Borderline Personality (BPD) Therapists in Carlsbad, CA

Photo of Living Success Counseling Center, Marriage & Family Therapist in Carlsbad, CA
Living Success Counseling Center
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Carlsbad, CA 92008
The Living Success Center believes that mental health care is a right for everyone and is committed to the following values: Each client will be cared for regardless of race, creed, color, sexual orientation or religion. Each client will be treated with respect and dignity, with compassion, empathy and acceptance of cultural and linguistic differences. Each client will be cared for regardless of their ability to pay, for as long as they need and want therapy. Each client will be assured privacy and confidentiality. Each client will be cared for by a qualified clinician working with licensed and specially trained Supervisors.
The Living Success Center believes that mental health care is a right for everyone and is committed to the following values: Each client will be cared for regardless of race, creed, color, sexual orientation or religion. Each client will be treated with respect and dignity, with compassion, empathy and acceptance of cultural and linguistic differences. Each client will be cared for regardless of their ability to pay, for as long as they need and want therapy. Each client will be assured privacy and confidentiality. Each client will be cared for by a qualified clinician working with licensed and specially trained Supervisors.
(949) 666-2866 View (949) 666-2866
Photo of Dr. Nastassia Riser, Psychologist in Carlsbad, CA
Dr. Nastassia Riser
Psychologist, MS, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Carlsbad, CA 92008
Riser completed an APA-Accredited Adult Forensic Internship at Tulane University School of Medicine followed by an APA-Accredited Postdoctoral Fellowship at UCSD—VA San Diego where she received specialized training in evidence-based treatments for borderline personality disorder, mood and sleep disorders, and in crisis and short-term interventions.
Dr. Riser has over 10 years of experience providing Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and various other evidence-based approaches for the treatment of mood, anxiety, and personality disorders with special interest in emotion regulation, self-harm, and suicidality. Dr. Riser is an integrative psychologist, utilizing science-based interventions while also taking a holistic, mind + body, indivualized approach to treatment. Dr. Riser earned her PhD in Clinical Psychology from The Chicago Medical School/RFUMS with a concentration in psychopathology.
Riser completed an APA-Accredited Adult Forensic Internship at Tulane University School of Medicine followed by an APA-Accredited Postdoctoral Fellowship at UCSD—VA San Diego where she received specialized training in evidence-based treatments for borderline personality disorder, mood and sleep disorders, and in crisis and short-term interventions.
Dr. Riser has over 10 years of experience providing Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and various other evidence-based approaches for the treatment of mood, anxiety, and personality disorders with special interest in emotion regulation, self-harm, and suicidality. Dr. Riser is an integrative psychologist, utilizing science-based interventions while also taking a holistic, mind + body, indivualized approach to treatment. Dr. Riser earned her PhD in Clinical Psychology from The Chicago Medical School/RFUMS with a concentration in psychopathology.
(760) 280-7340 View (760) 280-7340
Photo of Relationship Society - Couples Telehealth, Marriage & Family Therapist in Carlsbad, CA
Relationship Society - Couples Telehealth
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Carlsbad, CA 92008  (Online Only)
The Relationship Society provides trauma-informed relationship psychotherapy methods and models from our office to virtual reality to video and tele-health to create safe conversations to treat Complex-PTS and PTS (Trauma) within the context of a couple/family environment. We work best with couples, individuals, military, veterans, first responder's and those who "rage against the dying of the light!"
The Relationship Society provides trauma-informed relationship psychotherapy methods and models from our office to virtual reality to video and tele-health to create safe conversations to treat Complex-PTS and PTS (Trauma) within the context of a couple/family environment. We work best with couples, individuals, military, veterans, first responder's and those who "rage against the dying of the light!"
(760) 280-6952 View (760) 280-6952
Photo of Psychological Testing & Evaluations - Dr. Dean, Psychologist in Carlsbad, CA
Psychological Testing & Evaluations - Dr. Dean
Psychologist, PsyD, QME, Author
Verified Verified
Carlsbad, CA 92008
I'm Dr. Dean Leav, licensed psychologist and qualified medical evaluator (QME). I've been featured on ABC, NBC, KCAL, and other programs as an expert psychologist. I provide Evaluation Services, including (and not limited to): diagnostics (ADHD, Autism, Learning Dis.), cognitive/neuropsychological evaluations, workers' compensation (QME/AME), immigration-related evaluations, pre-adoption psychological evaluations, parenting/bonding assessments, drug & alcohol evaluations, pre-employment evaluations, and legal/forensics/criminal evaluations. These evaluations may be used to meet eligibility for certain services or accommodations.
I'm Dr. Dean Leav, licensed psychologist and qualified medical evaluator (QME). I've been featured on ABC, NBC, KCAL, and other programs as an expert psychologist. I provide Evaluation Services, including (and not limited to): diagnostics (ADHD, Autism, Learning Dis.), cognitive/neuropsychological evaluations, workers' compensation (QME/AME), immigration-related evaluations, pre-adoption psychological evaluations, parenting/bonding assessments, drug & alcohol evaluations, pre-employment evaluations, and legal/forensics/criminal evaluations. These evaluations may be used to meet eligibility for certain services or accommodations.
(424) 336-8621 View (424) 336-8621
Photo of Healing Hearts Counseling Center, Counselor in Carlsbad, CA
Healing Hearts Counseling Center
Counselor, MS, LPCC
Verified Verified
Carlsbad, CA 92009
Our overall mission is to promote behavioral health and wellness for our clients to obtain a high quality of life within themselves, their family, and their community. We work with a wide range of emotional and behavioral issues providing services that include assessment, short-term solution focused interventions, consultation with other providers, and crisis intervention. If you are feeling stuck, stressed from life circumstances, or having trouble adjusting to new transitions, then please contact us. We are here for you!
Our overall mission is to promote behavioral health and wellness for our clients to obtain a high quality of life within themselves, their family, and their community. We work with a wide range of emotional and behavioral issues providing services that include assessment, short-term solution focused interventions, consultation with other providers, and crisis intervention. If you are feeling stuck, stressed from life circumstances, or having trouble adjusting to new transitions, then please contact us. We are here for you!
(760) 648-4057 View (760) 648-4057
Photo of Rebecca Graves, Marriage & Family Therapist in Carlsbad, CA
Rebecca Graves
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Carlsbad, CA 92008
My goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. I believe in meeting my clients exactly where they are in their life and personality through my non-judgmental, empathetic, and accepting respect for YOU! My clinical experience includes working with individuals, couples and families on issues surrounding personal goal setting, performance enhancement, individuals in transitions in their lives, relationship conflicts, divorce, personal empowerment and growth. I have worked closely with athletes, executives, military, young adults, teens, couples, pregnancy related and the LGBTQ community.
My goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. I believe in meeting my clients exactly where they are in their life and personality through my non-judgmental, empathetic, and accepting respect for YOU! My clinical experience includes working with individuals, couples and families on issues surrounding personal goal setting, performance enhancement, individuals in transitions in their lives, relationship conflicts, divorce, personal empowerment and growth. I have worked closely with athletes, executives, military, young adults, teens, couples, pregnancy related and the LGBTQ community.
(760) 354-8089 View (760) 354-8089
Photo of Jennifer Michelle Palmer, Marriage & Family Therapist in Carlsbad, CA
Jennifer Michelle Palmer
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Carlsbad, CA 92009
I want every person to know that seeking help and taking the first steps toward recovery, healing and change takes courage and strength. My own journey and experiences led me into the field of marriage and family therapy where I have the honor to walk alongside others with compassion, empathy and guidance. I specialize in the treatment of eating disorders, anxiety, depression and co-occurring disorders in adolescents and adults. I also hold experience and knowledge in working with families and individuals struggling through grief, life transitions and relationships.
I want every person to know that seeking help and taking the first steps toward recovery, healing and change takes courage and strength. My own journey and experiences led me into the field of marriage and family therapy where I have the honor to walk alongside others with compassion, empathy and guidance. I specialize in the treatment of eating disorders, anxiety, depression and co-occurring disorders in adolescents and adults. I also hold experience and knowledge in working with families and individuals struggling through grief, life transitions and relationships.
(760) 621-7154 View (760) 621-7154
Photo of Sonia Palmer, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Carlsbad, CA
Sonia Palmer
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Carlsbad, CA 92008
I strive to create a safe and supportive environment where individuals of all ages can explore their innermost thoughts, emotions, and experiences. Therapy is not just about alleviating symptoms, but about fostering personal growth and transformation from the inside out.
I strive to create a safe and supportive environment where individuals of all ages can explore their innermost thoughts, emotions, and experiences. Therapy is not just about alleviating symptoms, but about fostering personal growth and transformation from the inside out.
(858) 786-0381 View (858) 786-0381
Photo of Joseph De Vico, Marriage & Family Therapist in Carlsbad, CA
Joseph De Vico
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
Carlsbad, CA 92011  (Online Only)
Hi, it's Joseph. Let’s talk. We’ll work together until that unsolvable problem is history, until that overwhelming pain is bearable, until the impossible future is simply your future. You’ve always been strong, resourceful, and intuitive. I’m just going to help clear away the junk you’re trapped beneath so you can actually feel that way: false beliefs that make life seem harder than it really is; old stories about yourself that have nothing to do with who you are now; distractions that keep you from deciding what is most meaningful to you; power imbalances that take away good things that are rightfully yours. This stuff has to go.
Hi, it's Joseph. Let’s talk. We’ll work together until that unsolvable problem is history, until that overwhelming pain is bearable, until the impossible future is simply your future. You’ve always been strong, resourceful, and intuitive. I’m just going to help clear away the junk you’re trapped beneath so you can actually feel that way: false beliefs that make life seem harder than it really is; old stories about yourself that have nothing to do with who you are now; distractions that keep you from deciding what is most meaningful to you; power imbalances that take away good things that are rightfully yours. This stuff has to go.
(619) 648-1856 View (619) 648-1856
Photo of ADR Wellness, Psychologist in Carlsbad, CA
ADR Wellness
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Carlsbad, CA 92008
Are you feeling stressed? Overwhelmed? Involved in a painful relationship? Do you want to decrease your suffering? We are here to help. The process of change can be painful, but it also offers opportunity for growth. If you are interested in making life changes, or are contemplating making changes in your life, then I invite you to contact us. At ADR Wellness we provide a nonjudgmental and safe environment. We offer research proven methods to help identify problems and create constructive solutions for difficult life issues.
Are you feeling stressed? Overwhelmed? Involved in a painful relationship? Do you want to decrease your suffering? We are here to help. The process of change can be painful, but it also offers opportunity for growth. If you are interested in making life changes, or are contemplating making changes in your life, then I invite you to contact us. At ADR Wellness we provide a nonjudgmental and safe environment. We offer research proven methods to help identify problems and create constructive solutions for difficult life issues.
(760) 991-3243 View (760) 991-3243
Photo of Amanda Prestage, Marriage & Family Therapist in Carlsbad, CA
Amanda Prestage
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, EMDR, KAP
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Carlsbad, CA 92011
Are you feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or lost? Is your past weighing you down? Does it feel like you've tried everything to get through your past and yet it feels like you're not getting anywhere? Together, we will get you back on your way to living a meaningful life. I provide a secure and nurturing space for you to come as you are. You'll be able to share about your experiences without judgment. We'll work through your past to clear the path for your future. Life is too precious to spend another second feeling unhappy and stuck. Inaction only makes things worse. Your best life is waiting for you.
Are you feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or lost? Is your past weighing you down? Does it feel like you've tried everything to get through your past and yet it feels like you're not getting anywhere? Together, we will get you back on your way to living a meaningful life. I provide a secure and nurturing space for you to come as you are. You'll be able to share about your experiences without judgment. We'll work through your past to clear the path for your future. Life is too precious to spend another second feeling unhappy and stuck. Inaction only makes things worse. Your best life is waiting for you.
(760) 548-2984 View (760) 548-2984
Photo of Natalie Guerra-Crowe, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Carlsbad, CA
Natalie Guerra-Crowe
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Carlsbad, CA 92008  (Online Only)
I primarily work with teens, young adults & adults to treat anxiety, depression, BPD, trauma, overall self-esteem, and much more.
Therapy can be a helpful and beautiful transforming tool. My primary goal is to create a space for you to feel safe to share whatever you need in our sessions. It is your time, and I am here to help guide you and work with you. You are the expert in your story, and together, we will work hard to find solutions and peace. I specialize in working with teens and young adults but have clients of all ages. I also specialize in OCD, trichotillomania (hair-pulling disorder), ADHD, and anxiety. Seeing all clients residing in CA via telehealth.
I primarily work with teens, young adults & adults to treat anxiety, depression, BPD, trauma, overall self-esteem, and much more.
Therapy can be a helpful and beautiful transforming tool. My primary goal is to create a space for you to feel safe to share whatever you need in our sessions. It is your time, and I am here to help guide you and work with you. You are the expert in your story, and together, we will work hard to find solutions and peace. I specialize in working with teens and young adults but have clients of all ages. I also specialize in OCD, trichotillomania (hair-pulling disorder), ADHD, and anxiety. Seeing all clients residing in CA via telehealth.
(805) 600-3902 View (805) 600-3902
Photo of Renew Therapy SD, Marriage & Family Therapist in Carlsbad, CA
Renew Therapy SD
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Carlsbad, CA 92008
Hello, I proud of you for looking into therapy! A little about me, I specialize in couples/family, anxiety disorders, and trauma therapy. Having my own struggles with anxiety helps me to understand how mental health can take a toll on one's life, which sparked my interested in anxiety and trauma care. I think our early experiences, genetic makeup, and outside environment all play a role in our mental health and relationships. I chose this career field because I have a passion for helping people build healthier relationships with others and their own thoughts and feelings.
Hello, I proud of you for looking into therapy! A little about me, I specialize in couples/family, anxiety disorders, and trauma therapy. Having my own struggles with anxiety helps me to understand how mental health can take a toll on one's life, which sparked my interested in anxiety and trauma care. I think our early experiences, genetic makeup, and outside environment all play a role in our mental health and relationships. I chose this career field because I have a passion for helping people build healthier relationships with others and their own thoughts and feelings.
(442) 245-5502 View (442) 245-5502
Photo of Men's Issues - Dr. Dean, Psychologist in Carlsbad, CA
Men's Issues - Dr. Dean
Psychologist, PsyD, QME, Author
Verified Verified
Carlsbad, CA 92008
Welcome to my practice. I have been in practice since 2007 and have been featured on ABC, NBC, and KCAL as an expert psychologist. I work primarily with men who have hit “rock bottom” and would like help getting up. These men are often in crisis when we first meet. The issues I address are typically related to unhealthy sexual behaviors, infidelity, financial recklessness, gambling, drugs/alcohol, dishonesty/lying, and relational conflicts. My therapy approach is a combination of psychoanalytic, cognitive-behavioral, and the 12-Step recovery model. I also share insight from my own painful but redemptive recovery journey.
Welcome to my practice. I have been in practice since 2007 and have been featured on ABC, NBC, and KCAL as an expert psychologist. I work primarily with men who have hit “rock bottom” and would like help getting up. These men are often in crisis when we first meet. The issues I address are typically related to unhealthy sexual behaviors, infidelity, financial recklessness, gambling, drugs/alcohol, dishonesty/lying, and relational conflicts. My therapy approach is a combination of psychoanalytic, cognitive-behavioral, and the 12-Step recovery model. I also share insight from my own painful but redemptive recovery journey.
(442) 200-1729 View (442) 200-1729
Photo of Mia Najor, Marriage & Family Therapist in Carlsbad, CA
Mia Najor
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Carlsbad, CA 92008
I am a licensed marriage and family therapist with experience treating mood disorders, relationship issues, and self esteem issues. I believe deeply in the practice of mindfulness. I am currently working on completing my sex therapy certification through the Sexual Health Alliance. I believe Black Lives Matter and love is love. I strive to do my own work as an AntiRacist clinician. I am a health at every size advocate. I specialize in the treatment of disordered eating, eating disorders, and body image dissatisfaction. I love empowering my clients. Since 2013, I have been working with the eating disorder population.
I am a licensed marriage and family therapist with experience treating mood disorders, relationship issues, and self esteem issues. I believe deeply in the practice of mindfulness. I am currently working on completing my sex therapy certification through the Sexual Health Alliance. I believe Black Lives Matter and love is love. I strive to do my own work as an AntiRacist clinician. I am a health at every size advocate. I specialize in the treatment of disordered eating, eating disorders, and body image dissatisfaction. I love empowering my clients. Since 2013, I have been working with the eating disorder population.
(858) 295-1338 View (858) 295-1338
Photo of A Guided Journey Counseling (Glenn L. Farr), Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Carlsbad, CA
A Guided Journey Counseling (Glenn L. Farr)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, Individ, Relatio, Family
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Carlsbad, CA 92008
Hi, do you want deeper peace, acceptance, love & joy for yourself, your relationships, and your family? Providing you with tools, perspective, and support is one of the most rewarding aspects of life for me. My name's Glenn and thank you for visiting my profile. I can't wait for you to turn life's challenges from stumbling blocks into stepping stones to a much better life than you ever thought possible. I look forward to our meeting, until then, take care. Your journey to a better life awaits. Call for a free phone consultation: 442-888-0873. Glenn Farr
Hi, do you want deeper peace, acceptance, love & joy for yourself, your relationships, and your family? Providing you with tools, perspective, and support is one of the most rewarding aspects of life for me. My name's Glenn and thank you for visiting my profile. I can't wait for you to turn life's challenges from stumbling blocks into stepping stones to a much better life than you ever thought possible. I look forward to our meeting, until then, take care. Your journey to a better life awaits. Call for a free phone consultation: 442-888-0873. Glenn Farr
(442) 244-9159 View (442) 244-9159
Photo of Kristin Lokey, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Carlsbad, CA
Kristin Lokey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Carlsbad, CA 92009
Hi, my name is Kristin Lokey and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Fresno, California, and supporting clients through telehealth. I am committed to finding a supportive path to help support my clients in the progression and just help them feel better! My focus is helping clients see the root of their distress and the problems that come with it. My approach allows for internal problem-solving with the tools to work through those things.
Hi, my name is Kristin Lokey and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Fresno, California, and supporting clients through telehealth. I am committed to finding a supportive path to help support my clients in the progression and just help them feel better! My focus is helping clients see the root of their distress and the problems that come with it. My approach allows for internal problem-solving with the tools to work through those things.
(408) 676-3362 View (408) 676-3362
Photo of Reid Kessler, Psychologist in Carlsbad, CA
Reid Kessler
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Carlsbad, CA 92008
Our small group practice of psychologists is accepting new patients as of 3/28/24 for in-person (Encinitas & Carlsbad) or virtual therapy! I offer people a caring, down-to-earth, and honest relationship. I help teens and adults navigate their distress with confidence and purpose. If you are having difficulty managing emotions that used to be easy or you want to better understand destructive patterns in life, I can help.
Our small group practice of psychologists is accepting new patients as of 3/28/24 for in-person (Encinitas & Carlsbad) or virtual therapy! I offer people a caring, down-to-earth, and honest relationship. I help teens and adults navigate their distress with confidence and purpose. If you are having difficulty managing emotions that used to be easy or you want to better understand destructive patterns in life, I can help.
(760) 571-2425 View (760) 571-2425
Photo of Caitlin E. Mikulicich, Marriage & Family Therapist in Carlsbad, CA
Caitlin E. Mikulicich
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CCTP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Carlsbad, CA 92011  (Online Only)
It’s been found that the most important factor for creating change in therapy is the therapeutic relationship. I offer a safe, non-judgmental space to process emotions and transmute pain into growth. I consider all aspects of an individual and implement a biopsychosocial-spiritual, culturally-sensitive and client-centered approach with individuals, couples, families and groups. I’ve used various research-based modalities including DBT, EFT, Internal Family Systems/parts work, EMDR, and art therapy. Additionally, I am now offering KAP (Ketamine-assisted psychotherapy) remotely.
It’s been found that the most important factor for creating change in therapy is the therapeutic relationship. I offer a safe, non-judgmental space to process emotions and transmute pain into growth. I consider all aspects of an individual and implement a biopsychosocial-spiritual, culturally-sensitive and client-centered approach with individuals, couples, families and groups. I’ve used various research-based modalities including DBT, EFT, Internal Family Systems/parts work, EMDR, and art therapy. Additionally, I am now offering KAP (Ketamine-assisted psychotherapy) remotely.
(619) 363-0325 View (619) 363-0325
Photo of Kelli Larose, Marriage & Family Therapist in Carlsbad, CA
Kelli Larose
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Carlsbad, CA 92008  (Online Only)
As a compassionate and dedicated therapist, I am committed to providing a safe and supportive environment where people can explore their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. With over 20 years of experience in the field, I specialize in helping individuals overcome anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship issues. Life is hard. If you would like to learn how to achieve your goals, overcome the challenges that life has thrown at you, and desire to live a more fulfilling and meaningful life, then I am here to help you get started.
As a compassionate and dedicated therapist, I am committed to providing a safe and supportive environment where people can explore their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. With over 20 years of experience in the field, I specialize in helping individuals overcome anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship issues. Life is hard. If you would like to learn how to achieve your goals, overcome the challenges that life has thrown at you, and desire to live a more fulfilling and meaningful life, then I am here to help you get started.
(442) 313-2615 View (442) 313-2615
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.