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Maybe You Should Talk to Someone: A Therapist, Her Therapist, and Our Lives Revealed

Nonfiction | Autobiography / Memoir | Adult | Published in 2019

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Book Brief

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Lori Gottlieb

Maybe You Should Talk to Someone

Nonfiction | Autobiography / Memoir | Adult | Published in 2019
Book Details
Pages

432

Format

Autobiography / Memoir • Nonfiction

Setting

2010s

Publication Year

2019

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

Maybe You Should Talk to Someone by Lori Gottlieb is a nonfiction work combining memoir and popular science that explores the transformative power of therapy, as Gottlieb recounts her sessions with her own therapist, Wendell, while concurrently sharing the stories of her diverse patients. This bestselling book highlights personal growth, emotional healing, and the role of therapy in navigating life’s challenges. The book discusses sensitive topics such as terminal illness, spousal abuse, and addiction.

Informative

Emotional

Contemplative

Heartwarming

Humorous

Reviews & Readership

4.5

394,369 ratings

88%

Loved it

10%

Mixed feelings

3%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Lori Gottlieb's Maybe You Should Talk to Someone is lauded for its heartfelt exploration of therapy from both the clinician's and patient's perspectives. Reviewers praise its humor, relatability, and insightful look at human vulnerability. Some critics find it overly anecdotal, but it remains a compelling read for those interested in psychological introspection.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Maybe You Should Talk to Someone?

Readers who enjoy Maybe You Should Talk to Someone by Lori Gottlieb are typically intrigued by psychology, personal growth, and human connections. Fans of works like Becoming by Michelle Obama and When Breath Becomes Air by Paul Kalanithi will appreciate its blend of memoir and self-help, offering deep, relatable insights into life's complexities.

4.5

394,369 ratings

88%

Loved it

10%

Mixed feelings

3%

Not a fan

Character List

Lori Gottlieb

Lori is both the author and narrator, exploring her journey as a therapist and a patient, revealing her career transition from film production to psychotherapy. She navigates personal desires and professional fulfillment while undergoing her own therapy.

An Emmy award-winning TV writer in his 40s, John struggles with aggression and mourning multiple losses while engaging in therapy sessions with Lori. His journey involves uncovering deep-seated issues impacting his personal and professional life.

A 33-year-old university professor recently diagnosed with cancer, Julie's therapy focuses on acceptance and redefining life goals post-diagnosis. Her journey includes embracing changes in life priorities after her prognosis shifts.

Rita, a 69-year-old artist grappling with depression, seeks therapy for her suicidal ideation rooted in a complicated past. Her therapy sessions address guilt and destructive self-perceptions while fostering new connections and perspectives.

At 25, Charlotte attends therapy for anxiety and relationship issues, including unrecognized alcohol abuse and a pattern of unproductive attachments. Her sessions reveal deeper issues affecting her interpersonal relations and self-awareness.

Wendell is Lori's therapist, noted for his calm and intuitive approach. His role helps Lori navigate personal challenges, providing a safe and supportive environment while maintaining professional boundaries.

Book Details
Pages

432

Format

Autobiography / Memoir • Nonfiction

Setting

2010s

Publication Year

2019

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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