Amanda Gorman, the Power of “We,” and the Work of Justice

Amanda Gorman’s poetry reminds us that words can gather people toward grief, courage, accountability, and hope. In her poems honoring Renee Good and Alex Pretti, Gorman speaks to the power of “us” and “we” — not as simple language, but as a call into community, congregation, collective responsibility, and moral courage. At the center of…

The Renewed Power of Queer Literature

In a recent New York Times guest essay, Aaron Hicklin reflects on the renewed power and widening reach of queer literature. What was once treated as a narrow category is now being read across a much wider public, opening space for stories of identity, culture, intimacy, family, resistance, and belonging.

Rhea Almeida Recognized by Influential Women for Her Work in Liberatory Healing

The Institute for Family Services proudly celebrates Rhea Almeida, Founder and Executive Director, for her recognition by Influential Women. Rhea’s scholarship and practice are rooted in liberatory healing, emphasizing healing through community, connection, relationship, and collective care. This honor recognizes her leadership, vision, and enduring commitment to transforming the ways individuals, women in families, and communities experience healing.

In the News: Honoring Clive Davis

Music can cross the borders that keep people apart. It can carry memory, joy, grief, resistance, and freedom. Clive Davis, who died on June 22, 2026, spent his life helping music reach people across generations and communities. He championed artists whose voices changed culture and opened space for more people to feel seen, heard, and…

NY Executive Podcast

1801 Dr Rhea Almeida-06 04 26-Family Therapy & Training Center-Phill #26: https://ny-executive-podcast-info.simplecast.com/episodes Interview:    6/4/2026 @ 12:01pm est 1. Please give a description of your company and the products/services you offer. The Institute for Family Services is a family therapy and training center that has served individuals, families, and communities for more than 30 years.…

The Healing Power of Staying Connected with Nature

Did you know that being and staying in touch with Nature has powerful mind enhancing beneifts?  reports that not only does being in nature greatly enhance psychological wellbeing,  but physical diseases such as hypertension, cardiovascular health and potentially lowers risk factors leading to Diabetes type 2! Researchers Gregory Braton, University of Washington, and Viren Swami,…

Healing in a Time of Uncertainty

In today’s political and social climate, many individuals, families, and communities are carrying heightened stress, fear, grief, and uncertainty. Rapid social change, public health challenges, economic pressures, and ongoing injustices can take a profound toll on our emotional and relational well-being. Though these pressures can turn us inward and make us feel alone, the weight…

Are We in a Friendship Recession? How to Build Real Connection in a Digital Age

With endless digital tools promising connection, it almost sounds absurd to suggest we’re living through a friendship recession. Yet research shows fewer adults report having close friendships than in previous decades. So what’s happening? Why doesn’t constant online presence translate into deeper real-life connection? What Is a Friendship Recession? Scholar Daniel Cox coined the term…

What Really Shapes Teen Behavior

What Really Shapes Teen Behavior? A Guide for Parents Beyond the Basics Fifteen-year-old Maya used to be inseparable from her parents. Friday nights meant board games, late-night snacks, and endless laughter echoing through their hallway. But lately, she’s been eating dinner in her room, texting with friends instead. Her parents worry she’s pulling away—and in…

Managing Holiday Stress: Tips for Families During the Holiday Season

The holiday season can be joyful, stressful, or a mix of both. Whether you celebrate Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, Diwali, Winter Solstice, or cultural and spiritual holidays that receive less public recognition, there is no single “right” way to celebrate. What matters most is how you care for yourself and connect with the people around you.…