Angie of the Garden

Chapter One-5

"I find that hard to believe. I think the food is the only thing on your mind at the moment."
"I cannot tell a lie. You're right. But I was thinking about you earlier this evening. I have a new patient with an irrational fear of bald people. Her phobia is a hindrance to her career, and social life as well. The patient doesn't feel she can wait for long-term treatment to find a solution to her problem. I'm going to use behavior modification."
John Block had always believed in the traditional approach to psychotherapy. This method required many sessions over a very long period of time. As a result the patient incurs a very high cost, both in the analyst's fees and the time required to achieve peace of mind. Hollis often followed Block's teachings and prescribed long-term treatment. Yet he was not hesitant to use behavioral therapy as well. This technique spends less time investigating the history of a patient, focusing instead on changing his or her behavior. Many of his patients found this approach preferable to the traditional method. They had experienced positive results in a relatively short time.
"So she isn't interested in finding out what caused the phobia?" John asked him.
"It's a question of time and money. My patient doesn't feel she has enough of either for prolonged treatment. I'm having her sit on the subway next to a bald person at every opportunity. She is to increase the length of each successive encounter incrementally."
"I'm sure you'll be successful. Though there will probably be some people who will receive the wrong impression. They'll think your patient has a thing for bald men. You know I've always believed in your ability, Hollis. I felt that way even after you started using a more expedient approach. So you're 46 now. You'll catch up with me one of these days."
"Excuse me, but I couldn't help overhearing." A third person joined their conversation. "He should just prescribe medication. It's all about chemicals, gentlemen."
Alec Collins had arrived. While John Block would best be described as a mentor and friend, Alec most closely fit the one word description of colleague. Olivia had invited him because they often saw Doctor Collins at work-related social functions.
Alec Collins believed in the pharmacological approach. He prescribed drugs to ease the suffering of his patients. Block claimed that this practice only covered up the symptoms of much deeper problems. Hollis agreed with him in many instances, though in some he recognized the urgency of bringing severe symptoms under control. The three of them had spent many hours debating the merit of each approach.
"I hate to talk shop at these things," Alec said. "But since the two of you have already started I feel obligated to join you."
"You might at least wish me a happy birthday before you do," Hollis pointed out.
"That's right! That's why we came here today. I even remembered to bring a present, which I've placed on the table with your other gifts. Now that I've dealt with the amenities, what do you think about the San Diego conference?"
"I take it you mean what do I think about the fact that we're both speaking on the same day?" Hollis responded.
"Exactly," Alec said with a grin.
"It should be interesting," Hollis replied in kind.

Both men hoped to be the second one to speak, as that would mean having the last word.
"I just hope you don't carry on about how human emotions are more than just a series of chemical reactions in the brain. Because that's all they are," Alec said confidently.
Hollis's reply consisted only of a confident expression on his face implying that he would prove his rival's statement incorrect. This gave Alec something to consider for the rest of that evening, and during the weeks remaining before the conference would be held. He could not imagine what Hollis had in mind.
"I'd like to speak with you alone, gentlemen," John said as stood up. "Someplace private, if you don't mind."
Hollis led the two men into his study. He closed the door behind them.
"The first order of business is to give you your present, Hollis. Happy Birthday." John Block handed Hollis a wooden walking stick. The hand carved present featured a fearsome wolf's head on the handle.
"That will come in handy if you're ever attacked by a wild animal while strolling around the grounds," Block pointed out. "You can use it to beat the beast into submission."
"Why thank you, Doctor Block. It's beautiful."
"You can defend yourself against the squirrels now, Hollis," Alec said with a laugh.
"I have an announcement to make," John told them. "I've decided to retire."

John Block was the head of the psychiatric department at Mullins University Hospital. He had also been a teacher, and had two former students on his staff there. Block now looked at both of his one-time pupils carefully. Hollis and Alec had been taken aback by his announcement. Simms was the first to speak.
"Why, Doctor Block, you never gave any indication that you were thinking of leaving. I can't imagine working at the hospital without you."
"The world's moving too fast for me," John replied with a grin. "No one has the time to do things the way they ought to be done. That's just my opinion, of course. I'd like to do some traveling. I'll still see patients as a private physician. But it's time for me to slow down and enjoy myself."
"Congratulations, Doctor Block," Alec said as he shook his hand. "You've had a very long and distinguished tenure."
"The staff will vote on a replacement. As the two senior psychiatrists I'm sure it will come down to a choice between the two of you. It's no secret that I think quite highly of you Doctor Simms, and you, Doctor Collins. I just hope no one asks me for advice as to who they should vote for. I don't think I'll be able to oblige them."
"I guess we should start brown nosing immediately, Hollis," Alec suggested with a grin.
They were interrupted by Olivia's entrance.
"I invite all these interesting people, but you come in here and talk about your work all night." Olivia feigned annoyance as she spoke.
"You know I prefer boring people," Hollis told her. "That's why you invited Alec, too. I do appreciate it."