Psychologist-recommended resources
Compiled and annotated by Dr. Tracy Mallett, Psy.D., Licensed Psychologist, LMFT
General self-care
This book provides specific ways to focus clearly on your goals, without fear. It provides some effective, simple-to-implement strategies for building the skill of believing in yourself.
This book helps you to determine what you want, and how to control your choices to maximize your ability to achieve your goals.
Embracing the principles of Adlerian psychology, this book by helps with establishing a sense of self that can't be shaken by others' disapproval. It encourages readers to discover and embrace their true selves without the burden of societal expectations and need for approval. It also provides practical insights to help the reader navigate life's challenges with confidence.
This book by Mark Manson offers a refreshing approach to tackling the complexities of life and mental health, particularly in reducing feelings of depression. The book emphasizes the importance of focusing on what truly matters to us and letting go of societal pressures to care about everything. It helps with putting things into perspective, and not dwelling on things that cannot be changed.
This book by Brené Brown offers profound insights into the mental health benefits of recognizing and addressing shame and anxiety. The book encourages women to embrace vulnerability as a source of strength rather than a weakness. This shift in perspective can lead to greater self-acceptance and resilience. The book discusses the importance of setting boundaries, empowering women to protect their mental health and prioritize their needs.
This book facilitates an intensive exploration of who you are, and learning both self-acceptance and ways to harness your goals.
Reducing anxiety, stress, and depression
This book by Donald Robertson combines the ancient wisdom of Stoic philosophy with modern psychological practices, particularly mindfulness meditation, in a way that is solution - focused and happiness- and priority- driven.
This book by Johann Hari explores the root causes of depression and anxiety, challenging conventional beliefs about mental health. Rather than solely attributing these conditions to chemical imbalances in the brain, Hari emphasizes the importance of social and environmental factors that contribute to our mental well-being.
In the book, Hari identifies nine key disconnections that can lead to feelings of despair, such as disconnection from meaningful work, community, and a sense of purpose. He argues that by addressing these disconnections and fostering deeper connections with ourselves, others, and our environments, we can significantly improve our mental health.
Couples and partnerships
Oftentimes, spouses can feel helpless when their partner is engaging in behaviors that they don’t agree with. This book gives specific ways to set boundaries and respectfully conduct tough conversations. There are some Christian principles interspersed in the book and it is clearly written from a Christian perspective.
This book by John Gottman explores the essential elements that contribute to lasting relationships, emphasizing the importance of trust and open communication. The book highlights key strategies for building and maintaining trust, such as expressing appreciation, practicing active listening, and fostering emotional intimacy. Gottman also offers practical tools for improving communication skills, including techniques for discussing difficult topics without escalating tension. By focusing on mutual understanding and respect, couples can address issues proactively, reducing the likelihood of betrayal and emotional distance.
In this book, John Gottman offers principles which teach partners new approaches for resolving conflicts, creating new common ground, and achieving greater levels of intimacy.
John Gottman writes a practical guide designed to help couples strengthen their relationships through meaningful dialogue. The book outlines eight essential conversations that are crucial for fostering intimacy, trust, and connection.
Each chapter focuses on a specific topic, such as trust, conflict, and shared dreams, providing couples with a structured approach to discussing these important areas. The Gottmans offer insights from their extensive research on relationships, combined with real-life examples and practical exercises. This framework encourages partners to engage in open, honest discussions, helping them navigate challenges and deepen their understanding of one another.
This book by John Gottman discusses the key elements of healthy relationships, emphasizing the importance of "emotional bids"—small gestures that express a desire for connection—and explains how responding positively to these bids can strengthen relationships. It teaches practical skills to improve interactions, such as active listening, empathy, and the importance of appreciation. By understanding the dynamics of their relationships, readers can cultivate deeper connections, reduce anxiety, and promote overall well-being.
This book by John Gottman emphasizes the importance of emotional communication and understanding and discusses the factors that predict separation and divorce. The book introduces the concept of the "Four Horsemen"—criticism, contempt, defensiveness, and stonewalling—that predict relationship failure, and provides strategies to counter these destructive patterns, as well as specific techniques to improve communication and connection. The book also highlights the significance of nurturing friendship, shared goals, and emotional support as foundational elements for a thriving marriage.
With practical advice, relatable examples, and insights backed by scientific research, Why Marriages Succeed or Fail serves as an essential guide for couples and individuals seeking to enhance their relationships. Whether you're in a committed partnership or preparing for one, this book equips you with the knowledge and tools to build a resilient, fulfilling marriage.
This book makes the case that marriages need to be prioritized over the desires of the children. The reasons for this include: setting a good example for the children about what healthy marriage looks like; avoiding raising entitled kids; and investing in the health of your future marital relationship.
Communication
This book by Bill Eddy provides specific instruction for dealing with attacks without "getting into the mud" of conflict. It introduces the BIFF method—Brief, Informative, Friendly, and Firm—as a strategic approach to responding to high-conflict situations without escalating tension. The book provides practical tools and techniques for crafting effective responses to personal attacks, hostile emails, and social media confrontations.
This book by Marshall B. Rosenberg introduces the principles of Nonviolent Communication (NVC), a process designed to improve interpersonal interactions by emphasizing understanding and compassion. The book outlines a four-step framework: observation, feelings, needs, and requests. By using this structure, individuals can express themselves honestly while also listening empathetically to others. This approach helps to bridge communication gaps, reduce conflict, and enhance mutual understanding.
The book encourages readers to connect more deeply with themselves and others, promoting emotional awareness and self-acceptance. By learning to identify and articulate their own needs, individuals can cultivate healthier, more satisfying relationships.
This book by serves as a practical guide designed to empower readers to navigate challenging discussions with confidence and clarity. This book focuses on the essential skills needed to set and enforce boundaries effectively while fostering open and honest communication.
Professional and Career Guidance
This book was written by a coach I have hired myself, and she’s the bomb!
It provides a step-by-step process to overcome hurdles and meet your goals .. and gives specific tips, rather than hype like “live your destiny.”
Teens and youth
This book is written by Boy's Town Press -- Boy's Town is a home for young kids and teens who have a variety of struggles, and this book has been updated many times over the years, and explain in detail the exact skills on which the houseparents are working with the children in care. These are tried - and - true, effective social skills that teens can use right away in a variety of situations.
Other parenting resources
“You can't wring your hands and roll up your sleeves at the same time.”
This quote is often attributed to Patricia Schroeder, a former U.S. Congresswoman. Schroeder, who represented Colorado from 1973 to 1997, was known for her advocacy on issues such as women's rights and family policy. She was no doubt emphasizing the importance of action over worry, suggesting that it's difficult to be productive if you're overly focused on anxiety or indecision.
I hope these resources are helpful to you! If you have a suggested resource that you have found helpful and think others would benefit from, let me know!
Be well.
