Irvin D. Yalom was born in 1931 to Russian immigrant parents in Washington, D.C. Growing up in an impoverished neighborhood, Yalom sought comfort and entertainment in books from his local library, and he became a voracious reader. Upon graduating from George Washington University with his Bachelor of Arts degree, Yalom chose to pursue medicine. He intended to specialize in psychiatry, which was a field he found fascinating. He attended the Boston University School of Medicine and completed his residency at the Johns Hopkins Hospital. In addition to his private therapy practice, Yalom has taught psychiatry at the Stanford University School of Medicine since 1994.

Yalom is known for his strong opinions about therapeutic practices. One of his main beliefs is that the therapist and patient should be equals, and another is that therapists must customize their techniques to respond to each patient’s unique needs. As an existential psychiatrist, Yalom believes that people are profoundly influenced by existential issues, such as finding meaning in life, isolation, death, and freedom.

Throughout his career, Yalom has shared his insights in interviews, articles, and books, becoming a well-known figure in the world of psychiatry and counseling. In addition to his teaching and therapy practice, Yalom is a prolific author of over 20 books.