Blog for Better Living

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

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

Burnout: Causes, Symptoms, and How to Overcome It

By: Jen McWaters, Psy.D. | May 16, 2025

You’re tired – but not just physically. You feel drained, detached, and like you’re running on fumes. In today’s fast-paced, always “on” world, this state of exhaustion has a name: burnout. Whether it’s feeling overwhelmed at work, stressed with personal responsibilities, burdened with the mental load of caregiving, or struggling to find a balance in […]

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

Get Up, Get Moving, Feel Better

By: Demet Çek, Ph.D. | March 28, 2025

The Power of Behavioral Activation   Do you feel stuck in a cycle of low energy, lost motivation, and diminished joy? Depression, loneliness, and midlife malaise can leave you feeling exhausted and indifferent, causing you to withdraw from activities and isolate from others, which only deepens the cycle and makes everything harder. To break this […]

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Depression, Personal Improvement, Relationships

Am I a People Pleaser or Just a Nice Person?

By: Michael Toohey, Psy.D. | March 7, 2025

Have you ever found yourself agreeing to something you didn’t want to do, just to avoid disappointing someone, and then wondered – am I a people pleaser or just a nice person? The truth is the distinction between being a people pleaser and simply being kind can be more nuanced than you might think. People […]

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Anxiety, Personal Improvement, Relationships, Trauma

The Impact of Menopause on Mental Health

By: Jen McWaters, Psy.D. | February 21, 2025

Menopause, a natural phase in a woman’s life, brings about significant hormonal changes that can profoundly impact mental health. Symptoms associated with menopause can begin as early as the mid-40s (sometimes earlier) during a phase known as perimenopause. Perimenopause is the transitional period leading up to menopause, characterized by fluctuating hormone levels that can cause […]

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Anxiety, Depression, Personal Improvement, Sleep/Relaxation

A Therapist’s Wish for 2025: Building Strength Through Adversity

By: Rochelle Perper, Ph.D. | February 11, 2025

This year, I’m continuing the tradition of sharing my personal reflections on the past year and my intentions for the year ahead. The new year is typically a time for reflection and gratitude, but to be honest, this has been a difficult practice for me lately. It’s been a chaotic start to the year for […]

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Grief, Personal Improvement, Stress