Review by golfsurfin -- Barbra Streisand: On the Couch

[golfsurfin]

[Following is a volunteer review of "Barbra Streisand: On the Couch" by Alma H. Bond, Ph.D..]

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3 out of 4 stars

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Barbra Streisand On the Couch is a first-person, candid account of one of the biggest entertainers of all time, Barbra Streisand, participating in a psychoanalysis with Dr. Darcy Dale. The book is written by Alma H. Bond.

The therapy starts with Barbra talking about her childhood, mainly the emotional abuse from her mother and the loss of her idolized father. Barbra was unpopular in school and was consistently abused for her nose, skinny body, and defiant personality. The latter trait would follow her throughout her life. Barbra is very candid and honest about her career, love life, sex (lots of it), and upbringing. It’s a prime example of how we’re all affected by our childhood experiences and Barbra Streisand is no exception.

Dr. Dale is the perfect “Yin” to Barbra’s “Yang”, acting as the voice of reason throughout the book and often putting Barbra in her place (when needed). Dr. Dale shows her human side and describes her own personal feelings as the sessions evolve. I found it very interesting how a patient can deeply affect the feelings and personal life of a therapist.

On the Couch brings a surprisingly revealing look to the likes and dislikes of an iconic entertainer including her eating habits, views on activism, former lovers, and the sexism in Hollywood (made relevant with today's “me too” movement). Barbra’s childhood abuse shows up in her unkind treatment of fans, co-workers, and even Dr. Dale.

I enjoyed the book’s open and honest perspective from both the patient (that patient being one of the biggest stars on earth) and the therapist. The parties are both shown in a very vulnerable light. The insecurities that bother everyday people (like the readers) affect them too.

I did not like the format of the book. The therapy sessions are bunched together and are only separated by date. There are lots of “shticky” Yiddish words thrown in, whose meanings are vaguely highlighted, making the passages somewhat difficult to navigate. The book contained many typos and spelling errors.

I thought the book was an easy read. I particularly liked the first-person format. The book did not include “run-on” sentences or any boring paragraphs. Overall, On the Couch is an entertaining book that addresses common issues including parent idolization, childhood trauma, career risk-taking, homosexuality, and physical/mental insecurities.

I loved this book and give it a 3 out of 4 stars. I recommend this book to anyone going through struggles, major life changes, or for readers who didn’t have the greatest upbringing. For those who question therapy, this book is an example of how therapy can enhance one’s life by being honest and open with a mental health professional.

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Barbra Streisand: On the Couch
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