Editor’s Note: The following was a letter sent to the Ithaca Voice by Gene Ira Katz about the recent death of Cornell professor Don Fredrickson.
To submit a column, contact me at jstein@ithacavoice.com.
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From Gene Ira Katz:
I was saddened to hear about the recent passing of Cornell professor and therapist Don Fredrickson. I initially met Don through my Ithaca social circle, but eventually went to see him as a counselor.
Hard to explain the difficulties I’ve had over the years in finding a therapist who I could respect and trust, as almost every one I ever sought help from left me disappointed — yes, I am very demanding of people who I allow to poke around inside my mind, as we all should be – but Don was a master of insight, tolerance and creativity in this department, employing a mix of Jung, Ettinger and Buddha, and the help he provided to me has positively influenced my path since our sessions over 20 years ago. I understand that most of his students felt the same way.
I always hoped we would one day reconnect as social acquaintances, but sadly that will never be. So, hats off, and a raised glass to one of the most important people I ever met.
R.I.P. Don Fredrickson.