English 
正體中文 
In the perception of many, psychological counseling had still seemed like a mysterious service, and its per-session cost of several thousand dollars often caused confusion. In the book, Mr. Toad, who had fallen into depression, went to see a therapist, Heron, upon the encouragement of his close friends.
Through therapy, he gradually became aware of his emotions and behavioral patterns, and he understood how past experiences had shaped his present. His story revealed how counseling could guide self-exploration and growth, showcasing its value and transformative power.
Psychological counseling was not about passively waiting for solutions but required active participation from the client. It had to be built on the voluntary engagement of both sides. At first, Mr. Toad had gone for the sake of his friends and even wished the therapist would directly tell him what to do. However, when the therapist asked, “Who exactly is my client?” Mr. Toad began to realize that he had to undergo counseling for himself, not to please others. This awareness helped him understand that the effectiveness of counseling depended on the client’s active cooperation and investment. The therapist could not guarantee that everything would improve immediately but could promise full attention and guidance. The real change still needed to be initiated by the client. Only when the client truly desired change could transformation occur.
One of the core aspects of counseling was helping the client recognize and understand emotions. Therapist Heron encouraged Mr. Toad to try to feel and describe his emotions, because only by clearly identifying and accepting them could one find appropriate coping strategies and become a more complete person. Long-term denial or repression of emotions was likened to losing a limb, leaving one incomplete. In one session, Mr. Toad mentioned that he had once had suicidal thoughts three months earlier. The therapist did not avoid the subject but asked directly about the details. Such candid questioning instead made Mr. Toad feel relieved, as someone was finally willing to confront his deepest pain. This experience made him realize that only in an atmosphere of safety and acceptance could emotions truly be seen and held. Someone was willing to face the parts of him he had never dared to confide to others. This honest space was where emotions began to be acknowledged and understood.
As they further explored the sources of emotion, the importance of childhood experiences gradually surfaced. The book indicated that early family interactions profoundly influenced personality and emotional patterns. Mr. Toad, as the only child in his family, had grown up under a strict father who lacked affection. This upbringing shaped him into someone with low self-esteem, repressed anger, submissiveness, dependency, and a habit of constant apology. As an adult, when facing pressure or criticism from friends, he instinctively repeated the coping patterns from childhood. The purpose of counseling was to help clients recognize these ingrained patterns, learn new ways of coping, and prevent negative effects from persisting.
The author believed that the process of counseling might come with pain, as it challenged existing beliefs and behaviors. Yet this anxiety-driven momentum also created opportunities for profound transformation, guiding people toward insight and creativity. The book was not only a healing journey but also a valuable lesson in self-awareness, emotional management, and personal growth. It reminded readers to notice their emotions, respond sincerely to their needs, and trust their own ability to change—embracing a better and more authentic life.
