The session had gone from strange to inexplicable in about 10 minutes' time. Suddenly I was aware that this woman was drilling into my soul to find the places where my real darkness resided. I felt her lean in and ease more words into my ear.

"Now we're going to move in another direction Scott, and it might become a little more . . . stimulating for you. Just let it happen, it's all part of the process. All you need to do is listen . . .

"Now I want you to actually think about actually returning your mother's gentle caresses for once. Don't worry Scott. It's okay this...