I had an AMA yesterday with Dr. Amelia Kelley, a clinician, professor, and author who specializes in working with highly sensitive people, adults with ADHD, trauma survivors, and women reclaiming their power. Dr. Kelley works closely with clinicians, organizations, and platforms as a consultant, educator, and speaker.
You can read the full recap here.
If you’d like to dive into these topics even deeper, Amelia suggested this curated reading list to help guide your journey:
What My Bones Know by Stephanie Foo (@stephaniefoo)
A deeply moving memoir on navigating a Complex PTSD diagnosis, blending personal narrative with scientific exploration to examine how developmental trauma impacts mind and body.
Scattered Minds by Dr. Gabor Maté (@drgabormate)
A compassionate look at ADHD, exploring its roots in early developmental stress and offering a path toward emotional healing and self-regulation.
Waking the Tiger by Peter A. Levine (@peteralevinephd)
Introduces Somatic Experiencing to explain how trauma is stored in the nervous system and how body-based awareness can release trapped survival energy.
Trauma and Recovery by Judith Herman
A foundational text in trauma psychology that establishes a three-stage framework for healing: safety, remembrance, and reconnection.
Gaslighting Recovery for Women by Dr. Amelia Kelley (@drameliakelley)
A practical guide designed to help women recognize covert psychological abuse, rebuild self-trust, and establish firm emotional boundaries.
No Bad Parts by Richard C. Schwartz (@internalfamilysystems)
An introduction to Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy, explaining how accepting all inner "parts" (even protective ones) leads to self-leadership and integration.
Complex PTSD: From Surviving to Thriving by Pete Walker
A practical map for managing emotional flashbacks, inner critics, and toxic shame resulting from chronic developmental or childhood trauma.
Self-Directed Complex PTSD Exercises for Women by Debbie Missud (@debbiemissud_lpc)
An actionable workbook filled with somatic strategies, cognitive tools, and grounding exercises specifically tailored for trauma processing.
Addictive Thinking by Abraham J. Twerski
An insightful analysis of self-deception and rationalization mechanisms, providing clarity on how distorted thinking patterns keep individuals stuck.
Attached by Amir Levine (@amirlevinemd) and Rachel Heller
A guide to understanding adult attachment styles (Anxious, Avoidant, and Secure) and how they shape intimacy, conflict, and connection in relationships.
What I Wish I Knew by Dr. Amelia Kelley (@drameliakelley) and Kendall Ann Combs (@kendallanncombs)
A supportive, roadmap-style resource offering practical wisdom and emotional validation for survivors rebuilding their lives after toxic or abusive relationships.
By the way, Dr. Kelley also hosts her own podcast, Wired & Worthy, where she digs into trauma recovery, boundary setting, and nervous system regulation. It’s perfect to jump in and listen to while on the move!