The Therapist's Tale: Navigating Characters and Clients with Susan Beth Miller

In this episode of the Wisconsin Wellness Podcast, host Lori Groh speaks with clinical psychologist and author Susan Beth Miller about her journey from psychology to writing fiction. They explore the connections between therapy and storytelling, the development of characters, and the transformation that occurs both in therapy and in writing. Susan shares insights on creating unlikable characters and the importance of understanding the humanity behind their actions. The conversation highlights the parallels between being a therapist and a writer, emphasizing the need for receptivity and curiosity in both fields. In this conversation, Susan Beth Miller and Laurie Groh explore the intricate relationship between empathy and writing, discussing how writers often need to empathize with their characters to create relatable narratives. They delve into the therapeutic aspects of writing, particularly journal writing, and how it can help individuals process emotions. The discussion also touches on the challenges of creative expression, especially when individuals feel blocked or discouraged. Susan shares insights about her new book, 'By the Way, I Love You,' which addresses themes of mother-daughter relationships and personal growth during the transition to college. The conversation concludes with a reading from the book, highlighting the emotional depth of the characters and their experiences.

Takeaways

• Susan transitioned from writing fiction to psychology and back.
• The link between therapy and writing lies in character development.
• Therapists have the privilege of hearing people's stories.
• Writing can be a way to process and understand complex emotions.
• Character development can be both active and passive.
• Writers often collect ideas like foragers in nature.
• Creating unlikable characters can be a significant challenge.
• Understanding the humanity behind dark actions is crucial.
• The process of writing can lead to unexpected character evolution.
• Both therapy and writing require patience and receptivity. Empathy is crucial for writers to create relatable characters.
• Journal writing can be a valuable therapeutic tool.
• Creative expression can be hindered by past experiences.
• Seeing potential in others can be bittersweet when they don't pursue it.
• Transitions in life, like going to college, can be challenging.
• Mother-daughter relationships are complex and impactful.
• Environmental themes can parallel personal narratives in literature.
• Writing can help individuals process overwhelming emotions.
• Characters often reflect the struggles of their authors.
• Literature can serve as a mirror for personal growth and understanding.

Susan Beth Miller's Links:

susanbethmiller.com 

@booksbarksandbeauty (Instagram)

https://www.facebook.com/millerwriter/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/susan-miller-56a78424/

https://www.goodreads.com/author/dashboard?ref=nav_profile_authordash

https://www.amazon.com/stores/Susan-B.-Miller/author/B001IXU0Z8?ref=ap_rdr&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true