My Favorite Fall Books for Your Mental Well-Being

From spending all my money at the scholastic book fair as a kid, to beelining to every famous library or bookstore within a 15 mile radius of wherever I’m traveling, I am a book nerd through and through.

Sometimes I’ll dive into a new book right away, other times they’ll adorn my shelf like a bottle of wine waiting to be plucked from the cellar and enjoyed at the perfect moment.

There’s something about this time of year that invites us to slow down, grab a blanket, and find comfort in a good book. Whether it’s a moment of clarity or just a chance to escape for a while, books have the power to completely change our lives.

I thought I’d share a few of my all-time favorite reads—the ones I return to whenever I need a bit of inspiration, a change in perspective, or just a break from the everyday. Over the years, these books have also made a huge impact on many of the people I’ve worked with in my therapy practice, so they come highly recommended!

Here are a few of my favorites:

1.One Small Step Can Change Your Life: The Kaizen Way by Robert Maurer

Ever feel overwhelmed by big changes? This book is all about small, meaningful steps. Maurer introduces Kaizen, a gentle approach to growth that feels sustainable and achievable. If you’re looking to start something new or get out of a rut, this one will remind you that it’s okay to start small.

2. The Little Book of Stoicism: Timeless Wisdom to Gain Resilience, Confidence, and Calmness by Jonas Salzgeber

Stoicism has been a game-changer for me when it comes to handling life’s ups and downs. This book makes stoic philosophy feel approachable and actually useful, with simple, actionable takeaways. If you’re looking for something to help you stay grounded, this one’s full of gentle reminders to help you keep perspective, even on the tough days.

3. Mind Over Mood: Change How You Feel by Changing the Way You Think (Second Edition) by Dennis Greenberger

Ok what this workbook lacks in cozy it makes up for in practical. It’s helped so many of my clients change their thought patterns and take control of their emotional well-being. It’s filled with exercises and worksheets that walk you through exactly how to start shifting your mindset. If you’ve ever felt stuck in negative thoughts, this is one I’d recommend picking up.

4. You Are a Badass: How to Stop Doubting Your Greatness and Start Living an Awesome Life by Jen Sincero

This one is just pure fun. If you need a little pep talk and a reminder of just how capable you are, Jen Sincero’s got your back. I loved how much I laughed reading this book, and it’s packed with empowering advice. Sometimes, you just need a good motivational kick, and this book will definitely give you that!

5.Man’s Search for Meaning by Viktor Frankl

This one’s a classic for a reason. It’s raw, real, and a reminder of the resilience of the human spirit. Frankl’s story and philosophy are such a powerful guide to finding meaning, especially during tough times. This book is one I keep close, especially when I need a perspective shift.

Books have always been a way for me to slow down, reflect, and step back from the chaos of everyday life, and I hope these suggestions do the same for you. Whether you’re seeking a bit of inspiration, looking to better understand your emotions, or just need a break from the noise, these books offer so much wisdom and comfort.

You can find all of these titles and more on my Amazon storefront, and I’d love to hear what you think if you pick any of them up. And if you’ve got any cozy favorites that help you unwind, let me know—I’m always on the lookout for more recommendations!

Happy reading!