A shocking, inspiring, and enlightening new memoir aims to change this: SCARED SELFLESS: My Journey from Abuse and Madness to Surviving and Thriving by Michelle Stevens (G.P. Putnam’s Sons; on sale March 21, 2017), by Dr. Michelle Stevens, chronicles her improbable journey from horrendous child sexual abuse, loss, and mental illness to healing, recovery, and happiness.
As a child, Michelle Stevens was the victim of sexual abuse at the hands of her stepfather, Gary Lundquist—elementary school teacher, neighborhood stalwart, and brutal pedophile. He locked her in a cage, tortured her, and used her as his sex slave, subjecting her to inconceivable cruelty. She was forced to perform in child pornography and trafficked in a child sex ring.
To cope with the trauma, Michelle unconsciously repressed the memories of what she had experienced and developed multiple personalities. Years later, Michelle was diagnosed with Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID), more commonly known as Multiple Personality Disorder. DID is a complex psychological condition that is frequently misunderstood and still considered controversial. The disorder is caused by severe and repeated childhood trauma, usually physical, sexual, and/or emotional abuse. Though DID itself is rare, its underlying cause is not. Not until Michelle remembered and confronted the full extent of what had happened to her, was she able to find the path to recovery and ultimately triumph. She is now a successful psychotherapist, expert in trauma, and prominent advocate against child abuse, as well as a happily married wife and mother.
As part of an interview, Michelle Stevens can discuss:
How her story differs from those that make headlines (Jaycee Dugard, Elizabeth Smart, the Cleveland kidnapping victims) and why that’s significant.
Common misconceptions about sexual abuse and abusers and warning signs for parents, educators, institutions, law enforcement, and anyone who cares about the well-being of children.
Psychological symptoms of someone who has suffered sexual abuse and why victims usually do not come forward.
Dissociative Identity Disorder: what it is, why it’s controversial, and what it’s like to live with it.
When and how the memories of her abuse came back to her after years of unconsciously repressing them.
Why she chose to become a psychologist and the mission behind her nonprofit, Post-Traumatic Success.
Why she chose to share her story now and what her life is like today.
SCARED SELFLESS is an examination of the extraordinary—and inexplicable—feats of the mind in the face of unspeakable abuse and a remarkable story of triumph that offers help and hope for recovery. We urge you to make prominent plans for coverage and will be in touch soon to discuss possibilities.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Dr. Michelle Stevens, a psychologist, is the founder and director of Post-Traumatic Success, a nonprofit organization dedicated to educating and inspiring those affected by psychological trauma. She studied writing at New York University before earning her doctorate in clinical psychology from Saybrook University, where her thesis was honored as the Dissertation of Distinction. Stevens has presented her research to the International Society for the Study of Trauma and Dissociation and the Los Angeles County Psychological Association, where she also received an award for Outstanding Research. She works with survivors around the globe as a therapist, speaker, and advocate, encouraging them to heal, grow, and fight for better lives. She lives in Los Angeles with her wife and son.