Blog for Better Living

First Day of School: Parent Fantasy vs. Reality

By: Natalie Rice-Thorp, Ph.D. | August 8, 2025

I’m not quite sure how it’s possible, but the summer is already winding down. In theory, part of me finds the idea of new school supplies and a fresh start appealing. It’s the same part that daydreams about celebrating the kids’ first day back – imagining us sitting around the dinner table, sharing all the […]

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Children, Family, Parenting, Relationships, Teens

Healthy Coping Skills for Dealing with Challenging Times

By: Rochelle Perper, Ph.D. | August 1, 2025

Lately, it seems like we’re all carrying a bit more than usual – and it can feel heavy. If you’re anything like me, you’ve probably found yourself feeling overwhelmed, and at times, it can feel helpless. Or, you may be navigating a life transition or change, grieving the loss of a loved one, managing relationship […]

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Anxiety, Depression, Grief, Personal Improvement, Relationships, Sleep/Relaxation, Stress, Trauma

The Physical, Psychological and Relational Benefits of Prayer

By: Jen McWaters, Psy.D. | July 25, 2025

Prayer has long been a core spiritual practice, and growing research in neuroscience and psychology suggests it may also be a powerful tool for mental, emotional, and even physical health. While science is still uncovering the full mechanisms behind prayer’s effects, the evidence suggests it can help reduce stress, improve focus, and support emotional resilience. […]

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Anxiety, Depression, Personal Improvement, Relationships

Understanding and Supporting Immigrant Mental Health

By: Niyatee Sukumaran, Ph.D. | July 18, 2025

Why It Matters and How to Help   Behind every immigration statistic is a human story – often filled with courage, sacrifice, and silent struggle. While the headlines focus on policy debates and border numbers, the emotional reality of immigration is far more complex. According to the American Immigration Council, about 14.3% of the U.S. […]

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Anxiety, Bullying, Racial Justice, Relationships, Stress, Trauma

When the Usual Sleep Tricks Don’t Work

By: Kristen Lipari, Ph.D. | June 27, 2025

Real Help for Insomnia   We’ve all had a sleepless night or two—maybe after a stressful day, too much screen time, or that ill-advised late cup of coffee. It’s easy to say, “I had such bad insomnia last night.” But clinical insomnia goes far beyond the occasional restless night. It’s a diagnosable condition that affects […]

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Anxiety, Personal Improvement, Sleep/Relaxation, Stress

Privacy vs. Secrecy

By: Michael Toohey, Psy.D. | June 13, 2025

Why the Difference Matters More Than You Think   Have you ever felt uneasy about keeping something to yourself – but also uncomfortable with the idea of sharing it? If so, you’re not alone. Privacy and secrecy are often confused, but they’re not the same – and understanding the difference can set the foundation for […]

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Personal Improvement, Relationships

How To Manage Back-to-the-Office Anxiety

By: Natalie Rice-Thorp, Ph.D. | June 6, 2025

It’s happened – the dreaded call back to the office has arrived. ☹ If the thought of trading your cozy pajama pants and comfortable home setup for fluorescent lights and shared coffee machines fills you with feelings of anxiety, panic, and dread, you’re not alone. Take a deep breath (seriously…take one now) – it might […]

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Anxiety, Career, Relationships, Therapy

The Path to Deeper Connection

By: Gregory E. Koch, Psy.D. | June 3, 2025

How Imago Workshops Transform Relationships   Imagine sitting across from your partner and truly feeling heard – maybe for the first time in years. That’s the type of magic many couples experience in Imago educational workshops like Getting the Love You Want. These weekend workshops aren’t just about fixing problems; they’re about rediscovering the connection, […]

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Anger, Anxiety, Depression, Grief, Relationships, Stress, Trauma

Transcending Borders: Why Immigrant Mental Health Matters

By: Niyatee Sukumaran, Ph.D. | May 23, 2025

Immigration is more than a political issue – for those who leave their homes behind, it is a deeply personal journey marked by a profound emotional weight. While the topic is often discussed in terms of laws, borders, and statistics, it’s rarely viewed through the lens of mental health. For millions of immigrants, crossing into […]

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Anxiety, Depression, Grief, Racial Justice, Relationships, Stress, Trauma