Ep 18. The Jobless Corps

Dr. Bob Hartley, a psychologist, finds himself in a new dilemma in season 2 episode 18 of The Bob Newhart Show. The episode, titled The Jobless Corps, follows Dr. Hartley as he tries to help his patients deal with their unemployment while struggling with his own uncertainty about his future as a psychologist.

The episode starts with Bob's wife, Emily, getting a job offer that would require them to move to Portland, Oregon. Bob is hesitant about the move because it would mean leaving his private practice and finding a new job. He confides in his colleague, Dr. Jerry Robinson, who advises him to take the leap and move.

Meanwhile, Bob's patients are dealing with their own unemployment struggles. Mr. Carlin, a weatherman, has been fired due to budget cuts at the station. He's having a hard time coming to terms with his job loss and is struggling to find a new job. Howard Borden, Bob's eccentric neighbor, has also lost his job as a flight attendant and is looking for a new career path.

To help his patients cope with their unemployment, Bob decides to create a support group called "The Jobless Corps". The group includes Mr. Carlin, Howard, and another patient named Mrs. Baker, who was let go from her job as a secretary. During their first meeting, the group discusses their experiences with unemployment and offers each other support and encouragement.

As the group continues to meet, Bob starts to see the value in running the support group and even considers making it a permanent part of his practice. However, he's still unsure about his own future and is hesitant to commit to anything long-term.

Things come to a head when Emily gets another job offer, this time in Chicago. Bob is conflicted about leaving his practice once again, but ultimately decides to take the risk and move to Chicago with his wife.

In the end, Bob's patients find new jobs and the support group disbands. Bob and Emily start their new life in Chicago, with Bob unsure of what the future holds for his career.

Overall, The Jobless Corps is a relatable episode that deals with the struggles of unemployment and the uncertainty of the future. It's a reminder that even those who are trained to help others can still have their own doubts and fears.