Book Recommendations

Many folks ask me for book recommendations - so I’ve created a reference list. I’ll add to it as I read and remember what I’ve been moved by. This list is also a way to get to know the ideas that helped me grow as a person and a therapist.

Book cover for "What My Bones Know" by Stephanie Foo, featuring a dark background, colorful flowers, a pair of crossed bones, and greenery.

What My Bones Know

Stephanie Foo wrote this heart-wrenching memoir about her complex trauma and her journey through various forms of treatment. It includes some moving and inspiring examples of relational, experiential therapy at the end.

Book cover of 'Tattoos on the Heart: The Power of Boundless Compassion' by Gregory Boyle, featuring an image of candles, set against a background of concrete steps.

Tattoos on the Heart

I read this book and cried most of the way through. Father G. is a role model in unconditional love and boundless compassion. This book expresses the true essence of trauma work. If you’re struggling with accepting parts of yourself or your past - read this book!

Black and white cover of a book titled 'On Earth We're Briefly Gorgeous' by Ocean Vuong, featuring a close-up of a person with their arms crossed.

On Earth We’re Briefly Gorgeous

A novel about belonging, immigration, war, poverty, queer identity, adult children of parents with serious mental health conditions, and relational trauma. A poetic and utterly beautiful expression of survival.

Book cover titled 'Belonging Here' by Judith Blackstone, PhD, with a subtitle 'A guide for the spiritually sensitive person,' featuring an abstract watercolor background with soft earthy tones and a pale sun.

Belonging Here

Judith Blackstone’s exploration of embodiment is a deep well of support for sensitive, passionate folks who are struggling with the deluge of pain in the world. Her final chapter on “the Stranger” is a must read for immigrants, LGBTQIA+ folks, and anyone who has felt othered in their daily experiences.

Book cover of 'Breath: The New Science of a Lost Art' by James Nestor, featuring a bright yellow background with a stylized illustration of lungs made of colorful interconnected dots and lines.

Breath

For anyone struggling with chronic sleep issues!

Or if you’re curious to learn more about how our nervous systems are impacted by the way we breathe.