Read – Reflect – Grow
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Read – Reflect – Grow *
Attached
By Dr. Amir Levine & Rachel Heller, M.A.
“Attached” is a very friendly and relatable introduction to attachment styles and how they influence our relationships. Through real-life examples and helpful breakdowns, the authors explain why we seek closeness the way we do, why certain patterns keep repeating, and how to build healthier, more secure connections. It’s empowering, easy to follow, and often eye-opening for anyone wanting to better understand themselves in relationships. One of my faves!
It’s Not You: Identifying and Healing from Narcissistic People
By Dr. Ramani Durvasula
Dr. Ramani has a unique gift for explaining complex personality dynamics in plain, compassionate language. This book helps you spot the subtle signs of narcissistic behaviour—especially the kind that leaves you doubting yourself. It’s a validating read for anyone who’s felt drained, confused, or small in a relationship. Most importantly, it gently guides you back toward your own strength, clarity, and boundaries.
Eight Dates
By Dr. John Gottman & Dr. Julie Schwartz Gottman
This is one of my favourite relationship resources because it turns big, important conversations into something approachable and even enjoyable. Each date focuses on a key area of connection—like trust, conflict, intimacy, or shared dreams—and offers guided prompts that bring couples closer together. The Gottmans make it feel safe and doable, even if communication has been hard lately. It’s a warm, research-backed invitation to deepen your bond, one conversation at a time.
Hold Me Tight
By Dr. Sue Johnson
Dr. Sue Johnson brings such warmth and clarity to the emotional patterns that shape long-term relationships. This book walks you through seven conversations that help couples understand what’s really happening underneath conflict, distance, or misunderstandings. It’s grounded in attachment theory, but written in a way that feels deeply human. If you’re wanting more closeness, safety, or understanding in your relationship, this book offers a hopeful and actionable path forward.
The Body Keeps the Score
By Dr. Bessel van der Kolk
(Trigger Warning: Mentions trauma, abuse, and PTSD)
This book has become a go-to resource for understanding how trauma affects both the body and mind. Dr. van der Kolk weaves together neuroscience, real stories, and healing approaches like EMDR, yoga, and somatic work—all while speaking with deep respect for survivors. Many people find this book incredibly validating, though it can feel heavy at times. If you choose to read it, taking your time and pausing when needed can make the experience much more gentle.
Psychopath Free
By Jackson MacKenzie
If you’re healing from a toxic or emotionally abusive relationship, this book can feel like a breath of fresh air. MacKenzie writes in a very validating, down-to-earth way about the patterns of narcissistic and manipulative behaviour—and the emotional aftermath for those who’ve lived through it. More than anything, this book helps you feel less alone. It gently guides you toward rebuilding your self-worth, trusting your instincts again, and reconnecting with the parts of you that may have felt lost.
The Highly Sensitive Person
By Dr. Elaine N. Aron
If you’ve ever felt like you “feel things too deeply” or get overwhelmed more quickly than others, this book can be incredibly comforting. Dr. Aron explains high sensitivity as a natural trait—not something to fix—and offers insights that help you understand your nervous system and honour your limits. It’s a wonderful read for anyone who wants to embrace sensitivity as a strength, not a flaw.
Ready to take the first step towards a healthier, more fulfilled you?
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