Reading List

One of the most powerful tools for healing: books. Reading doesn’t change your reality, but it does change how you think about and process life experiences. It is our prayer that as God works in your mind, He transforms your heart, and helps you live differenly through your life.

Book Recommendations

• “My Grandmother’s Hands” by Resmaa Menakem

  • A powerful guide to healing racialized trauma through body-based practices and somatic awareness.

• “The Body Keeps the Score” by Bessel van der Kolk, M.D.

  • A foundational work on how trauma reshapes the brain and body—and how holistic healing must include both.

• “What Happened to You?” by Dr. Bruce Perry & Oprah Winfrey

  • A compassionate conversation on how early trauma impacts the brain and how healing happens through relationships.

•  “The Soul of Shame” by Curt Thompson, MD

  • A faith-based look at how shame rewires our brains and how God’s design offers a path to re-integration. Deeply rooted in neuroscience and Christian formation.

• “Anatomy of the Soul” by Curt Thompson, MD

  • Explores how neurobiology and spiritual disciplines together shape the transformation of our minds and relationships.

•  “The Other Half of Church” by Jim Wilder & Michel Hendricks

  • How brain science and spiritual practices like joy, attachment, and community form the foundation for holistic discipleship.

• “Mending the Soul” by Steven R. Tracy

  • Designed for survivors and caregivers, this trauma-informed guide integrates theology, psychology, and social justice, especially around abuse, poverty, and systemic sin.

• “Try Softer” by Aundi Kolber

  • A Christian therapist explores how trauma impacts the nervous system and how gentleness, not striving, opens the door to healing. Rooted in faith, neuroscience, and somatic practices.

• “Strong Like Water” by Aundi Kolber

  • Explores resilience and strength through trauma-informed theology. Grounded in nervous system science and the gentleness of Jesus.

• “Mending the Soul” by Steven R. Tracy

  • A biblically-based yet clinically-informed book on healing from abuse and trauma, with global applicability.