Books I'm Reading

Books can be a helpful starting point for self-understanding, reflection, or growth. I’ve put together a list of thoughtful, approachable resources that may be useful wherever you are on your journey.

Sometimes finding the right book, at the right time, can be as impactful as a single conversation. These are some of the titles I return to again and again—books I recommend to clients, friends, and sometimes revisit myself. You're welcome to explore them at your own pace, whether you're currently in therapy or just beginning your journey.

• Birding to Change the World: A Memoir by Trish O'Kane ~ An inspiring memoir of the incredible feats of nature. (Social and Environmental Justice).

• Our Polyvagal World: How Safety and Trauma Change Us by Stephen W. Porges PhD and Seth Porges ~ Practical principles for everyday and for living our best lives. (Psychology)

• The Courage to Be Disliked: The Japanese Phenomenon That Shows you How to Change Your Life and Achieve Real Happiness by Ichiro Kishimi ~ Releasing ourselves from societal expectations using self-forgiveness, self-care, and mind decluttering. (Adlerian Philosophy)

• How to Be an Adult in Relationships: The Five Keys to Mindful Loving by David Richo ~ Sometimes we need a little extra coaching about our relationships. (Relationships)

• Trauma Stewardship: An Everyday Guide to Caring for Self While Caring for Others by Laura van Dernoot Lipsky with Connie Burk ~ A well-written book about navigating vicarious trauma, feeling overwhelmed, and the demands of caring for others and the planet. (Self-Care)

• Adult Children of Alcoholics by Janet Geringer Woititz, Ed.D.  ~ Groundbreaking work understanding family dynamics with alcoholism. (Psychology, Recovery)

• Healing the Shame That Binds You by John Bradshaw ~ Powerful work for understanding and overcoming shame. (Psychology, Recovery)

• Women Sex and Addiction by Charlotte Kasl ~ A book helping women understand sexual addiction and sexual codependency, and finding recovery.