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The Room on the Right
A heart-wrenching yet hopeful story of facing trauma, abuse, and PTSD—and the heroic path to healing.
To others, Dr. Lawrence Mieczkowski (Dr. Mitch) was a successful physician, caring father, and good husband—but inwardly, he was suffering from deep despair. When the 1999 Columbine shootings triggered a descent into near madness, he lost his ability to fight off the demons dragging him further into the darkness of depression and hopelessness. Something had to be done.
Finally seeking help in 2001, Dr. Mitch found a trusted psychiatrist and embarked on a yearslong journey that unlocked the deepest parts of his childhood and adult life—painful memories of abuse, neglect, and trauma. In this memoir, he recounts the struggles, fears, and successes on his path to healing with clarity and directness, proving that even in the face of overwhelming odds, it’s possible to find a path to the light.
The Room on the Right is a poignant story of endurance and survival that will inspire listeners for years to come.
To others, Dr. Lawrence Mieczkowski (Dr. Mitch) was a successful physician, caring father, and good husband—but inwardly, he was suffering from deep despair. When the 1999 Columbine shootings triggered a descent into near madness, he lost his ability to fight off the demons dragging him further into the darkness of depression and hopelessness. Something had to be done.
Finally seeking help in 2001, Dr. Mitch found a trusted psychiatrist and embarked on a yearslong journey that unlocked the deepest parts of his childhood and adult life—painful memories of abuse, neglect, and trauma. In this memoir, he recounts the struggles, fears, and successes on his path to healing with clarity and directness, proving that even in the face of overwhelming odds, it’s possible to find a path to the light.
The Room on the Right is a poignant story of endurance and survival that will inspire listeners for years to come.
- GenresNonfiction
288 pages, Paperback
Published June 3, 2025
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Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
February 11, 2025
What an emotional journey this story takes you on. No child, no person, no living being should have ever had to endure the childhood trauma that the author and my friend Larry has had to experience.
To live through, recount, and then relive by memorializing these traumatic accounts of this tragic life is one of the bravest undertakings I had ever witnessed.
This unbelievable story provided me with a path to transport back in time to my own childhood and to reflect upon instances which have altered my adult life. I hope Larry’s story touches your heart, as it did my own.
To live through, recount, and then relive by memorializing these traumatic accounts of this tragic life is one of the bravest undertakings I had ever witnessed.
This unbelievable story provided me with a path to transport back in time to my own childhood and to reflect upon instances which have altered my adult life. I hope Larry’s story touches your heart, as it did my own.
February 8, 2025
I sobbed through the first 14 chapters in one sitting. This is a book that you absolutely cannot put down. I regained my composure briefly when I resumed reading only to have silent tears running down my face throughout the remainder of the book. The candor and authenticity are a tribute to the strength of the author to not only have survived such horrendous experiences but to share them in such a meaningful way as to help others deal with their own trauma.
That ANY child should suffer the physical and emotional abuse he endured is beyond my ability to fathom. Job related reading is a large part of my life and I've read many accounts of neglect, abuse, etc., but none that touched me in this way. For anyone considering a field of social work, psychology, sociology or related occupations this book should be required course reading. Its raw reality is painful yet gripping; you want it to stop but you have to know the path his life follows, all-the-while praying that the horror ends yet knowing it will be with him throughout his entire existence. I wanted to gather the child into my arms and by then end I wanted to hug the adult that has come out on the other side as well.
Easy to follow and well written, the language is articulate and weaves the thoughts of the child as succinctly as the musings of the adult. You're drawn in from the first page and the unpredictability was remarkable--having read so much on this topic I expected to see a familiar pattern, yet the presentation of events was done in such a manner that there was no place to draw a comfortable breath, no spot to relax and regroup. You cannot anticipate the path of this journey; I felt an understanding of the terror and sadness and despair and hope as the author described going through each of the emotions.
Please do not miss this book; I'm re-reading it already. I fully expect to be just as mesmerized on this reading and have no doubt that I will gain additional insight into all of the lives involved. Dr. Mieczkowski, thank you for sharing your life with your readers. We are all the better for it.
That ANY child should suffer the physical and emotional abuse he endured is beyond my ability to fathom. Job related reading is a large part of my life and I've read many accounts of neglect, abuse, etc., but none that touched me in this way. For anyone considering a field of social work, psychology, sociology or related occupations this book should be required course reading. Its raw reality is painful yet gripping; you want it to stop but you have to know the path his life follows, all-the-while praying that the horror ends yet knowing it will be with him throughout his entire existence. I wanted to gather the child into my arms and by then end I wanted to hug the adult that has come out on the other side as well.
Easy to follow and well written, the language is articulate and weaves the thoughts of the child as succinctly as the musings of the adult. You're drawn in from the first page and the unpredictability was remarkable--having read so much on this topic I expected to see a familiar pattern, yet the presentation of events was done in such a manner that there was no place to draw a comfortable breath, no spot to relax and regroup. You cannot anticipate the path of this journey; I felt an understanding of the terror and sadness and despair and hope as the author described going through each of the emotions.
Please do not miss this book; I'm re-reading it already. I fully expect to be just as mesmerized on this reading and have no doubt that I will gain additional insight into all of the lives involved. Dr. Mieczkowski, thank you for sharing your life with your readers. We are all the better for it.
March 24, 2025
Thank you to Girl Friday Productions and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this ARC. Unfortunately, I wasn’t able to finish the book and decided to stop at 31%. While I appreciated the intense vulnerability and openness of the author to share their struggles and past, I found that the writing style was not for me and the pacing was quite slow.
I truly believe this story will resonate with other readers, especially those who enjoy emotional + heavy memoirs, but it simply wasn’t the right fit for me. I’m grateful for the opportunity and wish the author all the best.
I truly believe this story will resonate with other readers, especially those who enjoy emotional + heavy memoirs, but it simply wasn’t the right fit for me. I’m grateful for the opportunity and wish the author all the best.
February 16, 2025
The Room on the Right by Dr. Mieczkowski is a deeply moving and courageous memoir that offers readers a glimpse into the life of a physician who endured profound abuse, trauma, and PTSD yet found the strength to persevere and dedicate his life to helping others. More than just a story of survival, this book is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the transformative power of healing.
Dr. Mieczkowski's honesty and vulnerability create an immediate emotional connection with anyone reading. His narrative is not only a raw and unflinching account of personal pain but also a beacon of hope for those who have suffered in silence. I am deeply sorry for his pain.
I admire his courage to tell his story and pray that there will be some healing and release from writing this all down and hopefully, releasing a bit of the pain.
On a personal note, this book holds a special place in my heart. Dr. Mieczkowski's journey resonated deeply with me, as he was there for me during a difficult period in my own life. His compassion, wisdom, and unwavering support were a source of comfort when I needed it most. Reading his story reinforced my admiration for him—not just as a physician but as a person of immense courage and kindness.
The Room on the Right is more than just a memoir; it is a lifeline for those who have faced trauma and an inspiring reminder that healing is possible. It is a must-read for anyone seeking a story of resilience, empathy, and the profound impact one person can have on the lives of others.
Dr. Mieczkowski's honesty and vulnerability create an immediate emotional connection with anyone reading. His narrative is not only a raw and unflinching account of personal pain but also a beacon of hope for those who have suffered in silence. I am deeply sorry for his pain.
I admire his courage to tell his story and pray that there will be some healing and release from writing this all down and hopefully, releasing a bit of the pain.
On a personal note, this book holds a special place in my heart. Dr. Mieczkowski's journey resonated deeply with me, as he was there for me during a difficult period in my own life. His compassion, wisdom, and unwavering support were a source of comfort when I needed it most. Reading his story reinforced my admiration for him—not just as a physician but as a person of immense courage and kindness.
The Room on the Right is more than just a memoir; it is a lifeline for those who have faced trauma and an inspiring reminder that healing is possible. It is a must-read for anyone seeking a story of resilience, empathy, and the profound impact one person can have on the lives of others.
June 3, 2025
The Room on the Right: I read an advanced copy of Dr. Mieczkowski’s memoir. He is a part of my greater family.
There is something here for anyone who has endured life’s trials. An intense read that you won’t put down. Dr. Mitch takes you on a very intimate journey to the very heart of what counseling can do to bring outcomes critical to living a full and healthy life. He weaves together an incredible story of his journey with Dr. Dan, who brings Dr. Mitch to a place that gives him the chance to pull together a life that endured mental and physical abuse. Amazingly, it is a testament to his character that pulls Dr. Mitch through the hell of childhood and young adulthood and becomes a successful doctor. The reader will be struck by his sheer will and determination to fulfill his dream of becoming a doctor.
The book begins its narrative in the opening pages in what should not be the darkest place, childhood. Stick with the journey, you may not encounter every trial as depicted. You will recognize a trial you have been through and will see how there is a solution to issues that are unhealthy for you mentally and physically. Bad parenting? Siblings who don’t align with your values. Extended family both good and bad? Challenges to the very core of your belief system? Your own relationships both professionally and your very own family? Check they are all here. Listen to Dr. Mitch’s words and what his journey reveals. You will find a strategy to find your way on your own journey.
There is something here for anyone who has endured life’s trials. An intense read that you won’t put down. Dr. Mitch takes you on a very intimate journey to the very heart of what counseling can do to bring outcomes critical to living a full and healthy life. He weaves together an incredible story of his journey with Dr. Dan, who brings Dr. Mitch to a place that gives him the chance to pull together a life that endured mental and physical abuse. Amazingly, it is a testament to his character that pulls Dr. Mitch through the hell of childhood and young adulthood and becomes a successful doctor. The reader will be struck by his sheer will and determination to fulfill his dream of becoming a doctor.
The book begins its narrative in the opening pages in what should not be the darkest place, childhood. Stick with the journey, you may not encounter every trial as depicted. You will recognize a trial you have been through and will see how there is a solution to issues that are unhealthy for you mentally and physically. Bad parenting? Siblings who don’t align with your values. Extended family both good and bad? Challenges to the very core of your belief system? Your own relationships both professionally and your very own family? Check they are all here. Listen to Dr. Mitch’s words and what his journey reveals. You will find a strategy to find your way on your own journey.
February 13, 2025
A Powerful and Courageous Memoir of Resilience and Healing
In The Room on the Right, Dr. Lawrence Mieczkowski delivers a raw and deeply moving account of his journey through childhood trauma, PTSD, and the arduous path to healing. With striking honesty, he shares his struggles growing up in an abusive household, the impact of long-buried memories, and the profound transformation that began when he finally sought professional help.
What makes this memoir so compelling is Mieczkowski’s ability to bring readers into his world with vivid storytelling and emotional depth. His journey—from a young boy enduring neglect and abuse to a successful physician grappling with internal turmoil—highlights the complexity of trauma and the courage it takes to confront it. His descriptions of therapy sessions, flashbacks, and breakthroughs offer a powerful insight into the process of healing, making this book not just a personal story but also a beacon of hope for others who have faced similar struggles.
While The Room on the Right delves into dark and painful experiences, it is ultimately a story of resilience, strength, and survival. Mieczkowski’s candid reflections remind us that no matter how deep the scars, healing is possible with courage, self-reflection, and the right support.
A must-read for anyone interested in mental health, trauma recovery, or personal transformation, this memoir will stay with you long after you turn the final page.
In The Room on the Right, Dr. Lawrence Mieczkowski delivers a raw and deeply moving account of his journey through childhood trauma, PTSD, and the arduous path to healing. With striking honesty, he shares his struggles growing up in an abusive household, the impact of long-buried memories, and the profound transformation that began when he finally sought professional help.
What makes this memoir so compelling is Mieczkowski’s ability to bring readers into his world with vivid storytelling and emotional depth. His journey—from a young boy enduring neglect and abuse to a successful physician grappling with internal turmoil—highlights the complexity of trauma and the courage it takes to confront it. His descriptions of therapy sessions, flashbacks, and breakthroughs offer a powerful insight into the process of healing, making this book not just a personal story but also a beacon of hope for others who have faced similar struggles.
While The Room on the Right delves into dark and painful experiences, it is ultimately a story of resilience, strength, and survival. Mieczkowski’s candid reflections remind us that no matter how deep the scars, healing is possible with courage, self-reflection, and the right support.
A must-read for anyone interested in mental health, trauma recovery, or personal transformation, this memoir will stay with you long after you turn the final page.
March 1, 2025
The Room on the Right is a deeply moving and unflinchingly honest memoir by Dr. Lawrence Mieczkowski, known as "Dr. Mitch." In this gut-wrenching account, Dr. Mitch takes readers through his painful upbringing in Steubenville, Ohio, where he endured neglect and abuse at the hands of his family. Despite overwhelming hardships, he found a way to rise above his past and build a successful career as a physician.
A turning point in his journey came when he relocated to Cincinnati and sought the guidance of Dr. Dan, a psychiatrist who helped him confront the lingering trauma of PTSD. With Dr. Dan’s support, Mitch was able to unravel the emotional wounds that had haunted him for years and begin healing his fractured relationships.
This book is a gripping read—I couldn’t put it down. Each page pulled me deeper into Dr. Mitch’s story, making me wonder: Who would let him down next? Who would lift him up? And most of all, how did he, against all odds, keep going and emerge as an accomplished physician instead of succumbing to his painful past? By the end, I wanted to reach through the pages, embrace him, and tell him how proud I was of everything he had overcome.
The Room on the Right is a must-read for anyone grappling with PTSD, as well as for those who appreciate stories of resilience, determination, and the power of the human spirit. Dr. Mitch’s journey is a testament to the strength it takes to break free from the past and build a future worth fighting for.
A turning point in his journey came when he relocated to Cincinnati and sought the guidance of Dr. Dan, a psychiatrist who helped him confront the lingering trauma of PTSD. With Dr. Dan’s support, Mitch was able to unravel the emotional wounds that had haunted him for years and begin healing his fractured relationships.
This book is a gripping read—I couldn’t put it down. Each page pulled me deeper into Dr. Mitch’s story, making me wonder: Who would let him down next? Who would lift him up? And most of all, how did he, against all odds, keep going and emerge as an accomplished physician instead of succumbing to his painful past? By the end, I wanted to reach through the pages, embrace him, and tell him how proud I was of everything he had overcome.
The Room on the Right is a must-read for anyone grappling with PTSD, as well as for those who appreciate stories of resilience, determination, and the power of the human spirit. Dr. Mitch’s journey is a testament to the strength it takes to break free from the past and build a future worth fighting for.
June 9, 2025
Many thanks to NetGalley and Girl Friday Productions for gifting me a digital ARC of this memoir by Dr. Lawrence Mieczkowski. All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 4.5 stars!
While on the surface, Dr. Mieczkowski was a successful physician and speaker, good father and husband, inside he was far from okay. Then the Columbine shootings triggered something deep within, and he knew something needed to be done. He sought out and began treatment for dealing with the abuse, neglect, and trauma he suffered as a young boy.
Such a tough story to read, but one that shows that there is help and hope on the other side of despair. Reading such tales of abuse and neglect, as well as a family history of mental illness, will make you so very angry at his parents, and make you wonder how the doctor managed to get out of bed in the morning. This is a good reminder that everyone has a story and we need to treat people accordingly. Dr. Mieczkowski found the right person to listen to him and get him the help he needed, but he also had a very open heart towards his fellow family member survivors. This story highlights that there is hope to be found in the darkest of places.
While on the surface, Dr. Mieczkowski was a successful physician and speaker, good father and husband, inside he was far from okay. Then the Columbine shootings triggered something deep within, and he knew something needed to be done. He sought out and began treatment for dealing with the abuse, neglect, and trauma he suffered as a young boy.
Such a tough story to read, but one that shows that there is help and hope on the other side of despair. Reading such tales of abuse and neglect, as well as a family history of mental illness, will make you so very angry at his parents, and make you wonder how the doctor managed to get out of bed in the morning. This is a good reminder that everyone has a story and we need to treat people accordingly. Dr. Mieczkowski found the right person to listen to him and get him the help he needed, but he also had a very open heart towards his fellow family member survivors. This story highlights that there is hope to be found in the darkest of places.
May 7, 2025
I received this book as an ARC. I have always been drawn to stories of people who overcome trauma, abuse and go on to live a great life.
Dr Mitch, as he's known, talks about how his childhood shaped him into who he is, who his demons are, and how he deals with life. The book follows the premise of him starting counseling with Dr Dan.
Each session, he will discuss an incident from his childhood and how he was abused, and neglected. It's heartbreaking to read how his parents didn't care for him, or about him.
Dr Mitch goes on to medical school and becomes successful professionally but, his personal life is in shambles. The ghosts of past trauma haunt him constantly. I was inspired by the courage, perseverance and determination Dr Mitch has to become a better functioning person.
He also writes about how the trauma affected his siblings and family as a whole. Overall, it's a great book and really well written.
Dr Mitch, as he's known, talks about how his childhood shaped him into who he is, who his demons are, and how he deals with life. The book follows the premise of him starting counseling with Dr Dan.
Each session, he will discuss an incident from his childhood and how he was abused, and neglected. It's heartbreaking to read how his parents didn't care for him, or about him.
Dr Mitch goes on to medical school and becomes successful professionally but, his personal life is in shambles. The ghosts of past trauma haunt him constantly. I was inspired by the courage, perseverance and determination Dr Mitch has to become a better functioning person.
He also writes about how the trauma affected his siblings and family as a whole. Overall, it's a great book and really well written.
April 30, 2026
I picked this up because a friend recommended it and I almost put it back down after the first chapter not because it was bad, but because it was too familiar. The way he describes walking on eggshells waiting for his father to come home drunk. The way the outside of the house looked perfect while the inside was chaos. I grew up in a house like that. I never had words for it until this book. The section where he finally walks into Dr. Kirkendoll's office and panics because "twenty minutes are already gone" and he hasn't even started yet I laughed out loud because I've sat in that chair. I've felt that exact thing. Highly recommend to anyone who's ever wondered why their childhood still follows them around in middle age.
August 25, 2025
I knew Dr. Mieczkowski professionally years ago. He was always enthusiastic about medicine and his profession. I had no expectations going into reading this book, though the subject matter was upfront from the cover. I could not put the book down, it read like a novel, and was candid about such a difficult life journey. Everyone has a "story" in life, but this one is particularly memorable and poignant. The fact that so much has and continues to be overcome by the author is inspiring and really quite miraculous. The narrative and the way it is conveyed offer hope for all who read this book. Mary B
May 4, 2026
I don't even know how to start this. I read a lot of memoirs and most of them feel like they're performing pain for you. This one doesn't. Dr. Mitch just tells you what happened, the wooden spoon, hiding in the woods, praying to die at seven years old and it hits harder because of how quietly he tells it. The part where he finally walks into Dr. Kirkendoll's office and panics because 20 minutes are already gone and he hasn't even started yet? I've sat in that exact chair emotionally. I knew that feeling. Absolutely worth reading.
February 15, 2026
I put off buying the book because this is a difficult topic for me personally. (I’ve also purchased 4 others because “I knew the author ”and those books were sleepers)
This book is AMAZING!
My compliments to the editor, and readers, and author. The structure of the story and the timeline were outstanding. The writing is superb. While this is still a difficult subject, the story is so well written that I couldn’t put it down.
This book is AMAZING!
My compliments to the editor, and readers, and author. The structure of the story and the timeline were outstanding. The writing is superb. While this is still a difficult subject, the story is so well written that I couldn’t put it down.
May 4, 2026
Really powerful story, just had to pace myself through it. The childhood chapters especially, they're not easy. What I respected is that he doesn't make himself into a perfect victim. He shows the anger, the fantasies about hurting his father, the shame of needing help as a doctor. That honesty is rare. Knocked it down one star only because a few sections in the middle lost me slightly, but the ending pulled everything back together. Glad I read it.
February 9, 2025
A raw and heartbreaking story of the enduring effects of chronic abuse. Compelling and touching in its exploration of the power of hope, love and redemption.
Jennifer Lewis, PhD
Clinical Psychologist
Cognitive Behavioral Treatment Center, LLC
Jennifer Lewis, PhD
Clinical Psychologist
Cognitive Behavioral Treatment Center, LLC
March 17, 2025
4⭐️
[a copy of this book was provided to me by the published from netgalley. thank you!]
a powerful and hopeful memoir about overcoming abuse and trauma
[a copy of this book was provided to me by the published from netgalley. thank you!]
a powerful and hopeful memoir about overcoming abuse and trauma
February 13, 2025
A Powerful and Courageous Memoir of Resilience and Healing
In The Room on the Right, Dr. Lawrence Mieczkowski delivers a raw and deeply moving account of his journey through childhood trauma, PTSD, and the arduous path to healing. With striking honesty, he shares his struggles growing up in an abusive household, the impact of long-buried memories, and the profound transformation that began when he finally sought professional help.
What makes this memoir so compelling is Mieczkowski’s ability to bring readers into his world with vivid storytelling and emotional depth. His journey—from a young boy enduring neglect and abuse to a successful physician grappling with internal turmoil—highlights the complexity of trauma and the courage it takes to confront it. His descriptions of therapy sessions, flashbacks, and breakthroughs offer a powerful insight into the process of healing, making this book not just a personal story but also a beacon of hope for others who have faced similar struggles.
While The Room on the Right delves into dark and painful experiences, it is ultimately a story of resilience, strength, and survival. Mieczkowski’s candid reflections remind us that no matter how deep the scars, healing is possible with courage, self-reflection, and the right support.
A must-read for anyone interested in mental health, trauma recovery, or personal transformation, this memoir will stay with you long after you turn the final page.
In The Room on the Right, Dr. Lawrence Mieczkowski delivers a raw and deeply moving account of his journey through childhood trauma, PTSD, and the arduous path to healing. With striking honesty, he shares his struggles growing up in an abusive household, the impact of long-buried memories, and the profound transformation that began when he finally sought professional help.
What makes this memoir so compelling is Mieczkowski’s ability to bring readers into his world with vivid storytelling and emotional depth. His journey—from a young boy enduring neglect and abuse to a successful physician grappling with internal turmoil—highlights the complexity of trauma and the courage it takes to confront it. His descriptions of therapy sessions, flashbacks, and breakthroughs offer a powerful insight into the process of healing, making this book not just a personal story but also a beacon of hope for others who have faced similar struggles.
While The Room on the Right delves into dark and painful experiences, it is ultimately a story of resilience, strength, and survival. Mieczkowski’s candid reflections remind us that no matter how deep the scars, healing is possible with courage, self-reflection, and the right support.
A must-read for anyone interested in mental health, trauma recovery, or personal transformation, this memoir will stay with you long after you turn the final page.
February 16, 2025
Childhood should be a time of innocence and joy, yet for some, it is marked by pain and hardship. The Room on The Right is a searingly honest and deeply moving memoir that chronicles the author’s harrowing experiences of child abuse and his long journey toward healing. Through raw storytelling and unflinching vulnerability, the book offers a profound exploration of trauma, resilience, and the power of self-reclamation.
From the very first page, the author grips the reader with an unfiltered account of his early years, exposing the cruelty and neglect he endured. The writing is both heartbreaking and poetic, painting vivid images of the emotional and physical scars left behind.
With its powerful storytelling and unwavering authenticity, this memoir truly speaks to both survivors and those who seek to understand them. Readers who have experienced similar trauma may find solace in the author’s words, while others will gain a deeper empathy for the complexities of abuse and its aftermath.
From the very first page, the author grips the reader with an unfiltered account of his early years, exposing the cruelty and neglect he endured. The writing is both heartbreaking and poetic, painting vivid images of the emotional and physical scars left behind.
With its powerful storytelling and unwavering authenticity, this memoir truly speaks to both survivors and those who seek to understand them. Readers who have experienced similar trauma may find solace in the author’s words, while others will gain a deeper empathy for the complexities of abuse and its aftermath.
Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews