favorite reads

The Disappearing Girl: Learning the Language of Teenage Depression

This book focuses on how we can keep our eyes and ears open to the language of teenage depression, and ultimately help the girls find their "spark." It gives a nice overview of the cognitive, societal, and developmental contributors of teenage depression.

Daring Greatly by Brené Brown

This is my favorite of Brené Brown’s books. By sharing both her research and personal experiences Brené gives concrete tools on how to embrace vulnerability and be more courageous and authentic.  I recommend reading this one in a book club; it will generate some great conversation and insight.

The Whole-Brain Child: 12 Strategies to Nurture Your Child's Developing Mind by Daniel Siegel, M.D.

This book is an easy accessible read. It gives parents insight into the function of the brain and how to use this information when dealing with their kids. I am looking forward to reading Siegel’s new book Brainstorm: The Power and Purpose of the Teenage Brain. 

Immortal Diamond: The Search for Our True Self by Richard Rohr

Referencing both Christian and Buddhist theology, Rohr refers to True Self as a diamond buried deep within us, formed under the intense pressure of our lives, that must be searched for, uncovered, and separated from all the debris of the ego that surrounds. No matter what your religious beliefs are this book does a wonderful job illustrating the essence of spirituality.

Peace is Every Step: The Path of Mindfulness in Everyday Life by Thich Nhat Hanh

This book provides a wonderful toolbox of meditative skills that anyone can practice at any time. This is an easy read and a good way to start implementing mindfulness in your daily life.

Favorite resources

I love this cartoon video that World Health Organization developed on depression. It does a wonderful job describing what it feels like to have depression.

This girls empowerment group is excellent.  I co-facilitated several girl self esteem groups with Heidi Arizala Showmen as she developed the curriculum. This is a great resource for schools, camp directors and other therapist. Parents should also check it out, as Heidi has an excellent list of books addressing adolescent girl issues.

North Star girls group

About Brené Brown

The Daring Way™ method is based on the research of Brené Brown, Ph.D. LMSW. Dr.Brené Brown is a research professor at the University of Houston Graduate College of Social Work. She has spent the past twelve years studying vulnerability, courage, worthiness, and shame. Her groundbreaking research has been featured on PBS, NPR, CNN, The Katie Show, and Oprah Winfrey’s Super Soul Sunday. 


Brené is the author of the #1 New York Times bestseller Daring Greatly: How the Courage to Be Vulnerable Transforms the Way We Live, Love, Parent, and Lead (2012), the New York Times bestseller The Gifts of Imperfection (2010), and I Thought It Was JustMe (2007).

Brené’s 2010 TEDx Houston talk “The Power of Vulnerability” is one of the top ten most viewed TED talks in the world, with over 11 million viewers. Additionally, Brené gave the closing talk at the 2012 TED conference, where she talked about shame, courage, and innovation. Check out her Ted talk to get an idea of her work.