Many nonfiction books published in recent years address the topic of healing from toxic relationships—and at least five have this exact phrase in the title! The following selection consists of seven top-reviewed ones.
I. Stephanie Moulton Sarkis, PhD, Healing from Toxic Relationships: 10 Essential Steps to Recover from Gaslighting, Narcissism, and Emotional Abuse (2022)
Dr. Sarkis’s Gaslighting was previously highlighted on this site. In this latest book she outlines 10 steps toward moving on after an abusive relationship.
1. Block or Limit Contact
2. Create Your Own Closure
3. Forgive Yourself
4. Establish Boundaries
5. Talk to a Professional
6. Practice Self‑Care
7. Reconnect
8. Grieve
9. Look Outward
10. Prevent: Keeping Toxic People Away
II. Julia Arias,
Key concepts include recognizing red flags, understanding narcissism, better boundary-setting, rebuilding self-esteem, the importance of no contact, and learning how to have healthy relationships.
III. Ember Bennett,
Red flags, boundaries, dealing with guilt and self-blame, codependency, self-esteem, and detachment are some of the major issues addressed.
Among the main topics are the effects of narcissism and gaslighting, the seven stages of recovery after narcissistic abuse, achieving closure without your ex’s cooperation, overcoming emotional flashbacks and guilt, and co-parenting.
V. Morgan Sinclair,
Sinclair covers the subtitle’s dynamics, of course, as well as complex PTSD, boundaries and healthy relationships, hope and resilience, finding inner strength, and the use of professional help.
VI. Ariane Turpin, Healing from Toxic Relationships in Marriage, Dating, and Interpersonal Connections: Break Free by Taking Steps Toward Recovery and Rebuilding Self-Esteem, Confidence and Healthy Boundaries (2024)
In addition to many of the already mentioned topics, Turpin focuses on whether or not forgiveness is needed.
VII. Kate Mageau, Healing from Toxic Relationships Workbook (Warning Signs) (2024)
Many prefer a workbook approach when attempting to heal from various issues. This one includes important info on both the power and control wheel and the nonviolence wheel, the cycle of violence, love bombing and boundary-setting, trauma bonding and codependency, safety planning, trauma in the brain, and deconstructing communication.
