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 […]

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Children, Family

How to Deal with your (Difficult) Family this Holiday Season

By: Rochelle Perper, Ph.D. | December 18, 2013

The holiday season is a time of joy and togetherness but it can also come with increased stress, conflict and family tension. When families gather, members may not get along, causing tension and awkward interactions. One option is to avoid holiday gatherings altogether. However, this too can create conflict in the family. If you are […]

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Family

Tips 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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Children, Family, Relationships

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 […]

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Children, Family

Divorce 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 […]

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Children, Family

After 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 […]

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Children, Family

Starting 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 […]

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Children, Family

Failure 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 […]

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Children, Family

Teen Addiction: What you Need to Know

By: Other | September 27, 2013

Written by Karin Thebus, Psy.D. Addiction has devastating effects on all who become addicted, but adolescents are especially vulnerable to the effects of addiction. The behaviors and thought processes associated with adolescence are unique, and therefore a need exists for a specialized treatment to address the problems of teenage addiction. The disease of addiction in […]

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Family, Therapy