Bibliotherapy

The use of books for therapeutic purposes is known as ‘bibliotherapy’ and is the term used to cover the use of self-help books addressing psychological and emotional issues and difficulties.

The effectiveness of bibliotherapy continues to be researched and there is some good evidence to show that quality self-help books can be useful with a range of psychological issues such as stress, anxiety, low self-esteem, anger, panic, depression, bereavement, family issues and eating problems.

Bibliotherapy highlights a problem-solving approach and the potential of self-management.

It can be used independently; or in addition to individual counselling, group work and/or medication.

Attached is a list of books which have been written by leading psychologists, psychotherapists and educationalists and is compiled from a number of established bibliotherapy listings coupled with practitioners’ recommendations.However bibliotherapy may not be suitable for everybody.

A copy of each of these books is now available in the DCU Library for reference.

Also attached is a self-help worksheet which will help to structure your bibliotherapy reading.

It is advised that you take and use the information, techniques/skills that you find are applicable and effective in your particular situation and leave aside that which is not.

Live Wise' Bibliotherapy Book Collection