by Christien Storm (2018)

There is a lot of information available on boundaries but out of everything I’ve read, this is my top pick. The author is particularly notable for their discussion on the nuanced nature of boundaries–honouring the fact that setting boundaries is inherently difficult but that it is not necessarily a rigid, inflexible process. Practical, inclusive and trauma-informed, guiding strategies are offered.

by Virginia Sole-Smith (2023)

Journalist and author Virginia Sole-Smith takes a deeply comprehensive look at diet culture’s reach on children and parents, by elevating understanding of the societal systems that maintain fat-phobia and body shaming.

by John Howard (2022)

By leveraging the research on neuroscience, the author shows the reader simple, straightforward steps that they can take to improve the quality of connection in their close relationships. While focusing primarily on romantic partnerships, this book’s principles can be extended to any close relationships. Highly recommended.

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.

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.

by Nedra Glover Tawwab (2021)

This book has emerged as a prominent and popular choice for those who wish to better understand emotional boundaries and co-dependency. Straightforward and practical.

by Melody Beattie (2022)

A classic in the field; introduced the concept of co-dependency to the world and how to break free of it. I’ve stopped counting which edition it’s in.

by Alan Garner and Janet Woititz (1990)

This vintage book has survived the test of time and was the first book ever recommended to me by my first therapist.  A slim volume chock-full of practical suggestions for adult children of alcoholics.

by John Gottman and Julie Schwartz Gottman (2007)

Tips from the authors’ research and experience navigating from a couple to a family of three. Information to help bridge and guide this important, and statistically challenging, life transition.

by John Gottman and Nan Silver (2015)

Professor of psychology, John Gottman, shares the principles for a successful relationship, culled from his years of longitudinal research on couples. John Gottman’s most popular book and best for couples who are seeking a research-informed approach to making changes in their relationship.

by Michael P. Nichols (2021)

Breaks down the practice of listening–something many of us put little thought into until we find ourselves struggling, or are told that we are!

by Randy Patterson (2022)

This book was first written when there was very little on the market to help with assertiveness skills. This practical workbook for understanding and improving assertiveness is now in its 2nd edition.

by Alyson Shafer (2014)

How to understand your children’s misbehaviour and elicit their cooperation, using Adlerian parenting principles.

by Alyson Shafer (2006)

Not for the faint at heart, the author asks us to look at our expectations of ourselves as mothers and to take responsibility for them.  She offers alternative strategies for making changes, intermingled with humourous dialogue.

by Adele Faber and Elaine Mazlish (2004)

The authors bring to life the humanistic work of the late child psychologist, Dr. Haim Ginott, using examples from their own family lives.

by Adele Faber and Elaine Mazlish (2012)

Reprinted regularly since the 1970s. this classic book teaches practical, relational and respectful parenting strategies. More philosophy than technique per se, but deeply influential.

by Haim Ginott (1965) – revised by Alice Ginott and H. Wallace Goddard (2003)

This parenting classic and pioneering work emphasizes a humanistic approach to parenting, rooted in empathy and respect.  Also offers practical tips complete with many examples.

by Thich Nhat Hanh (2002)

A gentle book offering guidance on how to use the spiritual practice of mindfulness to help with anger.

Call or text 9-8-8, from anywhere in Canada, 24/7.

A wealth of free online mental-health related courses, developed in conjunction with people who have lived experience.

A self-help and educational guide about anger, from the counselling department at McGill University.

List of private master’s-level counsellors, or their interns, offering subsidized counselling. Updated quarterly.

Resource list, updated quarterly.

A resource list of lower-cost professional counselling options in Vancouver. Corrections and suggestions welcome.

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