Book Nook
Books can be a crackerjack supplement to personal growth and therapy. The Book Nook is an ever-growing hub for all my mental health-related favourites.
(Books are now linked to independent booksellers; Willow Tree Counselling receives no financial remuneration for purchases made through these links. Please consider supporting local indie bookstores - many of which are fighting to stay open.)
Love Lives Here: A Story of Thriving in a Transgender Family
by Rowan Jete Knox (2019)
A trans family memoir, showing what is possible within challenge, when love comes first.
Pink, Blue, and You!: Questions for Kids about Gender Stereotypes
by Elise Gravel and Mykaell Blais (2022)
A children’s picture book told with sweetness and humour, that will also delight many adults too.
It’s About You Too: Reducing the Overwhelm for Parents of LGBTQ+ Kids
by Tracy Whitmore (2023)
The author stresses that when parents can honour their own thoughts, feelings and reactions to their LGBTQ+ children’s gender and/or sexuality journeys, they are in the best position to wholeheartedly support their children. A practical, encouraging book. Recommended.
The Pride Guide: A Guide to Sexual and Social Health for LGBTQ Youth
by Jo Langford (2020)
While designed for youth, this book–written by a sex-educator and longtime therapist–has practical and helpful information for parents who wish to better undersand and support their LGBTQ+ children.
The Transgender Child: Revised & Updated Edition: A Handbook for Parents and Professionals Supporting Transgender and Nonbinary Children
by Stephanie Brill and Rachel Pepper (2022)
A thorough guide for families wanting to understand and affirm their transgender, gender-expansive, or nonbinary child, including transition-related information and guidance. The book also includes resources and a glossary of terms.
Supporting Transgender Autistic Youth and Adults: A Guide for Professionals and Families
by Finn Grafton (2019)
An important intersectional work from a therapist with lived experience. Recommended.
A Quick and Easy Guide to Queer and Trans Identities
by Mady G. & Jules Zuckerberg (2019)
A ‘101’ of the LGBTQ communities in a short illustrated guide: sexuality, gender identity, coming out, navigating relationships and more. Especially fun if you love mushroom illustrations.
A Quick and Easy Guide to They/Them Pronouns
by A. Bongiovanni & T. Jimmerson (2018)
Mini illustrated guide in comic form, packed with info and suggestions on using they/them pronouns. Now considered a classic. Especially recommended for family, friends and support people.
Beyond The Gender Binary
by Alok Vaid-Menon (2020)
Through the lens of their own life, this gender-nonconforming author compassionately explores and reimagines the gender binary.