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What Your Therapist is Reading - Part 3: Emotions.

By Sofie Charron, RP



Would it even be therapy if your therapist didn't ask "and how does that make you feel?" at least once during the session? All jokes aside, emotions are a pretty important part of therapy - and life in general! Contrary to popular belief, emotions aren't "irrational" at all; they serve an important evolutionary purpose in our survival. Emotions are an indispensable, unavoidable and essential part of the human experience. Understanding emotions - how they work and how to navigate them - can make the difference between an overwhelming life and meaningful one.


Emotional Intelligence refers to your own ability to understand and manage your emotions, communicate and relate to other people. These are important skills for professional success, healthy and strong relationships, self-esteem and a sense of fulfillment in life.


Here are some of the best books I've read on the topic of emotions:


  1. Anger: Wisdom for Cooling the Flames by Thich Nhat Hanh If you've read my first book recommendation post on the topic of Mindfulness, you'll know I have a fond appreciation for Thich Nhat Hanh's work. He is a Buddhist monk and he's written many books on the practice of mindfulness. His teachings read like poetry, but in a most relatable way. In this book, Thich Nhat Hanh provides a compassionate perspective on anger with practical exercises to harness it's power, without letting it destroy the world around you.

    Content warning: References to domestic violence.


  2. Burn Out: The Secret to Unlocking the Stress Cycle by Emily Nahoski PhD & Amelia Nagoski, DMA.

    A much-needed book on the topic of modern day stress with a feministic perspective. The authors explore the physiological phenomenon of stress, the cultural factors that contribute to it, the invisible causes that often get overlooked, and some practical strategies to manage stress.

  3. The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck by Mark Manson


    This book quite literally had me laughing out loud - worth the read for the entertainment value alone! But beyond that, Manson also provides a fresh and relatable perspective on what ultimately shapes your quality of life. He confronts the typical approach of worrying about and reacting to others and refocuses the reader onto what matters most. Reader be warned: Manson has a potty mouth and is not afraid to use it!

  4. The Gifts of Imperfection by Brené Brown

    This was actually one of the first personal growth books I've ever read. I've included it on this Emotions list and not in the upcoming Personal Growth list because the book tackles some really, really challenging human emotions: Shame, guilt, vulnerability. Brené Brown has become quite popular over the years and has authored many titles on some of the most difficult human experiences - any of her works are worth a read!


  1. The Confidence Gap by Dr. Russ Harris You probably knew there was going to be a Russ Harris reference! One of the main modalities I use in therapy is Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). It combines cognitive-behavioural strategies with mindfulness to help people navigate difficult emotions and take actions towards a fulfilling life. Harris uses this framework to tackle to all-too-common issue of low confidence and low self-esteem, including the anxiety and fear that come with these.. He also provides helpful perspectives and exercises to help the reader feel less controlled by their emotions and more in control of what they do.



    For more reading recommendations on topics such as emotions, relationships, personal growth and more, check out the other posts in this series and stay tuned for more! If you wish to discuss any of the topics above with a compassionate therapist, send an email to info@charrontherapy.com.


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