In week four of our #WiseWords series, integrative counsellor Lyn Reed shares with us the books she recommends to her clients, or finds specially powerful on the subject of therapy or wellbeing. Lyn is a regular contributor to welldoing.org and is based in Walsall.

I had a Black Dog by Matthew Johnson

I frequently recommend this book to my clients who are experiencing depression - especially when they are at that stage when they can hardly function.  I don't suppose there are more than 100 words in total in this book.  This really is a case of pictures say a thousand words. It is witty, insightful and indispensable.

Living with a Black Dog by Matthew Johnson

We often forget that when we live and/or care for  someone who has depression how important it is to look after ourselves. This is a self-help book in picture format which is just what the doctor or therapist ordered. It is very accessible.

A Woman in Your Own Right by Anne Dickson

I have been recommending this book for more years than I care to remember. I meet many clients who have forgotten or want to learn how to assert themselves. They also seem to have forgotten their rights.  By following the exercises in Anne Dickson's book they can regain a feeling of self-confidence, self-respect and self-worth. It is a message I repeat in many sessions: be who you are, not what other people want you to be.