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Maybe You Should Talk to Someone by Lori Gottlieb - 5* - My Review

This book provides a fascinating dual perspective of a therapist treating her patients and becoming a patient seeking therapy. After a sudden unexpected breakup leaves her in emotional turmoil, Gottlieb finds herself in need of a therapist. In this memoir, she tells her own story while simultaneously portraying several of her patients' stories. We meet John, a rather pompous TV writer whose arrogance masks deeper pain; Julie, a young professor facing terminal illness; and Rita, a woman considering suicide as she approaches her 70th birthday. Gottlieb’s own sessions reveal that therapists, too, struggle with many of the same questions and challenges as their patients.

I often forgot that I was reading non-fiction. What elevates this book is Gottlieb's skill in balancing psychological expertise, humor, and emotional honesty. She seamlessly incorporates psychological concepts and therapeutic methods while maintaining a warm, engaging narrative voice. I felt invested in both her patients’ stories and her own account and felt the emotional impact of their breakthroughs. It is a testament to the power of therapeutic work and a reminder that seeking help is not a sign of weakness but rather an act of courage and self-discovery. It is a remarkable book that provides a glimpse into what talk therapy sessions are like and offers profound insights into how we all might live more examined and meaningful lives.

I thought it was a remarkable book too, for all of the reasons you mention in your review. I gave it 5 stars, myself.

I loved this one too. Great review, Joy.

Glad to see you enjoyed it too, Holly and Ellen!

I read this book and gave it a good review, but I can’t remember much about it. It must have been during a bad bout of brain fog when I was sick. On the plus side, I could reread it and enjoy it all over again.

I know what you mean. Sometimes we just need to be in the right mood or headspace for a book. By the time I finished I felt like I knew these people personally!