Inside Rotella’s golf psychologist practice: strong conversations, a shower, soda and a home away from home

A home built for golf talks

Rotella’s home serves as a place to stay and talk. Golfers spend a couple of days there, and sessions take place in the basement, which includes a guest room, workout space and a putting hole set into the floor.

The basement also holds hundreds of messages of thanks from people who have worked with Rotella. Golf memorabilia includes a photo of Darren Clarke kissing him at the 2016 Ryder Cup and a replica Claret Jug from the early 2000s.

Darlene helps set the tone

Darlene Rotella designed the home and welcomes visitors. She is described as gracious and assertive, and shares her husband’s ability to put guests at ease. She said Rotella’s approach may feel different from other experiences golfers have had, and that the atmosphere is relaxed. Visitors might settle on the large couch, she explained, but they are not asked to lie on one.

A partnership rooted in sports

Bob and Darlene met as freshmen at Castleton State College in Vermont. He played basketball and lacrosse, while she followed the teams. They dated for six years and later married; their daughter Casey was born ten years after the wedding. They now have 10 grandchildren.

The routines of a house guest

The visitor’s breakfast included cereal, yogurt, milk and orange juice, with one cup of coffee. Rotella said he had never tried coffee, and at 8 a.m. he got caffeine from a Coke Zero; bottles were kept around the home, including in a nearby refrigerator.

The home also reflects the couple’s family life and sporting connections. Casey grew up around athletes, and memorabilia from golfers and coaches appears throughout the basement.