Web Therapy Season 2 Episode 2 Jerome Sokoloff
- TV-14
- June 17, 2009
- 27 min
-
9.3 (89)
In Web Therapy season 2 episode 2, titled "Jerome Sokoloff," we are introduced to Jerome, a middle-aged man seeking therapy from Dr. Fiona Wallice, a therapist who exclusively conducts her sessions over the internet. Jerome initially appears to be a quiet and reserved individual, but it doesn't take long for Wallice to uncover some of the underlying issues he's been grappling with.
Throughout the episode, Wallice attempts to help Jerome work through his struggles with his wife, his job, and his lack of a sense of purpose. Though he seems to be resistant to her advice at first, she persists, determined to help him make some real progress.
One of the standout moments of the episode occurs when Wallice decides to try a new technique with Jerome – she has him play out a hypothetical scenario in which he insults her. When Jerome initially refuses to participate, Wallice insists, explaining that it could help him to better confront conflict and assert himself in difficult situations. Though it's a somewhat unconventional tactic, it seems to have some positive effect on Jerome in terms of his confidence and ability to stand up for himself.
As the session continues, more and more revelations arise about Jerome's past and current situations. He reveals that he's been harboring feelings of jealousy and resentment toward his wife, whom he perceives as more successful and accomplished than himself. He also expresses concerns about being overlooked and underappreciated at work, and often feels that he has little control over his own life.
Through her usual blend of tough questioning and occasional humor, Wallice offers Jerome a few key insights and suggestions to work on. She encourages him to engage in more activities that truly make him happy, and to be more honest with himself and his wife about his feelings. As the episode draws to a close, there's a sense that Jerome is beginning to take some steps forward – perhaps not in huge strides, but in small and meaningful ones.
Overall, "Jerome Sokoloff" is a solid episode that showcases both the strengths and limitations of the show's format. While some might find the idea of a therapy session that consists entirely of a video chat to be a bit gimmicky, Web Therapy manages to make it work, thanks in large part to Lisa Kudrow's charming and dynamic performance as Dr. Wallice. Though the episode is mostly confined to one location and two characters, it never feels dull or stagnant – instead, it's a fascinating look into the complexities of one man's psyche, and a demonstration of how even the smallest bit of empathy and support can make a world of difference.