In recognition of International Women’s Day this year (a day late…), here are some inspiring books by inspiring women. These are books about counselling or psychotherapy that I have enjoyed and recommend to clients:
Maybe You should Talk to Someone
One of my favourite fiction books (but drawing on years of clinical practice), this is a book by Lori Gottlieb. It offers a frank look at what happens in the therapy room woven into a beautiful piece of fiction about love and living. Highly, highly recommended if you are wondering what relational, humanistic therapy is about and how it ‘works’.
Couch Fiction
An extraordinary book by the fabulous Philippa Perry. What happens in the therapy room through the wondrous means of a graphic novel.
The Drama of Being a Child
This is a tough-going book but wonderful book on the impact of psychological harm during childhood. A therapist recommended it to me many, many years ago and I regret not picking it up sooner. By Alice Miller.
Tell me the Truth About Love
If you are curious what a relationship therapist with decades of experience and wisdom might say about love and human connecting, this is the book for you. By Susanna Abse.
Aphrodite’s Hat
Selection of stories by Salley Vickers, a former therapist. An exploration of love and loss.
Mad, Bad and Sad
A history of women and psychology and talking therapies from the 1800s onwards, by Lisa Appignanesi. From the depression to addiction, this is a challenging look at the relationship between therapist / psychologist / psychiatrist and female clients.
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