Learning Resources

Mental Health Topics

Explore helpful resources to support your growth and understanding:

Videos:

Attachment-Focused Trauma Therapy (AFTT): "How is Attachment Related to Trauma?"

In this brief video, licensed therapist Kati Morton discusses the connection between attachment styles and trauma, offering insights into how early attachment experiences can impact mental health.

Attachment-Focused EMDR (AF-EMDR): "Attachment-Focused EMDR – Tools & Techniques to Heal Trauma"

Dr. Laurel Parnell, a leading expert in EMDR, explains how integrating attachment repair into EMDR can facilitate healing from relational trauma.

Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapy: "What is IFS Therapy? | Intro to Internal Family Systems"

In this 18-minute video, Dr. Tori Olds introduces the core concepts of IFS Therapy, including parts work and the science behind these parts. She also discusses how the approach of an IFS therapist might differ from other experiential therapists.

Polyvagal Theory: "Polyvagal Theory Explained Simply"

This 10-minute video simplifies the key elements of Polyvagal Theory, making it accessible for those new to the concept. It covers the autonomic nervous system’s role in regulating safety and connection.

Recommended Readings:

The Body Keeps the Score

by Bessel van der Kolk

  • Why You’ll Love It: This book helps you understand how trauma affects both your mind and body. Dr. van der Kolk explains in clear, compassionate language why certain experiences may feel overwhelming and how healing is possible.
  • What You’ll Learn: You’ll discover practical strategies like mindfulness, yoga, and other therapeutic approaches that can help you reconnect with your body and regain control over your emotions.
  • Who It’s For: Anyone who wants to understand the connection between trauma and their physical and emotional well-being.

No Bad Parts

by Dr. Richard Schwartz

  • Why You’ll Love It: This book introduces a simple yet powerful idea: every part of you has value, even the ones you might struggle with. Through easy-to-follow exercises and stories, Dr. Schwartz shows how you can embrace your inner “parts” and find self-compassion.
  • What You’ll Learn: You’ll learn how to work with your inner critic, heal past wounds, and bring calm and clarity into your life—all without needing prior knowledge of therapy.
  • Who It’s For: Perfect for anyone feeling stuck, self-critical, or curious about exploring their inner world in a gentle and empowering way.

Attached

by Amir Levine and Rachel Heller

  • Why You’ll Love It: Relationships don’t come with a manual—but this book is the next best thing. It explains why you may struggle with intimacy or communication and provides tools to improve your relationships based on your attachment style.
  • What You’ll Learn: By identifying whether you’re secure, anxious, or avoidant, you’ll gain practical advice for navigating relationships with more confidence and understanding.
  • Who It's For: Ideal for anyone looking to build healthier, more fulfilling relationships with partners, friends, or family.

Practical Tools:

Guided Journaling Prompts to Process Emotions:

Engaging in guided journaling can help you explore and understand your emotions. Here are some resources offering prompts:

Grounding Exercises for Anxiety:

Grounding techniques can help you stay connected to the present moment, reducing anxiety. Consider the following exercises:

Tips for Nervous System Regulation Using Polyvagal Theory:

Understanding and applying Polyvagal Theory can aid in regulating your nervous system. Here are some strategies: