Kristin Petersen

Misleading title. This book has some intriguing stories, but is not about overcoming the destructive inner voice. It’s really more about the writer’s experience treating patients. The author is the main character and In some of the stories, the main takeaway is how smart and successful the author is. He really emphasized several times how young he was when he started college, got his masters and began working. He does not ever address how his young age, ego and lack of social, emotional or physical maturity may have affected his work. We do, however, get some closure about the client’s issues. I feel that there wasn’t enough focus on their experiences though. He also misses opportunities to do what is in the patient’s best interest and makes a very reckless decision without addressing it much.

This isn’t the absolute worst book I’ve read, but maybe that’s because I couldn’t finish it. I really hated the characters. I especially hate the love interest. I was hoping our educated protagonist would realize that he’s a bad, controlling guy who isolates her and treats her like a helpless stupid baby. If you love the special girl trope (it’s okay to want to feel special) then maybe this is for you. If you have a fantasy about being able to relinquish control and have an older, wise man take care of you and baby you, then, again, maybe for you and that’s totally ok.