I first heard of Rose VanSickle’s work at Recovery International meetings.  A few members carried copies of Peace of Body, Peace of Mind with them every week.  When I asked about it, one woman told me, “This book clears up all the confusing stuff.”  I ordered my own copy, read it straight through over the course of a few days, and found out how right she was.   The book is written in a clear, concise, and heartfelt style that pulls the reader right into the heart of the panic/anxiety/depression sufferer’s experience.  Having overcome all these issues herself, Rose’s description of her own road to recovery is inspiring.  Better yet, it is specific.  She tells exactly how she turned her life around and, as she puts it, “began to live, not merely exist.”  Within days, I was copying some of her strategies for coping with tough situations, and found myself feeling less afraid, more calm, and for the first time in ages, looking forward to new experiences. 

I then had an opportunity to complete her “Taking Charge” course when it was offered in Los Angeles.  I took another huge leap forward in living my life more fully and enjoyed the experience.  As things kept improving in my life, I found myself wanting to move forward, especially in the career area.  I felt “stuck”.  I had been hiding out in the “safety” of my home for so long, the idea of moving back into the arena of money making and personal accomplishment was daunting.  That’s when I decided to call in the big guns; I set up an appointment for a telephone consultation with Rose to figure out if she would be able to help me break out of the rut.

Within minutes of our first conversation, I knew she was going to help me make the changes I needed to move forward.   I have always wanted to write novels.  I took several writing courses, bought a lot of “how to” books, and still hadn’t produced anything I felt good about.  My inner critic was not only kicking my butt; it was holding me hostage with thoughts like, “you’ll never amount to anything; you have no talent; you don’t deserve success, who do you think you are?”  After my first session with Rose, I started going out more and feeling more at ease in social situations.  Within a few more, I was writing regularly.  In fact, by the end of November, with Rose’s help, I completed a first draft of a novel.  I am now editing that work, and plan to start submitting it to agents and publishers by June.  None of this would have happened without her common sense, and down-to-earth, and frequently funny, insights.

Rose refers to herself as a cross between a cheerleader and a drill sergeant.  She is that and more.  I would add wise and caring friend to that powerful mix.  She is encouraging when you need it, and bracingly observant about calling you out on your bad habits.  Best of all, she has specific advice to help you break those bad habits and form new ones that will serve you handsomely as you completely turn your life around.   I now do a monthly “check in” to fine tune the skills she has helped me develop.

I can’t imagine what I’d be doing right now if I hadn’t made that phone call.  My life has improved so dramatically in the last six months, I barely recognize myself.  Rose’s book alone helped me tremendously, but working with her as a personal coach sped up the process tenfold.  I would wholeheartedly recommend her coaching services to anyone who is seriously ready to do the work necessary to get back in the game and start living life to its fullest.  Thank you, Rose!

Valerie Garrett (Los Angeles, CA)