Madness on the Couch

Set against the backdrop of the 1950s and 1960s, this narrative explores the ambitious efforts of psychotherapists who aimed to tackle mental illness, viewing themselves as pioneers in understanding complex societal issues. Edward Dolnick, a seasoned science writer, chronicles the challenges and failures encountered in this quest, revealing the darker side of the era's therapeutic optimism. Through a compelling examination of the limitations of talk therapy, the book sheds light on the ongoing struggle with mental health.