Grief. Trauma. Life. Shame. Habits (both the helpful and the hard-to-break kind). Even business.

Why write about books?

Because after years in social services and mental health, I’ve realized something: I’m a little bit obsessed with understanding people — what shapes them, what heals them, and how stories can sometimes shift something inside us that nothing else quite can.

I love how the right book, at the right time, can offer language for what someone has been feeling but couldn’t name. It can be a mirror, a guide, or just the comfort of knowing you’re not alone in this.

There are a handful of books I find myself returning to again and again — both for my own growth and when someone asks, “Do you know anything that could help with… this?” These aren’t just recommendations; they’re well-loved tools I’ve seen make a difference.

So if you’re navigating something big (or small but sticky), or you're just in the space to explore independently and want a good soul-nudge, you’re in the right place.

These are books I find myself recommending over and over — to clients, to friends, and sometimes to myself when I need to remember what’s true. Each of them speaks to a different kind of pain, pattern, or possibility.

A Few Books to Explore LIFE

Big Magic by Elizabeth Gilbert
This is your permission slip to create without shame, pressure, or perfectionism. Especially beloved by sensitive, soulful folks who are building something — whether it’s a business, a body of work, or a new way of being.

Why Won’t You Apologize? by Harriet Lerner
Short, powerful, and incredibly validating for anyone struggling with forgiveness, boundary repair, or the apology they may never receive.

The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck by Mark Manson
A thought-provoking and entertaining read that challenges conventional self-help advice. Its honest, no-nonsense approach encourages readers to focus on what truly matters and let go of unnecessary worries.

Irresistible:
The Rise of Addictive Technology and the Business of Keeping Us Hooked by Adam Alter

Books to Explore Trauma and How It Impacts Us

These books explore the deep, often hidden ways trauma weaves itself into our bodies, our beliefs, and our relationships. They’re compassionate, eye-opening, and sometimes life-changing:

• The Myth of Normal by Gabor Maté
• In the Realm of Hungry Ghosts by Gabor Maté
• The Body Keeps the Score by Bessel van der Kolk
• What Happened to You? by Dr. Bruce Perry and Oprah Winfrey
• Getting Past Your Past: Take control of your life with self-help techniques from EMDR Therapy by Francine Shapiro

Working Through Grief and How to Heal

Grief is not linear, and it doesn’t follow rules. These books can offer comfort, insight, and space to just be in your grief — without trying to fix it:

• Understanding Your Grief by Alan Wolfelt
• What’s Your Grief by Eleanor Haley & Litsa Williams
• Finding Meaning by David Kessler
• It’s OK That You’re Not OK by Megan Devine
• Bearing the Unbearable by Joanne Cacciatore
• When Things Fall Apart by Pema Chödrön
• The Grieving Brain by Mary-Frances O’Connor
• Grief One Day at a Time by Alan Wolfelt
• Conscious Grieving by Tara Nash

Exploring Shame and Vulnerability

There’s no one better at naming the sticky stuff of shame, fear, and not-enoughness than Brené Brown. Her work helps people reconnect with themselves and each other in the most human way possible.

• The Gifts of Imperfection
• I Thought It Was Just Me (But It Isn’t)
• Plus: her TED Talks and Netflix special are excellent entry points for visual learners.

Authors Who Aren’t Clinicians (and Why I Still Recommend Them)

This can be a hot topic in therapy circles. I get it. But here’s the thing: Some of the most powerful insights don’t come from a clinical degree — they come from lived experience, clear storytelling, and deep reflection. These authors write in a way that’s accessible, emotionally resonant, and often more relatable for folks just starting their healing journey. And yes, they’ve done their homework — the content is sound.

• Atomic Habits by James Clear

A practical, clear-eyed guide to changing behavior with kindness and consistency — not shame. Great for anyone ready to get unstuck.

• Let Them Theory by Mel Robins

Business Books That Get It

For therapists, helpers, and heart-centered humans who also happen to run businesses. These books blend strategy with soul:

• Profit First for Therapists by Julie Herres
  A game-changer for private practice owners who want to feel confident with their money — not just hope it works out.
• F*ck the Rules: Unleash your unrelenting determination to live well, unlock your potential, and be happy on your own terms by Kelly Lynch, LCSW
  For those of us who don’t fit the traditional mold — and don’t want to. A fiery, fun take on building a business on your terms.

I know firsthand how powerful the right book can be — not because it has all the answers, but because it reminds us we’re not alone in the questions. Whether you’re navigating grief, unpacking trauma, shifting old patterns, or just trying to make sense of this messy, beautiful life… I hope something on this list meets you right where you are.

And if you’re a fellow therapist, healer, or heart-led human looking for tools that resonate with both head and heart — these books are a great place to start.

Have a favorite title you don’t see here? I’d love to hear what’s helped you.
Let’s keep the conversation going — after all, healing is a story we write together.