My Top 5s as a Therapist in Her Mid-Twenties
—Written by Rachel Morris
As a therapist, I believe connection is at the heart of growth and healing, and one way to foster connection is by sharing a bit about ourselves. By offering my "Top 5s"—whether it’s my favorite fiction books, self-care strategies, or even Nashville coffee spots—I hope to give clients and readers a glimpse of who I am beyond the therapy room. These lists are a way to show that therapists are real people with quirks, hobbies, and favorite things, just like everyone else. Whether you're looking for a good book, a fun self-care idea, or a reminder that it’s okay to embrace your own unique joys, I hope this blog brings a little inspiration and relatability to your day.
Fiction Books
A Court of Silver Flames by Sarah J. Maas – I did NOT like Nesta throughout the first four books. Then I read ACOSF and I think she’s my new favorite main character!
Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros – This was my first ever fantasy book and it did not disappoint. If you like the enemies to lovers trope, you will like this book!
A Court of Mist and Fury by Sarah J. Maas – Okay plot twist! Okay romance!
The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue by V.E. Schwab – This book goes back and forth between past and present time. It has historical fiction, romance, fantasy, and a few plot twists!
Archer’s Voice by Mia Sheridan – This is a tender love story with characters you can’t help but root for.
Mindfulness Strategies
Deep Breathing (Diaphragmatic Breathing)
Why it works: Activates the parasympathetic nervous system, reducing stress and promoting relaxation. Slows heart rate and decreases cortisol levels.
Five Senses Grounding (5-4-3-2-1 Exercise)
Why it works: Redirects attention to sensory experiences, which can help manage anxiety, intrusive thoughts, and emotional dysregulation.
Mindful Walking
Why it works: Encourages movement-based mindfulness, enhancing focus and reducing stress while promoting a connection with the environment.
Gratitude Practice
Why it works: Shifts focus from stressors to positive aspects of life, boosting mood and overall well-being.
Single-Tasking (Focusing on One Thing at a Time)
Why it works: Reduces cognitive overload, increases focus, and improves task engagement, leading to a greater sense of accomplishment.
Nonfiction Books
Lost Connections by Johann Hari – This book talks about “disconnections” from things in life that can contribute to depression, and how we can make new “connections” to make life more meaningful.
No Bad Parts by Richard Schwartz – A foundational read for understanding Internal Family Systems and parts work. I read it through a therapist lens and a personal lens.
Good Morning Monster by Catherine Gildiner – It’s a fascinating look into real-life therapy stories and human resilience. This book was a great reminder for me as a therapist that healing doesn’t happen overnight.
I’m Glad My Mom Died by Jennette McCurdy – As someone who grew up watching Nickelodeon, this book was heartbreaking.
Attached by Amir Levine – A must-read for understanding attachment styles and improving relationships. I read this in a class in undergrad, and it was truly life-changing information for me.
Artists
Taylor Swift – I’m a Swiftie and I’m proud! I want to know your favorite album!
Noah Kahan – Sings frequently about his mental health struggles. His energy is giving folk Ed Sheeran.
Gracie Abrams – Super relatable lyrics and bffs with Taylor Swift.
Kacey Musgraves – Her voice sounds like what I think honey would sound like if it could sing.
Billie Eilish – Ultimate road trip beats and bops.
Nashville Restaurants
Sixty Vines – Give me their Campanelle STAT. Also has a cute rooftop for pictures!
Pelato – Incredible Italian food with a cozy vibe and tapas style!
Emmy Squared – The best Detroit-style pizza in Nashville.
Hawkers – Amazing Asian street food that never disappoints.
ML Rose – Great burgers and a casual, fun environment.
Self-Care Strategies
Coloring – It’s calming physically and mentally for me!
Hot Girl Walks – A perfect way to clear my mind and get moving.
Reading – There’s nothing more relaxing to me than escaping into a good book.
Talking it out – Processing thoughts with someone I trust to hold things with me is sometimes all I need.
Bingeing a TV show – Trash reality TV is my guilty pleasure for instant relaxation.
TV Shows
Survivor – It blends strategy, social dynamics, and intense competition
Breaking Bad – A masterclass in storytelling. I don’t think I’ve ever dropped my jaw as often as I did while watching this show.
Love is Blind – Reality TV that’s chaotic and messy but so entertaining.
The Bear – Intense, emotional, and brilliantly acted.
Traitors – A thrilling mix of strategy and deception that keeps you hooked.
Miniatures for SandTray
The Fairy Godmother
Fairy Houses
Bridges
The Sun
Buzz Lightyear
*I’m not going to share what these mean to me personally, but maybe these will inspire you to think about what they could represent in your sand tray!
Movies
Perks of Being a Wallflower – So nostalgic for me! Originally a book.
Interstellar – I was not prepared for how emotional this movie would be when I watched it the first time!
Inside Out 2– An insightful take on emotions and mental health.
A Star is Born – A good movie if you need a good cry!
Wicked – Love a story of friendship and girlhood.
Sharing my “Top 5s” is more than just a fun idea for a blog post—it’s a way to connect, inspire, and spark conversations. Whether you’re a fellow therapist, a client, or just someone curious about finding joy in life’s little things, I hope this list resonates with you or gives you new ideas to explore. These favorites reflect pieces of who I am, both as a person and as a therapist, and remind me of the value in pausing to appreciate what brings us comfort, growth, and happiness. I’d love to hear about your own “Top 5s” too—what inspires you, what helps you unwind, or what simply makes your day a little brighter. Let’s keep the conversation going!