Therapist-Approved Gift Guide: Thoughtful Gifts for Everyone On Your List

Finding the perfect gift can be difficult, but with a little planning and intention, you can choose something meaningful that supports mental health, fosters connection, and promotes well-being. We asked our therapists to share some of their favorite items that will make the perfect gift for your friends and family. You might even find something to give yourself.

Here’s a therapist-approved gift guide to inspire your gift giving this season.

Self-Care and Mindfulness

1. Aromatherapy Diffuser – Create a calming atmosphere with essential oils like lavender or eucalyptus.
2. Weighted Blanket – Ideal for grounding and promoting better sleep.
3. Guided Journal – Look for one with prompts that focus on gratitude or self-reflection.
4. Mindfulness Card Decks – A deck of mindfulness exercises can be a gentle reminder to pause and breathe.
5. Digital Detox Box – A clever way to encourage unplugging and being present.

Stress Relief

1. Adult Coloring Books – Pair them with high-quality colored pencils for a creative outlet.
2. Handheld Massager – Portable relief for tense muscles after a long day.
3. Meditation App Subscription – Apps like Headspace or Calm offer guided meditations to reduce anxiety.
4. Herbal Tea Sampler – Choose blends known for their calming properties, like chamomile or peppermint.
5. Fidget Tools – Stress balls, sensory rings, or similar tools can help with focus and anxiety.

Kids and Family

1. Family Board Games – Choose games that encourage teamwork and bonding.
2. Interactive Storybooks – Books that incorporate mindfulness or emotional learning for kids.
3. DIY Craft Kits – Perfect for spending quality time together while boosting creativity.
4. Emotion Chart or Cards – A tool for kids to identify and express their feelings.
5. Outdoor Play Equipment – Think frisbees, jump ropes, or anything that gets the family moving.

Personal Growth and Inspiration

1. Books by Inspiring Authors – Titles like Atomic Habits by James Clear or The Gifts of Imperfection by Brené Brown.
2. Online or In-Person Classes or Workshops – From painting to yoga, experiential gifts encourage learning and self-discovery.
3. Affirmation Cards — Give the gift of daily positive messages to boost their mood.
4. Gratitude Journal – A simple but transformative way to focus on the positive.
5. Audiobook Subscription—Give them access a wide range of motivational and educational content.

Health and Wellness

1. Yoga or Pilates Mat – High-quality mats can make a difference in regular practice.
2. Healthy Meal Delivery Service – A week of healthy meals is a thoughtful, practical gift.
3. Fitness Tracker – Encourage movement and mindfulness around physical activity.
4. Water Bottle with Reminders – Staying hydrated is self-care too!
5. Relaxation Kits – Bundle bath salts, candles, and cozy socks for the ultimate night in.

The holidays are a great time to remind your loved ones (and yourself!) that taking care of mental health and well-being is one of the most meaningful gifts. Whether it’s helping someone unwind, inspiring personal growth, or creating family memories, these gifts are therapist-approved for a reason—they come from the heart and make a lasting impact.

BONUS: As a gift to you, we have a variety of mental health resources you can access anytime.

At TherapyWorks, we believe that mental health support should be accessible to everyone. That’s why we’ve created a variety of complimentary mental health resources designed to empower you to explore mental health and provide the support you need when you need it.

• Support Studio: A Mental Health Resource Library — Learn More
• Spark Sessions: A Simple Start To Therapy — Learn More
• TherapyWorkshops: Mental Health Essentials — Learn More

Happy gifting!

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If you are looking for help, let’s do this, together.  Don’t hesitate to reach out:

• Visit mytherapyworks.com/schedule
• Call us at 408-508-6789 or 831-525-5000
• Email hello@mytherapyworks.com