Eddie Stephens shares his story to help lawyers identify trauma in clients
West Palm Beach: Eddie Stephens started his legal career with a surprising revelation. A client opened up about a crack cocaine addiction, and it shocked him. This client seemed successful, so it made him realize that appearances can be deceiving.
As he worked more as a family attorney, he saw many lives affected by serious issues like mental health and substance abuse. It made him reflect on his own childhood and how fortunate he was to have turned out okay.
Stephens grew up with parents who struggled with addiction. He lost his mom in high school and moved in with his grandmother. It was tough, but he found support from friends and teachers who stepped in when he needed it most.
He calls those people “angels” for helping him feel cared for. Discovering his love for performing and writing also helped him heal. He realized he could use those skills as a lawyer while building a stable life.
As he got older, he wanted to give back, just like those who helped him. He learned about the long-term effects of childhood trauma, known as adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), which can include things like domestic violence and divorce.
Specializing in high-conflict divorces, he saw firsthand how these situations hurt kids. He spoke at events to raise awareness and joined a nonprofit board to help address these issues.
Stephens wrote an article advocating for family lawyers to be “trauma informed,” which has reached over 8,000 people. Now, training to recognize trauma counts for mental health credits for Florida attorneys.
He’s proud of the movement that’s growing around this awareness. Now happily married with two sons, he enjoys sharing his story and wants others to have the same healing opportunities he did.
“We’re all shaped by our experiences,” he says. “I aim to make things better and fairer for everyone.”
