Diving into self-improvement often means reaching for self-help books. Therapists, the true mental health experts, have their favorite self-help reads they not only suggest but also personally enjoy. 

Tattoos on the Heart: The Power of Boundless Compassion by Gregory Boyle

Gregory Boyle's book shares stories from his two-decade experience running a gang intervention program in Los Angeles. He turns his encounters in the tough neighborhood into touching tales inspired by faith. These stories, arranged by theme, are filled with humor and kindness, showing how fulfilling life can be when we embrace and accept love unconditionally.

Jacob Ham, the director of the Center for Child Trauma and Resilience, likened each chapter in the book to a Sunday sermon that makes one appreciate and reflect. Although faith is a significant part of the book, Dr. Ham suggests it to anyone who feels that their past traumas and coping mechanisms have left them broken without redemption.

Homecoming: Healing Trauma to Reclaim Your Authentic Self by Thema Bryant

Dr. Thema Bryant, a survivor of sexual assault, racism, and war, understands the healing process intimately. As a clinical psychologist and minister, she guides others and shares how to reconnect with your true self and reclaim your time, voice, and life.

Signs of disconnection show up as people-pleasing, depression, anxiety, and resentment. Healing involves recognizing and expressing emotions honestly, reconnecting with neglected parts of yourself, and reaching out to your larger community. Dr. Thema provides tools for meaningful connection, empowering you to live a more expansive life with healthier relationships, gratitude, and a deeper sense of purpose. 

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Ayanna Abrams, a psychologist in Atlanta, shared that Dr. Bryant's books possess no gimmicky or vague language, which is often found in many self-help books. Dr. Bryant helps people believe in their ability to heal. 

The Happiness Trap: How to Stop Struggling and Start Living by Russ Harris

Dr. Russ Harris' book offers readers an approach to getting rid of stress, anxiety, and depression. This offers readers a guide toward a truly fulfilling life. This guidebook is suitable for everyone, addressing confidence issues, illness, loss, high-stress jobs, anxiety, or depression. The book guides readers on building authentic happiness from within.

The second edition, expanded by 50%, introduces acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) insights and techniques.

Diana Garcia, a therapist from South Florida, found this straightforward guide ignited her inclination to ACT. She suggested it as a helpful supplement for her clients during sessions. She recommended the book to friends experiencing a sense of being stuck. Garcia stated that the book teaches practical ways to keep taking positive actions, regardless of one's current feelings, helping individuals move in a positive direction.

The Power of Character Strengths: Appreciate and Ignite Your Positive Personality by Ryan M. Niemiec and Robert E. McGrath

In "The Power of Character Strengths," experts will help you explore your 24 strengths. They show you how these strengths can be your hidden gems for improving your life. The book teaches you to value the best parts of yourself and support the strengths in those you care about. As a bonus, you will get a simple, four-step program called "Strengths Builder" to implement your strengths.

Dr. Tomasulo said this book is great for people who want more joy and well-being. Embracing and nurturing your character strengths can boost happiness. It promotes a shift from problem orientation to strength recognition. 

The Artist's Way: A Spiritual Path to Higher Creativity by Julia Cameron

Julia Cameron's book helps readers identify and overcome obstacles hindering their creativity. The program involves essential tools like The Morning Pages, a daily writing ritual, and The Artist Date, which is dedicated time for nurturing creativity. The book provides numerous exercises, activities, and prompts to explore each chapter thoroughly. It encourages forming a creative cluster for mutual support.

Britt Frank, a Kansas trauma specialist, said this novel is not just for artists. According to Frank, "The Artist's Way" is a powerful tool with enduring impact, especially because everyone has creativity, which is seen as a form of medicine. She highlighted the effectiveness of tools like The Morning Pages, a journaling practice, in her work with clients dealing with depression and addiction. However, she cautions that the book is not just for reading but requires active engagement and work from the reader.

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