Books & Podcasts We Recommend
In a continued effort to ensure you feel cared for, Connected Care Counseling is sharing simple tools, tips, and insights we use as therapists—because support should go beyond the therapy room. We hope these posts help you feel seen, supported, connected and cared for.
The Emotional Lives of Teenagers by Dr Lisa Damour
This is required reading for parents of teens. As a clinician, this book impacted my work with adolescents in the office and as a parent, it impacted the way I relate to my own two teenagers.
If your children are reaching the age of 11 and up, it is the most helpful guidebook I've come across. I'd also recommend following her on social media as Dr Damour posts numerous quick tips and thoughts.
https://drlisadamour.com/books/the-emotional-lives-of-teenagers/
Anxious Kids Anxious Parents by Lynn Lyons and Reid Wilson
This book should be required reading for anyone who is raising a child experiencing anxiety. Anxious Kids Anxious Parents by Lynn Lyons and Reid Wilson offers concrete support and applicable strategies for managing anxiety. This book guides the way I approach anxiety in my office on a daily basis.
You can also check out her podcast (The Flusterclux Podcast). Each episode practically approaches specific case studies of anxiety so you can find ones that relate directly to your situations. The episode linked below is a great starting point.
https://www.flusterclux.com/best-of-how-to-support-your-anxious-child-101
What Happened to You? Conversations on Trauma, Resilience, and Healing by Bruce D. Perry and Oprah Winfrey
This resource is another clinical game changer that can support adults as they process through their behaviors and the behaviors of others.
Although this is definitely more for the adult client, as a parent and clinician for younger students, this book shines a very important light on developmental behaviors and I would say is another must read for parents and anyone working with younger students.
Understanding how events that we have walked through impact our stress response systems helps create empathy and connection instead of resentment and bitterness.
This link has an excerpt so you can get a feel for what the book is about. I have read through the book several times and always gain new information!
Raising Kids with Big Baffling Behaviors by Robyn Gobbel
This book has been another game changer for me clinically and I recommend it to parents in the office frequently.
Gobbel helps parents, caregivers, teachers and clinicians get a clear understanding of the brain, its need for safety, and the impact of that need on a child's behavior. If you are looking to increase empathy and understanding regarding "big, baffling behaviors," I highly recommend checking out this book.
If you’d like support applying these insights or exploring how therapy can help your family, please do not hesitate to reach out to Connected Care Counseling for a free consultation.
Laura Waller, MS, LPC, NCC, ADHD-CCSP
Licensed Professional Counselor
