The story begins with a phone call from Robin. She and I had been working together in therapy for almost ten years. She usually didn't call between sessions, partly because she was very aware of and careful about boundaries, but also because severe anxiety about making phone calls was one of her symptoms.
The story that follows this phone call is one of courage and determination. Despair to Deliverance is a memoir-one unique in its perspective from both client and psychotherapist-that uncovers the harrowing experience of recovering from mental illness.
Robin Personette's descent into a severe mental health breakdown is not an experience she goes through alone. With her longtime psychotherapist, Sharon DeVinney, PhD, at her side, Robin must first learn to see the value in life before she can continue living.
With touching transparency and a courageous examination of what it means to fight for a stable and healthy life, both Robin and Sharon welcome readers to follow them on their unique journey together.
For anyone who has ever struggled with life's challenges-or who has had a loved one dealing with mental illness-Despair to Deliverance is a comforting message of perseverance and hope.
About the Author: Robin Personette holds a bachelor's degree in psychology from Indiana University. Over the years of working in the mental health field, Personette has been a psychiatric technician, a supervisor at a group home, and a case manager at a community mental health center. Personette enjoys reading, watching sports, and spending time with family. She recently successfully navigated a major life change by moving to Florida with her mother.
Sharon DeVinney, PhD, earned her doctoral degree in clinical psychology from Purdue University. With ten years' clinical practice at a mental health center and eight years' experience as an administrator at the same center, DeVinney has led a life serving the mental health community. Currently she provides clinical service in long-term care facilities. In her free time, she enjoys writing, reading, and spending time with friends and family. DeVinney lives in South Bend, Indiana, with her husband, David.
Read more about their story at www.despairtodeliverance.com.
