At Avance Care Behavioral Health, we know that finding reliable and relatable mental health resources can feel overwhelming—especially when you’re short on time. Whether it’s a book, podcast, or app, quality resources can offer insight, empowerment, and a sense of connection beyond the therapy room. That’s why our team of experienced therapists, each with unique specialties and interests, regularly share recommendations with each other—and now, with you. Each quarter, we’ll feature a roundup of trusted resources on a new topic to help support your personal growth and well-being.
This quarter, we’re focusing on relationships and healthy sexuality—important aspects of emotional and mental health at every stage of life.
Books on Sexual Wellness
- Come As You Are: The Surprising New Science That Will Transform Your Sex Life
by Emily Nagoski, PhD
Recommended by Amanda Burrafato, LMFT, LCAS, Avance Behavioral Health at Centers of Excellence
A compassionate, science-based look at women’s sexual health, this book explores how our brains and emotions impact desire, arousal, and connection—empowering readers to embrace their sexuality without shame.
- Come Together: The Science (and Art!) of Creating Lasting Sexual Connections
By Emily Nagoski, PhD
Recommended by Emily Chambliss, MSW, LCSW, Garner – Timber Drive
Perfect for couples in long-term relationships, this book offers tools to reconnect emotionally and physically, helping partners rediscover intimacy and strengthen their bond.
Books & Podcasts on Healthy Relationships
- Hold Me Tight: Seven Conversations for a Lifetime of Love
by Dr. Sue Johnson
Recommended by Brooke Owens, LCSW-A, LCAS, Avance Behavioral Health at Centers of Excellence
Based on Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), this book helps couples improve communication, resolve conflict, and create deeper emotional closeness through seven guided conversations. - Attached: Are You Anxious, Avoidant, or Secure?
by Dr. Amir Levine and Rachel Heller
Recommended by Brooke Owens, LCSW-A, LCAS, Avance Behavioral Health at Centers of Excellence
This easy-to-read book on adult attachment styles explains how your relationship patterns may be shaped by your past—and how to build healthier, lasting connections. - Small Things Often (Podcast)
By The Gottman Institute
Recommended by Carin Parker, MSW, LCSW, Garner – Timber Drive
This quick, 5-minute podcast offers practical relationship tips grounded in decades of research—perfect for busy individuals and couples looking to build strong, lasting relationships.
Setting Boundaries in Difficult Relationships
- Stop Walking on Eggshells: Taking Your Life Back When Someone You Care About Has BPD
by Paul T.T. Mason, MS and Randi Kreger
Recommended by Dr. Daniel Hauschild, Psy.D, HSPP
A helpful resource for anyone navigating a relationship with someone who has borderline personality disorder (BPD). This book offers tools for setting healthy boundaries and maintaining emotional balance.
We’re Here to Support You
Whether you’re looking to strengthen a romantic relationship, explore your sexuality, or set boundaries that protect your emotional well-being, these resources are a great place to start. Avance Care Behavioral Health offers individual, couples, and family therapy at convenient locations across North Carolina—both in-person and virtually.
Stay tuned for more therapist-approved recommendations each quarter.
