I absolutely loved this book! It dives into the life of a therapist who faces a significant turning point when her boyfriend ends their relationship, prompting her to seek guidance from another therapist. Initially, she feels wronged and judges her ex harshly, believing he’s at fault. However, as she engages in therapy, she gains insight and starts to recognize the warning signs she had previously overlooked.

This book is a treasure trove for anyone in the helping professions, especially therapists. Lori Gottlieb shares her experiences with various clients, weaving their stories into discussions on themes like forgiveness, compassion, and personal growth. She touches on Erikson’s stages of development, the complexities of death, the value of consultation groups, and the process of change. The way she connects her clients’ journeys to these broader concepts is not just enlightening but also deeply relatable, as it often mirrors her own transformation.

One of the standout ideas from the book emphasizes the importance of living in the present. If you find yourself fixated on past events or overly anxious about future possibilities, you’re missing out on the richness of the current moment. This struck a chord with me, especially in the context of breakups. Navigating the end of a relationship can be incredibly challenging, and it’s easy to get lost in painful reflections about what went wrong. 

Acknowledging the heartbreak is tough but essential for healing and moving forward. It’s natural to ruminate on “what ifs” or to struggle with the loss of future dreams like marriage or children. This is why embracing the present moment is so vital—it offers a clearer perspective on your reality.

Reading this book also reminded me that therapists are human too—they experience life’s ups and downs just like everyone else. This insight makes the profession feel more accessible and relatable. If therapists can seek help when they need it, then so can all of us. I left with a renewed sense of optimism and a belief that reaching out for support is not only okay but essential for growth.