Gideon and Robbie

Robbie helps Gideon build a language for anxiety and depression, then prepares him to continue without treating therapy as a cure or a permanent guarantee.

increasingBearing stren­gth in each eventdecreasing

A Therapist Who Does Not Assume

Trust Through Respect A different first session Robbie asks about Gideon’s interests and does not presume his sexuality or reduce him to depression and self-harm. An alliance begins A can of Coke, humor, and ordinary conversation make the therapeutic relationship feel less patronizing than Gideon’s earlier experiences.

Poetry Enters the Room

A Creative Route Finding a practice Robbie helps Gideon encounter poetry as a form of expression rather than an academic exercise. A durable tool Writing gives Gideon a way to shape difficult thoughts and eventually share them with an audience.

Safe Risks

Expanding the Possible Small experiments Robbie suggests manageable risks, including seeking work, entering competitions, and talking to people. Action before confidence Gideon’s job at Magic Kebab becomes a practical test of whether small choices can create movement.

The News of Departure

Preparing to Say Goodbye A major transition Robbie tells Gideon he has won a fellowship and will move away. Support beyond the room He offers Skype, referrals, and time to process the change, reinforcing that their work need not collapse when their routine ends.

A Final Plan

Carrying Strategies Forward A setback discussed Gideon speaks with Robbie about depression, vulnerability, and his wish to help Ava without fixing her. Continued care They discuss strategies and medication rather than assuming the relationship has cured Gideon’s difficulties.

When Gideon is thirteen

During Gideon’s early work with Robbie

After Gideon admits he is bored with life

Several months before Gideon’s graduation

After Gideon’s breakup, before graduation