The Best Self-Help Books to Support Your Journey: My Top Recommendations

We all know the world of self-help books is overflowing—some can completely transform your life, while others, well... not so much. As a therapist who’s passionate about recommending books (especially for my fellow book lovers), I’ve put together a list of some of my all-time favorites that I regularly share with my clients. Whether you're in need of comfort, insight, or a fresh perspective, these books have got your back.

Here are my top picks:

1. Lovingkindness: The Revolutionary Art of Happiness by Sharon Salzberg

I’ll be honest—this book was gifted to me by my own therapist, so I might be a little biased. But trust me, it’s a game-changer! Lovingkindness dives into the Buddhist concept of loving-kindness and teaches you how to incorporate it into everyday life. Whether or not you’re Buddhist, this book offers universal lessons on self-compassion and self-love. It may feel challenging at first, especially if you’re new to these ideas, but just like any skill, it gets easier with practice. Take it one step at a time!

2. Man’s Search for Meaning by Viktor Frankl

This profound book chronicles Viktor Frankl’s survival through the horrors of a concentration camp during WWII and his development of a therapeutic philosophy focused on finding meaning in life. Frankl, a psychiatrist by training, discovered that resilience and a sense of purpose are crucial for enduring even the most unbearable circumstances. Though death, isolation, and grief can be terrifying, examining them head-on can help us find a surprising sense of peace.

3. When Things Fall Apart: Heart Advice for Difficult Times by By Pema Chödrön

If I had to pick a book that feels like a warm hug or a comforting cup of tea, this would be it. When Things Fall Apartoffers invaluable advice straight to the heart—exactly what you need when life feels like it’s crumbling. If you're in need of some extra comfort or a reminder that it’s okay to struggle, this book will wrap you in the care you deserve.

4. Lost Connections: Uncovering the Real Causes of Depression—and the Unexpected Solutions by Johann Hari

If Johann Hari had a fan club, I’d definitely be the president! As a journalist, Hari digs deep into complex topics, and this book is no exception. Lost Connections takes a thorough look at the science, history, and causes of depression, including the impact of antidepressants. Hari also introduces alternative solutions based on research. His personal experience with depression and medication adds a relatable and empathetic touch, making this a must-read for anyone looking for new perspectives on mental health.

5. 101 Essays That Will Change The Way You Think by Brianna Wiest

This book is perfect for anyone who loves a challenge. Each of the short essays in this collection tackles a different topic, offering bits of wisdom that can inspire profound shifts in how we see the world. My advice? Flip through the table of contents and pick the essay that resonates most with you. Brianna Wiest packs this book with thought-provoking insights that will make you reconsider everything.

6. Good Inside: A Practical Guide to Resilient Parenting, Prioritizing Connection Over Correction by Dr. Becky Kennedy

Dr. Becky Kennedy is a parenting genius, and her strategies are both revolutionary and practical. Her book emphasizes the importance of fostering connection over correction when raising children. As someone who’s certified in Positive Discipline, I can say that her approach aligns with my own philosophy. Whether you’re a parent or simply a child of parents, this book offers valuable insights and tools that can benefit everyone.

7. Fierce Self-Compassion: How Women Can Harness Kindness to Speak Up, Claim Their Power, and Thrive by Dr. Kristin Neff

Self-compassion isn’t just for when you’re feeling down—it’s a tool for thriving. Dr. Kristin Neff, one of the leading researchers on self-compassion, shows in this book how kindness toward yourself can be a far more effective motivator than harsh self-criticism. If you haven’t already discovered the power of self-compassion, this book will convince you to give it a try.

8. No Bad Parts by Dr. Richard Schwartz

As many of my clients know, I frequently use the Internal Family Systems (IFS) model in therapy. Dr. Richard Schwartz, the creator of IFS, wrote this book to make the model accessible to everyone. It’s a fantastic read, whether you’re a therapist or someone curious about how different parts of your personality work together. If you're looking to better understand yourself and your internal world, this book is a great place to start.

9. Stolen Focus: Why You Can't Pay Attention—and How to Think Deeply Again by Johann Hari

Yes, another Johann Hari book on my list—can you blame me? In Stolen Focus, Hari tackles the modern-day crisis of attention. Whether or not you have ADHD, our attention is a precious resource that’s under siege in today’s fast-paced world. This book offers eye-opening insights on how we’ve lost the ability to focus and offers solutions for regaining control over where we direct our attention.

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These are just a few of the many incredible books that can support your journey of self-development and growth. The most important thing when choosing a book is to pick something that truly sparks your interest. Don’t be afraid to skip over parts of the book that don’t resonate with you—personally, I’m known for reading only the chapters that catch my eye. It takes the pressure off of feeling like you need to read every single word and helps you enjoy the process more. So, go ahead, start reading without the pressure of finishing cover to cover!

And if you want a deeper dive or more personal insight into what you're reading, therapy is always a great option. How convenient—I'm a therapist! Whether we work together or I help you find someone who’s a better fit, a free consultation call is a great way to begin. Feel free to schedule yours today!