Laughing Through Therapy: 10 Comedies About Psychologists

Description: Four mental patients escape from their hospital with their psychiatrist, Dr. Weitzman, leading to a series of comedic adventures in New York City. The film humorously portrays the dynamics between the patients and their therapist.

Fact: The film features Michael Keaton, Christopher Lloyd, Peter Boyle, and Stephen Furst, all known for their comedic roles. It was one of the first films to explore the comedic potential of mental health issues.

Description: Bob Wiley, a neurotic patient, follows his psychiatrist, Dr. Leo Marvin, on vacation, turning the doctor's family holiday into a comedic nightmare. This film explores the boundaries of patient-therapist relationships in a humorous way.

Fact: The film's title was inspired by a line from the movie "The Odd Couple." Bill Murray's performance as Bob was so convincing that many viewers believed he was genuinely neurotic.

Description: A mob boss, Paul Vitti, seeks help from psychiatrist Dr. Ben Sobel to deal with his anxiety attacks, leading to hilarious and chaotic therapy sessions. This film is a perfect blend of crime and comedy, showcasing the clash between the criminal underworld and the world of therapy.

Fact: Robert De Niro improvised much of his dialogue, adding to the film's authenticity and humor. The film was so successful that it spawned a sequel, "Analyze That."

Description: While not strictly a comedy, this film includes humorous elements as a psychiatrist, Dr. Mark Powell, tries to understand if his patient, who claims to be from the planet K-PAX, is delusional or telling the truth. The film's light-hearted moments come from the patient's unique perspective on Earth.

Fact: The film is based on a novel by Gene Brewer. Kevin Spacey's performance was critically acclaimed, earning him a Golden Globe nomination.

Description: Dave Buznik is court-ordered to attend anger management sessions with Dr. Buddy Rydell, whose unconventional methods lead to comedic chaos. This film showcases the absurdity of extreme therapy techniques.

Fact: Jack Nicholson improvised many of his scenes, adding to the film's spontaneity. Adam Sandler and Jack Nicholson's chemistry was a highlight of the movie.

Description: While primarily an adventure film, it includes comedic elements as Walter Mitty, a daydreamer, embarks on a real-life adventure, with his therapist's advice playing a humorous role in his journey.

Fact: The film is a remake of the 1947 film of the same name, based on James Thurber's short story. Ben Stiller, who stars as Walter, also directed the film.

Description: A cobbler discovers a magical sewing machine that allows him to step into the lives of his customers, including a therapist, leading to humorous and unexpected situations.

Fact: Adam Sandler plays a more subdued role, showcasing his range as an actor. The film was directed by Tom McCarthy, who later won an Oscar for "Spotlight."

Description: A con man, John Burns, impersonates a famous psychiatrist on a radio show, leading to a series of comedic mishaps as he tries to keep up the charade. This film satirizes the self-help industry and the gullibility of the public.

Fact: The film was directed by Michael Ritchie, known for his work on political satires. Dan Aykroyd and Walter Matthau star in this comedy, making it a must-watch for fans of their work.

Description: Wallace Ritchie, thinking he's participating in an interactive theater experience, gets entangled in real espionage, with his therapist's advice becoming hilariously irrelevant.

Fact: The film was based on a novel by Robert Farrar Capon. Bill Murray's performance adds a layer of humor to the spy thriller elements.

Description: Although a miniseries, it's included for its comedic take on the relationship between a psychiatrist and his patient, exploring themes of manipulation and control in a darkly funny way.

Fact: The series is based on a true story and features Will Ferrell and Paul Rudd, known for their comedic roles.