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About the Book: The Pulitzer Prize winning book, The Best Minds: A Story of
Friendship, Madness, and the Tragedy of Good Intentions by Jonathan
Rosen is a memoir chronicling the author's childhood friendship with Michael
Laudor, a brilliant young man who tragically succumbed to paranoid
schizophrenia, ultimately leading to the murder of his pregnant girlfriend. The
book delves into their close bond, Michael's rise to academic success, his mental
health struggles, and the devastating consequences of his illness, offering a
poignant reflection on the complexities of friendship, love, and mental illness. 
Main theme:
The devastating impact of untreated schizophrenia and the challenges of
navigating friendship with someone struggling with severe mental illness 
Notable events:
Michael's academic achievements at Yale Law School despite his illness, his
public profile as a success story with schizophrenia, and the tragic crime he
committed 
Perspective:
The book is told from Jonathan's personal perspective, incorporating memories,
reflections, and insights into Michael's life 
 
Date: Sunday, January 12, 2025, from 11 to 2
 
Location:  Carolynn Feldblum’s Home, Merion Station, PA 19066.
Some parking is available in Carolynn’s driveway and on neighboring blocks, but
not on her block safely, so a short walk may be involved. There are several steps
to navigate, for those with mobility challenges.
*Light refreshments will be served, no need to bring anything to share this time.
 
Clinical Objectives: By reading this book and engaging in the discussion,
Participants will earn 3 ETHICS CEU’s and will:
 
1. Explore the course of symptoms and progression of Michael Laudor’s
schizophrenia.
2. Discuss the ethical dilemmas surrounding schizophrenia—client self
determination, informed consent, duty to warn, and the common belief that
superior intellect can lead to success and insure sanity.  How did this belief play
out in the novel?  
 3. Analyze the effects of de-institutionalization, and the failed promise of
community mental health care.  
 
Facilitator: Julie Agresta, MSS, LCSW
 
About the Facilitator:
Julie has been a member of PSCSW since 2009.  During that time she has been
an active member of the organization, holding several leadership roles.  She is
currently serving on PSCSW’s Board in the role of Past President.
Julie’s early professional interest focused on individuals diagnosed with
Schizophrenia Spectrum Disorders where she worked as a clinician and was
involved in developing skills-based treatment strategies to help people with
Schizophrenia with recovery so that they may live a fulfilling life.  Julie also co-
authored the book “Social Skills Training for Schizophrenia: A Step-by-Step
Guide.”   The book is in it’s 3 rd  edition and is used by clinicians worldwide. 
Currently, Julie has a private practice in Blue Bell where she works with children,
teens, young adults and families.  The primary focus of her practice helping
children and adults manage anxiety disorders, depression and ADHD.     Julie is
particularly interested in supporting LGBTQ+ children and teens who are
navigating issues related to their identity.  Julie also provides workshops to
different organizations on Schizophrenia Spectrum Disorders.
Julie graduated from Bryn Mawr College with a Master’s in Social Work and a
Master’s in Law and Social Policy.  She also has a Master’s Degree in School
Psychology from Temple University.
 
FOR PENNSYLVANIA SOCIAL WORKERS, MARRIAGE AND FAMILY THERAPISTS, AND
PROFESSIONAL COUNSELORS: 
This program is approved for 3 ethics credits for professional workshops sponsored by the
Pennsylvania Society for Clinical Social Work, a state affiliate of the Clinical Social Work
Association listed in Section 47.36 of Title 49, Chapter 47 of the PA Code, State Board of
Social Work Examiners.
This program is also approved for 3 ethics credits for professional workshops for marriage & family therapists (Section 48.36) and professional counselors (Section 49.36).
FOR NEW JERSEY SOCIAL WORKERS: This program is approved for 3 clinical or ethics credits.
Attendance at programs or courses given at state and national social work association conferences,
where the criteria for membership is an academic degree in social work, are a valid source
of continuing education credit (N.J.A.C. 13:44G-6.4(c)6)