Yalom’s Cure 2014
Distributed by First Run Features, 630 Ninth Avenue, Suite 1213, New York, NY 10036; 212-243-0600
Produced by Philip Delaquis
Directed by Sabine Gisiger
DVD , color, 74 min.
College - General Adult
Counseling, Psychology, Social Work
Date Entered: 02/22/2017
Reviewed by Rodney Birch, Reference Librarian, George Fox UniversityYalom’s Cure is not a typical biographical documentary. Instead, psychotherapist Irvin Yalom offers the viewer an opportunity to explore and understand one’s self by journeying into the human psyche. Yalom, known globally for his ground-breaking work in group therapy and existential psychotherapy, indicates that the root to fulfillment, happiness, and love lies in the true knowledge and understanding of one’s self, which flows over to the other. Yalom uses examples from philosophy, literature, sociology, and science in his discussions to demonstrate the value and impact of self-understanding on personal fulfillment and relationships with others. By the end of the film, the viewer has the sense they have been talking with a friend, drawing parallels between shared life experiences and gaining a deeper sense of self. This film would be beneficial for psychotherapists and those training to be psychotherapists as a means for learning how to build relationships and interact with patients. It is a good resource for the general public as it shows the journey of psychotherapists to develop, grow, and learn. Yalom’s Cure would be a great addition to libraries supporting counseling, psychology, and social work programs.