When Dr. Eric Caplan initially approached me, he had a distinct goal: publish a book that delves into the monumental dealings of the Osheroff v. Chestnut Lodge court case. The lawsuit embroiled Dr. Raphael (Ray) Osheroff, a successful nephrologist and manic depressive, and the exclusive private psychiatric hospital Chestnut Lodge. The tumultuous legal dispute between patient and hospital would ultimately shape the course of American psychiatry due to Ray’s allegation of malpractice for their refusal to prescribe him antidepressants.

Credibility and intrigue were two aspects at the forefront of our project. Dr. Caplan enlisted my expertise to advise on what product we could build that would spur prospective publication offers and also inform the public about this pivotal story. But how do you consolidate ample historical resources, including hours of video footage and hundreds of documents, in a way that is both comprehensible and interesting? Outside of the medical community, Ray’s case would be unbeknownst to most people. Our goal was to introduce a wealth of information to a multitude of users – scholars, doctors, literary agents, prospective book consumers – in a reputable format. The result was an interactive website that acts as both an extensive digital resource and promotional website. It engaged, informed, and delighted users. Dr. Caplan received profuse positive feedback from colleagues and peers and, most importantly, multiple offers to purchase the rights to his book, Do No Harm, which is expected to be released later this year.