Recommended Reading: The Ultimate Therapy Book List
Updated July 2025 | Originally published June 2025
A thoughtfully curated guide from a bookworm therapist who reads through self-help books so you don’t have to.
One of the top questions I get as a therapist (second only to some version of “is this normal?” (spoiler: yes, it probably is)) is, “Do you have a book you’d recommend for that?”
*cue dramatic knuckle crack*
Why yes. Yes, I do.
In addition to being a therapist, I’m also a bookworm of the highest order. Over the years, there are certain titles I’ve come back to again and again. These are books I recommend to clients, friends, coworkers, and literally anybody who will listen.
These are the books that deepen the therapy process. The ones that hold space for the tender stuff. The ones that nudge us to look inward without making us feel like a self-improvement project gone wrong.
Some are spiritual. Some are grounded in research. Some are messy and human and funny and wise. But all of them have this in common: they help you come home to yourself.
This list isn’t about “fixing” anything (you’re not broken!). It’s about finding words for what you’re already feeling, meeting yourself with compassion, and maybe having a little chuckle at the humanness of it all.
Let’s dive in…
Books About Being Human: Identity, Growth & Self-Discovery
The Gifts of Imperfection by Brené Brown →
For anyone tired of trying to be “perfect” and ready to embrace their true self.Untamed by Glennon Doyle →
Fierce, funny, and wildly liberating, its perfect for breaking free from what’s expected.Man’s Search for Meaning by Viktor Frankl →
A timeless meditation on finding purpose through suffering and resilience.The Mountain Is You by Brianna Wiest →
Meet your inner saboteur with compassion and learn how to rise above it.The Body Is Not an Apology by Sonya Renee Taylor →
A must for radical self-love and body justice that reshapes how you see yourself.
Books about Mindfulness & Self-Compassion
Self-Compassion by Kristin Neff →
The science-backed guide to being kinder to yourself because you deserve it.10% Happier by Dan Harris →
Meditation for skeptics who want to feel calmer without all the woo-woo.The Happiness Trap by Russ Harris →
How to stop battling your feelings and start living a meaningful life.A Path with Heart by Jack Kornfield →
Deep wisdom and gentle guidance for anyone wanting to live more mindfully.Radical Acceptance by Tara Brach →
Learning to meet yourself fully and compassionately, no matter what’s going on inside.
Books about Feeling Your Feelings & Understanding Emotions
Atlas of the Heart by Brené Brown →
Mapping out emotions in a way that helps you feel seen and understood.No Bad Parts by Richard Schwartz →
Discover the parts inside you and how to nurture them(especially the ones you avoid.)Permission to Feel by Marc Brackett →
A toolkit for identifying, understanding, and using emotions as allies instead of enemies.
Books about Burnout, Boundaries & Stress
Burnout by Emily & Amelia Nagoski →
Understand the stress cycle and how to complete it (hint: it’s not just bubble baths).Set Boundaries, Find Peace by Nedra Glover Tawwab →
For the people-pleasers, over-givers, and conflict-avoiders. So… most of us.The Body Keeps the Score by Bessel van der Kolk →
A foundational text on trauma and the body. Not the easiest read but very important.
Books about Grief, Loss & Life After
It’s OK That You’re Not OK by Megan Devine →
Honest, validating, and free of the usual “everything happens for a reason” nonsense.Grief Is for People by Sloane Crosley →
A witty, and relatable human reflection on sudden loss, grief, and the ways we try to keep it together even when we don’t have it together.When Things Fall Apart by Pema Chödrön →
A soothing guide for being with pain and uncertainty without running from it.
Books about Sitting with Uncertainty: Transitions & In-Between Seasons
Wintering by Katherine May →
A reminder that rest, grief, and pausing are part of the cycle, not signs of failure.Life Is in the Transitions by Bruce Feiler →
How to navigate life’s curveballs with more grace and less panic.Radical Acceptance by Tara Brach →
Blends mindfulness and self-compassion to help you meet the moment (even the hard ones).
Books about Body Image, Worth & Self-Acceptance
Come As You Are by Emily Nagoski →
Science and stories that dismantle myths about your body and desires.Body Talk by Katie Sturino →
A fresh, relatable look at body neutrality and confidence for anyone tired of the “diet” culture noise.The Body Is Not an Apology by Sonya Renee Taylor →
Because radical self-love is a political act and the foundation for real change.
Favorites & Honorable Mentions
The Book of Awakening by Mark Nepo →
These are short daily reflections that are perfect when you just need to pause, get grounded, or hit reset. Honestly, I. love. this. book.Adult Children of Emotionally Immature Parents by Lindsay C. Gibson →
This one really opened my eyes to how emotionally immature parents can mess with adult relationships and it’s super helpful for learning how to heal and set boundaries.The Untethered Soul by Michael A. Singer →
A spiritual but totally practical guide to quieting the nonstop chatter in your head so you can feel more free, present, and clear.The Wise Heart by Jack Kornfield →
A kind, down-to-earth mix of mindfulness and Buddhist teachings that helps you grow emotional healing and self-compassion.
Final Thoughts
Here’s the deal. Life’s messy, therapy’s messy, and honestly, choosing a book can feel like a lot. That’s why this list is here to give you a few solid companions for whatever you’re facing.
These books won’t fix everything overnight, but they’ll offer perspective, tools, and reassurance that you’re not alone in the struggle. Read a page or binge a chapter. Do what works for you. And if you’re in therapy, bringing these reads to your sessions can seriously deepen the work.
So, pick what calls to you, take your time, and be kind to yourself. Healing isn’t about having it all figured out.It’s about showing up again and again, with humor, heart, and a little grace. 🍊
New around here? Hi. I’m Maddie, licensed therapist and fellow human.
Through Individual Therapy and my signature Body Image course The Essere Method I help people (like you) release unhelpful narratives from your past, rewire your mindset with self-compassion, acceptance, and understanding, and step into your most authentic self. I’d love to connect more with you. Ready?
