Blog for Better Living

What You Need to Know About Maternal Rage

By: Kristen Lipari, Ph.D. | September 27, 2024

Maternal rage is often misunderstood as anger or frustration experienced by mothers, stemming from the pressures and challenges of parenting. But it’s so much more. This intense emotional state is a response to systemic inequities, societal expectations, lack of support, and unmet needs amidst overwhelming parenting and household duties that cause moms to feel powerless, […]

Read More

Anger, Family, Parenting, Perinatal, Relationships

Five Tips to Improve Communication

By: Sheila Allameh, Psy.D. | September 20, 2024

We’ve all experienced situations where we try to improve communication with someone, only to have our attempts backfire. We share our perspective, but the other person interprets it completely differently, leading to conflict or misunderstanding. While communication may seem instinctual, it requires skill and practice to confidently navigate difficult conversations. You might be experiencing disagreements […]

Read More

Relationships

Embracing Imperfection

By: Natalie Rice-Thorp, Ph.D. | September 13, 2024

Rethinking the Quest for the Perfect Conversation   Imagine gliding effortlessly through an anxiety-free conversation where you can clearly and calmly focus on what others are saying and be ready with a perfectly timed funny/empathetic/intelligent response. You feel confident! You look amazing! Sounds great, right…but is it possible? While you might imagine this kind of […]

Read More

Anxiety, Personal Improvement, Relationships

Understanding Religious Trauma and Its Effects

By: Michael Toohey, Psy.D. | September 6, 2024

Trauma refers to the profound emotional and psychological impact that occurs when an individual’s sense of safety is compromised and their ability to cope is overwhelmed. Such experiences often shatter a person’s sense of security, which can have lasting physical, emotional, and psychological effects. Trauma can arise from a wide array of experiences and is […]

Read More

Anxiety, Depression, Relationships, Stress, Trauma

The Power of Validation

By: Rochelle Perper, Ph.D. | August 9, 2024

We all want to feel heard, accepted, valued, and even loved. When we validate someone, we are essentially giving them this experience. Life can be confusing and difficult for all of us, but when we are genuinely validated, we feel acknowledged and reassured that we are not alone. Life seems more manageable, and we become […]

Read More

Anger, Anxiety, Depression, Parenting, Relationships, Therapy, Trauma

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 More

Anxiety, 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 More

Anger, Anxiety, Depression, Personal Improvement, Relationships

Why Is Leaving So Hard?

By: Natalie Rice-Thorp, Ph.D. | July 5, 2024

How To Feel at Peace With Your Decision   During a recent chat with a Swiftie about the wisdom in Taylor Swift’s song, “It’s Time To Go,” I started thinking about what it’s like to leave something that no longer serves you. Whether it’s a romantic relationship, a friendship, a job, or something else, I […]

Read More

Anxiety, Career, 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 More

Anger, Anxiety, Depression, Personal Improvement, Relationships, Stress