What Helped Me—and Might Help You Too
There’s no one-size-fits-all in healing, but these are a good place to start.
These are the ones that stayed with me—books I’ve leaned on in my own healing and often recommend to others.
These are the voices I often point people to when they’re sorting through hard things.
Passing these along in case one meets you where you are and gives you a next step.
IF YOU NEED TO REPORT CHILD ABUSE:
If you believe a child is being harmed, please don’t wait. Use the national reporting tool at
National reporting to find contact info for your state. For emergencies, always call 911.
Books That Have Helped Me Most
The Courage to Heal-Ellen Bass & Laura Davis
This was one of the first books that helped me understand that healing from abuse is possible. It’s honest, sometimes intense, but deeply affirming for survivors.
The Body Keeps the Score – Bessel van der Kolk
This book opened my eyes to how trauma lives in the body and how that impacts emotions, memory, and health. It’s not light reading, but it’s powerful and worth the time.
Boundaries – Dr. Henry Cloud & Dr. John Townsend
I’ve used this book personally and professionally—it completely changed how I think about relationships, limits, and emotional safety. I still return to it today.
Voices That Help Spark Reflection and Hope
I’ve found wisdom and hope here—and I think you might, too.
The Mosaic Life Podcast
Hosted by my friend Cheryl, this podcast shares real stories of brokenness and beauty—and how God weaves it all together. I’ve been a guest, and I love how it reminds us to live with intention.
The Next Right Thing
I’ve heard great things about the gentle insights here—many say it helps bring a calm perspective when you need to slow down and choose your next step.
In the Light Podcast
Faith, mental health, and real talk come together in this powerful podcast. I’ve listened and read her book—Dr. Anita’s words always leave me with something to reflect on.
For when you’re ready to reach out
Tools, Programs & Communities Others Have Found Helpful
I’ve asked these questions too
Why Help Didn’t Always Come
If you’ve ever wondered why no one stepped in—or why you stayed silent for so long—I want you to know: I’ve been there. These resources helped me understand how different the world was back then, and why so many of us were left without the support we needed.
Looking Back: The Journal of a Mental Hospital User in the 1960s
Source: The Psychologist
A firsthand look at what life was like inside a mental health facility in the 1960s. Honest, unsettling, and important.
Making an Issue of Child Abuse – Barbara J. Nelson
Publisher: University Of Chicago Press
Explores how child abuse became recognized as a public concern in the U.S.—and how advocacy shaped the early protective systems.
The History of Child Protection in America –
Publisher: University of the Pacific, (2010)
A clear, detailed overview of how child protective services developed in the U.S. Offers insight into why many survivors weren’t removed from unsafe homes.
Looking to the Future/FinalThoughts
If you or someone you love has ever wondered, “Why didn’t anyone help me?”—you’re not alone. These changes didn’t happen overnight. But understanding the past can bring clarity to the present.
Start Small. Come Back Often.
You don’t have to explore everything at once. Maybe just one book, one voice, or one idea speaks to you today—and that’s enough. Take what helps. Come back when you’re ready. You’re always welcome here.