Book Recommendations

Research has shown that bibliotherapy (reading research-based self-help books) can be a helpful adjunct to therapy and sometimes even a helpful treatment on its own. Books are cheaper than therapy (especially if you can find them at your local library or a used book store!), and they’re also a good way to learn about mental health on your own if you’re not ready to talk in person. I especially recommend trying the activities in each book—you’ll get the most bang for your buck.

Here are my favorite books by category and age to help you get started:

Self-Help Books for Adults

• Anxiety

• Body Image and Disordered Eating

• Depression

• Perfectionism and Shame

• Relationships and Connection

• Sexual Concerns

• Trauma

Books about Childhood Conditions

• ADHD and Defiance

• Anxiety

• Depression

• Divorce

• Eating Disorders and Body Image

• General Parenting

• Gender and Sexual Minorities

• Mindfulness

• Picky Eating and Feeding

• Trauma and Abuse