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YOU’RE NOT BROKEN, YOU’RE HUMAN: Why Your Feelings Make Sense - and Healing Is Possible
278 pages, Hardcover
Published February 9, 2026
About the author
Dr. Julie Sorenson
9 books3 followersDr. Julie Sorenson is a Doctor of Marriage and Family Therapy, licensed professional counselor, and author dedicated to helping people understand their emotions without shame. With a background as a teacher, school counselor, and therapist, her work bridges real-life experience with evidence-based mental health practices.
Julie is the author of You’re Not Broken, You’re Human: Why Your Feelings Make Sense, and Healing Is Possible, a practical, compassionate guide that helps readers untangle conditioned responses, regulate their nervous system, and reconnect with their true needs. Her approach blends clinical insight with real-world tools, making mental health feel accessible, not overwhelming.
She is also the creator of therapeutic resources for children, educators, and families, including work focused on social-emotional learning and suicide prevention. Through her writing, speaking, and clinical work, Julie is passionate about changing the conversation around mental health from “what’s wrong with you?” to “what happened to you?”
Julie regularly speaks at community events, works with organizations on mental health and wellness initiatives, and continues to advocate for practical, stigma-free support in schools, workplaces, and homes.
When she’s not writing or working with clients, you’ll find her near the water, paddleboarding, spending time with family and friends, or soaking up a quiet moment with a good book. Learn more or access free resources at www.drjuliesorenson.com
Julie is the author of You’re Not Broken, You’re Human: Why Your Feelings Make Sense, and Healing Is Possible, a practical, compassionate guide that helps readers untangle conditioned responses, regulate their nervous system, and reconnect with their true needs. Her approach blends clinical insight with real-world tools, making mental health feel accessible, not overwhelming.
She is also the creator of therapeutic resources for children, educators, and families, including work focused on social-emotional learning and suicide prevention. Through her writing, speaking, and clinical work, Julie is passionate about changing the conversation around mental health from “what’s wrong with you?” to “what happened to you?”
Julie regularly speaks at community events, works with organizations on mental health and wellness initiatives, and continues to advocate for practical, stigma-free support in schools, workplaces, and homes.
When she’s not writing or working with clients, you’ll find her near the water, paddleboarding, spending time with family and friends, or soaking up a quiet moment with a good book. Learn more or access free resources at www.drjuliesorenson.com
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 8 of 8 reviews
March 10, 2026
I went into this book by Dr. Julie Sorenson looking for understanding of my own patterns, and I walked away with so much more. This isn't just another "feel good" book; it’s a grounded, practical guide that bridges the gap between acknowledging your feelings and actually doing something about them.
Dr. Sorenson has a way of making complex psychological concepts feel incredibly accessible. The message that our feelings make sense when viewed through the right lens, felt like a massive weight being lifted.
I really appreciated that the book didn't just stop at "why." It provided concrete intervention tools that I could start using immediately. Each chapter has a colorful Intervention sheet where you can practice the “tools” she teaches you.
It’s organized in a way that allows you to jump to specific sections depending on what you’re feeling or what you need help with that day.
If you’ve ever felt like you’re "too much" or that your emotional responses are a "problem" to be fixed, this book is for you. It’s perfect for fans of practical self-help who want to move beyond surface-level advice into real, lasting healing.
Dr. Sorenson has a way of making complex psychological concepts feel incredibly accessible. The message that our feelings make sense when viewed through the right lens, felt like a massive weight being lifted.
I really appreciated that the book didn't just stop at "why." It provided concrete intervention tools that I could start using immediately. Each chapter has a colorful Intervention sheet where you can practice the “tools” she teaches you.
It’s organized in a way that allows you to jump to specific sections depending on what you’re feeling or what you need help with that day.
If you’ve ever felt like you’re "too much" or that your emotional responses are a "problem" to be fixed, this book is for you. It’s perfect for fans of practical self-help who want to move beyond surface-level advice into real, lasting healing.
February 20, 2026
Dr. Julie Sorenson’s "You’re Not Broken, You’re Human" is easily one of the most validating books I’ve read this year.
Instead of the typical "here is how to fix yourself" approach, Dr. Sorenson leans into the "why" behind our behaviors with incredible empathy. She effectively argues that our most difficult emotional responses aren't glitches—they’re actually survival mechanisms.
What I loved:
Accessible Science: She makes complex psychological concepts easy to grasp without losing the depth.
No Judgment: It feels less like a lecture and more like a conversation with a very smart, very kind mentor.
Practicality: The exercises are actually doable and provide immediate relief from the "I'm broken" internal narrative.
If you’ve ever felt like you’re failing at "being okay," please read this. It’s a gentle, powerful reminder that you are exactly where you need to be, and you have the tools to move forward.
Instead of the typical "here is how to fix yourself" approach, Dr. Sorenson leans into the "why" behind our behaviors with incredible empathy. She effectively argues that our most difficult emotional responses aren't glitches—they’re actually survival mechanisms.
What I loved:
Accessible Science: She makes complex psychological concepts easy to grasp without losing the depth.
No Judgment: It feels less like a lecture and more like a conversation with a very smart, very kind mentor.
Practicality: The exercises are actually doable and provide immediate relief from the "I'm broken" internal narrative.
If you’ve ever felt like you’re failing at "being okay," please read this. It’s a gentle, powerful reminder that you are exactly where you need to be, and you have the tools to move forward.
March 12, 2026
This was an amazing read. It offered down-to-earth approaches to normalize and support your healing journey. I loved how this book acknowledged that you aren't this broken person, but instead highlighted how growth and change (although sometimes scary) can make you feel so much more fulfilled. The journal prompts made this book feel so much more intentional. I can't recommend this book enough. A perfect way to continue bettering yourself while also showing love and compassion to the person you are in this very moment.
March 19, 2026
You’re Not Broken, You’re Human is a comforting and empowering read that reminds readers their emotions are valid, not flaws. Julie Sorenson explains how feelings like anxiety or sadness often come from life experiences rather than something being “wrong” with you.
Overall, it’s a reassuring book for anyone who struggles with self-doubt or overwhelming emotions, helping them see that healing is possible.
Overall, it’s a reassuring book for anyone who struggles with self-doubt or overwhelming emotions, helping them see that healing is possible.
February 23, 2026
I have never in my adult life finished a book cover to cover. This was delivered around 11am this morning and I couldn’t put it down! I just started my therapy journey and this book resonated with everything so much! I’m speechless- it’s a must read!
March 10, 2026
You will not be able to put Dr. Julie's book down. It is an amazing read. The exercises in the book are a great addition. Highly recommend!
March 10, 2026
A wonderful read! As someone who has struggled with anxiety and depression my whole life, Dr Sorenson’s words really resonated with me.
April 30, 2026
This book was such a wonderful read. I am so glad I found it when I did. I would recommend to anyone looking for a book to read while you’re going through a difficult time.
Displaying 1 - 8 of 8 reviews