Both Sides of the Couch: A story of recovery told by a therapist and their client

by Anna Wickins, Paddy Magrane

When Anna Wickins began counselling with her therapist, Paddy Magrane, she could barely speak in their sessions, silenced by traumatic memories from two decades before. But as trust built, Anna felt able to open up and she started to talk about the terrifying ordeal she experienced at university. As Anna examined her past, a transformation was occurring across the room. Listening to her tale awakened painful memories in Paddy about the horrors that occurred at his boarding school.

After two years of healing work, Anna and Paddy embarked on an unusual therapeutic a visit to the site of her trauma, where Anna physically confronted the scenes of her nightmares. With Paddy's reassurance and support, she was finally able to leave her demons behind. Once robbed of a voice, Anna now helps others to find theirs, in the same way that Paddy helped her.

Told in alternating perspectives, Both Sides of the Couch is a searingly honest account of how counselling shapes both client and therapist. A unique window into therapy, it shows, for the first time, the journey through the eyes of both participants. Both Sides of the Couch is a moving and inspirational story of finding light in the darkest of times.

249 pages, Kindle Edition

Published August 20, 2024

Reviews

[Elz JS · Rating 5 out of 5]

A soulful and raw book, it covers the journey of the client, Anna and her therapist Paddy, where they both face hard pasts and find their feet again. It’s a very emotional and powerful read which hit close to home for myself in some areas, as a stronger female myself, I felt very emotional for Anna. Wanting to resonate with her and then help get her to a place of feeling powerful again. Paddy’s support, encouragement and attitude towards modern day life was refreshing to say the least! Their tales linked together in a great fit and while the story is deep with emotion, it’s easy to read and well written. I’d highly recommend anyone thinking of stepping through the doors of therapy to read this book, and anyone who enjoys a true and insightful story about turning the harsher parts of your life into something more manageable and maybe even better.

[Ashley Marshall · Rating 5 out of 5]

I don't know how this isn't more popular!! I came across a tiktok video of it being promoted by the authors, so I was curious.
I completed it in just a couple of days, but could hardly put it down. Brilliantly done with the back and forth story-telling from either points of view leading up to the "main event" of the visit to where Anna faced her worst experiences. Heartbreaking, but so well written that you feel like you're walking alongside of them as a silent observer through the process.

It powerfully paints a picture of therapy work, the impact of trauma and the hope that there is a path to a better life that isn't gripped by trauma.

There is some language, so just know that. Honestly, I'm not sure there shouldn't be when you're talking about some of these things...

[Rachael · Rating 5 out of 5]

Brilliant; well written, wise and warm.

[Sophie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very well written true story. Sometimes hard to read but I’m glad the authors put this out there. And am happy they both found peace towards the end of the book.

[Ami · Rating 4 out of 5]

A beautiful exploration of the powerful relationship between a therapist and client, and its healing power.

[Allie Scott · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of the best therapy books I've read! loved the careful presentation of a parrell process, the thoughts of the therapist and the client. Brilliantly written.