JABSOM Library: Library Updates

Book Buzz: Couch Fiction

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Wednesday, June 11, 2025 - King Kamehameha I Day

As future healthcare professionals, it's essential to recognize the mental health challenges that both patients and providers face. Couch Fiction: A Graphic Tale of Psychotherapy offers a unique, accessible way to dive into the therapeutic process, making it a perfect read for medical students. This graphic novel is not just about psychotherapy -- it’s about the human experience behind the therapy, and how understanding the mind can enhance the way we care for others.

In this compelling narrative, we meet James Clarkson Smith, a successful barrister whose secret kleptomania (a mental health disorder characterized by the recurrent urge to steal items, regardless of their value) threatens his career. Skeptical about therapy but in need of help, James begins sessions with Pat Phillips, a seasoned psychotherapist. Over the course of a year, we witness the slow but powerful evolution of their relationship as James begins to confront his struggles. What sets this book apart is the additional layer of footnotes from the author, Philippa Perry, which break down the therapeutic techniques being used and give readers an insider’s view into how therapy works in practice.

Why You Should Read It:

• Understanding the Therapy Process: Couch Fiction gives a behind-the-scenes look at the therapist-client dynamic, offering insight into how trust is built and how therapists help clients navigate complex emotions. As you begin working with patients in your own practice, this book can deepen your understanding of how emotional health plays a crucial role in overall well-being. 
• Mental Health Beyond the Symptoms: As medical students, it’s easy to focus on the clinical side of patient care. But Couch Fiction reminds us of the importance of considering a patient’s emotional landscape as well. This graphic novel highlights the psychological underpinnings of behaviors and struggles, providing a fuller picture of the human experience.
• Building Empathy for Patients: It’s not just about diagnosing and treating; it’s about understanding and connecting with the person behind the diagnosis. This book provides a powerful example of how empathy and patience are key in any therapeutic relationship, skills that are just as important in patient care as clinical expertise.

Whether you’re preparing for clinical rotations or looking for a break from textbooks, Couch Fiction offers a meaningful reflection on the intersection of mental health and healthcare. It’s a reminder that empathy, communication, and understanding are at the core of good medical practice.

Interested in borrowing the book? You can find it at the Health Sciences Library!

Check out our Graphic Medicine collection HERE!

 
Image Credit: https://www.psychotherapy.net/article/couch-fiction