Hello and welcome to Beyond the Couch Counseling in Grand Rapids, Michigan! We are truly excited to announce that our doors are officially open, and we’re now accepting new clients. Our mission goes beyond being just a private practice; we are dedicated to becoming an integral part of our community. As part of this, we’ll be sharing regular blog posts that we hope serve as valuable mental health resources for you.
As the days grow shorter and the crispness of fall settles in, there’s something truly special about leaning into this season of coziness and reflection. At Beyond the Couch, we believe in the power of slowing down, connecting with ourselves, and finding meaning in moments of calm. Whether you’re working through difficult times or just looking for inspiration, these books are handpicked to offer powerful insights into the human experience—from fiction to memoir to counseling theory.
So, grab your coziest blanket, settle into your favorite spot, and immerse yourself in one of these thought-provoking reads. We hope they inspire, comfort, and guide you through the season. Let’s embrace this journey together, as a community. Remember, these are not meant to be a replacement for therapy, but something to use in collaboration with it.
And if you have any book suggestions that you think we should add to our list, we’d love to hear from you! Feel free to email us at admin@beyondthecouchcounseling.com.
Want to learn more about services we offer? Start with a free consultation where you are invited to ask any questions you may have about the therapeutic experience without any pressure to book. Click here to schedule now.
15 of Our Top Picks!
1. The Stormlight Archives by Brandon Sanderson
The Stormlight Archive series by Brandon Sanderson is not just an epic fantasy; it’s a profound exploration of the human mind. The characters struggle with anxiety, depression, trauma, and self-worth, all while navigating an intricate world of magic and war. These themes resonate deeply with readers, offering powerful insights into resilience, healing, and the complexities of the human psyche, making it a perfect addition to a mental health reading list while still being a fictional fantasy epic. Be aware, that once you start with these books, they are difficult to put down, and they are anything but short reads! Just ask our practice owner Aaron Reider.
2. Maybe You Should Talk to Someone by Lori Gottlieb
This heartwarming and humorous memoir by therapist Lori Gottlieb offers an intimate look into therapy from both sides of the couch. As she navigates her own therapy journey while treating clients, Gottlieb reminds us all that healing is a continuous process, and even therapists need a little help sometimes.
3. When Things Fall Apart by Pema Chödrön
Pema Chödrön’s compassionate advice on embracing difficulty has been a favorite for years. When Things Fall Apart teaches us to stay present with our pain and embrace life’s challenges instead of running from them. It’s the perfect book for those difficult days when everything feels just a little bit too heavy.
4. My Grandmother’s Hands by Resmaa Menakem
My Grandmother’s Hands by Resmaa Menakem is a profound exploration of racialized trauma and its impact on individuals and communities. Drawing on the author’s expertise in trauma therapy, the book examines how racial tensions manifest in the body and how healing requires addressing these deep-seated wounds. Menakem offers a unique perspective on the interplay between race, culture, and the physical experience of trauma, emphasizing the importance of body awareness in the healing process. Through personal stories, practical exercises, and historical context, My Grandmother’s Hands serves as both a guide for individuals seeking healing and a call to action for collective transformation.
5. Feeling Good: The New Mood Therapy by Dr. David D. Burns
A cornerstone of cognitive-behavioral therapy, this book is all about transforming negative thoughts into positive ones. Dr. Burns teaches you how to rewire your brain’s automatic negative patterns, which can be especially helpful for those struggling with depression and/or anxiety. It’s practical and easy to follow, with plenty of actionable advice. This book is meant to be read from start to finish and incorporates a wealth of helpful coping skills. Although it requires quite a bit of homework, many individuals have cited this book as life changing in terms of how they interact with their thoughts
6. The Happiness Trap by Dr. Russ Harris
The Happiness Trap introduces Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) in a simple, digestible format. Dr. Harris helps you understand why chasing happiness can sometimes make us feel worse and how accepting difficult emotions can bring true fulfillment. We are a huge fan of books that are rooted in actual counseling theory with easy to follow steps to make significant changes in our lives. Russ Harris does this well with the Happiness Trap It’s a must-read for anyone who wrestles with anxiety, compulsive thinking, low self-esteem, or depression.
7. The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho
The Alchemist is a captivating tale of self-discovery and the pursuit of dreams, emphasizing the connection between awe and mental health. Following Santiago, a young shepherd on a quest to find his Personal Legend, the story highlights valuable lessons about interconnectedness and the importance of listening to one’s heart. The sense of wonder evoked throughout Santiago’s journey fosters hope and resilience, reminding readers of the transformative power of pursuing their aspirations. At Beyond the Couch, we put a great emphasis in reconnecting with our own sense of awe and purpose, making this a very popular book among our team and clients.
8. Man’s Search for Meaning by Viktor E. Frankl
Viktor Frankl’s profound memoir of surviving the Holocaust is a testament to the strength of the human spirit. Frankl’s emphasis on finding meaning in suffering is an incredibly powerful tool for anyone struggling to find purpose in dark times. This classic reminds us that even in the worst of circumstances, we can choose how we respond.
9. Staring at the Sun by Irvin D. Yalom
In Staring at the Sun, psychiatrist Irvin D. Yalom delves into our universal fear of death and how confronting it can lead to a fuller, more meaningful life. Through patient stories and philosophical musings, Yalom provides comforting wisdom about living in the face of mortality. Death anxiety is difficult to self-identify and is often at the root of the way we interact with life around us. Yalom’s openness in not only exploring his own fear of death but his knowledge as a clinician makes this book a phenomenal read for becoming more self-aware.
10. What my Bones Know: A Memoir of Healing from Complex trauma by Stephanie Foo
What My Bones Know: A Memoir of Healing from Complex Trauma by Stephanie Foo is a deeply moving memoir that explores the profound impact of complex trauma on both the mind and body. Foo courageously shares her experiences of growing up in a chaotic, challenging environment, marked by the presence of mental illness. Through heartfelt reflections, she illustrates how trauma can shape one’s emotional and physical well-being, while also highlighting the vital importance of addressing these invisible wounds. Her story offers a compassionate look at the journey toward healing, resilience, and the hope that recovery is always possible.
11. Hyperbole and a Half by Allie Brosh
Allie Brosh’s graphic memoir is a hilarious yet deeply relatable account of living with depression and anxiety. The combination of humorous illustrations and honest storytelling provides a fresh perspective on mental health struggles, making this a lighthearted but powerful read for when you need a smile. As we all know, humor is an important part of self-reflection and healing.
12. Braiding Sweetgrass by Robin Wall Kimmerer
Braiding Sweetgrass by Robin Wall Kimmerer is a beautifully woven collection of essays that blends indigenous wisdom and scientific knowledge to explore our relationship with nature. Kimmerer, a botanist and member of the Citizen Potawatomi Nation, highlights the importance of reciprocity and gratitude in our interactions with the natural world. Through personal stories and reflections, she illustrates how reconnecting with nature can promote healing and well-being. This book invites readers to cultivate a sense of awe and appreciation for the earth, which directly impacts how we interact with life around us.
13. The Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work by Dr. John Gottman
In The Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work, renowned relationship expert John Gottman presents research-based strategies for fostering lasting love and intimacy in marriages. Drawing from decades of study, Gottman identifies seven key principles that can help couples strengthen their relationships, such as building a deep friendship, managing conflict constructively, and creating shared meaning. Through practical exercises and relatable examples, this book empowers couples to navigate challenges and enhance their emotional connection. Its insights into effective communication and mutual respect make it an invaluable resource for those seeking to cultivate a healthy, fulfilling partnership.
14. All About Love by bell hooks
All About Love explores the concept of love from a personal, societal, and cultural perspective. In this insightful book, hooks delves into how our understanding of love is shaped by our experiences and social structures, and she offers a transformative vision of love that fosters healing, compassion, and emotional well-being. For those seeking deeper connections and emotional health, this book provides a powerful guide to cultivating love in all aspects of life.
15. Atomic Habits by James Clear
Atomic Habits offers a practical guide to building new habits in a way that is strategic and approachable. Using research from psychology and neuroscience, Clear explains how small, consistent changes can lead to remarkable improvements in your life. For mental health, it provides actionable strategies for creating routines that support well-being, reduce stress, and foster positive change. Our client have cited this has one of their favorite books for imparting lasting change into their daily life.
We hope this serves as a helpful tool! If you’d like to learn more about us, you can visit our website at www.beyondthecouchcounseling.com or reach out to us at Admin@beyondthecouchcounseling.com. We would love to hear from you and share a little bit more about what makes us a unique resource your mental health needs. Thanks for joining us!
