Blog for Better Living
When the Question “How was your Day?” Isn’t Enough for Couples
By: Other | February 7, 2014
Written by Francine Martinez, Ph.D. “When my kids become wild and unruly, I use a nice, safe playpen. When they’re finished, I climb out.” ~Erma Bombeck Parenthood is one of the most challenging, rewarding, confusing and personal growth experiences someone can have. Having recently become a grandparent and having had some time between my daughter’s […]
Read MoreUnderstanding Childhood Grief Responses
By: Rochelle Perper, Ph.D. | December 4, 2013
Children and adolescents grieve differently than adults. Grief occurs in many different circumstances, especially for children. In addition to losing a loved one through death, children grieve when the family has to relocate or change schools. In addition, grief occurs following a traumatic experience, the loss of a relationship, divorce, graduation, the experience of getting […]
Read MoreTips on Fair Fighting This Thanksgiving
By: Other | November 26, 2013
Written by Karin Thebus, Psy.D. Most of us would say that we love our families… that is, until we spend extended periods of time with them. When family members stop playing nice and the gloves come off, many families go to what can only be described as “the dark side.” Even the most pleasant and […]
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Parent-Child Interaction Therapy teaches parents, children to connect
By: Other | November 25, 2013
Written by Fabiola Figueroa, Ph.D. What am I doing wrong? If you are like many parents of young children, you have probably asked yourself this question before. It is difficult, to say the least to effectively manage children’s behavioral problems. If you have tried many times over with no success to manage your child’s behavioral […]
Read MoreDivorce is tough on kids. Here’s what you can do to help them cope.
By: Rochelle Perper, Ph.D. | November 21, 2013
For children, divorce can be stressful, sad, and confusing. At any age, kids may feel uncertain or angry at the prospect of their parents splitting up. As a parent, you can make the process and its effects less painful for your children. Helping your kids cope with divorce means providing stability in your home and […]
Read MoreAfter the Decision – Moving Forward with the Adoption Process
By: Other | November 13, 2013
Written by Francine Martinez, Ph.D. Educating yourself about adoption and talking it over with those that you care most about is a crucial part in the adoption process. We take this step in planning a biological family, and it is just as important in welcoming an adoptive child into our lives. Once you values are […]
Read MoreStarting a Family? Is Adoption for You?
By: Other | November 7, 2013
Written by Francine Martinez, Ph.D. Nineteen years ago I became the proud adoptive mom of my now 25 year old daughter. The process leading up to the adoption began several years before any paperwork was completed. Considerations of financial stability, emotional/mental ability to manage being a single parent, support structures in my life, and honestly […]
Read MoreFailure is not an option – it is a requirement
By: Rochelle Perper, Ph.D. | October 11, 2013
We live in a culture where photos are airbrushed and perfection reigns supreme. Our society today provides role models that are seemingly perfect. Teens in particular are vulnerable to wanting to “fit in” by emulating what they see in the media by striving perfection. This pursuit, although noble, is a detriment to young people and […]
Read MoreUnderstanding Teenage Grief
By: Rochelle Perper, Ph.D. | October 4, 2013
Teens grieve differently than adults. They move in and out of strong emotions and often grieve for a longer period of time. Their behavior may range from cold and withdrawn to clingy, to appearing as though they are doing fine. They are often not able to express in words, how they are feeling or what […]
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