Joining us today is Dr. Catherine Gildiner, who has worked for over 25 years as a clinical psychologist, guiding patients through trauma and recovery. She went on to share those experiences with the world in her New York Times bestselling book Good Morning, Monster, which has reached more than a million readers in over 30 languages, along with her acclaimed memoir Too Close to the Falls. Dr. Gildiner invites us to see therapy not as abstract theory, but as the practice of learning to live without the weight of old defenses.

In this episode, we dive into the real work of therapy, what it takes, why it matters, and how it transforms lives. Kathy shares stories behind Good Morning, Monster, including patients like Peter, Danny, and Alana, whose journeys reveal how culture, silence, the body, and even dreams shape the healing process. We talk about why some people recover while others walk away, how to recognize when you need therapy, how to find the right therapist, and when to move on if it is not working. Along the way we touch on generational trauma, the value and limits of self help books, recurring nightmares, and the challenge of encouraging parents to seek therapy.

This is an honest look at trauma, recovery, and what it really means to do the work. Therapy does not hand you answers, it asks if you are ready to face the truth and change your life.

Get a copy of her book, Good Morning, Monster here: https://a.co/d/9yy5jfP

Learn more about Cathy Gildiner and her work on her website here: www.gildiner.com