Blog for Better Living
Understanding, and Overcoming Perfectionism
By: Niyatee Sukumaran, Ph.D. | July 26, 2024
Some of us wear the label “perfectionist” as a badge of honor. It can be considered a positive quality, showing that we are and pay close attention to detail. What isn’t as well understood is that perfectionism can do more harm than good. It can damage our self-esteem and confidence, put a strain on our […]
Read MoreAnxiety, Depression, Personal Improvement, Relationships, Stress
What Are Your Emotions Trying To Tell You?
By: Shanni Tal, Psy.D. | July 19, 2024
Emotions are a natural part of being human, yet they are often perplexing, can be unpredictable and difficult to understand. If you grew up in a household that didn’t acknowledge a range of emotions, it may be hard for you to identify, and express your feelings. This can lead to feeling disconnected, problems with your […]
Read MoreAnger, Anxiety, Depression, Personal Improvement, Relationships
Do You Shy Away From Your Feelings?
By: Kristen Lipari, Ph.D. | June 28, 2024
How To Understand Your Emotional Cues As a psychologist who treats strong and resilient women, I often hear my clients say that they try their hardest not to cry. They push their feelings away in hopes of avoiding the pain. Emotional repression is a common defense mechanism, especially if you live, or grew up […]
Read MoreAnger, Anxiety, Depression, Personal Improvement, Relationships, Stress
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Coping With Perfectionism Using RAIN
By: Niyatee Sukumaran, Ph.D. | June 21, 2024
As a psychologist, I’ve talked with many clients who are trapped in an endless cycle of not feeling “good enough” because they set excessively high standards for themselves. Although there is absolutely nothing wrong with striving for excellence, the tendency to aim for flawlessness negatively impacts a person’s life. This tendency is referred to as […]
Read MoreI’m an Accomplice
By: Michael Toohey, Psy.D. | June 7, 2024
Long before I was a psychologist, I was a volunteer and worked with all sorts of queer people. I remember volunteering in Hawaii almost 30 years ago, and one of the local volunteers was a trans woman. She was in the process of transitioning, and to get the “approval” of a psychiatrist to fully transition, […]
Read MoreBalance Parenting Responsibilities: Increase Equity and Decrease Resentment
By: Kristen Lipari, Ph.D. | April 12, 2024
Many women in their 30’s grew up observing traditional gender roles, when women primarily managed child-rearing responsibilities and “kept the home,” while men worked outside the home to provide financial stability. Over the years gender roles have changed and women have more opportunities to advance their careers. Despite this significant evolution, women with careers who […]
Read MoreHow to Set and Maintain Your Fitness Goals
By: Sheila Allameh, Psy.D. | April 5, 2024
The spring season has officially begun! The days are longer, and the weather is warmer, allowing more opportunity to be outside and move our bodies. The increased serotonin from healthy movement and Vitamin D from the sun naturally boosts your mood and energy, giving you the motivation you need to set, and maintain your fitness […]
Read MoreSelf-Soothe Using Your 5 Senses
By: Natalie Rice-Thorp, Ph.D. | March 15, 2024
Have you ever felt SO mad, sad, or frustrated that you don’t know what to do with yourself? In these moments, what tools and coping skills do you have to manage your emotions effectively? Do you use alcohol or other substances to calm or numb yourself? Do you lash out at loved ones or pick […]
Read MoreAnger, Anxiety, Depression, Grief, Mindfulness, Personal Improvement, Relationships, Stress, Therapy
Overcome Impostor Syndrome and Heal Your Inner Critic!
By: Niyatee Sukumaran, Ph.D. | February 2, 2024
Impostor Syndrome is a persistent feeling of inadequacy and self-doubt. If you suffer from impostor syndrome you feel anxious, insecure, and consistently worry. You feel like a fraud and believe that you don’t deserve to be where you are. You might attribute your success and accomplishments to luck or circumstance, rather than the result of […]
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