Dr. Stern, a clinical psychologist, leads a well ordered life, self-contained, neat, precise, and scheduled. We watch his appointments with eight patients, as he asks questions, listens, and advises them that all will improve in due time. Then, he gets a call from an oncologist who gives him very bad news. Suddenly, 'in due time' becomes 'right now': Stern's therapy methods change, and so do the fortunes of his patients.