As school counselors, our work is both rewarding and challenging. To best support our students, families, and schools, it’s essential to keep growing—personally and professionally. One of the most accessible ways to deepen our skills and knowledge is through reading. Whether you’re looking to boost your counseling techniques, enhance your leadership skills, or broaden your understanding of equity and social justice, the right books can be game-changers.
Here’s a list of professional development books every school counselor should consider adding to their shelf. These titles offer practical strategies, fresh perspectives, and inspiration to elevate your practice.
I also added in some books that I’ve read that personally helped me and made for a great summer read.
“Hacking School Discipline” by Nathan Maynard and Brad Weinstein
This one was covered in post-it notes when I got to the end. I immediately suggested it for a book study for our behavior team.
Also check out “Hacking School Discipline Together.“
As school counselors, we lead every day—through relationships, advocacy, and action. This one’s a powerful read for building your leadership mindset from the inside out.
“The Body Keeps the Score” by Bessel van der Kolk
A foundational book on trauma and its impact, offering deep insights to inform trauma-informed counseling practices.
Other books about trauma that you should check out are: “My Grandmother’s Hands,” “Waking The Tiger” and “What My Bones Know.”
“Atomic Habits” by James Clear
Though not counseling-specific, this book provides practical strategies for building positive habits—useful for both counselors and students.
I am a huge advocate for mindful breathing and this book really was full of fascinating information. Even my partner loved it, and he never reads.
“Fostering Resilient Learners: Strategies for Creating a Trauma-Sensitive Classroom“
and “Relationship, Responsibility, and Regulation” by Kristin Souer
Grounded in extensive research and co-authored by a mental health therapist and a school principal, these books offer practical, compassionate strategies for building a trauma-sensitive learning environment.
“Maybe You Should Talk To Someone” by Lori Gottlieb
I feared this would hit too close to home, but I devoured it. Then I bought copies for everyone I know. Really helped me reflect on my practice, but also my personal experiences.
“Rising Strong” by Brené Brown
Digs into what it means to get back up after emotional setbacks, a theme at the heart of so much of our work with students and families. It’s a reminder that vulnerability, reflection, and resilience aren’t just things we teach, they’re things we practice.
“Permission to Feel” by Marc Brackett
An insightful dive into emotional intelligence and how understanding feelings can transform student learning and mental health.
“Growing Up Strong” by Allison Edwards
This really made me reflect on our role in the wake of the Covenant shooting in Nashville.
“Flooded: A Brain-Based Guide to Help Children Regulate Emotions “ by Allison Edwards
Full of practical suggestions and brain based information on helping students that go into fight, flight, freeze, or fawn mode.
“Light Up the Learning Brain: 7 Keys to Reducing Disruptive Behavior in the Classroom” by Jessica Sinarski
By blending neuroscience with practical strategies, this guide aims to awaken the creative, curious, and problem-solving capabilities of both staff and students.
“10 Mindful Minutes” by Goldie Hawn
This book and her curriculum changed the way I teach and inspired me to start yoga clubs for teachers and students.
“Daring Greatly” by Brené Brown
This book explores the power of vulnerability, something at the heart of building authentic, trusting relationships with students. Brené Brown’s insights help us lead with courage, compassion, and connection in both our personal and professional lives.
“Motivational Interviewing for School Counselors” by Reagan A North
I remember reading this on a plane and thinking “this is like grad school in one place.” I recommend this to all my interns.
“Interrupting Racism” by Rebecca Atkins and Alicia Oglesby
I read this during ASCA specialist training and found it very powerful. “Interrupting Racism” offers school counselors an overview of racial equity in schools and practical strategies for implementation. The book addresses the achievement gap, tackles issues like white privilege and implicit bias, and shares case studies from counselors.
Another counselor recommended this to me and then I suggested it to a teacher, who loved it. A great read about relational safety.
How to Get the Most from These Reads:
- Form or join a professional book group to discuss insights and how to apply them in your counseling work.
- Highlight actionable strategies and try implementing them in your sessions or programs.
- Reflect on your personal growth as you read—self-awareness is crucial to effective counseling.
- Share key take-aways with colleagues, administrators, and families to extend the impact.
Final Thoughts
The work of a school counselor is complex and ever-evolving. These books offer a range of perspectives and practical tools to support your journey toward greater impact and personal fulfillment. Which one will you dive into first? Or do you have other favorites to recommend? Drop your thoughts below!
Find my entire list on Amazon here!
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