BREAKTHROUGH is a groundbreaking, 6-part documentary series for television, which focuses on the controversial “psycho-drama” therapy spearheaded by renowned psychologist Ann W. Smith. Never before seen on TV, the series grants unparalleled access to viewers as they witness nine participants undergo this heart-wrenching process at a weeklong retreat in Maryland. These nine brave individuals are victims of childhood trauma who have tried more conventional forms of therapy. Still feeling stuck in their lives, they are now willing to go one step further in their attempt to heal.

BREAKTHROUGH is reality TV at its most raw, dramatic and life-affirming.

In each episode, two participants reveal their deepest and most troubling secrets and participate in a series of emotionally challenging exercises in order to “slay the demons” that have haunted them for years, sometimes decades. The week culminates with what is called “Family Sculpting,” an intense dramatization of their traumas, using the other participants as a supporting cast. Incredibly, the group all agreed to allow cameras to be rolling 18-hours a day.

Beautifully filmed at Harmony Farms (where the retreat is held), dynamically edited, and with no producer interference, BREAKTHROUGH is divided into six, one-hour episodes, each featuring two participants. Every episode shows different elements of the week-long process as seen through the eyes of each of the participants, all of whom have wildly distinct experiences and outcomes. By watching all 6 episodes, viewers will have the rare opportunity to experience, “Rashomon”-like, the complete process from every possible vantage point.

In the end, BREAKTHROUGH is not only non-fiction television at its best, it’s also a vivid testament to people’s willingness to “break through” their past and embrace their greater selves.