This article describes Roger, a 60-year-old married male, in outpatient psychotherapy. Diagnoses: dysthymic disorder (Axis I) & obsessive-compulsive personality disorder (Axis II). Present problems: relationship to parents & an euthanasia plan for his father. Comment “A” by Roger’s therapist focus on the Tarasoff precedent & the need to warn the father & police. Comment “B” recommends schema-focused cognitive therapy using emotive & interpersonal techniques prior to cognitive & behavioural ones.