I also spoke to a friend out west. He offered me much advice in the beginning that ended up being much of the DR book's approach on detaching, GAL, improve yourself, etc.
The only thing I don't like about his approach is that he is much more lax about, hey if it doesn't work get a D and use your new skills in a new relationship. I will work on the one I have until all hope is lost, and then work on it longer. To me it is worth it.
Me:34 W:33 R: 15 years M: 7 years W moved out: 11/21/15 BD: 11/20/15 - ILYBINILWY, PA once LRT: 12/14/15