This is a wonderfully weird book that drags up every strange, wacky, and sometimes horrifying medical practice from history to the present day. It's written with a pen dipped in sarcasm, and I found myself laughing and groaning in equal measure.
But here’s the serious, therapist-focused reason I loved it:
The Roots of Emotional Disconnection
Reading about doctors who used to avoid speaking to patients directly—preferring to write letters to other doctors instead, simply because seeing "nasty body bits" was beneath them—gave me a lot of food for thought.
I believe this historical "stand-back-and-don't-engage" attitude is the exact thing that has long permeated the mental health profession, making it feel cold, detached, and untrustworthy to many of you.
For Clients with Anxiety: You need a therapist who is present and engaged, not someone operating on old-school, rigid professional distance. This book validates your intuition that distance does not equal competence.
For Trauma Survivors (cPTSD/Abuse): When you have a history of being dismissed or harmed by figures of authority, the last thing you need is a clinical relationship that feels like another power imbalance. Haviland’s book helps shine a light on why medical institutions can feel so deeply dehumanizing.
My Approach is Different
However, I want to be clear: the therapy I provide today has evolved light years beyond this "stand-back" philosophy.
My practice, which specializes in depression, anxiety, and trauma recovery, is built on the opposite philosophy:
We work together. My role is not to stand back and judge, but to be an active, present, and human partner in your healing.
It’s Not a Spectator Sport: Modern, trauma-informed care is about working with your whole self—your thoughts, your body, and your nervous system—not just analyzing you from across the room.
No Bizarre Practices: We use evidence-based, modern, and compassionate techniques to help you feel safe and in control. No brain removal or leeches necessary, guaranteed.
Ready for a therapeutic relationship that is human, direct, and effective? Email me ellen.whyte@gmail.com or WhatsApp: +44 7514 408143 The first 15 minute consultation is free.
P.S. Yes, I do worry this book might fuel some science scepticism, but the truth and the history of why institutions feel untrustworthy are important starting points for healing and change. Huge thanks to NetGalley and the publishers for this insightful read!
