Psychology is complex. The field comprises various dimensions and perspectives and even integrates the latest technology to support clinical interventions. Yet, with developments often unfolding, where can you gain more insights to strengthen your capacity as a mental health professional?
…Through reading, of course!
However, not just any reading. We, at Psious, have put together the top 5 books that sit on the nightstands and bookshelves of every best psychologist. From addressing vulnerable populations like LGBTQ+ and Blacks to covering powerful topics such as trauma, social psychology and virtual reality, these hardcovers and paperbacks will pique your interest from start to finish.
Ready for your next page-turner? Look below and take your pick!
1. The Life-changing Science of Detecting Bullshit
Author(s): John V. Petrocelli
Premise: In this 336-page book, psychology professor and social scientist John V Petrocelli puts forth strategies that engage critical thinking and scientific reasoning skills to help you recognize and defend against bullshit. That’s right. Bullshit. The word may be vulgar to hear but it reflects the current reality of a post-truth world, in which false information and erroneous beliefs have become both pervasive and acceptable.
Using real-life examples, Petrocelli describes alarm-raising warning signs in language and stories that often sway decisions and result in unfavorable scenarios. For those who want to learn how to stop the rampant spread of misinformation and avoid perpetuating bullshit, this is the book to order.
2. Handbook of Psychology and Sexual Orientation
Author(s): Charlotte J. Patterson and Anthony R. D’Augelli
Premise: The LGBTQ+ is one of many vulnerable collectives to have risk factors for various diseases, including cardiovascular disease, substance use disorder and anxiety disorders. However, comprehensive psychological research on this population segment remains limited. This handbook by Patterson and D’Augelli is a breakthrough compendium on psychological research and theory on sexual orientation. It explores four primary topics, including: concepts, theories and perspectives; development over the life course; domains of experience; and communities and contextual issues.
This is an ideal introductory publication for all mental health professionals who desire to offer more informed and appropriate clinical services to patients who identify as LGBTQ+.
In the United States, approximately 9 million people identify as LGBT (almost equivalent to the population in the state of New Jersey).
3. The Body Keeps The Score: Mind, Brain and Body in the Transformation of Trauma
Author(s): Bessel van der Kolk MD
Premise: With more than thirty years in research and clinical practice, Dr. Bessel vam der Kolk presents a moving story of how therapists and scientists have struggled to apply advances made in brain science, attachment research and body awareness to treatments that can liberate trauma survivors.
The title highlights one of the main tenets of this New York Times bestseller book: a wide range of therapeutic interventions could be key to enabling trauma victims to feel safe and thus, continuing healing.
According to the World Health Organization, an estimated 1 in 4 women in Europe will experience physical and/or sexual violence by an intimate partner at one point during their life course.
4. You Are Your Best Thing: Vulnerability, Shame Resilience, and the Black Experience
Editor(s): Tarana Burke and Dr. Brené Brown
Premise: In 2020, the Black Lives Matter movement took center stage worldwide, shedding light on the Black experience across different societal dimensions. However, it was not the only understanding afforded.
A New York Times Bestseller, this book gathers influential Black writers and cultural figures in the United States to speak on the Black experience, alongside issues of vulnerability, shame resilience and traume of white supremacy. It is, to say the least, a poignant read that could contribute to deepening your knowledge about patients from the Black community.
5. Future Presence: How Virtual Reality Is Changing Human Connection, Intimacy, and the Limits of Ordinary Life
Author(s): Peter Rubin
Premise: “Future Presence: How Virtual Reality Is Changing Human Connection, Intimacy, and the Limits of Ordinary Life” is not your run-of-the-mill book. Written by the Wired senior editor and virtual reality expert Peter Rubin, the 288-page publication dives into the future and real possibilities of virtual reality within the realm of relationships and intimacy. It explores intricate questions about the human element, connections and experiences provided by such breakthrough technology.
Indeed, given the basis of the book, this piece suits those mental health professionals who are curious about the use of virtual reality within clinical practice. The book offers an introductory glimpse into the technology that is already shifting the mental health care landscape.
It’s a must-read!
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Want to improve your consultation practices and offer services that include the use of virtual reality? Speak with Amelia about setting up a demo session and discussing all options to help improve care for your patients.
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