Some Initial Thoughts + Overview:

I recently read this book with a few other therapists for our book club.  Dr. Marsha Linehan is the creator of Dialectical Behavior Therapy, also known as DBT. Dialectics refers to the concept of understanding two seemingly opposing viewpoints, or maybe easier said, holding two truths in the same hand.

For those unfamiliar, Dr. Linehan is renowned for developing Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), a groundbreaking approach that combines cognitive-behavioral techniques with mindfulness strategies and principles from Eastern spirituality.

 I liked this book because it highlighted something that might not be common knowledge: a lot of therapists are born out of their own personal struggles with mental health. Marsha bravely shares her story in this memoir of repeated hospitalizations in her teenage years due to suicidal ideation and self-harm. 

Dr. Linehan weaves together multiple loves, namely her background in eastern spirituality and philosophy with her own personal struggles with mental health to create a truly unique therapeutic modality. It’s also really badass that she as a woman is at the forefront of psychological research and DBT has been empirically validated, meaning there’s scientific proof of its efficacy! 

You might enjoy this book if you:

-Are fascinated by the intersection of DBT skills and Eastern spiritual philosophy and wish to explore how these elements converge in therapeutic practice.

-Are an aspiring therapist or researcher eager to understand the origins and evolution of a transformative therapeutic modality.

-Are interested in a therapist’s personal mental health journey and how their experiences inform their professional life.

-Seek inspiration on how to channel your personal experiences into creating something impactful and original.

My honest critique:

While Building a Life Worth Living offers valuable insights, it may not resonate with everyone. Dr. Linehan’s narrative sometimes overlooks the influence of her social and economic privileges, which could have provided a more nuanced perspective on the resources and support systems that shaped her journey. 

Additionally, Dr. Linehan is primarily a practitioner and researcher rather than a writer, which is evident in the memoir’s storytelling. Though the book effectively conveys her experiences and achievements, the prose lacks the polish and literary flair that might make for a more engaging read. Despite this, the authenticity and depth of her story provide meaningful value, particularly for those interested in the development of DBT and its integration with personal and philosophical insights.

Catch me here again with more book reviews soon!

- Peace, Sammy