Netflix therapist reactions: Ratched

*Netflix Ratched spoilers ahead*

Like most Netflix subscribers, I got hooked on Ratched.

You would think that a fantasised visualisation of an obsolete insane asylum is something a counsellor would shy away from. 

As a mental health professional, it is my job to offer the truth about what mental illness is like and how we can manage it. That means looking at what we do, why we do it, and how we can grow from those actions – essentially looking to a more positive future. But the past can be just as useful to you if you use it in the right way.

I went in already a Ryan Murphy Hollywood fan. I was fascinated by the portrayal of an asylum.

Back then, common mental health concerns would be a cause to lock you up. We didn’t have the same basic human rights. The ideal fix for a lot of ‘problems’? a lobotomy.    

This is all difficult to hear and take in. Basic LGBTQ+ rights were non-existent and the thought of a female doctor was laughable. We can only continue to learn from the past, however. Seeing it shown in this no-holds-barred way for you to learn from, means continued growth for our mental health in today’s society. 

Parallels: then and now

When delving into this Netflix show I couldn’t help but see parallels in how we act and react still, even within this outdated society depicted.

With this in mind: I picked out some scenes, reacted to them and gave my thoughts on how mental health is reflected in the hit Netflix show.

Check out more therapist reactions to film and TV here.