Ep 2. Alex - Week One

Alex (Blair Underwood) is a Navy fighter pilot who has been grounded due to anxiety attacks. He's been referred to therapist Paul Weston (Gabriel Byrne) by a military psychiatrist. In their first session together, Alex is initially hesitant to open up, but Paul quickly gets him to talk. Alex describes his anxiety attacks, which cause him to feel like he's drowning or choking. He also talks about his relationship with his father, who was abusive and controlling when Alex was younger.

As the session progresses, Alex reveals that he's been having an affair with a woman named Kate, who is also married. He admits that he's deeply unhappy in his marriage to his wife, who he says is controlling and critical. The affair has only added to his guilt and anxiety. Paul listens without judgment, but challenges Alex on some of his beliefs about himself and the world.

Later in the episode, Paul meets with Laura (Melissa George), a patient he's been treating for several years. Laura is a young, successful doctor who is struggling with a recent breakup. She is consumed by thoughts of her ex and has been unable to move on. Paul tries to get her to focus on herself and her own needs, but Laura is resistant. She insists that she needs to fix things with her ex before she can move on.

Throughout the episode, we see glimpses of Paul's personal life. He is dealing with his own marriage problems and is struggling to connect with his teenage children. His wife Kate (Michelle Forbes) is distant and unhappy, and he seems unsure of how to fix things between them.

As the session with Alex comes to a close, he thanks Paul for his help and says he's already feeling better. Paul reminds him that therapy takes time and that there will likely be ups and downs along the way. Alex seems encouraged and optimistic about the process.

Overall, this episode introduces several complex characters and sets the stage for deeper exploration of their personal lives and struggles. The focus on Alex's anxiety and Laura's relationship problems creates a sense of empathy and relatability for viewers. Meanwhile, Paul's own struggles add a layer of complexity and depth to the show.