Therapist Zero

Writer-performer Brian Leonard confronts the difficulties of raising a troubled child while exploring the wounds of his own complicated childhood in his one-man show Therapist Zero. Part stand-up, part dramatic monologue, the show draws steady laughter from the audience, but lands most powerfully in its quieter moments of vulnerability, especially when Leonard opens up about his absent parents and the severe neglect he experienced as a child. Unfortunately, those vulnerable moments are few and far between, leaving a longing for more. Director Ken Sonkin keeps the staging sparse, with just a couple of chairs and occasional projections on the back wall. The simplicity of the set places the focus squarely on Leonard, though the piece itself ... full review

Absolutely superbly done! Mr. Leonard is an EXCELLENT story teller. You will leave his show, feeling as if you've seen an actual full length autobiographical on his life, which is very intriguing from beginning to the end. Through his journey, you'll realize we ALL have been born and raised in trauma. When we're granted grace in our lives, we do our best to combat it, and try harder not to damage our nuclear family. He shows us through his story, that life is a sacrifice made from love. I'm grateful he turned his story into this one man show(and tell) . I definitely recommend it! ... full review

Parents often need help when raising their children and unexpected behaviors arise, seeking the help of professionals who seem to make matters worse often leaving them frustrated and alone. To me, it was a story on parenting and how parents aren't taught how to face the unexpectedness of raising a child. I left with empathy and compassion for any parent that has had to endure what Brian describes in his piece. ... full review

Excellent piece showing the complexities of parenting and the vital role therapists have in service (and disservice) to our mental health.... full review