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 […]
Read MoreHealthy 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 […]
Read MoreAnxiety, 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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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. […]
Read MoreAnxiety, 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 […]
Read MorePrivacy 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 […]
Read MoreHow 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 […]
Read MoreThe 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, […]
Read MoreAnger, 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 […]
Read MoreAnxiety, Depression, Grief, Racial Justice, Relationships, Stress, Trauma