Tales from the Couch is collection of actual case studies and a primer on psychopathology as well as a captivating reflection on the human condition. Drawn from Dr. Bob Wendorf’s 36-year career as a clinical psychologist, the book examines the lives of some of his most troubled patients in a project that aims to both educate and fascinate the listener. Clinical syndromes are described and dramatized by real-life case examples (altered only as necessary to protect patient confidentiality). Each of the 16 chapters focuses on a particular psychiatric diagnosis, including multiple personality disorder, Asperger’s, and ADD.
The clinical picture and symptoms are described and explained, then brought to life by case examples taken from the author’s practice. Dr. Wendorf presents the cases as a series of narratives – some dramatic, some humorous, most quite poignant. Along the way, the author offers his own reactions to the people and events described here and application to the general human condition as well.
Tales from the Couch offers compelling stories of extraordinary people, clinical conditions, and events – both in and out of the therapy hour – while providing insights into the nature of human beings, mental illness, and the psychotherapeutic enterprise.
Interesting I would have preferred not to review this book because I dislike writing negative reviews, but it is a site requirement. I did find Dr. James’ case studies and his assistance in healing, insightful. However, I found his writing to be arrogant and off putting when he speaks of his patients. Unfortunately, he has instilled this arrogance in his children when patients would call his home. Mental health is not a joking matter. All who suffer should be treated with dignity and respect. To know your…
Superb book from a master therapist/teacher/storyteller Have to admit Bob’s my twin brother. We’re both career psychotherapists and book authors. And, we can be competitive. My books are different (healthy marriage; caregiving self-care), but…HATE to admit that Bob writes better (you may not quote me on that to him). Tales From the Couch is really, really good: insightful, helpful, marvelously clear, funny, uniquely engaging, touching, common sense useful, and endearing. Bob is a born teacher and story teller (like Pop) and he makes basic…
Absolute “Must Read”! I was fortunate enough to have had Dr. Bob Wendorf as a professor during my undergraduate days in the psychology department at the University of Alabama at Birmingam (UAB) and am THRILLED to see that he wrote a book. There wasn’t one day of class I can recall that we as students weren’t completely glued to our seats hanging on every word of his lectures either for 1). The obvious future clinical application and significance or 2). The magical gift of storytelling with which he retold his most…