Lessons from the Past: Valerie Bertinelli Opens Up About Bonnie Franklin's Uninvited Advice

In a recent interview, actress Valerie Bertinelli revealed that her former TV mom, Bonnie Franklin, sent her to therapy at just 20 years old. While it may seem surprising to some, Bertinelli has come to realize the value in Franklin's unconventional approach.

A Motherly Figure

Bertinelli got her start in show business playing Barbara Cooper on the hit sitcom "One Day at a Time," alongside Franklin, who played Ann Romano. The two actresses developed a close bond during their time working together, with Franklin serving as a mentor and mother figure to Bertinelli.

A Lesson in Self-Reflection

It was during this period that Franklin recognized Bertinelli's struggles with her own mental health and sent her to therapy. At just 20 years old, Bertinelli was still finding her footing in the industry and grappling with the pressures of fame.

"Bonnie saw something in me that I didn't see in myself at the time," Bertinelli reflected. "She knew that I needed help, and she sent me to therapy. It was a gift, really."

A Lasting Impact

The decision to send Bertinelli to therapy had a profound impact on her life. Not only did it help her work through personal struggles but also instilled in her the importance of prioritizing mental health.

"It's something that I'm grateful for, even though at the time I didn't appreciate it," Bertinelli said. "But looking back, it was a huge gift. It allowed me to get ahead of things and deal with my emotions in a healthy way."

A Legacy of Empowerment

Bertinelli's story serves as a powerful reminder that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. By opening up about her experiences, she hopes to empower others who may be struggling with their own mental health issues.

"I hope that my story can inspire people to seek help when they need it," Bertinelli said. "It's okay to ask for help. It's okay to say, 'Hey, I'm not doing well.' And it's okay to take care of yourself."

A Final Thought

In conclusion, Valerie Bertinelli's story serves as a testament to the importance of prioritizing mental health and seeking help when needed. By sharing her experiences with Bonnie Franklin's uninvited advice, she hopes to inspire others to do the same.

"Bonnie was always looking out for me," Bertinelli said. "And I'm grateful for that. She may have sent me to therapy at 20, but it was a gift that kept on giving."