Blog for Better Living

How to Care for Yourself When You’re Part of the Sandwich Generation

By: Niyatee Sukumaran, Ph.D. | October 24, 2025

In your 20s, life often feels full of adventure and discovery. By your 30s, 40s, and 50s, however, the rhythm shifts. Life becomes busier, more demanding, and sometimes overwhelming. Many adults in this stage find themselves simultaneously raising children while also caring for aging parents. This is the reality of the “Sandwich Generation.” Supporting multiple […]

Read More

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

Own Your Weird: It’s not an Insult – It’s a Superpower!

By: Michael Toohey, Psy.D. | September 26, 2025

Weirdo. Freak. Special. Oddball. Unconventional. Strange. Offbeat. Have you ever been called any of these? Many of us have – maybe growing up, or maybe just last week. Maybe you even use some of these terms to describe yourself. Or perhaps your child has been labeled this way. These words aren’t often meant kindly, and […]

Read More

Anxiety, Bullying, Depression, LGBTQ+, Relationships

Relationships, Roles, and Reality

By: Shanni Tal, Psy.D. | August 29, 2025

Navigating Life After Baby   This article is the third and final installment in our three-part series on maternal mental health. In the first article, ‘Who Am I Now?‘, we explored the emotional identity shift of new motherhood and the profound physical, emotional, and psychological changes that come with matrescence. In the second article, ‘When […]

Read More

Children, Parenting, Perinatal, Relationships

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 More

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 […]

Read More

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. […]

Read More

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. […]

Read More

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

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 […]

Read More

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 […]

Read More

Anxiety, Career, Relationships, Therapy