ABOUT THE BOOK

America in Therapy presents an unprecedented perspective, envisioning the entire nation as a patient in dire need of therapy. 

In the first book of its kind, Leavitt highlights a crucial missing piece from national political discourse – the declining state of America’s mental health – and emphasizes that addressing our nation’s ills from a psychological perspective takes us beyond partisanship altogether.

Through a blend of personal anecdotes, client case studies, and historical insights, she correlates the destructive dynamics in families with the harmful behaviors of influential institutions and leaders. Using principles like Family Systems Theory and her own innovative concepts, Leavitt paints a vivid picture of the consequences of untreated societal trauma.

America in Therapy not only informs but also inspires actions towards reconciliation, unity, and healing. Aimed at a diverse audience, from social reformers to young adults navigating an uncertain future, Leavitt’s work underscores the urgency of waging peace for the survival of our nation and humanity. It is a clarion call to collectively embark on the challenging journey of national healing before it’s too late.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Phyllis E. Leavitt, MA, is a psychotherapist based in Taos, NM, with over 30 years of experience. She holds a Master’s Degree in Psychology and Counseling from Antioch University. Before transitioning to full-time private practice, where she treated children, families, individuals, and couples, she co-directed The Parents United Program, a family sexual abuse treatment program in Santa Fe, NM. She is now retired from private practice and is focused on writing and speaking. 

Leavitt is an expert in dysfunctional and abusive family dynamics. She has written two books chronicling her personal healing journey: A Light in the Darkness and Into the Fire. Now, with her third book, America in Therapy, she delves into what perpetuates abuse at every level, the probable outcomes for individuals and the nation if cycles of violence and abuse continue unchecked, and, crucially, how to elevate the principles of individual and family healing to national awareness and implement them for the greater American family.

TALKING POINTS

• Why the declining state of America’s mental health is a crucial missing piece from national political discourse and why deteriorating mental health poses the greatest threat to our continued survival
• Why the only revolution we should be funding is a psychological re-evolution and why our most urgent investment should be in how to get along with each other
• The signs of mass mental illness that have infused politics and ideology and what to do about them
• Why America may destroy itself from within if cycles of violence and abuse continue unchecked
• How to elevate the principles of individual and family healing to national awareness and implement them for the greater American family
• How we can balance being proud of our country with the reality that many of us and many of our systems are desperately in need of help
• Why families can be healed through therapy, even when they don’t agree