The job of a clinical psychologist is one that is draining on the mind and body. Helping others with their problems can be overwhelming. You constantly need new materials to be able to deal with people of all ages. Staying up on current reads is one of the best ways to keep a fresh perspective, according to Psychology Today. Here are five books for clinical psychologists that will open your eyes and give you a point of reference when counseling.
1. The Boy Who Was Raised As A Dog – By Bruce Perry
Those who deal with children will find that getting through to them can be difficult. Thankfully, child psychologist Bruce Perry gives some insight that is useful. Each chapter in the book is a different story about a case he dealt with. The book shows the impact of the foster system and trauma on a child, as well as those who have been abandoned. It is one eye-opening account after another regarding the resilience of children and their ability to overcome. Sometimes counselors have to delve deep into the past to heal the future.
2. Pay Off – By Dan Ariely
One of the hardest things that a psychologist must deal with is learning how to motivate others to change. This best-selling author writes a compelling book that shows just how this can be done. Payoff explores the exact nature of motivation, our impaired vision to the way it works, and how we can close this gap. With training that ranges from the boardroom to the living room, the author digs deep to discover the origin behind this difficult task. He shows that trust is crucial for successful motivation and that many have misconceptions about the value of their work.
3. Brain Briefs – By Art Markman
Just because you are a counselor doesn’t mean that you have all the answers. This book is written with questions to the most burning questions mental health professionals ask. From cover to cover, you will be intrigued with the questions that can help you to become a better psychologist. The book explores exactly how the brain works and why we act the way we do. It is written by a man who hosts a talk show in Austin, Texas. Engaging from start to finish, Markman has a way of answering all those things that you often ask yourself each day.
4. The Righteous Mind – By Johnathan Haidt
In a world filled with segregation, Haidt explores why religion and politics have divided this world. As a social psychologist, he talks about the two most controversial topics around. He goes into great detail about how to understand the liberals, conservatives, and the libertarian point of view. What makes these people so diverse, and how can you treat people with such differing points of view and remain objective? This book challenges conventional thinking and speaks to everyone on the political spectrum.
5. Mind Over Money – By Claudia Hammond
One of the biggest reasons why people have marriage problems is due to their spending habits and poor money management. They overspend and then pay the price later. Claudia Hammond delves into the reasons why money has such a hold on this society. She uses the latest advances in psychology, neuroscience and behavioral economics to help put money in its proper perspective. Mind Over Money will change the way you look at the “almighty dollar.” This entertaining investigation will shock you and cause you to deliberate the psychology behind money matters.
Related Resource: What is Business Psychology?
These five great books for clinical psychologists will allow you to offer a fresh perspective on topics you tackle every day. All of the degrees you have earned will never prepare you for the people and situations that you will encounter in your daily life. These great reads will help enhance your spectrum and give you another look at life’s most deliberating topics.