Resources
Good Books
The following is a list of books that I recommend for adults, parents, and children. For your convenience, I have added links sellers' websites, but I receive no compensation for any purchases made.
For Adults
Meditations by Marcus Aurelius (Translated by Gregory Hays)
The personal and philosophical reflections of the Roman Emperor Marcus Aurelius, written as reminders to himself. These Stoic meditations on virtue, mortality, and duty remain remarkably relevant, and Hays' translation is particularly accessible.
Four Thousand Weeks: Time Management for Mortals by Oliver Burkeman
A refreshing perspective on time management that encourages acceptance of our human limitations. Burkeman helps readers let go of the pressure to do everything and instead focus on what truly matters, offering relief from productivity anxiety.
Meditations for Mortals by Oliver Burkeman
A follow-up to Four Thousand Weeks, this book offers practical daily reflections and exercises to help readers embrace imperfection, work with their finite time, and find meaning in an uncertain and demanding world.
Seven And A Half Lessons About The Brain by Lisa Feldman Barrett
A concise, accessible guide to how the brain actually works. Helpful for understanding the connection between brain function, emotions, and mental health.
How Emotions Are Made: The Secret Life of the Brain by Lisa Feldman Barrett
Groundbreaking research on emotion that offers a new understanding of feelings and mental health. Barrett's work has important implications for emotional regulation and self-awareness.
When Things Fall Apart: Heart Advice for Difficult Times by Pema Chodron
Buddhist-informed guidance for facing life's difficulties with courage and self-compassion. Particularly helpful during times of transition, loss, or uncertainty.
Practical Buddhist-based strategies for understanding and transforming anger. Combines philosophy with concrete techniques for cultivating patience and responding skillfully to frustration.
A therapist's warm and insightful memoir that demystifies the therapy process. Particularly valuable for those considering therapy or curious about what happens in the therapy room.
10% Happier (10th Anniversary) by Dan Harris
An honest, relatable introduction to meditation for skeptics. Harris shares his personal journey and demonstrates how mindfulness can be a practical, science-based tool for reducing anxiety and increasing well-being.
The Happiness Trap (Second Edition) by Russ Harris
An accessible introduction to Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) that teaches readers to work with difficult emotions rather than against them. Includes practical exercises for identifying values and taking meaningful action.
The Daily Stoic by Ryan Holiday
A year-long guide to Stoic philosophy with one meditation per day. Helpful for building resilience, managing stress, and cultivating perspective on life's challenges.
How to Talk to Anyone: 92 Little Tricks for Big Success in Relationships by Leil Lowndes
Practical communication techniques for improving social confidence and conversation skills. Helpful for those working on social anxiety or relationship building.
How to Be an Adult: A Handbook on Psychological and Spiritual Integration by David Richo
A guide to emotional maturity that integrates psychological and spiritual development. Richo's "Five A's" framework (Attention, Acceptance, Appreciation, Affection, Allowing) offers a clear path for personal growth and healthier relationships.
Behave: The Biology of Humans at Our Best and Worst by Robert M. Sapolsky
A comprehensive exploration of the biological and environmental factors that shape human behavior. Helpful for those seeking a deeper scientific understanding of why we do what we do.
Peace Is Every Step: The Path of Mindfulness in Everyday Life by Thich Nhat Hanh
An introduction to mindfulness practice for everyday life. Nhat Hanh shows how ordinary moments can become opportunities for presence, peace, and stress reduction.
A compassionate roadmap through the grieving process that normalizes the journey of loss. Wolfelt's "ten touchstones" provide gentle guidance for anyone navigating bereavement.
For Parents
Untangled: Guiding Teenage Girls Through the Seven Transitions into Adulthood by Lisa Damour Ph.D.
A developmental guide to the seven transitions of adolescence in girls. Helps parents understand normal teenage behavior, when to be concerned, and how to provide appropriate support through each stage.
Essential reading for parents of teens that normalizes intense emotions and teaches strategies for supporting healthy emotional development and resilience.
Good Inside: A Guide to Becoming the Parent You Want to Be by Becky Kennedy
Kennedy presents her philosophy that all children (and parents) are fundamentally "good inside," even when behaving badly. She offers practical scripts and strategies for emotionally connected parenting through difficult moments.
Introduces the evidence-based SPACE program, which empowers parents to help anxious children by modifying their own responses. Particularly useful for families struggling with childhood anxiety or OCD.
Guidance for parents navigating academic pressure and the college process while prioritizing teen wellness. Encourages a values-based approach over achievement culture.
For Children
What to Do When You Worry Too Much, 2nd Edition: A Kid's Guide to Overcoming Anxiety by Dawn Huebner
An engaging, illustrated guide for younger children (ages 6-12) that teaches anxiety management through CBT techniques, stories, and activities.
Outsmarting Worry: An Older Kid's Guide to Managing Anxiety by Dawn Huebner
A cognitive-behavioral workbook for older children and teens that teaches practical anxiety management skills. Interactive and age-appropriate.
Listening
Audio files that I recommend for for my patients. Click the link to access the file.