Blog for Better Living

Balance 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 […]

How 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 […]

Self-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 […]

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 […]

Food and Your Mood: How Food Affects Mental Health

By: Jen McWaters, Psy.D. | January 19, 2024

The prevalence of mental health conditions is on the rise, and as a society it is crucial that we seriously examine and address the factors that contribute to these issues, both for ourselves and for younger generations. One area that deserves attention is our typical Western modern diet, specifically the over-consumption of ultra-processed food. In […]

Managing the Holidays with PTSD

By: Natalie Rice-Thorp, Ph.D. | December 22, 2023

If you are struggling with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) symptoms, and feeling anxious about the upcoming holidays, you are not alone. Large gatherings of loved ones, crowded stores, and big, bustling events with loud sounds can be overstimulating. This, combined with the added pressure around the holidays to join in and enjoy the festivities […]

Signs of a Trauma Bond

By: Michael Toohey, Psy.D. | December 8, 2023

Do you wonder why you stay with someone who doesn’t treat you well? Have you asked yourself why you stay in painful relationships? Understanding the nature of the trauma bond might help you understand yourself and answer these questions. What is the Trauma Bond? Trauma bonding is an entanglement that keeps a person in a […]

A Psychologist’s Guide to Stress-Free Celebrations

By: Kristen Lipari, Ph.D. | November 17, 2023

How to Honor Your Values and Boundaries this Holiday Season The holiday season often brings a whirlwind of activities, social gatherings, and family events. While it can be a joyous time, it can also be overwhelming, which can exacerbate stress and anxiety. As a psychologist who practices from an action-oriented, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) approach, […]

How to Cope with Gender Disappointment

By: Niyatee Sukumaran, Ph.D. | November 10, 2023

If you are an expectant parent, you’ve undoubtedly been asked: “Do you want a boy or a girl?” All expectant parents have their own ideas and expectations about the biological sex of their future child and create fantasies around what an ideal family looks like. The anticipation of a child’s gender can lead to a […]