Therapy Tools for Therapists: My Favorite Books, Tech, and Office Must-Haves

As a therapist in private practice, I know how quickly the day-to-day can feel overwhelming. Between client sessions, paperwork, and trying to build a sustainable business, it’s easy to feel stretched thin. That’s why I’m always on the lookout for tools and resources that actually make my life easier, not just “look good” on Instagram.

For this post, I’m rounding up the best-of-the-best therapy tools for therapists that have helped me the most—everything from books that shaped how I show up in the room, to office tech that keeps my systems flowing. Whether you’re just starting out or deep into scaling your group practice, these picks are designed to reduce burnout, streamline your day, and help you grow!

Best Therapy Books That Have Actually Helped Me in My Career

Reading the right book at the right time has completely shifted how I practice. Whenever a grad student asks me for ONE piece of advice I tell them – READ. Read therapy books by well-known theorists and popular therapists in the media. I learned SO much more from Esther Perel’s books and podcast than I learned in my actual couples therapy class!

These are the therapy books that really shaped me in my career and that I come back to again and again. They’ve helped me deepen my work, feel more grounded with clients, and navigate the tough stuff like imposter syndrome, relationships, and trauma.

• Nonviolent Communication by Marshall B Rosenberg – Literally everyone should read this book. It teaches you the true art of good communication like how to validate, de-escalate, and mediate just about any conversation.
• Set Boundaries, Find Peace by Nedra Glover Tawwab – If you’re a therapist and you’re NOT obsessed with Nedra Glover Tawaab, I suggest taking a good hard look at yourself…. kidding. But she IS amazing and this book is a must-read for any therapist (or human-alike!).
• The Myth of Normal by Gabor Mate – It’s hard to pick just ONE Gabor Mate book but if I had to, this is it.

These books aren’t just informative, they’re also healing. They’ve become therapy tools for me, not just for my practice.

Best Business Books That Taught Me How to Be a Therapreneur

No one taught us how to run a business in grad school. If you’re a therapist looking to build a private practice that doesn’t burn you out, these business reads are a must.

• Financial Feminist by Tori Dunlap – This book changed how I think about money, budgeting, and what it means to actually be good with money and value what I do.
• Profit First for Therapists by Julie Herres – A therapist-friendly guide to managing profit, expenses, and the general ins and outs of a business bank account. I don’t use everything this book teaches, but I like to say I use a ‘profit-first-lite” approach.
• You are a Badass at Making Money by Jen Sincero– Equal parts empowering and tough love – Jen Sincero adds a quirky tone to manifesting more in your life, and convincing you that you are worth it.

These aren’t your typical business bro books, by the way. They’re approachable, affirming, and built for ambitious small business owners who want to grow while staying aligned with their values.

Best Office Gadgets, Tech, and Decor

This is where function meets vibe. These tools are the behind-the-scenes gadgets of my practice. From Instagram posts to client notes to mid-day resets, these are the items I use every single day.

• Laptop Ring Light – A cute little clip-on light for my laptop to help brighten up my camera for video sessions with clients. A MUST in my book.
• White Wireless Keyboard and Mouse – I love this cute and modern little duo – in fact, I’m using it right now! It works great with my laptop set up and looks nice, too!
• Gold Modern Floor Lamp – I literally have 6 of these throughout my office. Needless to say I love them. They give the perfect, soothing therapy light.

Therapy tools for therapists aren’t just what we use with clients. They’re what help us show up at our best—mentally, emotionally, and energetically.. and make for a cute office, too!

Why These Tools Matter

Every item on this list has been personally vetted and used in my own practice. I’m not about recommending fluff or filler. These are tools that make my work as a therapist and business coach BETTER, with more ease, less burnout, and more alignment with the modern practice I’ve built.

So if you’ve been eyeing an upgrade or waiting for a sign to invest in your space or systems, this is it. Treat yourself to some new tools! You deserve a practice that works for you, not just because of you.

P.S. I’ve included affiliate links to each product on my Amazon Storefront which means I may earn a small commission if you decide to buy something. It doesn’t cost you anything extra, and I only recommend things I genuinely use and love.