive and happy life? Are you a parent trying your best to parent a challenging child but still feel stuck? I offer compassionate, collaborative, results-oriented therapy and training for individuals and families who would like to improve the quality of life for themselves and/or their children. I use a warm and nonjudgmental approach to help you feel safe and comfortable. I want you to leave each session feeling hopeful, insightful, and empowered.
Trauma Psychotherapy - Dr. Adam Henderson
MD
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02101
I have expertise in Mentalization Based Therapy (MBT) and DBT for depression, anxiety and BPD treatment.
Welcome! You want an expert to help you work through your problems and tell it like it is, but also someone that is down to earth and can listen compassionately. You’ve tried therapy or medication before and haven’t gotten the results you wanted, or you’re new to therapy and not sure where to start. Drawing on my background as a faculty member at Harvard Medical School and staff psychiatrist at McLean, I’ll help you get to the bottom of your core issues, recover, and move past your stuck points using evidence-based approaches. I can also prescribe medication if indicated/wanted.
I have expertise in Mentalization Based Therapy (MBT) and DBT for depression, anxiety and BPD treatment.
Welcome! You want an expert to help you work through your problems and tell it like it is, but also someone that is down to earth and can listen compassionately. You’ve tried therapy or medication before and haven’t gotten the results you wanted, or you’re new to therapy and not sure where to start. Drawing on my background as a faculty member at Harvard Medical School and staff psychiatrist at McLean, I’ll help you get to the bottom of your core issues, recover, and move past your stuck points using evidence-based approaches. I can also prescribe medication if indicated/wanted.
Molly Below
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02117
With over ten years' experience, I treat a range of issues from life transitions to chronic mental health diagnoses, with expertise in emotion dysregulation and habitual/addictive problems, such as substance use, borderline personality disorder, impulsivity, suicidal ideation, depression, and anxiety.
I believe helping you with the issues you bring to therapy starts with empathy and respect. As partners in this process, we will work together to seek a deeper, compassionate understanding of the issues you are seeking help with. We will work to understand the forces- past and present- that contribute to your struggles. Through this lens I will help you mobilize your strengths and values, cope effectively now, and empower you to change lifestyle patterns that maintain emotional pain. No matter how stuck or hopeless you may feel, it is always possible to make changes and move toward a more fulfilling life.
With over ten years' experience, I treat a range of issues from life transitions to chronic mental health diagnoses, with expertise in emotion dysregulation and habitual/addictive problems, such as substance use, borderline personality disorder, impulsivity, suicidal ideation, depression, and anxiety.
I believe helping you with the issues you bring to therapy starts with empathy and respect. As partners in this process, we will work together to seek a deeper, compassionate understanding of the issues you are seeking help with. We will work to understand the forces- past and present- that contribute to your struggles. Through this lens I will help you mobilize your strengths and values, cope effectively now, and empower you to change lifestyle patterns that maintain emotional pain. No matter how stuck or hopeless you may feel, it is always possible to make changes and move toward a more fulfilling life.
Huan-Tang Lu
Counselor, PhD, LMHC/PC, ACS, RPT, RN
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02135 (Online Only)
Common challenges that I work with include bipolar disorder, anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, family conflicts, borderline personality disorder, and obsessive-compulsive disorder.
This is a space for everyone who would like to explore their full potential. You can find non-judgmental, unconditional acceptance here. This will be a journey for your personal growth and to reach your life goals, whether it's reaching higher or getting back in the direction you wish. We will work together frequently at the beginning and aim to reduce the frequency when you feel ready.
Common challenges that I work with include bipolar disorder, anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, family conflicts, borderline personality disorder, and obsessive-compulsive disorder.
This is a space for everyone who would like to explore their full potential. You can find non-judgmental, unconditional acceptance here. This will be a journey for your personal growth and to reach your life goals, whether it's reaching higher or getting back in the direction you wish. We will work together frequently at the beginning and aim to reduce the frequency when you feel ready.
Karina Gruesz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02199 (Online Only)
While I have experience working with a wide range of people of different ages and backgrounds, I specialize working with ADHD and neurodivergent individuals and members of the LGBTQIA+ community, as well as those experiencing challenges with substance use, borderline personality disorder, complex trauma, depression, and anxiety.
Whether you are brand new to therapy or are many years into your journey, you deserve a place free from judgement where you can deepen your self understanding, build confidence in yourself, and find solutions to the problems you are facing. My approach to therapy is collaborative and strengths-based, centering on your goals and recognizing the capacity all humans possess to grow, heal, and change. I see my role as a therapist to provide you with the tools, resources and supportive environment (with a side of humor) necessary to foster that growth and get "unstuck" when facing challenges in your life.
While I have experience working with a wide range of people of different ages and backgrounds, I specialize working with ADHD and neurodivergent individuals and members of the LGBTQIA+ community, as well as those experiencing challenges with substance use, borderline personality disorder, complex trauma, depression, and anxiety.
Whether you are brand new to therapy or are many years into your journey, you deserve a place free from judgement where you can deepen your self understanding, build confidence in yourself, and find solutions to the problems you are facing. My approach to therapy is collaborative and strengths-based, centering on your goals and recognizing the capacity all humans possess to grow, heal, and change. I see my role as a therapist to provide you with the tools, resources and supportive environment (with a side of humor) necessary to foster that growth and get "unstuck" when facing challenges in your life.
Shannon Erisman
Psychologist, PhD, PsyPact
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02116
Waitlist for new clients
Women (including trans and nonbinary individuals) face unique challenges across the lifespan, particularly during times of transition. Overwhelming emotions, irritability, anxiety, or low mood are all signs that a change is needed, quite possibly in the form of a skilled, compassionate therapist to help you navigate these experiences. I specialize in the treatment of anxiety, borderline personality disorder, and perinatal mental health. I love working with college-aged folks (particularly the Brown University community) and couples as well.
Women (including trans and nonbinary individuals) face unique challenges across the lifespan, particularly during times of transition. Overwhelming emotions, irritability, anxiety, or low mood are all signs that a change is needed, quite possibly in the form of a skilled, compassionate therapist to help you navigate these experiences. I specialize in the treatment of anxiety, borderline personality disorder, and perinatal mental health. I love working with college-aged folks (particularly the Brown University community) and couples as well.
Mary Sebatindira
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02103 (Online Only)
I currently am accepting all populations although my area of experience includes trauma, BPD, and attachment theory.
How often in our busy lives do we have the opportunity to have another person truly listen to your thoughts, fears, hopes, ambitions? Sadly, not as often as we would like. My name is Mary Sebatindira, I have been a psychotherapist for over 9 years. I have worked with many populations which include: adults struggling with addiction, children/teens, and family work.
I currently am accepting all populations although my area of experience includes trauma, BPD, and attachment theory.
How often in our busy lives do we have the opportunity to have another person truly listen to your thoughts, fears, hopes, ambitions? Sadly, not as often as we would like. My name is Mary Sebatindira, I have been a psychotherapist for over 9 years. I have worked with many populations which include: adults struggling with addiction, children/teens, and family work.
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Alexa Ventresco
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02124
I specialize in working with individuals who struggle with emotion regulation, self injurious behavior, suicidality, trauma, depression and anxiety. I have extensive experience working with individuals who may be presenting with traits associated with Borderline Personality Disorder. I use a Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) approach to decrease problem behaviors, while increasing skills use. The overarching goal of my work is to help individuals improve distress tolerance, emotion regulation, mindfulness and interpersonal skills to gain more control in their lives and work towards their life worth living!
I specialize in working with individuals who struggle with emotion regulation, self injurious behavior, suicidality, trauma, depression and anxiety. I have extensive experience working with individuals who may be presenting with traits associated with Borderline Personality Disorder. I use a Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) approach to decrease problem behaviors, while increasing skills use. The overarching goal of my work is to help individuals improve distress tolerance, emotion regulation, mindfulness and interpersonal skills to gain more control in their lives and work towards their life worth living!
Kelly Zuromski
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02130 (Online Only)
I also have training in therapy approaches to treat PTSD (Prolonged Exposure) and borderline personality disorder (DBT).
Oct 2023: I have openings for new clients at this time - please note I am doing telehealth only and not in network with any insurance providers. As a licensed clinical psychologist, my work is focused on helping my clients process and manage difficult emotions so that they can experience more joy and meaning in their lives. I work with both adults and adolescents (age 12+). I specialize in the treatment of depression, anxiety, emotional and interpersonal concerns, and trauma- or stress-related issues. In addition to my work as a therapist, I am an NIH-funded research scientist focused on suicide prevention.
I also have training in therapy approaches to treat PTSD (Prolonged Exposure) and borderline personality disorder (DBT).
Oct 2023: I have openings for new clients at this time - please note I am doing telehealth only and not in network with any insurance providers. As a licensed clinical psychologist, my work is focused on helping my clients process and manage difficult emotions so that they can experience more joy and meaning in their lives. I work with both adults and adolescents (age 12+). I specialize in the treatment of depression, anxiety, emotional and interpersonal concerns, and trauma- or stress-related issues. In addition to my work as a therapist, I am an NIH-funded research scientist focused on suicide prevention.
Dr. Adam Arthur Johnson
EdD, MEd
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02199 (Online Only)
My ideal client is a young adult experiencing challenges in college, or transitioning into college, and has a condition/s that can affect learning such as executive functioning challenges, ADHD, autism, dyslexia, processing disorders (auditory, visual, language), intellectual disability, PTSD and/or 2e as well as mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, and/or schizophrenia. Their goals are to achieve their educational objectives, which generally involves completing a college degree, and to experience increased self-esteem, joy, motivation, and student success.
My ideal client is a young adult experiencing challenges in college, or transitioning into college, and has a condition/s that can affect learning such as executive functioning challenges, ADHD, autism, dyslexia, processing disorders (auditory, visual, language), intellectual disability, PTSD and/or 2e as well as mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, and/or schizophrenia. Their goals are to achieve their educational objectives, which generally involves completing a college degree, and to experience increased self-esteem, joy, motivation, and student success.
Keresse Thompson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW , LICSW
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02111 (Online Only)
Keresse Thompson is a seasoned therapist with a spiritual approach, leveraging over a decade of experience. Specializing in toxic relationships, narcissistic abuse, divorce/breakups, trauma healing, nervous system regulation, Borderline personality disorder and empaths, she supports clients through major life transitions. Keresse is also the host of a worldwide podcast and a Marine Veteran. Currently taking clients in Florida and Massachusetts.
Keresse Thompson is a seasoned therapist with a spiritual approach, leveraging over a decade of experience. Specializing in toxic relationships, narcissistic abuse, divorce/breakups, trauma healing, nervous system regulation, Borderline personality disorder and empaths, she supports clients through major life transitions. Keresse is also the host of a worldwide podcast and a Marine Veteran. Currently taking clients in Florida and Massachusetts.
Disha Joshi
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02115 (Online Only)
Therapy offers a chance to change things up. Each is its own little safe haven designed to release difficult emotions and gain different perspectives from the one that keeps us stuck. Let me help you clear out the cobwebs of your life! My goal is to create a warm environment that fosters real human connection that leaves you feeling like you are part of something bigger than yourself.
Therapy offers a chance to change things up. Each is its own little safe haven designed to release difficult emotions and gain different perspectives from the one that keeps us stuck. Let me help you clear out the cobwebs of your life! My goal is to create a warm environment that fosters real human connection that leaves you feeling like you are part of something bigger than yourself.
Rebecca La Prade
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02127 (Online Only)
Does it feel like anxiety or other emotions hold you hostage? Or do you, your teen, or your college-aged child struggle to make sense of your emotions or feel like emotions (or running from emotions) drive your decisions? Emotions are beautiful and challenging, and I love helping teens, young adults, and adults navigate the storm. I completed my post-doc training at McLean Hospital and Harvard Medical School in the 3East Intensive Program providing adherent DBT therapy to adolescents. I have experience in a range of settings including community mental health, IOP, PHP, and Residential Treatment.
Does it feel like anxiety or other emotions hold you hostage? Or do you, your teen, or your college-aged child struggle to make sense of your emotions or feel like emotions (or running from emotions) drive your decisions? Emotions are beautiful and challenging, and I love helping teens, young adults, and adults navigate the storm. I completed my post-doc training at McLean Hospital and Harvard Medical School in the 3East Intensive Program providing adherent DBT therapy to adolescents. I have experience in a range of settings including community mental health, IOP, PHP, and Residential Treatment.
Sarah Kroesser Nichols
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MEd, LICSW
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02117 (Online Only)
*NOT ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS AT THIS TIME* In my previous position at McLean, I worked with adolescents/families struggling with mood disorders, anxiety disorders, personality disorders and related family and relationship issues such as adoption, interpersonal conflict, etc, in addition to work with adults with substance abuse disorders. I also enjoy working with couples and families struggling with problems such as difficulty communicating and problems with intimacy. I love my job and hope that my work with clients continues to benefit the community as much as it does my own development.
*NOT ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS AT THIS TIME* In my previous position at McLean, I worked with adolescents/families struggling with mood disorders, anxiety disorders, personality disorders and related family and relationship issues such as adoption, interpersonal conflict, etc, in addition to work with adults with substance abuse disorders. I also enjoy working with couples and families struggling with problems such as difficulty communicating and problems with intimacy. I love my job and hope that my work with clients continues to benefit the community as much as it does my own development.
Molly S Radke
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02115 (Online Only)
Hi my name is Molly Radke and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor. I have a Masters of Counseling from Gordon-Conwell in Massachusetts and a BA in psychology from Northwestern College in Minnesota. I have a diverse background of experience working with all ages and modalities. I have helped people with many issues find more stability and happiness. I usually do a combination of skills work (DBT and CBT) and processing issues with clients. I find this combination to give the best balance of structure and insight. I genuinely believe that life is hard and we all need help from others to get through.
Hi my name is Molly Radke and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor. I have a Masters of Counseling from Gordon-Conwell in Massachusetts and a BA in psychology from Northwestern College in Minnesota. I have a diverse background of experience working with all ages and modalities. I have helped people with many issues find more stability and happiness. I usually do a combination of skills work (DBT and CBT) and processing issues with clients. I find this combination to give the best balance of structure and insight. I genuinely believe that life is hard and we all need help from others to get through.
Kerrie A Greene
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02199 (Online Only)
EMAIL preferred! As a therapist for more than a decade, I like to take a collaborative approach to relieve distress, improve well being, and develop new insights. We all fall into patterns of thinking and behaving which might not serve us well. Together we will identify patterns in living that you would like to change and explore how past experiences have shaped your life. I work with teens 16+ & adults who experience maladjustment issues, depression, anxiety, grief, transitions throughout the lifespan, relationship, parenting, and career related issues. I look forward to working with you on your personal journey toward change.
EMAIL preferred! As a therapist for more than a decade, I like to take a collaborative approach to relieve distress, improve well being, and develop new insights. We all fall into patterns of thinking and behaving which might not serve us well. Together we will identify patterns in living that you would like to change and explore how past experiences have shaped your life. I work with teens 16+ & adults who experience maladjustment issues, depression, anxiety, grief, transitions throughout the lifespan, relationship, parenting, and career related issues. I look forward to working with you on your personal journey toward change.
See more therapy options for Boston
Nearby Borderline Personality (BPD) Therapists Searches for Boston
- Allston
- Brighton
- Brookline
- Brookline Village
- Cambridge
- Chelsea
- Chestnut Hill
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- Jamaica Plain
- Somerville
- South Boston
- Winthrop
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.