Today you are meeting Dr. Bennett Redmond.
Dr. Redmond is the Director of the graduate psychology program at the University at Buffalo, where Jo Harkins is working on her degree.
Jo quickly becomes a disciple of Dr. Redmond initially, for the ways he challenges and cajoles her through some of her most difficult courses. Eventually, for his mentorship, which helps shape the focus of her practice into a specialty of trauma and abuse counseling.
When Jo completes her residency, she throws herself into developing her own practice. The work becomes all-consuming, leaving little room for anything or anyone else. Bennett continues in academia. Their paths run parallel but apart—each fulfilled, each moving forward.
Years later, a mutual friend invites them both to a holiday gathering. The reunion feels effortless—an easy return to a rhythm they hadn’t realized they’d missed. What begins as a conversation about research and career paths turns into something warmer, steadier.
Over time, the bond between mentor and student shifts into one of friendship, and then something more---grounding each other in ways that feel natural and necessary.
But balance is a delicate thing. And sometimes, even the most well-intentioned relationship can lead two people places that neither of them expected.
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