Ep 5. Stage Struck

In this episode of Web Therapy, titled "Stage Struck," Fiona Wallace, the unconventional therapist portrayed by Lisa Kudrow, continues her web-based therapy sessions with a wide array of clients. As always, Fiona's unorthodox methods and her tendency to prioritize her own interests over her clients' well-being blend together to create a hilarious and unpredictable episode.

The episode opens with Fiona's client, Richard (played by Tim Bagley), seeking therapy for his recurring nightmares. Richard, an aspiring actor, is convinced that he is being haunted by the ghost of a renowned thespian. Fiona, who sees an opportunity to help Richard while also satisfying her personal ambitions, proposes that they collaborate on a one-man show about the ghostly encounters. Despite Richard's initial skepticism, he finds himself convinced by Fiona's persuasive arguments, ultimately agreeing to embark on this unusual theatrical endeavor.

Meanwhile, Fiona's former lover, Austen Clarke (Alan Cumming), pays her a surprise visit during one of her therapy sessions. Their complicated history and undeniable chemistry resurface, leading to a moment of vulnerability for Fiona. However, as the interaction reaches its peak, tension arises when Austen's wife, Monica (Meryl Hathaway), abruptly enters the scene. Unwilling to let his indiscretion be discovered, Austen scrambles to cover up the true nature of his visit, resulting in a comical turn of events.

In another session, Fiona assists her recurring client, Jerome (Dan Bucatinsky), a neurotic, germaphobic individual who shares his concerns about the recent epidemic of bedbugs. Fiona suggests that Jerome take a proactive approach and turn his fears into a lucrative business venture. Inspired by Fiona's words, Jerome decides to open a bedbug hotel, offering patrons an immersive experience designed to alleviate their anxieties about these persistent pests.

As the episode progresses, Gina Spinks (Jennifer Elise Cox), Fiona's loyal and efficient assistant, introduces a new client named Amanda (Julie Claire). Amanda, an aspiring actress, seeks Fiona's guidance to prepare for an upcoming audition that could potentially change her career. Driven by her own ambition, Fiona spots an opportunity to alleviate her financial struggles by becoming Amanda's acting coach. Fiona concocts a plan that will allow her to receive a portion of Amanda's earnings if she secures the role, leading to a series of amusing coaching sessions filled with Fiona's unconventional acting advice.

Additionally, Fiona finds herself entangled in a charity case involving Dione (Natasha Lyonne), an eccentric woman insisting on starting a non-profit organization centered around snail rehabilitation. Though Fiona initially dismisses Dione's idea, she soon realizes the potential for public recognition and agrees to become the sponsor of this peculiar initiative.

As the episode nears its conclusion, Fiona's close friend and marketing consultant, Kip (Victor Garber), pays her a visit. Sensing Fiona's desperation, Kip proposes a career-changing opportunity that involves writing a self-help book. Intrigued, Fiona envisions the possibilities this venture may bring, but her priorities quickly shift when she realizes she may have inadvertently sabotaged Jerome's bedbug hotel business.

"Stage Struck" is a captivating episode of Web Therapy that exhibits Fiona's unorthodox therapeutic practices while interweaving her personal aspirations with the lives of her clients. With her witty charm and audacious approach to therapy, Fiona always manages to navigate her way through the web of chaos that ensues, providing viewers with non-stop laughter and surprises throughout the entire episode.