Ep 1. Pilot

In the first episode of Mental, titled "Pilot," we are introduced to Dr. Jack Gallagher, a new teacher in residence at a psychiatric hospital in Los Angeles. Right off the bat, it's clear that Jack is not your average therapist - he's unconventional, witty, and not afraid to speak his mind.

The episode begins with Jack arriving at the hospital and being introduced to his new team of therapists. He quickly establishes himself as a leader, taking charge of a group therapy session for patients suffering from OCD. Jack's approach is unique and effective, utilizing humor and sarcasm to make his patients feel more relaxed and comfortable.

As we get to know Jack, we learn that he has a personal stake in the work he's doing at the hospital. His sister, who suffered from mental illness, committed suicide several years ago. This tragedy has driven Jack to become a psychiatrist himself, determined to help others who are struggling with similar issues.

We also meet Jack's boss, Dr. Carl Belle, who is initially skeptical of Jack's unorthodox methods. However, as the episode progresses, we see the two doctors develop a mutual respect for each other. Belle recognizes that Jack's approach is working and that his patients are making progress, despite their challenging conditions.

Alongside Jack and Belle, we meet several patients who will become recurring characters throughout the series. There's Veronica, a teenage girl who suffers from schizophrenia and has been in and out of psychiatric facilities for most of her life. Then there's Arturo, a man who struggles with severe anxiety and refuses to leave his home. And finally, there's Eddie, a former soldier who suffers from PTSD and has a difficult time adjusting to civilian life.

Throughout the episode, we see Jack working with these patients individually, using his unique approach to get them to open up and confront their issues. He challenges Veronica's belief that she's being followed by a demon, helps Arturo confront his fear of leaving his house, and encourages Eddie to reconnect with his wife.

As the episode comes to a close, we see that Jack's methods are beginning to have a positive impact on his patients. Veronica begins to come to terms with her diagnosis, Arturo steps outside his apartment for the first time in years, and Eddie makes progress in his relationship with his wife.

Overall, the first episode of Mental sets the stage for the rest of the series. We're introduced to a talented and unconventional therapist who is determined to help his patients overcome their mental health challenges. We see his unorthodox methods in action and witness the positive impact they have on his patients. And we meet a cast of characters who we'll come to know and love as the series progresses.