The Best Books for Postpartum Self-Care: A Therapist’s Top Picks
By Jennifer Doeden, LMFT – Metro Counseling and Wellness
Bringing home a new baby is often described as a joyful, magical time—and while that can be true, it’s only one part of the story.
For many new parents, especially birthing parents, the postpartum period is a time of profound change: physically, emotionally, and mentally. You might feel raw, tired, overwhelmed, anxious, or like you’ve lost touch with the “you” from before. And you're not alone.
As a therapist specializing in postpartum and maternal mental health, I work with new mothers every day who are navigating the messy, beautiful, and often difficult reality of early parenthood. One thing I often recommend—especially when time is limited—is a supportive book to help you feel seen, grounded, and gently guided back to yourself.
Here are my top picks:
🌿 1. “The Fourth Trimester” by Kimberly Ann Johnson
This book is a must-read for new parents. It blends body-based healing, emotional insight, and relationship support in a way that feels nurturing and holistic.
Best for: Anyone needing deep nourishment and validation during postpartum.
🧠 2. “This Isn’t What I Expected” by Karen Kleiman & Valerie Raskin
A compassionate and practical guide for anyone struggling with postpartum depression or anxiety. It offers clinical insight, real stories, and hopeful strategies.
Best for: Those feeling overwhelmed, scared, or disconnected from themselves.
💛 3. “Good Moms Have Scary Thoughts” by Karen Kleiman
Filled with affirmations, short reflections, and beautiful illustrations, this book is perfect for flipping open during those quiet (or not-so-quiet) moments. It tackles the intrusive thoughts and shame many parents experience—but rarely talk about.
Best for: A quick, reassuring read when you're feeling alone or anxious.
📖 4. “Motherwhelmed” by Beth Berry
This book challenges the unrealistic expectations placed on modern moms and invites you to reclaim motherhood on your own terms. It’s not about fixing you—it’s about freeing you.
Best for: Those questioning societal pressure and craving deeper meaning in motherhood.
🕊️ 5. “What No One Tells You” by Alexandra Sacks & Catherine Birndorf
Written by reproductive psychiatrists, this book explores matrescence—the emotional development that comes with becoming a mother. It normalizes the identity shift and emotional complexity of this time.
Best for: First-time moms and anyone navigating the “who am I now?” feelings.
💬 Final Thoughts:
Self-care during the postpartum period doesn’t have to be big or perfectly planned. Sometimes it looks like five minutes with a book that reminds you: You’re still you. You’re not broken. You’re doing better than you think.
And if you’re feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or disconnected, therapy can help. At Metro Counseling and Wellness, we offer compassionate, specialized support for postpartum mental health—because healing grows when you're supported.
📞 Ready to talk? Reach out today. We’re here to help you find yourself again.
Metro Counseling and Wellness
Where healing grows.
