Lying on the Couch: A Novel

très intelligent et bien construit, ce livreardu, faut rester connectébien écrit - très profitable et enrichissant!

In the novel Lying on the Couch by Irvin D. Yalom, the author delves into the intricate dynamics and challenges that exist between therapists and their clients. Through a mildly satirical lens, the book presents two interwoven narratives, each highlighting instances where patients deceive their trusting therapists and the therapists themselves grapple with professional boundaries. At the centre of the story is Ernest Lash, a psychotherapist who transitions from psychopharmacology to beginner psychoanalysis but starts questioning the artificial and rigid nature of the therapeutic relationship. Ernest yearns to explore a more authentic, human, and transparent approach in his practice.As we embark on this journey, we navigate the intricate realm of the human psyche, observing the intersecting worlds of psychiatry and storytelling. Within the narrative, an unspoken truth emerges - the potential manipulation and misuse of intimate relationships by therapists for their own gain.Irvin D. Yalom was a prominent American psychiatrist and psychotherapist known for his influential work in existential psychotherapy and his numerous books on the subject. His writing is captivating and clever, infused with a satirical flair that continuously draws in the knowledgeable reader. He employs expressive language and visual descriptions to craft dynamic and unforgettable characters, while his storytelling technique is engaging and moves at a well-structured pace. The character development within Yalom's work is exemplary, as he delves deeply into the motivations, conflicts, and interconnections of the main protagonists.Lying on the Couch excels in its unique perspective and profound insights. Yalom delves into the intricacies of the therapeutic alliance, offering valuable reflections and stimulating contemplation. His clever critique of psychoanalysis and existential psychotherapy provides an enjoyable and enlightening experience. The book's emotional resonance is noteworthy as Yalom's characters grapple with themes of love, grief, and betrayal. Although the pacing occasionally lags and characterisations may lack consistency, certain plotlines remain unresolved, possibly leading to some readers being frustrated. I didn’t find it a problem for me.Yalom extensively examines the significance of the therapeutic alliance in this book, exploring its social, cultural, and philosophical implications. He challenges conventional assumptions about the scope of therapy and the medical paradigm by emphasising that the therapeutic relationship extends beyond the therapist-patient dynamic.Lying on the Couch is an exceptional and enticing book that distinguishes itself from other novels I have read in this genre. Although it may have occasional pacing concerns and character development inconsistencies, it is a unique and intellectually stimulating piece of literature. I especially recommend it to readers with some background or interest in psychotherapy and/or psychology and who appreciate subtly satirical examinations of intricate connections and intellectually stimulating portrayals of therapeutic relationships.

Fantastic novel! He is so accurate about psychotherapeutic procedures and at the same time, so realistic when it comes to each individual's limitations and weaknesses. The daily struggles therapists face in their practice, the pride, the fear, and how different therapists face each issue so differently, are described with painstakingly realistic accuracy and artistic fluency with which Yalom is gifted.

Not much to say, it was a cracking book, Yalom writes beautifully and a fictional book from a qualified psychotherapist? Even better! He incorporates the fantasy and magic of fiction with the grittiness and honesty of real life, I cannot sing his praises enough!!! I would recommend this book to anyone who has the slightest interest in psychotherapy, however I would equally recommend this book to anyone who is just looking for a good read :)

I was fascinated from the first moment with this novel. It's a very interesting expose of psycho-therapy - although you don't have to be involved with psycho-analysis to be able to appreciate the story.The main protagonist, Ernest Lash, is just as his name suggests; earnest. He is vulnerable, erotic, sincere and trying his very best to rise above the professional detachment of his peers. He is experimenting with being totally honest with his patients, and in doing so, discovers the same pit-falls and dangers experienced in any truly intimate relationship.The novel tracks the gamut of human foibles, neatly shared between it's believable cast of characters. Pomposity, megalomania, addiction, betrayal, lust and revenge all rear their ugly heads - tempered by the redemptive actions of forgiveness, compassion and sincerity. A very satisfying and informative journey into the miasms of the human mind.I don't know why I was surprised that Yalom was such a good writer. Perhaps I expected the dryness that often accompanies the writing of many other professionals in their fields of expertise. Not so in this case. Yalom cleverly draws the reader in from the first paragraph and keeps us turning pages until the last.Highly recommended.