Are We Raising “Broken” Kids? A Mental Health Perspective on Modern Parenting

on August 28, 2026 at 9:26 AM /

Parenting

You've probably heard the phrase before: "Kids today just aren't as resilient as they used to be." Or perhaps: "Modern parenting is creating a generation of broken kids." These statements often spark passionate debates. Some blame technology. Others point to overprotective parenting, social media, academic pressure, or a lack of discipline. But at Rice Psychology Group, we know the answer isn't nearly that simple. Children today are not "broken." At the same time, many families are facing challenges that previous generations didn't experience in quite the same way. Rates of anxiety, depression, loneliness, and emotional distress among children and adolescents have increased over the past...

The End of Summer: Preparing Your Child and Yourself for a Healthy Back-to-School Transition

By Rice Psychology Group

on August 28, 2026 at 9:20 AM /

life transitions

The last few weeks of summer often bring mixed emotions. There may be excitement about new teachers, fresh school supplies, and reconnecting with friends. But alongside that excitement, many children and parents experience worry, sadness, stress, or uncertainty. For some families, the transition feels seamless. For others, it can bring bedtime battles, morning meltdowns, increased anxiety, or questions like, "What if I don't like my teacher?" or "Will I have anyone to sit with at lunch?" Adjusting to a new school year is a significant life transition. Like any transition, it comes with emotional ups and downs. Why Back-to-School Can Feel So Stressful Summer often allows for greater...

Why Do I Feel Anxious Even When Everything Is Going Well?

By Rice Psychology Group

on August 20, 2026 at 3:32 PM /

Nothing is obviously wrong. Work may be going well. Your relationships seem stable. There is no immediate crisis demanding your attention. And yet, you cannot seem to relax. Maybe your mind keeps searching for the next problem. You lie in bed thinking about everything you need to accomplish tomorrow. You reread messages because you are worried you said the wrong thing. Or perhaps you simply carry a feeling that something bad is about to happen, even though you cannot explain why. That experience can be confusing. When life looks okay from the outside, you may even start criticizing yourself for feeling anxious in the...

Is It Just Screen Time? What One Family’s Evening Can Teach Us About Children’s Mental Health

By Rice Psychology Group

on July 27, 2026 at 10:11 AM /

Mental Health Awareness

“I don’t know what’s happened to him.” Melissa looked exhausted. “My son used to come home from school and head outside. Now he goes straight to his room. If I ask him to put his phone away, it’s like I’ve ruined his life. Homework takes forever because he’s constantly checking messages. He isn’t sleeping well. He’s more anxious than he used to be. And honestly…” she paused, “…our family doesn’t really talk anymore.” If you’re a parent, that story may sound familiar. Over the past decade, we’ve heard increasing concerns about children and adolescents spending more time on screens. Now, a new Advisory from...

How Therapy Can Help You Navigate Major Life Transitions

By Rice Psychology Group

on July 20, 2026 at 2:51 PM /

Change is a natural part of life, but that doesn't mean it always feels easy. Some transitions are planned and exciting, while others arrive unexpectedly and leave us feeling uncertain. Starting a new job, moving to a new city, becoming a parent, graduating, retiring, or experiencing the end of a relationship can all bring emotional challenges alongside new opportunities. Even positive life changes can create unexpected stress. It's common to feel excited about a new beginning while simultaneously grieving what you've left behind. During these moments, therapy in Tampa, FL can provide a supportive space to process change, better understand your...

The Mental Health Cost of Perfectionism

By Rice Psychology Group

on June 12, 2026 at 9:18 AM /

Mental Health Awareness

She rereads the email three times before sending it. It is clear. It is thoughtful. It answers the question. But still, her finger hovers over “send” as her mind races: What if I missed something? What if they think I’m not prepared? What if this isn’t good enough? Across town, a teen sits at the kitchen table staring at a nearly finished essay, unable to turn it in because one paragraph “doesn’t sound right.” And down the street, a parent stays up late rechecking the school portal, the calendar, the lunch forms, the permission slips — trying to make sure nothing slips through...

How to Find the Right Therapist in Tampa

By Rice Psychology Group

on June 1, 2026 at 10:48 AM /

Mental Health Awareness

Finding the right therapist can feel overwhelming, especially when there are so many options available. Whether you're seeking support for yourself, your child, or your family, choosing a therapist who understands your goals and needs can make a meaningful difference in the therapy experience. Therapy is most effective when there is a strong connection between the client and therapist, and taking the time to find the right fit can help create a positive foundation for growth, healing, and long-term success. If you're looking for a therapist in Tampa, understanding what to look for and what questions to ask can help you...

Managing Chronic Worry in an Uncertain World

By Rice Psychology Group

on April 28, 2026 at 3:00 PM /

It usually starts small. A thought you can’t quite shake. What if something goes wrong? What if I’m not prepared? What if this doesn’t work out? You try to move on. Stay busy. Focus on what’s in front of you. But the thought comes back. Then another one. And another. Before you know it, your mind is running through scenarios that haven’t happened, and may never happen, but feel very real in your body. Tight chest. Restless energy. Trouble focusing. Trouble sleeping. This is what chronic worry often feels like. And in a world that feels increasingly uncertain, it’s becoming more common than ever. Why Worry Feels So Hard to Turn Off Worry isn’t...

When Does Stress Become a Mental Health Concern?

By Rice Psychology Group

on March 2, 2026 at 10:30 AM /

Mental Health Awareness

Stress is a normal part of life. In fact, in small doses, it can be helpful. It pushes us to meet deadlines, prepare for important events, and respond to challenges. But when stress becomes constant, overwhelming, or begins to interfere with daily functioning, it may signal something more serious. Understanding the difference between everyday stress and a mental health concern is an important step toward protecting your emotional and physical well-being. What Is Normal Stress? Stress is your body’s natural response to perceived demands or threats. When you encounter a challenge, like a work presentation, family conflict, financial strain, or health issue, your...

Supporting Academic Success: How a Psychologist Assists Gifted Kids

By Rice Psychology Group

on December 19, 2025 at 3:55 PM /

Testing and Assessment

Gifted children often display remarkable abilities, creativity, and curiosity, yet their academic and emotional needs can be more complex than many people realize. At Rice Psychology Group, our psychologists work with gifted students and their families to support not only advanced learning but also emotional balance, confidence, and healthy development. With the proper guidance, gifted children can thrive both academically and personally. Understanding the Unique Needs of Gifted Kids Gifted children frequently think rapidly, feel deeply, and absorb information quickly. However, these strengths can come with challenges such as perfectionism, overwhelm, or difficulty connecting socially with peers. Our child psychologists help families understand...