Ep 20. Second Choices

Addison Montgomery faces a tough decision in Private Practice season 3 episode 20, "Second Choices." While her relationship with neurosurgeon Dr. Wyatt (Jay Harrington) is heating up, Addison realizes she still has feelings for another man: her longtime friend Pete (Tim Daly). But before she can address her feelings for Pete, Addison must tend to a patient who is struggling with the fallout from her own romantic triangle.

The patient in question is named Katie (Amanda Foreman), a woman who is faced with two very different choices when it comes to her love life. Katie is engaged to her longtime boyfriend Dave (Jon Hamm), but she has also been carrying on a secret affair with his brother, Jeff (Derek Phillips). When Dave discovers the truth about Katie and Jeff's relationship, he is understandably devastated, and he and Jeff become estranged.

In the wake of this revelation, Katie begins to feel unmoored and confused. She still loves both Dave and Jeff, but she doesn't know how to move forward with either of them. Addison is called in to consult on Katie's case, and she quickly realizes that her own romantic struggles are mirroring those of her patient. As she tries to help Katie find a way forward, Addison also grapples with her own feelings for Pete.

Meanwhile, other members of the Oceanside Wellness group are also dealing with their own "second choices." Naomi (Audra McDonald) becomes involved with a patient's husband, despite knowing it's unprofessional and risky. And Cooper (Paul Adelstein) struggles to come to terms with the fact that Charlotte (KaDee Strickland) has moved on with her life and is seeing someone else.

Throughout "Second Choices," the characters must navigate the often-messy terrain of modern love. Some will find happiness with their second choices, while others will be forced to confront painful realities about themselves and their relationships. Addison's journey, in particular, is a poignant one, as she realizes that sometimes the heart wants what it wants, even if it goes against reason and practicality.

As always, Private Practice combines powerful storytelling with skilled acting to create an emotional and engrossing episode. Fans of the show will be moved by the characters' struggles and inspired by their perseverance in the face of difficult choices. "Second Choices" is a standout episode, reminding viewers why Private Practice remains one of the most beloved and acclaimed medical dramas on television.