10 of My Favorite Books & Resources as a Therapist
In this field, I’m always reading and seeking out books, podcasts, and courses that can complement my work and offer some additional support or inspiration to my patients. Often folks are looking for resources to help bring insights or to learn more about a specific topic. Here are some learning materials that I recommend if you want to dive a little deeper. And, if you’re looking for a new therapist in Evanston, IL or online, please feel free to reach out and schedule a consultation today. I’d love to discuss ways we could work together.
1. The Perfectionist’s Guide to Losing Control by Katherine Morgan Schaefer
Many of us have tendencies towards perfectionism and oftentimes this can stand in the way of getting things done. This book identifies several different types of perfectionists and invites readers to embrace their perfectionism. Psychotherapist Katherine Morgan Schaefer believes that when you can work with your perfectionism (rather than fighting against it), you can channel this energy as a tool for personal growth and also learn to let go of unrealistic expectations and find a path to peace.
2. Atlas of the Heart by Brene Brown
Brene Brown is well-known for her deep and insightful research on the topic of shame. In this book, she explores the human emotions and experiences that connect us all. She lays out a framework for “cultivating meaningful connection,” something we could certainly all use a bit more of. Brene Brown inspires us to look within and tap into our deep well of emotional experiences.
3. Come As You Are: The Surprising New Science That Will Transform Your Sex Life by Emily Nagoski
It’s not always easy to talk about sex, particularly if we carry deep-rooted and complicated feelings about it. In her book, Dr. Emily Nagoski explores female sexuality from the perspective of science, including biology, sociology, and psychology. With this understanding, women can own their own sexual well-being and understand all of the key factors that contribute to a satisfying sex life.
4. First, We Make the Beast Beautiful: A New Journey Through Anxiety by Sarah Wilson
This is a beautiful and personal memoir about the author’s own experience with anxiety. Sarah Wilson shares insights and techniques that she’s learned along her lifelong experience with anxiety, as well as learnings from mental health experts and other smart voices. This book is a beautiful companion to anxiety counseling for women and will help those struggling with anxiety to feel less alone on the journey.
5. Good Inside by Dr. Becky Kennedy
Dr. Becky Kennedy offers workshops, classes, and a book all centered around providing support and guidance for parents dealing with various stages and challenges of raising children. Her parenting framework includes actionable strategies and practical tips for a myriad of topics including managing screen time, parenting kids with anxiety, coping with tantrums, and how to support your Deeply Feeling Kids.
6. This American Ex-Wife by Lyz Lenz
In this book, Lyz Lenz tells her own story about how she took the reins back on her life by filing for divorce and how it was the best decision she could have made. A combination of sociological research and her personal story, she unapologetically talks about the benefits of divorce, particularly for women, and shines a light on the path to freedom from an unhappy marriage.
7. The Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work by John Gottman & Nan Silver
Psychologist John Gottman has studied years and years of marriages and identified seven principles that build and maintain loving and grounded relationships. Both newlyweds and long-term partners may find this book useful as it includes practical exercises for emotional intimacy. Through these techniques, couples can resolve conflicts, support each other, and build a life together with shared purpose.
8. The Artist’s Way by Julia Cameron
Julia Cameron’s classic book on creativity walks you through a practical way of clearing blocks and unlocking more creativity in the day-to-day. Through her transformative 12-week program, including daily practices and rituals like morning pages and artist dates, Cameron shows readers how to connect with what’s important and clear the path to inspiration and creativity.
9. The Cure for Chronic Pain with Nicole Sachs, LCSW
Psychotherapist and researcher Nicole Sachs outlines her methodology for healing chronic pain in her podcast, books, and courses. As she says, “The pain is not in your head. But the solution is not in your body.” Her process is based on the mind-body connection and understanding the impact that our emotions have on our physical well-being and vice versa.
10. Group: How One Therapist and a Circle of Strangers Saved My Life by Christie Tate
A funny and sweet memoir about group therapy and how it helped the author find her purpose. Christie Tate entered group therapy as a cynic, but found it to be a life changing experience. She chronicles her highs and lows throughout the process, but ultimately shares how she formed connections, faced her truth, and found healing.
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Dr. Sarah Van Nostrand is a therapist for women’s issues in Evanston, IL. Her practice, Moonrise Therapy, is dedicated to the theory and practice of counseling and psychotherapy and she’s passionate about providing empathetic women’s mental health therapy in Illinois and online. If you’ve been searching for “depression and anxiety therapist near me,” and came across these resources, she’d love to connect with you.
