Testimonials

“STAR was everything I had hoped it would be. I was going down, in a very dark place. I knew if I could get there I would be okay. STAR did not disappoint. I learned so many things about myself. With the program and my facilitator I was able to work through my trauma. I thought I was irreparable when I got there but I’ve been glued back together again.” – Beth, Spring 2024

“STAR changed my life. I came here because I had tried EVERYTHING else and it didn’t work. It was either die or do STAR. At this retreat I found my essence again, I found my radiance. This is the most precious gift. I can start to live again.” – Spring 2024

“I came to STAR not knowing exactly what it was or what I was searching for, other than inner peace. I found that and so much more. I found a sense of purpose. I realized that I am not alone and plenty of other people hurt like me and various other ways. I found a new family. If you find yourself lost, low or beating yourself up, grieving, depressed or discarded, just go. You’ll get out what you put in and it’s hard work. But it’s so worth it. You are worth it.” – Winter 2024

“Work done in large groups was harder for me. Small group work was much easier. The variety of therapeutic techniques was interesting. The group dynamics were interesting. I learned a lot about other people and what makes them tick. The program was geared towards people who have repressed feelings and might not be as applicable to some situations. The feedback of the facilitators with great. It was nice to be able to talk to various facilitators. The bounding of the participants was awesome. I will have more opinions as time passes and I process what happened at STAR.” – Winter 2024

“If you come, I definitely recommend you leave your phone with the facilitators first thing, Friday evening or Saturday morning until the end of the retreat. At first, I didn’t want to but you deserve the full experience. I believe it definitely would pull you away from what you are here for. Zero technology! Best to stay fully present. I would not have gotten the knowledge to the extent I did if I “stayed connected”. STAR saved my life. I was more shut down than I realized! Also, I found my life’s purpose here. It sounds like B.S. but I truly did. Thank you to all of the STAR staff/facilitators as well as to the spirit in the desert staff. You’ve given me the family I’ve always longed for.” – Winter 2024

“Support through my journey was amazing. Staff was always available and so willing to help. This has been an eye-opening event allowing me time and space to find me. My heart, my child is very full, heard and appreciated. Tools to reengage in the world are helpful and tailored to my needs. Pleasantly surprised with my learnings and my connection back to my heart. Thank you.” – Winter 2024

“I arrived seeking to find a different person, (and) the goal to move forward based on childhood issues and trauma. I came to realize and learn what I thought I was seeing was not my truth. My truth lies elsewhere and the STAR team along with my fellow participants helped me find my real tree. Thank you!” – Winter 2024

“This has been a wonderful learning experience! Even though I am still struggling with concepts and ideas taught. I have found a healing from a major bump in my life. To be able to cry it out, heal my heart and now experience no pain or panic from the thought, it is blessing I will treasure. I hope and pray that the other bumps in my life can be healed by this process also. My kid has been sad for such a long time, it is time for her to be at peace with herself and others in her family.” – I.C., Winter 2024

“STAR has provided me with the tools to identify the blocks in my life that were holding me back. The agenda for the week was intentionally created and crafted to create opportunities for participants to go deep within themselves. The staff was incredibly supportive along the way to help you get out of your own way and dig deep within yourself. I feel like I am more connected with my true self now, more than ever before and have the tools to work through life moving forward. Keep up and the amazing work. Thank you.” – Winter 2024

“Greatest investment I could have ever made in myself and future self. The unconditional love and support that has been demonstrated during this short time will have an impact on me for the rest of my life.” – Winter 2024

“When I came to this STAR I was disconnected, lost and out of hope. My life had been in chaos and that’s where I thought I was meant to live. STAR was able to “unlock and open” my heart for the first time and I was able to “love” myself. I discovered “love” “co, passion” and “intimacy”. I found my essence. I will forever be grateful and thankful. I have an amazing “new family”.” – Winter 2024

“Life changing life experience.” – Winter 2024 Retreat Participant

“Wow, what an amazing experience I had. I can’t even believe how good I feel about myself and the world and look forward to trying everything I learned out in real life and see where I go.” – Winter 2024

“At STAR I got cracked open and the darkness seeped out and the light came in. I rediscovered the strength I have and how to use it. I learned. I don’t have to be paralyzed in fear. That there are authentic people you can trust, and I learned to believe in myself again. I learned that just because bad things happen that it does not define me. I was able to let go of the traits that don’t serve me on my new path and journey. I found hope and promise of a new future if I am willing to put the work in thank you with all my heart. With real love “ – Winter 2024

“The amount of gratitude that is in my heart for this program is unreal. The transformation that has happened within me, the closeness I feel with myself, the confidence and trust I have in myself, is something that I never thought attainable. I found my true self. I found peace” – Retreat Alumni

“STAR is life changing. It has sent me on a path to self actualization and wholeness. The love is transformative. Thank you.” – Fall 2023

“I would recommend STAR to anyone who wants to experience more joy and presence, less anger & stress and who wants to be their authentic self in life and in relationships.”

“STAR helped me deal with trauma that has shaped my life and gave me strength, clarity and tools to live the life God meant me to live.” – Fall 2023

“I really feel that I would never be able to get to this place (Day 9), in a lifetime of therapy. I really feel that I am in a much better place. Now, therapy will continue to keep me on track with the tools I learned at STAR. Everything I learned here is important.” – Fall 2023

“I came to STAR to deal with the grief of my son. The 10 day journey I embarked on was so much more than I expected. I’m leaving with 14 new best friends along with a trunk full of new tools I can use in my everyday life. I’ve learned a lot about myself. I look forward to becoming my best me here on out.” – Fall 2023

“My STAR surrender journey was a life changing, life saving experience. I was able to discover and reconnect to my inner self buried nearly 50 years ago. My self made mantra of “nothing can touch me” which I erected to protect me in distant past was discovered and destroyed forever. I am forever blessed and enriched deep in my soul. Thank God for STAR retreat, it will save my wife and my life.” – Fall 2023

“STAR has truly been a life changing experience and I feel that many people would get so much from this. Everything from the initial phone call to the last day has been amazing and I am extremely grateful. The love is amazing. Thank you” – Fall 2023

“This has been the most profound self awareness journey I have ever participated in. It has truly been transforming! I so appreciate the love and support of the entire STAR staff. The program is life changing and could be such a value to so many people who are desperate to find themselves. I truly believe the STAR experience has saved my life!” – Fall 2023

“I came into STAR with the hopes of being fixed and whole in 10 days. That is not nearly the case, nor realistic. But STAR taught me a lot about myself that I will take back with me and gave me the tools necessary to find that love for myself. It taught me a lot about who I am and the different parts of me. STAR changed my mindset immensely.” – Spring 2023

“I was very impressed with the entire process. The various element combined really helped me to work through my grief. The facilitators are incredibly skilled. Thank you!” – Spring 23

“STAR is a life changing program. It will be an everlasting memory. The staff is phenomenal. STAR will make me be a better person! Thank you! Thank you!” -S.O., Spring 2023

“I didn’t know what to expect prior to my arrival and had some skepticism that it would yield any benefit. At the end of the session, I feel so much better about myself in many ways. It was a terrific experience of self exploration and discovery! I feel empowered and optimistic about what the future holds. Thank you ALL at STAR!” – Spring 2023

“Wow! Life changing. Great to have an overall mapping of my heart when evaluating situations. To make sure to take care of my inner child and to see/understand when my mask, inner critic, or shadow come out to play. To stop & breathe. To realize I am co-dependent was HUGE! So much learning and understanding of my childhood and how those experiences have affected and shaped my adult life/personality. Thank you for ALL your hard work.” – Spring 2023

“I would recommend STAR to anyone who has feelings where they might not understand the basis or root. I hope I am able to use the tools I learned in STAR on a day to day basis so I can lie life to my fullest potential.” – Spring 2023

“I would recommend STAR to anyone looking for that something or are just stuck in a life rut. It has this energy that creates a safe place to allow you to work on you. The friendships made with other attendees, facilitators, and ranch staff will stay with me for years to come. If you are thinking about taking the STAR journey, don’t over think it. Trust and do it.” – Spring 2023

“I was happily surprised that it exceeded my expectations. It was fun and engaging with ample opportunity to address my critical issues. I was given tools with which to depart and a simple plan from which to begin my journey home.” – Spring 2023

“Star is just what I needed. Especially when I was at a loss of what to do to address my deep issues. Digging into my life from pre-birth to present time really set my understanding of my past emotional trajectory with an empowerment to live in a new direction. Trust your instincts. I’m glad I did it.” – Winter 2023

“My experience at STAR was nothing short of intense, emotional and painful but through it all, I leave here feeling gratitude, joy and discovering positive things about myself that I never realized existed. Incredible experience.” – Winter 2023

“It will be an experience which will never be forgotten. Words can’t express the love, safety and self-exploration that is experienced. You will leave knowing a new sense of who you are and able to leave self-doubt behind. The stall is incredible, and it is 10 days that you will cherish in your heart forever.” – Winter 2023

“At a very pivotal crisis time in my life, I reached out to STAR. The communication and sense of relating and caring was evident from the start. From Day #1 I felt very safe and able to talk and it continually grew more each day. The bond that was formed with peers was amazing! The classes helped me dive into my issues and look at better, more able ways to cope in the moment. I connected with staff and my facilitator more and more as each day passed and felt the care, love and compassion. The entire process was truly fantastic, and I look forward to utilizing my new bag of tools.” – Winter 2023

“The facilitators and staff are awesome, very caring and sincere. I felt like everyone wanted the best for me.” – Winter 2023

“Life changing experience. Compassionate staff; participants supportive – My facilitator was amazing & gave me tools to help me.” – Winter 2023

“My facilitator worked with total compassion. I felt a huge connection and was very grateful to have had her. I will miss her.” – Winter 2023

“My facilitators were wonderful. They pushed me outside of my comfort zone. They persisted & stayed with me all the time.” – Winter 2023

“Very fortunate to have the facilitators I had!” – Winter 2023

“STAR is THE RETREAT! You have to experience it for yourself. This was a life changing opportunity that I want all the people in my life to experience. The staff was well equipped, patient and kind. The structure of the 10 days was well organized. I never felt alone. STAR provided tools I will have forever as I continue to grow and heal. My advice to anyone reading this is to make the call, find the money, be brave enough to book the flight & GO!! Show up & TRUST THE PROCESS. You will be happy you did! I truly believe STAR was just for me. It showed up & found me at the right time in my life. Everything was connected. Every exercise, homework assignment, session, art project, special groups… it all came together & created a beautiful experience. As long as I trusted the process. The outcome helped me tap into the deepest part of my being. I’ve always wanted something like this & here it is. Thank you for doing this beautiful work. Don’t stop!” – Fall 2022

“If I had words to describe STAR, they would be woefully inadequate as the essence of this place is almost incomprehensible in its beauty & healing.” – Fall 2022

“The staff made me feel so safe and welcome right from the start. I am leaving STAR with so many great tools to implement in my life. I couldn’t have asked for a better group to be supported by. I plan on recommending STAR to quite a few people.” – Fall 2022

“I cannot express with enough gratitude, words, time or anything that is infinite in this life how grateful I am for everything that STAR provided me.” – Fall 2022

“If I could afford to send all my loved ones, I would!” – Fall 2022

“My experience was great. I didn’t know what to expect. I was welcomed immediately by a caring staff member. I felt like the assignments were given plenty of time to complete. All of the facilitators were available and approachable. They took suggestions as they came and made your opinions feel acknowledged. There was time to soak in what you learned and self-discover. Everyone was very attentive, and I felt like no one in the group of participants felt left out. Great program. Definitely something I would recommend and would like to be a part of again.” ~F. , Summer 2022

“Special thanks to you all. I am in total, complete awe & admiration for the love you all gave to us. To observe… & no doubt absorb & to encourage us selflessly. Thank you to the FANTASTIC Staff who held the rudder straight as the ridiculous 13 of July 2022 became “whole”(er).” ~K.G. , Summer 2022

“STAR was a terrific experience. I would refer people here if it came up in conversation. Before leaving a neighbor asked for her son and wanted feedback when I returned. All the therapists are caring, nurturing, warm and kind. I have made so many friends here that really get me and I hope to rely on them when I get home. We all need each others support. Thank you STAR.” – Retreat Participant 2022

“My time at the STAR healing retreat is the turning point of my life. The staff was able to safely help me move step by step. Returning to my past, examining my present, and planning my future was opened to me gently and with only my best in mind. It is truly a labor of love on their parts. The principles, techniques, presentations, and materials all work together to make the ten days a life changing experience. I highly recommend those seeking answers for their lives should attend.” ~J., Summer 2022

“I needed to break free from my past and find a better way to live. I have been struggling with my own childhood pain as an adult, even as a mental health professional. I had not heard of a place or program like this before. I was seeking something that would go beyond 12 step programs, weekly therapy and self help books. I found it here at STAR. When you call to find out about it, keep an open mind. The experiences are like no other for me. I experienced a transformation that has freed me, given me the tools to continue evolving into the best me and provided me with a new way to treat myself and others. I will take all I have learned into my work as a mental health professional which will make me more effective as a provider. Thank you so much STAR staff.” ~S.P., Summer 2022

“I had an incredible time here at STAR. Everything is very well thought out and planned to a T. I didn’t have to worry about a single thing – other than being sad to leave. Facilitators are beyond supportive, always there when you need them, as are the kitchen staff. You can feel the healing aspect of the property in your bones. I am so grateful to have been able to attend and hope to come back someday in the future.” ~M., Summer 2022

“I came here feeling hopeless & lost. I’m leaving here feeling excited to start my life & the person I will be when I return home. I feel stronger than I have ever felt, & though I know it wont be easy, I know I can do anything. Thank you STAR.” – Retreat Participant 2022

“Hardest most fulfilling experience of my life!! I am a better mom, girlfriend and person after this. Thank you for giving me passion for life again and for helping me heal my past traumas. I can finally see tomorrow!” – Retreat Participant 2022

“STAR is essentially reformative. Everyone deserves this blessing for themselves.” ~40 yr old business owner, LA – 2022

“I learned that the number #1 person who wasn’t taking care of me was me— a difficult but necessary pill to swallow. Thank you for guiding me to uncover this for myself.” —N.G., 2018

“My time at STAR changed my life. The program helped me to reevaluate many issues that I did not even realize were troubling me. Issues which I came to realize were causing me a lot of angst and creating negative or self-defeating behavior. The retreat gave me skills to rethink and reorganize several aspects of my life. I am much happier and although people are guessing that I changed my hair or had plastic surgery, it is apparent to everyone that I am different and “lighter.” It is hard work to attend and put your all into everything that is addressed. It is a very intense 10 days, but well worth the personal reflection and growth it produces. I am happier and calmer and more at peace!” —Bonnie, 2017

“From the very first phone call to the tearful goodbyes on the last day, I felt known, loved, and cared about by the STAR staff. I had never felt so SEEN in my entire life. At first I didn’t know what to do with that feeling, but now I refuse to accept anything less! I have a new found love and compassion for myself, and because of this, I am able to be more loving and compassionate towards others as well.”— Ann, 2017

“STAR is hands-down the best thing I’ve ever done for myself. I wish everyone in my life would attend!” — K.O. 2016

“My experience at STAR was great. The staff and atmosphere was comforting and healing. I learned so much from the process and would highly recommend it to others.”— Emily, Minnesota, 2016

“I was a highly mechanical person before STAR, with no way to break out of my own thoughts. STAR helped me get in touch with my feelings in a way I never could have imagined. I have my heart back!” —Andrew

“Thank you to the entire staff for your unflagging willingness to hear us, be with us, walk with us on this path of healing, (and lighting the way when necessary), for laughing and crying with us, for helping us to get in touch with the part of ourselves we shrank from most, for helping us to replace bad memories with new ones that we’ll never forget, for being so openly loving and open to love, for showing compassion to us and modeling it for us, for all the incredible hours of work you put in on our behalf, and just for being you, with your own special qualities, unique talents, and beautiful essence.” —Lara

“I have done so much therapy and self-help over the last 25 years that I was skeptical of how much I would learn or get out of STAR. I got so much the 1st night that I decided if that was all I got— it would be worth it!” — J.V.

“As an individual who sees life in black and white, I thought STAR would be hard for me to relate to. I was wrong from day one. You all validated who I was and because of that I was able to trust and express myself like never before.” — Chris

“It was difficult for me at times. I was worried it wouldn’t work, that I wouldn’t change. I had an amazing experience that I would not trade for anything. I learned so much I didn’t know about myself and I am ready to stand in my truth! Everyone was supportive and so much fun. Thank you to everyone!” — K.S.

“STAR creates a peaceful, safe environment where you are surrounded by love and support; from here you delve into whatever is preventing you from living your best life. I’m amazed by the change in one week. I saw it happening to everyone. It’s a great way to heal.” — Pat S.

“After 28 years together we didn’t know of a happier couple. Of course we were elaborately well-connected. Just imagine the sheer volume of accommodations and adjustments, the level of acceptance, the depth of commitment, the amount of communication invested. Then we did our STAR’s— separately. We plunged into the ultimate intimacy— no current withholding, and no past secrets. One year later we’ve recovered the comfort and ease and the confidence we started with. But before, our intimacy was largely a complex truce drawn through the territory of our egos. Now we’re just connected at the soul.” — Lee and Marijo Franklin, Alameda, CA

“The safety and container for showing up is what I have never found any place else. It allowed me to go through my own, organic individual process and to receive and validate my truth, not your truth. And that’s power.” — Stephanie

“It was a lot of hard work, incredibly emotional and I feel like it helped me reconnect with my inner light. Thank you.” —Lisa A.

“Years of therapy in my head could not reach my roundedness. Ten days of STAR led me to my wounded child and taught me how to heal myself. I feel I am in touch with my essence. My life is changed. I am grateful.” — A.P.

“STAR saved my life. I went home a changed person. I am ready for whatever the future holds. Thank you with all of my heart. Thank you.” — Lara

“Through the lessons learned, the tools provided, and the love given— I feel balanced and grounded once more. I thank my daughter Ashley, the director Barbara, and all of the extraordinary staff at STAR for making this quality of life so real and possible.” — Ginny

“STAR has been with me for six years now and I am using the helpful tools I discovered there every day. I cannot imagine a better and safe place for working on your “issues” and healing. The power of the STAR group, the compassionate love and the secure feeling I had the whole time was something I had never experienced before. It was very hard to return home where it’s not so safe, but after those 10 days I felt much stronger. Everyday my confidence had been built up and strengthened. I trusted myself and my decisions again. STAR has been with me during some tough times and I really do not know where I would be without STAR. The ongoing support and nurturing love has helped me immensely in my process of healing, and helped me turn grief into growth. I am very happy that STAR came into my life and I am proud to be a member of the STAR family.” —Atti Knox, GA

“I was fortunate to find the STAR program… What years of therapy and medication could not achieve was realized in less than 3 weeks at STAR.” — Arthur Juncker, San Francisco, CA

“At STAR I saw miracles. I saw people, not the least of whom was myself, re-emerging into joyful life. If you want to reattach to the loving powers you were born with, do STAR.” — Michael O’Reilly, International Sales Manager, St. Helena

“STAR was, and remains, the single most healing event in my life. I had spent 20 years in talk therapy before STAR, 30 days at Sierra Tucson, and a variety of other stuff. STAR is the real thing— for me, anyway. It healed me on a cellular level. I was still very ill with asthma when I did STAR in August, ’95… I had fixed all the medical problems, (there were many), but I had not dealt with the emotional underpinnings of my asthma. My asthma broke at STAR ( I was so sick when I got there, I should’ve been hospitalized), and it has never returned except in very minor form— always when I’m stressed out and not taking care of myself. When I got to STAR, I basically had no relationships with my family of origin or with anyone else. STAR healed my deepest wounds and has made it possible for me to build a deep, loving relationship with my sister. And several of the people I met at STAR have become life-long soul friends.” — Lea Pierce, Marketing Consultant, Chicago, IL

“STAR is a personal growth workshop and it is profoundly healing therapy. And it can be a personal growth workshop that’s not therapy. And it can be therapy way beyond personal growth. What it is experientially depends on what you come with into STAR, and the depth of your willingness to enter into the process. It’s a process of allowing yourself, like falling asleep. You can’t make yourself sleep, but you can allow yourself to sleep. It’s a process of giving yourself permission to enter into these things that give you the opportunities for something to happen, for something to shift.” — Vilma Ginzberg

“Everyday I am learning more about myself and understanding myself and my “stuff” better. I’m impressed at how well I’m handling adult situations like an adult and able to set better boundaries and take care of myself. I still have a long way to go in my recovery process, yet the shifts are taking place and for this I am very grateful. I also find that I have a new sense of compassion for people, finally understanding that peoples’ “stuff” is not about me and most likely comes from a wounded place. It keeps me grounded and able to handle situations much healthier than I have in the past. Thank you STAR!” — Julie, 2 months Post-STAR, San Francisco, CA

“As an attachment therapist and STAR graduate, I know that through the deep early work at STAR, the participant begins to remember and resolve the mysteries encountered in relationship— to self, to others, to community, and to environment. This validating information helps to foster compassionate understanding and fill in the blanks in the attachment continuum.” — Susan L. Love, MA., MFT, Oakland, CA

“I came to STAR ready to heal and I was not disappointed. The inner child works gave me insights and power I never thought possible to express. For the first time in my life I can put words to my feelings. I will leave STAR knowing my truth, knowing how to express my truth, and trusting my truth. I truly feel reborn. I now have my power back from habits that did not serve me well. With these new found tools, I will replace a life that didn’t work to one that will bring me joy and happiness.” — Judi

“The 10 days were the most intense experience I ever had in therapy. I felt completely safe and succeeded to get in touch with very early traumatic incidents. I understand my fatal patterns. I feel reconnected and free.” — Thomas

“Saved the rest of my life before it started.” — Dane

“The most impactful and meaningful personal development experience since I began my healing journey 7 years ago at age 45. I feel I received a huge “bang for my buck” from this non-profit organization and its world-class workshop staff. I intend to return for another STAR experience.” — Will

“Life transforming. By far the best investment of time and money that I have ever made in my life. My life is 500% better than before I started. (Back then I didn’t even realize it was so bad.)” —Rachel

“When I came to STAR in 1996, I realize now, I had a form of male depression wherein everything I did was Work: My life was the Performance of one Task after Another. At every moment of the day, I felt the Weight of Duty and Responsibility on my shoulders. I Needed Always to Do My Duty and Bear My Responsibilities… and Without Complaining or Asking for Help. Life for me thus was All Work and No Play. The truth is that I didn’t even know what Play Was. I was Totally Disconnected from the Fun-Loving Kid inside of me, who Did want to Play. At STAR I got Reconnected with that Kid and I learned how to take care of Him, which meant not only Allowing Him to Play, but actually Seeking Out Ways, Times, Places in which Play could Happen. I learned to Listen to that Kid, to Pay Attention to Him, to say NO to Duty and Responsibility (at least occasionally!). And since STAR, that Kid has Always been a Big Part of Who I Am. And, sometimes, I even Ask for Help!” — Alec McDonell

“How do I get the rest of my family to sign up?’ — Krista

“I still can’t believe that I am well! I was so sick that I wasn’t going to make it. It just wasn’t worth the fight anymore. I had given up and was on my way out, always thinking of the best way to go that would be easiest on my kids. I just wasn’t good for them and didn’t see any light at the end of the tunnel. Making the difficult decision to go to STAR was a last ditch effort— one that I told myself I would give 110% effort in order to get all that I could from the retreat. I really didn’t think anything would help me. People need to know that My journey at STAR truly saved my life. I got ME back, my kids and husband got ME back! I am so happy. Now I want to live more than anything!” — Jane

“STAR reintroduced me to myself.” — Kimberly, Pennsylvania

“As a STAR graduate, I can personally attest to the effect STAR had on my own life. It brought out a true transformation. STAR was an incredible process for my healing.” — Ralph “Rob” Ashby, M.D.

“At STAR I learned to stop compromising my spirit in order to ‘fit’ and am beginning to recognize the sound of my own voice. I thank STAR for helping me find the clarity and courage to come back to life.” — Brenda Morris, Seattle Washington

“STAR was exactly what I needed at this moment. I doubt there’s a better program anywhere — 2010

“It was a life-altering experience. I feel like I’m losing family in leaving. I feel blessed and incredibly empowered.” — 2010

“Life changing! It is true about the statement, “Life Before and After STAR.” — 2010

“Not what I expected— so much more.” — 2010

“The container for the work was strong, safe, and loving enough for me to achieve healing not found in years of exploration through other modalities.” — 2009

“The stacking of experiences and the writing plus all the support by facilitators, helped empower me and make sense of my patterns in a way that not only helped me heal, but put me behind the wheel of my life in a loving, affirming way.” — April 2008

“STAR was the most eye-opening experience I have ever had. I will go home with more knowledge and understanding than I ever thought was possible. Everyone here allowed me to discover more and more about myself each day. I’ve realized that life is not about finding it, it’s about living it. I will go out into the world with an open heart and loving presence. I am more beautiful in this moment than I have ever been. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.” — 2008

“My life is full of light. Thank you for teaching me where to look. I love you all.” — 2008

“STAR has given me a new lease on life. I am looking forward to new experiences and I have the tools to work with. Life for me will be a new beginning.” — 2008

“I know of no other program so rooted in reality and fact that touches your soul so deeply. STAR melds what really works with what each participant uniquely needs to move forward positively in a lasting way.” — 2008

“This program has changed my life. As far as I’m concerned, these 10 days saved me in many ways. God bless all of you who give and do so much to make this happen… you all are angels. My mind right now is on a euphoric high from all the love and energy that found me. If it wasn’t for STAR, I would’ve derailed. You have put me back on track to living the happy life I deserve to live. Thank you.” — 2008

“It was the most love I have ever felt in one place. The staff gave me 200% of their time and attention. The facets of the program were interesting, innovative, and right on.” —2008

“It was beyond words. The experience was life-changing; very spiritual and healing.” —2008

“STAR is the most profound healing experience I’ve had so far. And I’ve been on the journey for a while now. This was the greatest gift I could have given myself. I’ve unlocked the treasures that are within me and let go of the crap that I learned in my family.” — 2008

“I was skeptical of the whole concept of STAR until the second day. After that, what a ride! I feel empowered, and adequately prepared to go forward and live my life with strength, confidence, and happiness.” — 2008

“It saved my life. It was the most wonderful thing that has ever happened to me.” —2008

“I had very high expectations, but STAR exceeded them by far. The staff, participants, everything was just…. The Best! I feel I can now live rather than just survive and suffer in silence. It allowed me to drop down and really listen to the wisdom within me.” — 2008

“I have had a great shift in my thinking and in my body. It might have saved my life. Before I came to STAR, I was flat-lining. Since being here, I’ve been resuscitated and come back to life!” — 2008

“STAR helped me jump forward on my path to realize the promise/destiny of my life. I am completely unwilling to look back with regrets when I can look forward now with awareness and living through my essence. STAR helped me realize this.” —2008

“STAR opened me up to see that I do have within me the capability to be happy and free. For the first time in my life I experienced that. It has been a struggle since STAR, but the struggle is not the same hopeless struggle as before. I have seen and felt my true radiant self; that is what helps me when I get caught by the “old stuff” again.” — 2000 STAR Graduate “I am now able to look at situations much more clearly. I am amazed at myself for how well I behaved recently during some stressful and insane family situations. It was great and I am proud of myself for using what I learned at STAR.” — 2004

“I definitely learned from STAR what it means to be codependent, and the tools to overcome codependency. I also now know how to quickly speak to my inner-child when I start to regress. This helps me immensely. Thanks for everything STAR did for me. It changed my life.” — 2004

“My friends have, and still, say how I’ve changed. No anger. Wonderful patience and love.” — 2003

“I am just very thankful that I was led to STAR and had the fortune to participate in it. It was an extraordinary experience. It changed my life, possibly saved it.” — 2003

“I would highly recommend this program to anyone. It was extremely helpful for me. I found a sense of peace, and it helped me to slow everything down in my life. I laid a lot of my old demons down.” — 2001

“I thought life would be perfect when I returned from STAR. It actually got worse before it got better, but I knew how to move forward. It got worse because I had changed, but my environment had not. Now I live in a new city, with a wonderful partner, no drama, and when a bump in the road appears, I know I can make it over. I truly believe STAR saved my life and showed me how to start a better one.” — 2000 STAR Graduate

“Best thing in my life happened at STAR… I found me.” — 2000

“STAR enabled me to create a firm foundation. This has not only allowed me to solidly support what I’d already built as a life, but to add levels Would not otherwise have reached.” — 2000

“I am so grateful for this holistic healing process. I have been given an opportunity to speak my story, dive into places I’ve never been able to get from conventional therapy, and then come back up with new muscles and tools for enjoying life and a willingness to keep diving in again and again.” — January 1998

“The depth of emotion and understanding that I reached at STAR has brought me a feeling of wholeness never reached before and friends with whom I may connect with for the rest of my life.” — January 1998

“STAR has turned my inner feelings about me, life in general, and family responsibilities 360º! I profess to all that will listen— it is the greatest gift anyone could ever give themselves— regardless of status in life— everyone could benefit from it! STAR has made such a major impact on my life…. I carry its treasure in my heart 24/7.” —1997

“I feel like STAR literally saved my life. I just couldn’t figure out why I was so unhappy and stuck. STAR got me reconnected to me— not the ‘me’ that I had created to survive, but the real me. STAR amazingly created a safe place where I could shed the incredible paralyzing fear that had taken over and ruled my life. The love and support of Barbara and the STAR staff was what enabled me to do this. STAR creates the family environment under which all children are able to grow and thrive. STAR also gave me a wonderful family that I can call on and who can call on me. I always wanted to be loved for who I was— warts and all— and STAR gave me that. And most importantly, STAR taught me how to love myself.” — 1996

“I was fortunate to find the STAR program… What years of therapy and medication could not achieve was realized in just a short time at STAR.” — 1995

“My STAR experience saved my life. Each experience was unique. Each was invaluable and touched me where I needed to be touched. I will be forever grateful for all that everyone did and for what I learned.” — 1995

“This was an excellent program for me and I would most certainly recommend it to others— and have! Though a healing/clarifying process for everyone, it seems especially valuable for those undergoing major crises.” — 1994

“STAR was a pivotal, life-changing experience. Its ongoing effects are still being felt… I will always be grateful I was guided and encouraged to go!” — 1994

“I have changed and healed incredibly over the past many years. I had done much therapy prior to STAR, but I feel like STAR was the beginning of my truly deep healing as well as the beginning of my spiritual process and journeying. I am deeply grateful.” — 1987

“This workshop has had a profound impact on my life. Thank you, STAR, for the tools with which to reclaim my life and my relationships.” — Anonymous

“The love and acceptance I felt during this experience allowed me to find my joy. You’re the best role models for love and transformation that I have ever seen.” — Anonymous

“The individual attention and work were extraordinary.” — Anonymous

“Outstanding in all respects. So much love from everyone.” — Anonymous

“I came here to grieve in a safe place and was able to accomplish (or begin) it.” — Anonymous

“The STAR experience has literally brought me ‘from darkness to light.’ I am excited at the potential for the rest of my life!”— Anonymous

“STAR was the best therapeutic process I have ever been to. It stripped away years of crusty layers of pretended indifference to reveal my repeated cycles of anger, abandonment, fear and despair. It may very well lead me to the happiness and sense of peace I’ve yearned for. It’s all up to me now, not the ghosts of my past.” — Anonymous

“I feel I have my power back and can make healthy choices about my future.” — Anonymous

“This has been the best experience of my life. It has changed my life and given me the tools to live a fuller life. I am ready to tackle the world now.” — Anonymous

“My work at the STAR program has totally changed my life. I came into the program scared, lost, and at my wits end. I’m leaving the STAR program with a sense of inner power, confidence, and, most of all, a lust for life.” — Anonymous

“I was able to see how the conditioning that I received as a little child had affected the way I thought, acted and reacted to everything in my life.” — Anonymous

“Barbara Findeisen unwaveringly sees beyond people’s defenses to their fear and, beyond that, to their authentic nature. It is the latter that she and all of the STAR staff attempt to reflect back to clients.” — Anonymous

“The individual attention and work were extraordinary.” — Anonymous

“Rather wonderful, but not, perhaps, in the way I expected. Less New Age and esoteric, and more grounded in psychological findings, etc… Powerful— it’s a short cut to the root of the problem— like cutting through years of therapy to get straight to the core. And then, show you exactly what to do to go out in the world and live a different life.” — Anonymous

“This has been the most amazing experience in my life. After 13 years of therapy, and feeling stuck in the same place, STAR has brought me to a place where I can feel and see change. I have never really been truly excited about life until STAR. Now, I can’t wait to live and enjoy the happiness and life I deserve. I am not sure I would have ever felt this full of life without STAR. It scares me to think about how much more time I would have wasted living in that “black hole” not coming here. STAR’s facilitators modeled what it’s like to be real and grounded in myself. They were always right there when I needed someone. That validation, someone listening, and genuine concern for my well-being was so appreciated beyond words. The facilitators and staff are what make STAR so powerful.” — Anonymous

“The container for the work was strong, safe, and loving enough for me to achieve healing not found in years of exploration through other modalities.” — Anonymous

“Next to getting clean, STAR has been the single most valuable experience of my life.” —Anonymous

“STAR changed my perspective. My ability to take charge of my life is improving. I hope to do another STAR soon.” — Anonymous

“I’m glad Barbara, and the STAR staff, board members, friends, graduates of the program, etc… are engaged in this most important of all human tasks: to understand ourselves and our feelings and thereby lessen the violence and people hurting in this world.” — Anonymous

“I can’t say enough how much I loved it. To have my pain witnessed, expressed, discussed, and felt was a gift. So much love and support.” — Anonymous

“I just wish to truly thank STAR for the difference it has made in my life. It’s easy to forget how difficult life seemed then and how blessed my life is now.” — Anonymous

“I don’t even want to think about where I’d be without having done STAR.” — Anonymous

“I feel like STAR gave me a foundation to build on— made me a better person and gave me hope. I still have bad days, but I have tools to help me through those days. One day I might even do STAR again.” — Anonymous

“STAR was a very important step in my growth. One of many steps I needed, along with therapy, and a 12-step program. Each thing was an important building block, and I seem to have needed them all.” — Anonymous

“STAR was a significant experience for me that I’ll always treasure.” — Anonymous

“I’m grateful that STAR was there when I needed it and hope that it continues to help people as much as it helped me. Thank you, STAR!” — Anonymous

“STAR is a powerful program and catalyst.” — Anonymous

“It is a wonderful program and Barbara is a genuinely loving/caring individual who has touched numerous lives.” — Anonymous

“I’m so thankful for STAR!” — Anonymous

“Keep it going. I wish it were more widely available. So many could benefit by breaking their nasty karmic ties and becoming free!” — Anonymous

“Please keep up the great work. The work I began at STAR is now leading to many wonderful changes and miracles in my life. I have stopped most everything in my inner and outer life (addictions, fears, anger, bad relationships, dead end career, toxic friendships and more) that were holding me back. I have begun to love myself and others in a healthy way. I am open to whatever God has for me. Life is a beautiful daily adventure for me now. Thanks for your part.” — Anonymous

“Just thinking about where I was then (before I went to STAR) and where I am now— WOW! So much happier, and feeling love and gratitude. Thank you again STAR!” — Anonymous

“The STAR program and its teachings will be with me for the rest of my life. It’s far reaching effects are continuous.” — Anonymous

“I am very grateful for the role STAR has played in my life.” — Anonymous

“I have grown in myself and my life experiences tremendously. The journey continues.”

“STAR is truly a miracle— all you have to do is let it happen.” — Anonymous

“STAR changed my life 100%. Absolutely awesome!” — Anonymous

“STAR is a great experience. I continue to recommend it to those who seem to need it.” — Anonymous

“STAR helped transform my life. It was one of the most significant healing processes I experienced. I am grateful and feel blessed to have STAR in my life.” — Anonymous

“STAR gave me tools, helped me to gain self-worth and self-esteem, and helped me to find my voice.” — Anonymous

“The people, the staff, were amazingly kind and wonderful!” — Anonymous

“Thank you for being there. You helped me change my life for the better.” — Anonymous

“In my journey, it was so hard for me to get to STAR; logistics, money, and fear. I feel today, STAR was my destiny. I had to shed the fear and motives generated from past pain. Now I am closer to purpose.” — Anonymous

“I appreciate the good will and opportunities for deep inner work that you offer.” – Anonymous

“Thinking about STAR always has me feel love… very much like remembering the birth of my children. There was pain and incredible hard work, and also my heart just cracked open in love.” — Anonymous

“I left STAR a happier and more understanding person both of myself and others.” — Anonymous

“STAR is invaluable for those that participate at 110%, who are prepared to try everything even though they may be reluctant, and who are willing to honestly participate in the process.” — Anonymous

“I have benefited greatly from STAR. I often consult my notes and journaling to keep me on track. Thank you for STAR.” — Anonymous

“STAR was a catalyst giving me all the tools I needed. The process of acknowledging and parenting the inner child is the best and most difficult STAR work. For me, this will take years, but I know I’m on the right path.” — Anonymous

“Thank you so much for showing me my worth— all that is important is that I love myself.” — Anonymous

“I have learned and grown so much. And the more I learn, the more I seem to realize how much there is to learn… but the wheels are in motion and there’s no turning back.” — Anonymous

“Wonderful, life-changing experience that you can’t put a price tag on. PRICELESS!” — Anonymous

“STAR is a powerful and unique program.” — Anonymous

“Thanks to all who make this possible!” — Anonymous

“I hope that someday, in some way, I can give back to STAR what it has given to me. I am so grateful.” — Anonymous

“STAR is absolutely fantastic. Barbara is phenomenal! I wish the whole world could go! I want to do it again so I can get another boost in self-awareness and self-improvement.” — Anonymous

“I loved STAR. I will come back.” — Anonymous

“STAR was a miraculous, life-changing experience.” — Anonymous

“It was an amazing experience. I would not trade what I learned for anything.” — Anonymous

“I was worried about spending so much money on myself… Now I wish I had opened my heart and wallet a lot sooner. All in its time though. I feel like I made it to STAR right on time.” — Anonymous

“I’ll say it… I was a jerk to almost everyone in my life. I didn’t realize that I developed this defense mechanism to protect the wounded parts of myself. I left a lot of emotional ‘baggage’ out there in the desert. Most importantly, the baggage that caused me to be mean spirited and highly intolerant of others. My family is grateful, but not more grateful than me.” — Anonymous