Cerelli defines PTSD as "a disorder stemming from a life-threatening trauma so horrific, the psyche could not handle it." Cerelli was sexually abused as a child and later suppressed her memories of a military rape. Her PTSD manifested itself through behavioral disorders and internal anger that made her feel isolated from mainstream society. When the memory of her victimization surfaced in a flashback, Cerelli says the physical pain she experienced, frightened her more than anything else had in her life.

"My Journey to Peace with PTSD" brings readers the raw truth about overcoming PTSD, from the victim's point of view, not the counselor's. During her treatment, Cerelli found it unacceptable that she could not find a book explaining why she allowed herself to be victimized. "My Journey to Peace with PTSD" gives readers a clear view of how Cerelli's childhood abuse affected her later life choices. By the time she enlisted in the military after high school, the low self-esteem and self-destructive behaviors Cerelli developed as an abuse victim made her a target for rape.

Cerelli explains how and why painful memories can be suppressed for so long and how she is able to identify victims of abuse through specific speech patterns, body movements and behaviors. For those who see themselves all too well in "My journey to Peace with PTSD," Cerelli included the 10 questions any reader can ask himself or herself to determine whether or not they may be a victim of abuse. "My journey to peace has been lifelong, and I am at peace now," Cerelli says. "But it doesn't have to take a lifetime."

About the Author
Lady Cerelli resides in the mountains of North Carolina. She has been a spiritual counselor for more than 40 years. She is the founder of a non-profit organization that aims to create a safe space through their Web site and newsletter for those who have been abused or traumatized and desire to remain anonymous. Health care professionals who want to share or learn about successful methods for the healing process are also welcome to the Web site and newsletter.

"My Journey to Peace with PTSD" (ISBN 9780979888304, Peace Publishers, 2007) can be purchased through local and online bookstores. For more information, visit www.peacewithptsd.org. Publicity contact: www.readerviews.com. Review copies available upon request.