21 Therapist-Approved Gift Ideas That Will Genuinely Improve Someone’s Life

“Gifts I tend to buy loved ones are grounded in self-care. If the person loves pedicures but is attempting to cut costs, I love gifting the Olive and June pedicure set. It’s a great way to care for yourself at home, and a little color on your feet can brighten your day!” —Nina Polyné, PsyD, licensed clinical psychologist

“Audiobooks can be helpful for people who experience insomnia. A gift membership to Audible is nice because the person can select a book that meets their interests. This can help an individual escape their anxious thoughts and focus on an engaging story.” —Nina Polyné, PsyD, licensed clinical psychologist

“Research shows that giving is good for your mental health, so on some occasions, I will donate to a charity in the name of a loved one, giving each of us a boost and, of course, helping those in need. Organizations like Heifer International and NAMI are among my favorites.” —Ryan Howes, PhD, licensed clinical psychologist

“I’m a big believer in experiences over things, so whenever possible I like to gift an event they can share with friends or loved ones, like tickets to a movie, play, concert, or amusement park.” —Ryan Howes, PhD, licensed clinical psychologist

“I like to gift a weighted blanket—they can be helpful for some people in reducing anxiety, improving sleep, or just increasing comfort.” —Jessica Stern, PhD, licensed clinical psychologist

“I also like to give a subscription to something that will either spark joy or will add convenience to someone’s life, such as a bundle of passes for a meditation class, a subscription to a pottery class, or a meal delivery kit service.” —Jessica Stern, PhD, licensed clinical psychologist

“I have one idea that I use for gifting. It may be a bit corny, but I gift my book: How Am I Doing? 40 Conversations to Have With Yourself. It’s a good book that reminds us all to focus on taking care of and knowing who we are.” —Corey Yeager PhD, LMFT, psychotherapist

“This has so many wonderful essential oils that are calming and remind us to take a breath! The best part? It’s super easy to keep on you anywhere you go.” —Sarah Ahmed, RSW, psychotherapist

“For the days when we all feel sore, uneasy, or have hip tightness, this massager does the trick. I keep it next to my bed and use it to massage the soles of my feet before bed, which feels great!” —Sarah Ahmed, RSW, psychotherapist

“These lacrosse balls are great for any tightness in the hip flexors or shoulders—rolling on them loosens up the muscles right away. I’ll often add some peppermint oil on my shoulders afterward and hop in a hot shower, which loosens up the body instantly!” —Sarah Ahmed, RSW, psychotherapist

“A fun gift to give is a sound bowl. They come in beautiful colors and varying sizes, and some are delicately carved and etched. If you believe in the power of intention, they are great for meditation and for relaxing the central nervous system. They are also very portable. My family and friends are always particularly excited to receive any kind of ‘wellness’ gift like this.” —John Tsilimparis, MFT, psychotherapist

“One gift I give to clients is books. Typically, these are books I believe will be vital adjuncts to our sessions and to themes and issues they have been grappling with. They are usually thought-provoking books that might inspire deeper compassion for themselves and maybe even a better understanding of the world and people they will encounter in the future. In addition, the books could help them continue seeing and respecting frames of reference other than their own.

For example, the 2019 book by Susan Cain called Bittersweet is a wonderful, transformative gift book. It’s very thought-provoking and will have you rethink the concept of grief and sadness in a very poignant and colorful way.” —John Tsilimparis, MFT, psychotherapist

“Brad Stuhlberg’s book Master of Change is another inspiring read. All of these books are worthy gifts to clients as well as family and friends. It’s important to note that books are handy companions that can act as transitional objects for clients who will be detaching from their therapist at the time of termination. They are more than mementos of the relationship; they are the fruits of their hard work. They represent the growth they have gained during the therapeutic process.” —John Tsilimparis, MFT, psychotherapist

“This is a great gift for people who only have a few minutes to relax. It can also relieve eye fatigue, alleviate headaches, and enhance quality sleep.” —Juan Romero-Gaddi, MD, psychiatrist

“If you’re a fan of weighted blankets, you may want one of these. They can provide a sense of security and comfort and are a great gift for those who want to decrease stress and improve their sleep quality. They come in multiple sizes and are a pretty cool decoration piece as well.” —Juan Romero-Gaddi, MD, psychiatrist

“I think journals are wonderful gifts for those who might enjoy them, along with complementary pens, markers, and stickers for loved ones who like to create and write.” —Jenny Wang, PhD, licensed psychologist

“A candle is my go-to gift. It’s a big part of my day and evening rituals—being able to play with the lighting and sensory input in the room is helpful for shifting in and out of work mode and cultivating an overall sense of calm and presence. My favorite is this one from Jenni Kayne.” —Miriam Kirmayer, PhD, clinical psychologist

“I’m also really into gifting card decks with conversation starters or calls to action that spark connection and well-being. Some favorites include this Cultivating Conversations Card Deck by Wilde House Paper and these All Things Are Looking Up cards developed by Dr. Deepika Chopra.” —Miriam Kirmayer, PhD, clinical psychologist

“The gift of a serene soundscape can provide an oasis of calm in one’s daily routine, aiding in relaxation and mental clarity.” —Thomas Vance, PhD, psychologist

“I love to gift a tea sampler set. A selection of fine teas can provide a daily ritual of tranquility and warmth, encouraging people to take a peaceful moment to unwind.” —Thomas Vance, PhD, psychologist

“This creative stress reliever promotes focus and calm, offering a therapeutic escape from life’s complexities.” —Thomas Vance, PhD, psychologist