Recommended Reading & Resources
Supporting Grief, Trauma, and Healing: Body, Mind, and Spirit
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At Wolf Pack Counseling, I believe healing doesn't just happen in session- it happens in the quiet moments between, too. Below are some of my most trusted books and resources for navigating grief, trauma, nervous system healing, and personal growth. These recommendations honor the complexity of loss, the wisdom of the body, and the power of lived experience.
Books on Grief & Loss (Through a Trauma-Informed Lens)
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The Wild Edge of Sorrow by Francis Weller
A poetic and profound guide to the sacredness of grief, ancestral wounds, and the healing power of community and ritual.
Permission to Mourn by Tom Zuba
Simple, compassionate reflections for those grieving any kind of loss, especially helpful for those who feel lost in the chaos of grief.
Bearing the Unbearable by Joanne Cacciatore
Written by a grief therapist who has lived her own devastating loss, this book brings depth, tenderness, and spiritual wisdom to the grieving process.
The Smell of Rain on Dust by Martín Prechtel
A soulful, indigenous perspective on grief as praise and transformation. Ideal for those feeling disillusioned with mainstream grief culture.
It’s OK That You’re Not OK by Megan Devine
Radically honest and validating, this book affirms that grief isn’t a problem to fix, and that you're not broken for feeling broken.
Books Integrating Trauma and Somatic Healing
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The Body Keeps the Score by Bessel van der Kolk
A foundational trauma text exploring how trauma impacts the brain and body, and how healing can begin.
Healing Trauma by Peter Levine
A short and accessible introduction to somatic experiencing and body-based trauma healing, includes guided audio practices.
What My Bones Know by Stephanie Foo
A powerful memoir and investigative work about living with complex PTSD. Raw, intelligent, and deeply human.
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Books on Ritual, Integration, and Self-Compassion
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Grieving is Loving by Joanne Cacciatore
Gentle, poetic affirmations and meditations to hold close during moments of pain. Beautiful as a daily practice.
Anchored by Deb Dana
A warm and user-friendly guide to polyvagal theory and nervous system regulation, ideal for clients navigating emotional overwhelm.
Rituals for Every Day by Nadia Narain & Katia Narain PhillipsOffers small, accessible rituals for grounding, grief, and self-reflection. Simple but powerful tools for everyday life.
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Online Resources & Support Communities
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Refuge in Grief – Courses, writings, and community support for grief by Megan Devine
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The Dinner Party – A peer-led community for grieving young adults
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Option B – Tools and stories to build resilience through grief, trauma, and adversity
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National Alliance for Grieving Children – Support resources for grieving children, teens, and caregivers
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