10 Books on Psychology You Should Be Reading

Whether you’re a psychology major or just fascinated by human behavior, these books on psychology offer valuable insights and perspectives into the field. From memoirs to guides for therapists, discover 10 books you should be reading, according to psychology professionals.

Discover top picks from Joseph DeVasto, MA, therapist at The Oasis Recovery; Charmain Jackman, Ph.D., licensed psychologist and founder of InnoPsych, Inc.; Chelsea Sarai, Psy.D., clinical psychologist and founder of the Brentwood Therapy Collective; Jerred England, LMFT, owner of England Therapy; and Michelle Feng, Ph.D., chief clinical officer at Executive Mental Health.

by Viktor Frankl

One of the classic books on psychology, “Man’s Search for Meaning,” was first written in the dark days after World War II. Author Viktor Frankl, a Holocaust survivor and psychiatrist, explores the darkest side of humanity while offering insights into the human will to find meaning.

“This isn’t a clinical book. Rather, it is a humanistic one. Frankl talks about his experiences in concentration camps and how this shaped his life,” DeVasto says.

Frankl concludes that humans are not driven by pleasure, as Freud argued, but instead by the pursuit of meaning. When it comes to books for psychology majors, DeVasto recommends this one as “great for students who are interested in existential psychology.”

by Robert B. Cialdini, Ph.D.

An international bestseller now available in an updated edition, “Influence” investigates the psychology behind persuasion. Drawing on decades of experience as a social psychology professor, Robert Cialdini uses stories and examples to explain how to apply the psychology of persuasion in business or everyday life.

“This is one of the best social psychology books out there,” says DeVasto, praising the use of real-world examples. “This book breaks down exactly how people are persuaded to say yes.”

Psychology students interested in human behavior and those considering careers in related fields can benefit from this book on psychology. “This book is especially helpful for students who are also interested in marketing or politics,” DeVasto notes.

by Kay Redfield Jamison, Ph.D.

A powerful memoir investigating bipolar disorder from the perspective of academic medicine and firsthand experience, “An Unquiet Mind” offers unique insights into bipolar disorder.

“This groundbreaking book was written by Kay Redfield Jamison, a clinical psychologist who also has bipolar disorder,” DeVasto explains. “She offers a rare insight into the disorder from both the perspective of the doctor and the patient.”

Jamison honestly chronicles the harm caused by her bipolar disorder as she studied it in an academic medical setting. New York Times Book Review described the novel as “at times poetic, at times straightforward, always unashamedly honest.”

“It’s a great read for students interested in clinical work,” DeVasto says.

by Jennifer Mullan, Ph.D.

Mental health providers must center colonial and historical trauma in order to encourage healing, argues Dr. Jennifer Mullan in “Decolonizing Therapy.”

“This book needs to be required reading for anyone in the mental health field who wants to provide culturally-responsive care,” Jackman says. “Dr. Mullan expertly calls out oppressive systems that still exist in the mental health field, and she lays out a strategy for unlearning and learning new practices that benefit clients and practitioners.”

“Decolonizing Therapy” offers valuable tools for clinicians trained in a Eurocentric model of psychology and therapy. “Regardless of your level of expertise as a mental health professional, we will all benefit from what Dr. Mullan has so generously shared,” Jackman says.

by Nicole Arzt, LMFT

Psychology majors weighing whether therapy is the right career path may draw inspiration from “For the Love of Therapy.” Written by an experienced psychotherapist, this guide explores the challenges of being a mental health therapist.

“Arzt offers a truly authentic and human view of the therapy profession that most textbooks miss,” says Sarai. “Through vulnerability, kindness and humor, she sheds light on the humanity of therapists and the ethical and emotional complexities that make up clinical work.”

Readers will also find practical guidance and compassionate blueprints for therapists. “I often recommend this book to the young clinicians I mentor as a supportive and grounding companion through the vulnerable, formative stages of their career,” Sarai says.

by Terrence Real

Therapist, speaker, and author Terrence Real describes depression as a silent epidemic for men. “I Don’t Want to Talk About It” destigmatizes male depression through stories of Real’s patients and his experiences as a therapist.

“In the midst of a growing loneliness epidemic, specifically among men, Real’s book is essential reading,” Sarai says. Real provides a “deeply nuanced window into male depression,” which academic literature and clinical training often overlook, Sarai explains.

“What sets this book apart is its ability to humanize male suffering while challenging narrow definitions of masculinity,” Sarai relates. “It’s a vital resource for anyone hoping to work effectively with men or understand the emotional toll of gendered expectations.”

by Lori Gottlieb, MFT

Psychotherapist Lori Gottlieb, MFT, finds herself on both sides of the therapist–patient relationship in this memoir. By comparing her patients’ struggles with her own, Gottleib uncovers a deeper perspective on humanity.

“Gottlieb’s entertaining, meaningful and authentic memoir offers psychology students a rare and compelling opportunity to witness the therapeutic process through the eyes of a highly skilled therapist who isn’t afraid to show her own humanity,” Sarai says.

Described as thought-proving and hilarious, “Maybe You Should Talk to Someone” is not your typical psychology book. Yet it offers insights critical for psychology students.

“It is a privilege to be invited into both Gottlieb’s professional and personal work, demonstrating how her experiences as a client deepen her effectiveness as a clinician,” Sarai says. “This book beautifully illustrates how doing our own inner work is essential to helping others.”

by Daryl Chow

Psychotherapists report a high number of clients who choose not to return after their first session. As psychotherapist Daryl Chow argues in “The First Kiss,” therapists can challenge this status quo by changing their approach.

“Chow does a tremendous job of explaining how important it is to connect with our clients before we begin assessment,” England says. “In private practice, many clients are turned off when they feel like they’re playing ’20 questions’ with no feedback during intake.”

Chow, who holds a Ph.D. in psychology, recommends reframing the first session around engagement rather than using the traditional intake approach. “Chow gives us permission to connect with the client first, as the practitioner-client connection is more important than the modality in bringing relief to the client’s problems,” England says.

by Nancy L. Mace, MA and Peter V. Rabins, MD, MPH

Geropsychology — mental healthcare for older adults — is one of the fastest-growing psychology specializations. And the latest edition of “The 36 Hour Day” shows why this family guide is a must-read for psychology students interested in geropsychology.

The book dives into the causes of dementia, early-stage management techniques, and practical advice for caregivers. Feng describes “The 36 Hour Day” as “a classic book for family caregivers.”

“I would recommend reading this as part of a general introduction to the work of caretaking,” explains Feng, “and one which can offer a broad understanding of the challenges and approaches which can work for caregivers.”

by Rosanne M. Leipzig, MD, Ph.D.

Written by Rosanne M. Leipzig, an expert in geriatrics, “Honest Aging” describes the physical, psychological, and emotional changes as we age. Psychology students interested in geriatrics will benefit from the book’s approach to memory issues and age-related changes to the mind. “Honest Aging” also counters common myths about aging with evidence-based data.

Feng highly recommends the book for scholars who want “the latest evidence-based materials, including helpful citations and additional resources on what constitutes normal aging, and what is not.”

In addition to patient stories and illustrations, the book includes “practical exercises and checklists as well as the latest research and data to help further understand and appreciate the approaches shared,” Feng says.