Members of the Ohio Psychological Association (OPA) have contributed suggestions for consumer-friendly self-help resources. Please note that OPA as an organization does not endorse any of the particular resources listed, nor does it insure the accuracy of the information given in these resources. If you have any questions about information given in one of the resources, or if you are suffering from psychological distress and the self-help resources do not seem to provide adequate assistance, we highly recommend that you contact a psychologist directly for an individual consultation. Access our Psychologist Referral Service.
Click on the topic in which you are interested below to see a short list of the most highly recommended books and Web sites for public use. In some cases, OPA members are themselves authors of the recommended books and Web sites. Resources that may personally benefit OPA members through sales of books or visits to Web sites are indicated with “**”. Resources are added periodically as members suggest them.
In addition to the specific resources found in the list below, two publications may be of further interest to you:
- “The Authoritative Guide to Self-Help Resources in Mental Health” (Revised Edition, 2003), authored by John Norcross, John Santrock, and others and published by The Guilford Press provides a comprehensive, annotated summary of books, movies, Web sites, and support groups relevant to mental health.
- “The Therapist’s Internet Handbook,” (2001), authored by Robert Stamps and Peter Barach** (Dr. Barach is an OPA member), offers an extensive listing and description of mental-health related Web sites for therapists and consumers.
If you are unable to find specific information within the list below, please contact Kathleen Ashton, Ph.D.
General Health / Mental Health Web sites
Mental Health and Psychology Resources Online
A highly comprehensive Web site including information on most mental health issues and disorders. Includes book and article references, FAQ sections, support group links, brief questionnaires and more.
Abuse Survival
Recommended Readings:
For adult women recovering from childhood sexual abuse:
The Courage to Heal (3rd ed., 1994). By Bass, E., & Davis, L. New York: Harper Perennial.
Although this book is a well-known and highly recommended book for survivors of known sexual abuse, please consult a psychologist directly if you are uncertain about whether or not you may be a survivor of sexual trauma before drawing any conclusions from your reading. There is an accompanying workbook to this text called “The courage to heal workbook” (1990).
Healing the Incest Wound: Adult Survivors in Therapy (1996). By Courtois, C. New York: Norton.
A comprehensive text, suitable for practitioners as well as laypersons. May be overly technical for some lay audiences.
For women survivors of domestic violence:
Getting Free: You Can End Abuse and Take Back Your Life (3rd ed., 1997). By NiCarthy, G. Seattle, WA: Seal.
Quite comprehensive and includes several workbook-type exercises for readers.
The Battered Woman (1979). By Walker, L. New York: Harper & Row.
Despite the age of the book, still a classic for understanding the cycle of violence.
For male survivors of childhood sexual abuse:
Victims No Longer: Men Recovering From Incest and Other Sexual Child Abuse (1990). By Lew, M. New York: Harper & Row. Written especially for men.
For partners of abuse survivors:
Allies in healing (1991). By Davis, L. New York: Harper Perennial.
Assists partners of abuse survivors in understanding and coping with the effects of abuse through a question-and-answer format, using case examples.
For Men and Women Survivors of Sexual Abuse:
The Sexual Healing Journey: A Guide for Survivors of Sexual Abuse (Revised Edition) (2001). By Maltz, Wendy. New York: HarperCollins Publishers, Inc.
Web sites:
For sexual assault issues:
**Male Survivor: Overcoming Sexual Victimization of Boys and Men
A resource for men struggling with issues related to being a survivor of any type of sexual victimization, including rape, sexual assault, and covert and overt incest. There is a bibliography there, articles of interest, chat rooms and information about survivor retreats offered 3-4 times per year.
For Domestic Violence Issues:
Domestic Violence Resources
Several articles full of information, especially for abusers, with information on how to recognize and curb abusive behavior.
Aging Issues
Recommended Readings:
General Information about Aging:
Smyer, M. & Qualls, S. (1999). Aging & Mental Health. Blackwell.
This book gives general information about aspects of the aging process and mental health. May be somewhat technical for a lay audience.
For Individuals in Long-Term Care or their Caregivers:
Salamon, M. J. & Rosenthal, G. (2003). Home or Nursing Home: Making the Right Choices (2nd ed.). Springer.
Long, S. (2005). Caring for people with challenging behaviors: Essential skills and successful strategies in long-term care. Baltimore, MD: Health Professions Press.
This book is written for families or staff members who work with individuals who have challenging behaviors. It is written in everyday language, and has practical advice and examples, as well as worksheets that can be photocopied and used in day-to-day care.
For Nursing Home staff caring for patients with dementia:
Gwyther, L. (1985). Care of Alzheimer's Patients: A manual for nursing home staff. AHCA & ADRDA
For Caregivers of Individuals with Dementia:
Mace, N., & Rabins, P. (1991). The 36-hour day. Johns Hopkins Press.
This is a classic book on dealing with the stress of caring for an individual with dementia. Written for the layperson.
Lebow, G., Kane, B., & Lebow, I. (1999). Coping with your difficult older parent. New York: Avon Books.
This book is written for children who find they are having difficulty coping with behaviors or emotions that their aging parent is experiencing.
Web sites:
APA Office on Aging: This Web site offers resources on depression and older adults, suicide in older adults and how psychology can help older adults.
Health and Age: This Web site offers information about physical and mental health issues that older adults may experience.
Anger Management
Recommended Readings:
The Dance of Anger: A Woman's Guide to Changing the Patterns of Intimate Relationships (1985). By Lerner, Harriet G. Harper & Row A best-seller, addressing issues the recovery community calls "co-dependency" using family systems as well as psychodynamic understandings. Lerner calls the behavior "over-functioning.”
Attention-Deficit / Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
Recommended Readings:
For everyone with ADHD:
Delivered from Distraction: Getting the Most out of Life with Attention Deficit Disorder (2005). By Hallowell, E.M. & Ratey, J.J. New York: Ballantine Books.
For parents and teachers of children with ADHD:
Taking Charge of ADHD: The Complete, Authoritative Guide for Parents (2000). By Barkley, R.A. New York: The Guilford Press.
The ADD/ADHD Checklist: An Easy Reference for Parents & Teachers (1997). By Rief, S. Paramus, NJ: Prentice Hall.
ADHD/Hyperactivity: A Consumer’s Guide (1991). By Gordon, M. DeWitt, NY: GSI Publications.
For adults with ADHD:
You Mean I’m Not Lazy, Stupid, or Crazy?! A Self-Help Book for Adults with Attention Deficit Disorder (1993). By Kelly, K. & Ramundo, P. Cincinnati, OH: Tyrell & Jerem Press.
Adventures in Fast Forward: Life, Love, and Work for the ADD Adult (1996). By Nadeau, K.G. New York: Brunner/Mazel Publishers.
The Down and Dirty Guide to Adult ADD (1996). By Gordon, M. & McClure, F.D. DeWitt, NY: GSI Publications.
Moms with ADD: A Self-Help Manual (2000). By Adamec, C.A. Dallas, TX: Taylor Trade Publishing.
Web sites:
Children and Adults with Attention Deficit Disorder [CHADD] is the nation's leading non-profit organization serving individuals with AD/HD and their families. CHADD has over 16,000 members in 200 local chapters throughout the U.S. Chapters offer support for individuals, parents, teachers, professionals and others.
National Resource Center on ADHD is a web-based resource of information about ADHD, funded through a cooperative agreement between CHADD and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
The Attention Deficit Disorder Association (ADDA) is a national organization that focuses on the needs of adults and young adults with AD/HD. Parents of children with AD/HD are welcome.
Autism and Related Conditions
Recommended Readings:
Let Me Hear Your Voice: A Family’s Triumph over Autism (1994). By Maurice, C. New York: Ballantine Books.
Making a Difference: Behavioral Intervention for Autism (2001). By Maurice, C., Green, G., & Foxx, R. Austin, Texas: Pro-Ed.
Behavioral Intervention for Young Children with Autism: A Manual for Parents and Professionals (1996). By Maurice, C., Green, G., & Luce, S. Austin, Texas: Pro-Ed.
Teaching Developmentally Disabled Children: The Me Book (1981). By Lovaas, O.I. Austin, Texas: Pro-Ed.
Right from the Start: Behavioral Interventions for Young Children with Autism: A Guide for Parents and Professionals (1998). By Harris, S.L., & Weiss, M.J. Bethesda, MD: Woodbine House.
Activity Schedules for Children with Autism: Teaching Independent Behavior (2003). By McClannahan, LE & Krantz, P.J. Bethesda, MD: Woodbine Press.
Children with Autism: A Parent’s Guide (2000). By Powers, M.D. Rockville, MD: Woodbine House.
Facing Autism: Giving Parents Reasons for Hope and Guidance for Help (2000). By Hamilton, L. Colorado Springs, CO: Waterbrook Press.
Asperger’s Syndrome: A Guide for Parents and Professionals (1998). By Atwood, T. & Wing, L. Philadelphia: Jessica Kingsley Publishers.
Web sites:
Autism Society of America
Autism Resources
FEAT (Families for Early Autism Treatment)
NY Dept of Health Autism Guidelines
National Alliance for Autism Research
Association for Science in Autism Treatment
Bipolar Affective Disorder (Manic Depression)
Mental Illness: What a Difference a Friend Makes
Recommended Readings:
Jamison, Kay R. (1995). An unquiet mind. Random House. This is a bibliography of Kay Jamison, who describes her experience of suffering from manic-depression and suicidal thoughts.
Miklowitz, D. J. (2002). The bipolar disorder survival guide: What you and your family need to know. New York, NY: Guilford Press.
Body Dysmorphic Disorder
Recommended Readings:
The Broken Mirror: Understanding and Treating Body Dysmorphic Disorder (1998). By Phillips, K. New York: Oxford University Press.
The BDD Workbook: Overcome Body Dysmorphic Disorder and End Body Image Obsessions (2002). By Claiborn, J., & Pedrick, C. New Harbinger Publications.
Web sites:
Article abstract with definition of BDD and treatment description
Massachusetts General Hospital Body Dysmorphic Clinic & Research Unit
Borderline Personality Disorder
Recommended Readings:
For Family Members:
Stop Walking on Eggshells: Taking Your Life Back When Someone You Care About Has Borderline Personality Disorder (1998). By Mason, Paul, & Kreger, Randi. Oakland, CA: New Harbinger Publications, Inc.
Bullying
Web sites:
Stop Bullying Now!
Tolerance.Org
Childhood Mental Health Issues
Depression and Bipolar Disorder
Recommended Readings:
Fristad, M. A., & Arnold, J. S. G. (2004). Raising a moody child: How to cope with depression and bipolar disorder. New York, NY: Guilford Press.
Web sites:
Child and Adolescent Bipolar Foundation
Anxiety Disorders
Recommended Readings:
Rapee, R. M., Spence, S. H., Cobham, V., & Wignall, A. M. (2000). Helping your anxious child: A step-by-step guide for parents. Oakland, CA: New Harbinger Publications, Inc. A great book for parents of children with a variety of anxiety disorders. It is written within a CBT framework and is highly recommended.
Behavior Management
Recommended Readings:
Your Defiant Child: Eight Steps to Better Behavior (1998) Barkley & Benton
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder
Recommended Readings:
Taking Charge of ADHD: The Complete, Authoritative Guide for Parents (2000) Barkley
Web sites
Attention Deficit Disorder Resources
The Web site of Attention Deficit Disorder Resources has over 150 articles written by national ADHD authorities as well as adults with ADHD. Plenty of information for parents too. 100 plus links to ADHD-related Web sites.
Death and Grieving
Recommended Readings:
How to go on Living When Someone You Love Dies (1991). By Rando, T. New York: Bantam.
Comprehensive in scope and practical in suggestions for moving through the grieving process.
Mourning and Mitzvah: A guided journey for walking the mourner's path through grief to healing. (1993).By Brener, A. Jewish Lights Publishing
When Bad Things Happen to Good People (1981). By Kushner, H. New York: Schocken.
This classic best-seller is written from a spiritual perspective, for those struggling with the question of how God can allow suffering and death. It does not promote specific theological answers, but rather explores common human explanations and offers some alternative perspectives.
Depression
Recommended Readings:
Feeling Good: The New Mood Therapy (revised ed., 1999). By Burns, D. New York: Avon.
A well-known resource, this book describes empirically validated cognitive therapy for depression and includes several self-assessment questionnaires and practical worksheets for putting the treatment into practice.
Control Your Depression (1996). By Lewinsohn, P., Munoz, R., Youngren, M., and Zeiss, A. Engelwood Cliffs, NJ: Prentice-Hall. This book describes not only the thought processes common in depression and how to change them, but also behavioral strategies (things people can do) to reduce depression. A helpful addition to Burns’ Feeling Good, above.
Web sites:
Learn about depression (symptoms and treatment)
National Institute of Mental Health brochure on Depression
Understanding Depression from HealthCentral Network
Eating Disorders
Recommended Readings:
The Body Image Workbook by Thomas Cash. This book is a well-organized and thorough workbook focused on the cognitive-behavioral treatment of body image issues. It focuses on improving feelings, thoughts, perceptions, and beliefs about one's body and physical appearance. It is useful for working with clients who suffer from eating disorders, body image disturbances, and body dysmorphia.
Web sites:
National Association of Anorexia Nervosa and Associated Disorders
A Pro-Recovery Web site for eating disorders
National Eating Disorders Association
Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual & Transgendered (GLBT) Issues
Recommended Readings:
The Gay and Lesbian Self-Esteem Book: A Guide To Loving Ourselves (1999). By Hardin, K. N. Oakland, CA: New Harbinger Publications.
Out and About on Campus: Personal Accounts by Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, & Transgendered College Students (2000). By Howard, K., & Stevens, A. Los Angeles: Alyson Books.
Becoming Gay: The Journey to Self-Acceptance (1997). By Isay, R. A. New York: Henry Holt and Company.
Coming Out of Shame: Transforming Gay and Lesbian Lives (1996). By Kaufman, G. & Raphael, L. New York: Doubleday.
Living Well: The Gay Man’s Essential Health Guide (1998). By Shalit, P. Los Angeles: Alyson Books.
The Lesbian Couples’ Guide: Finding the Right Woman and Creating a Life Together (1995). By McDaniel, J. New York: Harper Perennial.
Now That You Know: A Parents’ Guide to Understanding Their Gay and Lesbian Children (1998). By Fairchild, B. & Hayward, N. San Diego: Harcourt Brace and Company.
Beyond Acceptance: Parents of Lesbians and Gays Talk About Their Experiences (1990). By Griffin, C. W., Wirth, M. J. & Wirth, A.G. New York: St. Martin’s Press.
Coming Out to Parents: A Two-Way Survival Guide for Lesbians and Gay men and Their Parents (1993). By Borhek, M.V. Cleveland: The Pilgrim Press.
Out in the Workplace: The Pleasures and Perils of Coming Out on the Job (1995). By Rasi, R.A. & Rodriguez-Nogues, L. Los Angeles: Alyson.
Free Your Mind: The Book of Gay, Lesbian, and Bisexual Youth-and Their Allies (1996). By Bass, E. & Kaufman, K. New York: Harper Perennial.
The New Our Right to Love: A Lesbian Resource Book (1996). By Vida, G. New York: Touchstone.
A legal guide for lesbian and gay couples (2004). Curry, H., Clifford, D., & Hertz, F. Berkeley, CA: Nolo Publishing.
Accepting ourselves and others: A journey into recovery from addictive and compulsive behaviors for gays, lesbians and bisexuals (1996). Komnars, S.B., & Kominars, K.D. Minneapolis: Hazelden.
The new loving someone gay (1987). Clark, D. Berkeley, CA: Celestial Arts.
Homosexuality: Research implications for public policy (1991). Gonsiorek, J.C., & Weinrich, J.D. Newbury Park: Sage.
Stigma and sexual orientation: Understanding prejudice against lesbians, gay men and bisexuals (1998). Herek, G.M. (Ed.). Thousand Oaks, CA: Sage.
A place at the table: The gay individual in American society (1993). Bawer, B. New York: Touchstone.
Golden men: The power of gay midlife (2000). Kooden, H., & Flowers, C. New York: Avon Books.
Stranger at the Gate: To Be Gay and Christian in America (1995). White, M. New York: Plume Books.
On Bisexuality:
Bisexual resource guide: Fourth edition. (2001). Ochs, Robyn, Editor. Cambridge, MA: Bisexual Resource Center.
A comprehensive guide to internet sites, community groups worldwide, books, movies, etc.
Bi any other name: bisexual people speak out. (1991). By Hutchins, L., & Kaahumanu, L. Boston: Alyson.
A wide variety of personal stories and commentary.
Bisexuality: The psychology and politics of an invisible minority. (1996). Firstein, Beth A., Editor. Thousand Oaks: Sage.
A bit more "academic”; more geared toward professionals, but readable for laypersons.
Closer to home: Bisexuality and feminism. (1992). Weise, Elizabeth Reba, Editor. Seattle: Seal.
Good for women and men who want education on feminism, gender roles and women's experience of bisexuality.
On Transgender issues:
Gender outlaw: On men, women, and the rest of us. (1994). By Bornstein, Kate. New York: Routledge.
Describes not only the author's transition, but explores gender constructions in society.
Transgender warriors: Making history from Joan of Arc to RuPaul. (1996). By Feinberg, Leslie. Boston: Beacon.
Validating for anyone in the transgender continuum; much historical and cross cultural information.
Web sites:
Stonewall Columbus
Human Rights Campaign
Parents, Families, and Friends of Lesbians and Gays
Gay and Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation
National Gay and Lesbian Task Force
GLBT Student Services (OSU)
Gay Lesbian Straight Education Network
The Intersex Society of North America
Bisexual Resource Center
Transfamily of Cleveland
Harry Benjamin Standards of Care for Transsexuals
Family Acceptance
Hypochondriasis (Health Anxiety)
Recommended Readings:
Phantom Illness: Recognizing, Understanding, and Overcoming Hypochondria (1997). By Cantor, C., & Fallon, B. New York: Houghton Mifflin.
This book is an autobiography, covering one woman’s struggle with hypochondriasis and including many other case examples and descriptions of treatment strategies.
Worried Sick: The Exaggerated Fear of Physical Illness (2003). By Neuman, F. NY: Hadrian Press.
This text and a companion workbook describe how to put anxiety about health into perspective. The book and workbook are available at http://www.hadrianpress.com/ or by calling 914-681-1038.
Health Anxiety: Hypochondriasis and Related Disorders (2002). By Asmundson, G., Taylor, S., & Cox, B. West Sussex, England: John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
This text is written primarily for professionals, rather than laypersons. Although it is quite technical in places, it is full of useful information and examples of hypochondriasis and its treatment.
Infidelity
Recommended Readings:
Private Lies: Infidelity and the Betrayal of Intimacy by Dr. Frank Pittman is a book that educates about fidelity, secrets, marital arrangements, cultural factors, romance and monogamy. It is not a "how to" book so much as a foundation for understanding what is happening, can happen, or has happened in infidelity. Both therapists and those in the midst of pain can benefit from this book.
After the Affair: Healing the Pain and Rebuilding Trust When a Partner has been Unfaithful by Janis A. Spring, Ph.D.
This book presents information for both parties.
Learning Disorders
Web sites:
National Joint Committee on Learning Disabilities
This is the official Web Site of the National Joint Committee on Learning Disabilities and has a wealth of information from definitions of different types of learning disabilities, to how such disabilities are diagnosed and treated, to how to choose a professional for assistance.
Marital Issues
Recommended Readings:
The Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work (1999). By Gottman, John M. New York: Three Rivers Press.
A highly readable, helpful, and research-based resource on what can go wrong in a relationship, and what can make it right, by one of the field's preeminent researchers.
The Five Love Languages (1995). By Chapman, G. Chicago: Northfield Publishing.
Describes five different methods for expressing and receiving love and encourages spouses to learn and respond to each other’s preferred channels. Based on Christian principles but accessible to a broader audience.
Obesity
Web sites:
Information from American Psychological Association
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder
Recommended Readings:
S.T.O.P. Obsessing (1991). By Foa, E., & Wilson, R. New York: Bantam. This is commonly prescribed reading by psychologists treating OCD, describing symptoms and effective treatment strategies.
Getting Control: Overcoming Your Obsessions and Compulsions (Revised Edition, 2000). By Baer, L. New York: Plume.
Another commonly prescribed book, clearly describing symptoms and behavioral and pharmacological treatments for OCD.
Overcoming Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder: A Behavioral and Cognitive Protocol for the Treatment of OCD (1999). By Steketee, G. Oakland, CA: New Harbinger. A step-by-step treatment strategy and a relapse prevention segment, all based on well-researched, cognitive-behavioral treatment for OCD.
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorders: A Complete Guide to Getting Well and Staying Well (2000). By Penzel, F. New York: Oxford University Press. Not as well known as the other books, above, but highly comprehensive.
Mastery of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder: A Cognitive-Behavioral Approach (1997). By Kozak, M.J. & Foa, E. Albany, NY: Graywind Publications. This is actually a series of books, including a guide for therapists and a workbook for clients. Books in the series may be obtained from Graywind Publications by calling 720-406-1811.
Web sites:
Again & Again, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder Web sites (links)
The Obsessive-Compulsive Foundation
Anxiety Disorders Association of America
Panic Attacks
Recommended Readings:
Mastery of Your Anxiety and Panic III (2000). By Craske, M.G., & Barlow, H. Albany, NY: Graywind Publications.
This book is based on well-researched cognitive and behavioral strategies for conquering panic attacks. There is a companion workbook specifically focusing on overcoming agoraphobia. These workbooks are often used by clients in treatment with therapists as a guide for the therapy process. Both may be ordered from Graywind Publications at http://www.graywindpublications.com/ or by calling 720-406-1811.
The Anxiety and Phobia Workbook (3rd ed., 2001). By Bourne, E.J. Oakland, CA: New Harbinger. A comprehensive manual on treatment strategies for anxiety and phobias, emphasizing cognitive-behavioral techniques but also providing information on medications, herbal supplements, and other approaches to anxiety reduction.
An End to Panic (1995, 2000). By Zeurcher-White, E. Oakland, CA: New Harbinger. Comprehensive descriptions of panic attacks, panic disorder, and treatments (cognitive-behavioral and medication-based), as well as workbook sections for overcoming panic.
Web sites:
Panic Anxiety Education Management Services
A comprehensive site on anxiety and panic attacks with many useful links.
The Anxiety Panic Internet Resource (tAPir)
A comprehensive self-help site with a sense of humor. Defines many types of anxiety, including panic, and offers opportunities to communicate with others suffering from anxiety disorders.
Panic Attack Treatment
An excellent description of cognitive-behavioral panic-attack treatment and comparison to medication treatment.
**The Anxiety and Stress Disorders Clinic at The Ohio State University
Provides descriptions of anxiety disorders and their treatment from a cognitive-behavioral perspective.
Anxiety Disorders Association of America
Descriptions of various forms of anxiety and their treatments, on-line bookstore
Parenting Strategies
Recommended Readings:
**Raising a Moody Child: How to Cope with Depression and Bipolar Disorder (2004). By Fristad, Mary A. and Arnold, Jill G. NY: Guilford Press.
Positive Mental Health
**Travis, Craig (2006). Daily Dose of Positivity: Mental Supplements for Better Health (iUniverse)
In this mental health guide, learn how stress and negativity have an adverse effect on your mind and body and how to train your brain toward positivity to achieve optimal health. It provides a summary of research from health, counseling and positive psychology and offers 202 ways to train your brain for Positivity.
Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
Web sites:
Gateway to Post Traumatic Stress Disorder Information
This site is a gateway to four nonprofit sites that offer PTSD information and resources. Four national and international organizations are here to help, with articles, references, web-links, mini-courses, 800-phone access and e-mail pen-pal resources. This site is listed on the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Web site, under their mental health disorders topic.
Schizophrenia
Recommended Readings:
Surviving Schizophrenia: A Manual for Families, Consumers, and Providers (4th ed., 2001). By Torrey, E. Fuller. New York: Harper Perennial.
Coping with Schizophrenia (1994). By Mueser, Kim T. and Gingerich, Susan. Oakland, CA: New Harbinger.
How to Cope with Mental Illness in Your Family: A Self Care Guide for Siblings, Off-spring, and Parents (1998). By Marsh, Diane T. and Dickens, Rex M.. New York: Jeremy P. Tarcher/Putnam.
Helping Someone with Mental Illness (1998). By Carter, Rosalynn with Susan K. Golant. New York: Random House.
Sex Addiction
Recommended Readings:
Answers in the Heart Daily Meditations (1989). Hazelden Publications.
Hope and Recovery: A Twelve Step Guide for Healing From Compulsive Sexual Behavior (1987). Hazelden Educational Publications
Hope and Recovery Workbook Hazelden Educational Publications
Don't Call It Love: Recovery From Sexual Addiction (1991). By Patrick Carnes. Bantam Books.
Out of the Shadows: Understanding Sexual Addiction. (1983). By Patrick Carnes. Compcare Publishers.
Lonely All the Time: Recognizing, Understanding, and Overcoming Sex Addiction, for Addicts and Codependents (1989). By Ralph Earle, Gregory Crow and Kevin Osborn. Philip Leif Group, Inc.
Women, Sex and Addiction (1989). By Charlotte Kasl. Harper and Row Publishers.
In the Shadows of the Net: Breaking Free of Compulsive Online Sexual Behavior (2001). By Patrick Carnes, David Delmonico, Elizabeth Griffin, with Joseph Moriarity.
Cybersex Unhooked: A Workbook for Breaking Free of Compulsive Online Sexual Behavior (2001). By David Delmonico, Elizabeth Griffin, Joseph Moriarity.
Facing the Shadow: Starting Sexual and Relationship Recovery: A Gentle Path Workbook for Beginning Recovery from Sex Addiction. (2001). By Patrick Carnes.
The Adonis Complex: The Secret Crisis of Male Body Obsession (2000). By Pope, Harrison G.; Phillips, Katharine A.; and Olivardia, Roberto. New York: The Free Press.
Web sites:
National Council On Sexual Addiction/Compulsivity
Dr. Carnes’ Web site (see authored books above)
Articles available, books can be ordered and you can take the Sex Addiction Screening Test, with special versions for women and gay men.
National Organization on Male Sexual Victimization
Chat with other male survivors and addicts, articles, conferences. Learn about Weekends of Recovery for male survivors, including many who are also struggling with sexual addictions.
The International Service Organization of Sex Addicts Anonymous, Inc.
SAA acknowledges each individual's dignity to choose his or her own concept of healthy sexuality. This is accomplished through the development of a "sex plan.” Hosts online meetings.
Sex and Love Addicts Anonymous, Augustine Fellowship of Houston
Sex and Love Addicts Anonymous is an anonymous 12-step-oriented fellowship based on the model pioneered by AA. SLAA members don't necessarily define sobriety with the use of a defined plan, though this may be used as a tool of this program.
Sexual Compulsives Anonymous International Service Organization
SCA is found in many metropolitan areas, and they particularly welcome and are supportive of persons of differing sexual orientations. This program defines sobriety by a plan that is devised mutually by the recovering person, along with the guidance of another recovering person in the SCA fellowship. Hosts online meetings.
Sexual Recovery Anonymous
SRA is a smaller and newer 12-step organization. It is a non-higher power 12-step program modeled after Rational Recovery, which supplants the notion of a Higher Power with a focus on spirituality and self-love.
S-Anon International Family Groups
Sexaholics Anonymous; The only requirement for membership is that there is a problem of sexaholism in a relative or friend.
National Service Organization of Co-Sex Addicts Anonymous
COSA is a recovery program for men and women whose lives have been affected by compulsive sexual behavior. Its sites are dedicated to helping the partners, spouses, friends and relatives of sexual addicts. Has links to Codependency chats.
Sexuality
Recommended Readings:
For Women:
For Yourself: The Fulfillment of Female Sexuality (1975). By Barbach, Lonnie. New York: Doubleday.
For Each Other: Sharing Sexual Intimacy (1992). By Barbach, Lonnie. New York: Anchor Press/Doubleday.
For Women Only: A Revolutionary Guide to Reclaiming Your Sex Life (2001). By Berman, Jennifer & Berman, Laura. New York: Henry Holt and Company, LLD.
For Men:
The New Male Sexuality (1992). By Zilbergeld, Bernie. New York: Bantam Books.
Web sites:
The Sexual Health Network
The Sexual Health Network is dedicated to providing easy access to sexuality information, education, mutual support, counseling, therapy, healthcare products and other resources for people with disabilities, illness, or natural changes throughout the lifecycle and those who love them or care for them.
Social Anxiety
Recommended Readings:
Managing Social Anxiety: A Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy Approach (2000). By Hope, D., Heimberg, R., Juster, H., & Turk, C. Psychological Corporation.
A clear, detailed workbook for overcoming social anxiety; includes many detailed exercises to practice. Available from Graywind Publications by calling 720-406-1811.
The Shyness and Social Anxiety Workbook (2002). By Anthony, M., & Swinson, R. Oakland, CA: New Harbinger.
Another good workbook with practical worksheets and practice exercises.
Overcoming Shyness and Social Phobia: A Step-by-Step Guide (1998). By Rapee, R. Northvale, NJ: Jason Aronson.
Yet another user-friendly, practical workbook.
Web sites:
Anxiety Disorders Association of America
Descriptions of various forms of anxiety and their treatments, on-line bookstore.
The Shyness Home Page: An Index to Resources for Shyness
Many useful links.
Stress Management & Relaxation
Web site:
American Psychological Association Stress Management Resources
Suicide
Recommended Readings:
Jamison, Kay R. (1995). An unquiet mind. Random House. This is a bibliography of Kay Jamison, who describes her experience of suffering from manic-depression and suicidal thoughts.
Jamison, Kay R. (1997). Night falls fast: Understanding suicide. Random House. A second book from Kay Jamison, dealing more specifically with suicide.
Rubel, B. (2000) But I Didn’t Say Goodbye: For Parents and Professionals Helping Child Suicide. Kendall Park, NJ: Griefwork Center, Inc.
Web sites:
American Association of Suicidology
This Web site has general resources about suicide and features a survivor’s group and support group information. Please click on their “links of interest” to reach many different Web sites about suicide.
Sibling Survivors
A web site to support for people who have lost a sibling to suicide
Tears of a Cop
A Web site dedicated to promoting awareness of the numbers of law enforcement officers who have PTSD or committed/attempted suicide.
American Foundation of Suicide Prevention
Click on “ Surviving Suicide” on the side menu to go to the Survivor’s page.
Worry (Generalized Anxiety Disorder)
Recommended Readings:
Overcoming Generalized Anxiety Disorder (1999). By White, J. Oakland, CA: New Harbinger.
There is a client manual and a separate therapist manual. The client manual has case examples and a step-by-step, research-based approach to reducing worry based on cognitive-behavioral techniques.
Web sites:
Anxiety Disorders Association of America
Descriptions of various forms of anxiety and their treatments, on-line bookstore.
The Anxiety Panic Internet Resource (tAPir)
A comprehensive self-help site with a sense of humor. Defines many types of anxiety and offers opportunities to communicate with others suffering from anxiety disorders.