Ep 3. Therapy

In season 5's third episode of Mad About You, titled "Therapy," we see Paul and Jamie Buchman (played by Paul Reiser and Helen Hunt, respectively) in their weekly couples therapy session with their therapist, Sheila (Mo Gaffney). The session immediately begins with Sheila announcing that she is leaving her practice to move to California. This news sparks panic in the Buchmans, as they desperately try to convince Sheila to stay, despite her clear plans to leave.

As the session progresses, it becomes clear that Paul and Jamie have differing opinions on the effectiveness of therapy. Paul, who is an avid believer in therapy, feels that it serves as a way to help couples work through their issues and come out stronger on the other side. Jamie, on the other hand, is skeptical of therapy and feels that they should be able to work through their issues on their own.

The conversation then turns to the topic of sex, and the Buchmans begin to reveal their deepest doubts and insecurities about their sex life. This honest and vulnerable conversation leads to a breakthrough in their relationship, as they both come to realize that they need to be more open and communicative with each other in order to achieve a more fulfilling sex life.

Throughout the episode, we see several flashbacks to previous therapy sessions that the Buchmans have had with Sheila. These flashbacks serve to illustrate the progression of their relationship, as well as the ups and downs that they have experienced over the years.

As the session comes to a close, both Paul and Jamie express their gratitude to Sheila for her help and guidance over the years. Despite their initial reluctance to continue seeing a new therapist, they ultimately agree that their work is not yet complete and that they need to continue seeking counseling in order to maintain a healthy and fulfilling relationship.

Overall, "Therapy" is a powerful episode of Mad About You that explores the complexities of marriage and therapy. It is a reminder that relationships take work, and that even the strongest couples need help and support in order to thrive.