First of all, it's annoying that the only person reviewing this show by episode obviously doesn't like it at all. For some reason they kept Hate-watching just to stretch their vocabulary to find new ways to say they think it sucks for every single episode review. "Not helpful" is an understatement!
On to my thoughts about "Claudia Hoffman":
This particular episode isn't focused on Darby's love life per se, the title is her mother's name. The focus is on the relationship between mother and daughter, and though some might say it doesn't fit into this show- that relationship effects every decision Darby makes in her love life.
I love this episode because I've lived it. My mother is VERY similar to Claudia, and I felt unsettled watching this as the mother's words and actions are so real to me. The deflection, gas lighting, the way she turns every single thing around back to herself- just like my mom does. That kind of mother makes a daughter feel unworthy for the love of a good significant other. That broken relationship (broken underneath, but looks "good" from the outside which is very important to a narcissistic mother) turns a grown woman Into someone who settles for anyone who makes them feel better. Settles for someone who isn't actually a match, and the daughter deserves better but doesn't know it.
This episode was written and acted well (Hope Davis is awesome and it's shocking she is in her mid 50s!!) and had to be penned by someone who lived it too. I will be watching again as I want that acceptance and healing shown at the end for myself. They can't fix a child of a narcissist in 30 minutes, but the discussion was important.
Wonderful episode! I'm looking forward to how it effects Darby in the last few chapters of the story. Recommended!