A Tribute to Dr. Paul Martin of Wellspring
Paul Martin, Ph. D., founder of Wellspring
ICSA and reFOCUS received the very sad news that Dr Paul Martin passed away after a long illness on Friday, August 14th, 2009. Paul was one of the leading figures in the cultic studies field. He was a former member of the Great Commission International, who put all that he learned about destructive cults into action as a psychologist and the Director of the Wellspring Retreat and Resource Center in Albany, Ohio, a residential rehabilitation center for ex-cult members that has treated over 1,000 clients. In that capacity, Paul dealt with former cult members and their families with wisdom, kindness, and compassion. Additionally, Paul shared his growing knowledge by contributing to the training of others not only at Wellspring, but also at conferences and through his numerous articles and his book, Cult-Proofing Your Kids. Wellspring also has served as a research center that has expanded our clinical understanding.
You will find a profile of Dr. Paul Martin <http://www.icsahome.com/infoserv_profile/martin_paul.asp> * on ICSA's website (www.icsahome.com). If you would like to share your reflections on Paul’s contributions and your feelings about him, please don’t hesitate to contact Dr. Michael Langone (mail@icsamail.com), who will soon be setting up a memorial page in Paul’s honor.
reFOCUS has asked former members write their reflections, memories and feelings about Paul’s impact. The following collection has been received to date. Those who wish to contribute in the future, please feel free to write reFOCUS at refocuscarol@att.net
-------------------
Both in my personal life and for reFOCUS, how saddened I am by the loss of Dr. Paul Martin. On a personal level, I remember meeting Paul and his lovely wife, Barb, at the first CAN conference they attended. It wasn’t long after that he launched Wellspring Retreat and Resource Center and opened the doors to former members of cultic groups, most of whom at that time had been recently exit counseled. Many of my own clients attended there and it was so rewarding to be able to both refer clients and, a few times, go to the facility with them.
Paul's work with former members is immeasurable. He has touched many lives and truly made a difference in them. Paul’s work in the research field contributed much-needed data and information to the field. When he presented his model of the Overview of the Recovery Process at the early AFF (American Family Foundation, now named International Cultic Studies Association) recovery workshops, it was his work that I continue to present, with minor additions, at the current recovery workshops. Paul was relentless at giving, gentle and humble in spirit, sharp in mind, slow and careful in speech, and irreplaceable. He has touched my life, affected my work and I will sorely miss him. My heartfelt sympathies go out to his precious family.
Carol Giambalvo
-------------------
It’s so sad to hear that we have lost another icon in the cult recovery field. Paul Martin has left us but his work will live on. It will be up to us to carry on.
Paul had tremendous compassion for cult survivors. Being one himself made him acutely aware of the diverse needs of this population. So he became a psychologist and studied the field as a researcher, then listened to our suffering as a psychotherapist and eventually created Wellspring so we had a safe place to go to begin to heal. No one has covered the bases of education, support, therapy and residential treatment as completely as Paul. His gentleness, determination, wisdom and relentless persistence will be sorely missed.
On a more personal level I am so very grateful to Paul for studying Kashi Ranch, my former cult, and making statements to the press like: “Kashi has all of the makings of a quintessential cult” and “the members scored the highest Martin has ever seen on a psychological test designed to measure psychological abuse.” It takes courage and credibility to pull this off and Paul did it well.
Rosanne Henry
----------------------
It was my first CAN (the original Cult Awareness Network) conference. In my confused state of mind, I gravitated to the ex-member session presented by Dr. Paul Martin. Clearly, I remember that being the first time that anyone had spoken with any sense about what had happened to me during the previous 10 years. I sat in silence, shock and relief as I listened to Dr. Martin's explanations of cults, mind control, and recovery. His presentation that day impacted my life greatly. His presentations over the years have re-affirmed my understanding of my cult and deprogramming experiences. His work allowed me to make sense out of chaos, and to take steps forward into a freer life. I will miss him greatly.
Ginger Zyskowski
------------------
Here are my thoughts about Paul. He stayed the course through tough times, he didn't pack-up and move on to other work. He respected the need to do research and worked with many people from all over the world to complete clinical studies. He earned the respect of the academic community but still focused on connecting with individual clients and getting them personal treatment. He didn't let his health concerns overwhelm him. He held strong beliefs but never pushed them on his clients.
He will be missed by the recovery community
Let me take this opportunity to express my thanks for your tireless efforts on behalf of those who have been abused!
John
-------------------
My name is Jenny Hunter. I am proud to have known Paul Martin. My life was saved by the work he began at Wellspring. I was in a cult for 12 years, the “International Churches of Christ."
I left in 2004 at the age of 33 with 2 young children. Within a year I ended up at Wellspring because although I had a job and a great support system, etc., I was falling apart inside.
Wellspring saved my life. I will never forget the workshop session Paul did one day for me and the two other ex members.
I was so inspired by what he did at Wellspring it inspired me to start a non profit of my own and I have mostly raised money that has helped people go to Wellspring.
When I found out about his death...I felt very sad and empty. Somehow it seemed lonely to think he was no longer on this earth with us.
What he has left, those he has helped directly and indirectly will honor his name for a very long time.I know his work will continue in the professionals he has inspired to continue caring for ex cult members and the ex members who work silently to help others.
Thank you Paul.
---------------
“Once when I visited Wellspring, Paul took us on a tour of the facilities and showed us the doorknobs on the rooms. He said, “See, the locks are on the inside of the door, not the outside (e.g., residents could leave when ever they wanted. They were not held against their wills, as some had alleged). He also described the time at Wellspring as “burning both ends of the candle” in order to help the resident find their own solution. Paul was compassionate, forward looking, and practical. He has been a role-model and inspiration to me. ”
Anonymous
----------------
I never met Dr. Martin, and never went to Wellspring, but I did speak with Dr. Ron Burke at Wellspring at the beginning of my journey out ofthe cult in Benton Harbor, Michigan. Both my conversation (at no chargeto me) and the material on the Wellspring website were invaluable. Withoutthem, I would still be stuck at the beginning of the road. I am deeplygrateful to Dr. Martin and to Wellspring. My prayers are with his familyand the staff of Wellspring. And blessings to you and the reFOCUS folkstoo - believe me, your work is extremely necessary in the world right now.
Best Regards, Sally
---------------------
Dear Friends:
My tears and prayers are with you. Dr. Paul Martin ministered greatly to me. I am very thankful for the blessing of his life.
Love, Elizabeth
---------------
I knew Paul personally through his former group involvement. I had the privilege of being part of his recovery workshops for former cult members. His wisdom, experience, strength and hope, and dry sense of humor was inspiring.
He was an elder in the same group that Tammy and I were in. He helped me sort out of the loss and the grief I was suffering in the early years of my recovery.
I had the honor of being a member of a church who left its shepherding roots. In a private conversation with the pastor, it was revealed that Paul officiated their wedding. That a small world.
I know there are other forum members who were personally helped by Wellspring. Please remember the family and those in the cult recovery community who are saddened by his passing.
Ex-shep
http://www.christianrecovery.com
-------------
I never met Paul Martin but appreciated the Six Myths (They were GREAT!) and ordered something of his from Amazon.com. Best regards from Christine
---------------
Paul was kind, sensitive, tolerant, thoughtful, insightful, a good friend, fierce when he needed to be, and true to our cause. He did so much for so many. His contributions will not be forgotten and he will be sorely missed.
Janja Lalich, Ph.D.
Chico, California
------------------
Paul was one of the most gentle men I ever met. He cradled my soul until it could stand on it's own. I will miss you, Friend. Until we meet again-
JS. Texas.
-----------------
Hi, all - such sad news. I very much enjoyed hearing from Paul duringsome of the Philly sessions. The work at Wellsprings made such adifference to so many. It's unfortunate that people who do great workwith such committment face such obstacles in life. Thank you for lettingus know what happened.
Patti
----------------
It was a privilege and a honor to have known and worked with Dr. Paul Martin. He was able to blend his own life experiences, his training, and his love for people to assist them through difficult times and bring them to a point where they were able to rediscover their uniqueness and value.
I had the opportunity to be there with Dr. Martin and his staff at the beginning of Wellspring. The Center filled a void for those who wanted to sort through their experiences and its impact on their lives while exploring their spirituality in a safe and loving environment if they chose.
Dr. Martin was respected for his academics, his research, and his support for those that were victims of totalitarian situations and groups. All those that knew him and had the pleasure to work with him will sorely miss him.
My condolences go out to his family and staff whom he leaves behind and I know that he will hear the words that he longed to hear:
Well done you good and faithful servant.
Rand Burkey
----------------------
I will leave that for those who knew him, but I DO want to express my sympathy to you...I know he was very special to you. I am so sorry for your loss. If you need anything, I am an e-mail away :).
Though I did not know him, I feel very grateful for the impact he had in helping people find "themselves" after leaving cults. It sounds like he was a wonderful man. My husband and I took a drive to the Albany/Athens area last weekend and my heart was heavy, thinking about he and his family going through such a difficult time. I am sad that I did not get the chance to meet Paul, but I know I will "get to know him" through those he had relationships with and those he helped. I respect him for living his passion and for making such a positive difference.
Linda
------------------
My memory of Paul Martin was he was one of the first people I chatted with at my First national conference (CAN) many years ago. Since then we talked about many topics including tips on clients we both had. I had referred many clients to Wellspring over the years and always got positive feedback from them. Paul Martin will be sorely missed.
Hal Mansfield
-----------------
I was shocked to hear of Paul's passing. That must have been sudden.
I knew Paul and several Wellspring staff members quite well.
I lost a friend to Great Commission in 1984. Paul helped me sort out my cult involvement and the loss of Chrissa.
In another small world connection, I was involved in a Great Commission church in Texas which went through so many reforms that they eventually ended leaving GC. When Paul was an elder in the then Blitz Movement, he presided over the wedding of who was later to be the senior pastor of Grace Community Church in Plano TX. I was a member at Grace 2005-2007.
My fondest memory was Paul speaking at the FOCUS pre-conference in Oklahoma City. His wit and wisdom was inspiring.
No doubt he will be missed. I did forward your announcement to the forum off spiritual abuse.com. There are several forum members who knew Paul personally through Wellspring. Thank you for letting meknow.
Mark
---------------
This is such a shock to me! I went to Wellspring as an inpatient for 2 weeks in 2001--they saved my life. I was hoping for an opportunity to speak to him again someday.
EL
---------------
Hello to all the friends of Dr.Martin
I was lucky enough to meet Paul on a couple of occasions one of them being at Wellspring. His organization saved my sanity and through Wellspring I healed my life. I will be eternally grateful for the help that I received thanks to his example. I met him recently at a cult education seminar and I wish now that I had told him what an amazing person he is and how grateful I am that he started Wellspring. Unfortunately I was far too shy and I think he probably wouldn't have accepted the compliment anyway as he was such a humble person.
I am just so sad that an angel such as Paul has been taken so unfairly, but confident that he is in a better place. I send all my love to the family and close friends and I am truly sorry for their loss.
Deepest sympathy
Katie
------------------
I am so saddened to learn of Paul Martin's death. I know he had struggled with serious health issues for some time. We have lost a very important contributor to the entire field. Not only was he a former member himself, but went on to become a psychologist, did expert witness work, and of course opened and ran Wellspring, which I sent clients to for many, many years.
The last time I spoke at length with Paul was at the ICSA conference in Philadephia in '08 when we renewed our connection of some 30 years. We spoke of our many decade parallel journey in the field of raising awareness about destructive mind control relationships and groups. We also discussed how tragic it is that there is so much unfortunate politics, cliques and undercutting of people in the underfunded cult awareness field who are just trying to help. He too wished we could put any of our petty differences aside and focus on the big picture- helping people who need help, and raising awareness, so that we can help alleviate human suffering and avert further tragedies.
I truly hope that Paul's contributions will be recognized and that more can be done to provide options for people who have been through a devastating mind control experience can have the option to go and heal. With the announced closing of Wellspring, that leaves only Bob and Judy Pardon's Meadowhaven, for now. It is so sad that with the cult problem being bigger than ever, there are fewer resources available.
No one lives forever, but Paul died way too young. He will be missed.
Steve Hassan
----------------
Dr. Martin made a immense and lasting contribution toward helping Christians who have suffered at the hands of cultic churches. His article “Dispelling the Myths” is the best resource for pastors and counselors on the issues involved. The film “Join Us”, which has just come out on DVD, will be of inestimable value. As Dr. Martin described many times, his own cult involvement took a huge toll on his health, and yet he spent himself unreservedly in the fight against cultism. We will benefit from his labors for years to come.
Margaret Irons, Editor http://geftakysassembly.com/
----------------
Dr. Paul Martin was so well-versed in cult manipulation and abuse that I was truly amazed. When I arrived at Wellspring, I had no idea of what I had gone through and how it had affected my life. I did not know what it meant to be brainwashed. And when I left I felt relieved of not only revealing the "secrets" I had been keeping from the world for so long, but now I saw them in a new light, and I saw myself in a new way as well. I was given permission to be upset with my abusers and feel angry. I could now own my thoughts, feelings, and doubts. He gave me a new beginning by teaching me about mind control and cultic relationships. He listened with a kind heart and showed me how strong I had been in the face of opposition.
Karen Young
------------------
Thank you for letting me know about Paul Martin's death. I was a client at Wellspring in 2004, and had received a letter from them a few months ago letting me know of his illness and that he was in treatment for it. But what a shock!! And what a sad loss.... I am so sorry to hear this.... Wellspring was a really helpful place for me.... And is for so many others....
I was recruited into a cult by both a psychology teacher and a school counselor at the time that I disclosed childhood sexual abuse for the first time. It was to say the least, a very vulnerable time for me and I was taken advantage of for sure!! Wellspring really helped in my recovery, as did the Cult Awareness Network conferences that I attended back in 1993 and 1994 where I had heard of Wellspring. I never thought I would use their services though because I thought cults were where people lived together and I did not live with the "counselors" who exploited me. I also never thought I would use their services because the abusers were still "in my head" keeping me from reaching out for any kind of help again....
I really hope the people involved with Wellspring will be able to keep it open and going. And the need still exists as is evidenced by the recent case of the missing girl who has now been found 18 years later!! And she was taken by a predator who had "weird" religious beliefs, has now two kids by him, one of which when she was 14, and this guy had been previously in prison for rape among other things. This girl (now woman), along with her family is going to need help, the kind of help that Wellspring provides, which can not only educate her on why she bonded with this creep, but how she can exit that thinking process and be able to move forward with her life....
Thank you for this opportunity to honor Dr. Paul Martin. I am so grateful that he founded a place like Wellspring that not only has helped me, but has helped so many other people....
Elizabeth Fleischer
------------------------
It is so difficult for me to express the loss of a dear friend and dedicated colleague who meant so much to so many.
It was back during the mid-1980's that I met Dr. Paul Martin. He and I were both former members of bible based cult-like groups that had mainstream Christian doctrines but shared in similar cultic dynamics. As a former member having met someone like Paul with his enormous talents and training in the mental health profession added a truly needed contribution for former members who walked away from their groups truly hurting. They really needed and appreciated recovery assistance from Paul that his stature as a clinical psychologist provided. It was truly an honor to work with Dr. Martin on various former cult member workshops and counseling encounters. Paul gave both his time and care when money wasn't always there to compensate him for really needed professional help that Dr. Martin would provide.
The more cult related conferences and workshops we attended Dr. Martin began to see the need for a facility to help former members recover from psychological and spiritual abuse. I agreed with Paul's vision and hope he could realize it. Before Dr. Martin created Wellspring -- it should be kept in mind that previous cult rehabilitation or recovery centers did not last, but closed their doors before Dr. Martin's Wellspring was established. The professional standards provided by Paul excelled the previous recovery facilities. In the total number of years of Wellspring's existence there have been cult organizations along with their academic and legal allies who would make assertions about the cult phenomenon and alleged atrocity tales of former members, their families and supporters. Dr. Martin was fully dedicated in dispelling the myths by providing sound professional research and documented studies that Wellspring provided that data under his directorship. There were cultic realities we who lived it know the truth of it, but Dr. Martin methodically documented and publically demonstrated it's reality in published findings. We will be forever in Dr. Martin's debt for his tireless efforts to get the truth out about the cult world we who lived it know so well.
It was truly a rewarding experience to watch Dr. Martin give his findings at academic along with cult related conferences and workshops on a worldwide level factually demonstrating what the true harm and abuse really does to cult victims and recovery assistance that brings true and lasting healing.
Dr. Martin truly advanced the cause of psychology and science with his professional projects for AFF and ICSA. Paul was a legal expert witness in cult related litigation cases and helped those who required his help. Cultic organizations battled and harassed Wellspring and under Dr. Martin's supervision weathered those storms and kept Wellspring functioning. Where other facilities did not survive legal battles and harassment -- Wellspring prevailed. Dr. Martin was not only a giant in our field he was also a genuine hero under such relenting and trying circumstances, BRAVO.
I am an early fellow pioneer in this field and truly admire the courage and steadfastness of Paul and his tireless mission to help those who battle groups that did not leave some people alone. Dr. Martin's historic legacy will be remembered with much affection to those who knew and loved him. My heart and prayers go out to his wife Barbara and his family who stood by his side through all the difficulties and the many rewards they shared together.
Dr. Martin's vision should continue and we who knew him best need to continue to support the work he gave his life to -- until he could do it more.
With heart-felt appreciation,
David Clark
You will find a profile of Dr. Paul Martin <http://www.icsahome.com/infoserv_profile/martin_paul.asp> * on ICSA's website (www.icsahome.com). If you would like to share your reflections on Paul’s contributions and your feelings about him, please don’t hesitate to contact Dr. Michael Langone (mail@icsamail.com), who will soon be setting up a memorial page in Paul’s honor.
reFOCUS has asked former members write their reflections, memories and feelings about Paul’s impact. The following collection has been received to date. Those who wish to contribute in the future, please feel free to write reFOCUS at refocuscarol@att.net
-------------------
Both in my personal life and for reFOCUS, how saddened I am by the loss of Dr. Paul Martin. On a personal level, I remember meeting Paul and his lovely wife, Barb, at the first CAN conference they attended. It wasn’t long after that he launched Wellspring Retreat and Resource Center and opened the doors to former members of cultic groups, most of whom at that time had been recently exit counseled. Many of my own clients attended there and it was so rewarding to be able to both refer clients and, a few times, go to the facility with them.
Paul's work with former members is immeasurable. He has touched many lives and truly made a difference in them. Paul’s work in the research field contributed much-needed data and information to the field. When he presented his model of the Overview of the Recovery Process at the early AFF (American Family Foundation, now named International Cultic Studies Association) recovery workshops, it was his work that I continue to present, with minor additions, at the current recovery workshops. Paul was relentless at giving, gentle and humble in spirit, sharp in mind, slow and careful in speech, and irreplaceable. He has touched my life, affected my work and I will sorely miss him. My heartfelt sympathies go out to his precious family.
Carol Giambalvo
-------------------
It’s so sad to hear that we have lost another icon in the cult recovery field. Paul Martin has left us but his work will live on. It will be up to us to carry on.
Paul had tremendous compassion for cult survivors. Being one himself made him acutely aware of the diverse needs of this population. So he became a psychologist and studied the field as a researcher, then listened to our suffering as a psychotherapist and eventually created Wellspring so we had a safe place to go to begin to heal. No one has covered the bases of education, support, therapy and residential treatment as completely as Paul. His gentleness, determination, wisdom and relentless persistence will be sorely missed.
On a more personal level I am so very grateful to Paul for studying Kashi Ranch, my former cult, and making statements to the press like: “Kashi has all of the makings of a quintessential cult” and “the members scored the highest Martin has ever seen on a psychological test designed to measure psychological abuse.” It takes courage and credibility to pull this off and Paul did it well.
Rosanne Henry
----------------------
It was my first CAN (the original Cult Awareness Network) conference. In my confused state of mind, I gravitated to the ex-member session presented by Dr. Paul Martin. Clearly, I remember that being the first time that anyone had spoken with any sense about what had happened to me during the previous 10 years. I sat in silence, shock and relief as I listened to Dr. Martin's explanations of cults, mind control, and recovery. His presentation that day impacted my life greatly. His presentations over the years have re-affirmed my understanding of my cult and deprogramming experiences. His work allowed me to make sense out of chaos, and to take steps forward into a freer life. I will miss him greatly.
Ginger Zyskowski
------------------
Here are my thoughts about Paul. He stayed the course through tough times, he didn't pack-up and move on to other work. He respected the need to do research and worked with many people from all over the world to complete clinical studies. He earned the respect of the academic community but still focused on connecting with individual clients and getting them personal treatment. He didn't let his health concerns overwhelm him. He held strong beliefs but never pushed them on his clients.
He will be missed by the recovery community
Let me take this opportunity to express my thanks for your tireless efforts on behalf of those who have been abused!
John
-------------------
My name is Jenny Hunter. I am proud to have known Paul Martin. My life was saved by the work he began at Wellspring. I was in a cult for 12 years, the “International Churches of Christ."
I left in 2004 at the age of 33 with 2 young children. Within a year I ended up at Wellspring because although I had a job and a great support system, etc., I was falling apart inside.
Wellspring saved my life. I will never forget the workshop session Paul did one day for me and the two other ex members.
I was so inspired by what he did at Wellspring it inspired me to start a non profit of my own and I have mostly raised money that has helped people go to Wellspring.
When I found out about his death...I felt very sad and empty. Somehow it seemed lonely to think he was no longer on this earth with us.
What he has left, those he has helped directly and indirectly will honor his name for a very long time.I know his work will continue in the professionals he has inspired to continue caring for ex cult members and the ex members who work silently to help others.
Thank you Paul.
---------------
“Once when I visited Wellspring, Paul took us on a tour of the facilities and showed us the doorknobs on the rooms. He said, “See, the locks are on the inside of the door, not the outside (e.g., residents could leave when ever they wanted. They were not held against their wills, as some had alleged). He also described the time at Wellspring as “burning both ends of the candle” in order to help the resident find their own solution. Paul was compassionate, forward looking, and practical. He has been a role-model and inspiration to me. ”
Anonymous
----------------
I never met Dr. Martin, and never went to Wellspring, but I did speak with Dr. Ron Burke at Wellspring at the beginning of my journey out ofthe cult in Benton Harbor, Michigan. Both my conversation (at no chargeto me) and the material on the Wellspring website were invaluable. Withoutthem, I would still be stuck at the beginning of the road. I am deeplygrateful to Dr. Martin and to Wellspring. My prayers are with his familyand the staff of Wellspring. And blessings to you and the reFOCUS folkstoo - believe me, your work is extremely necessary in the world right now.
Best Regards, Sally
---------------------
Dear Friends:
My tears and prayers are with you. Dr. Paul Martin ministered greatly to me. I am very thankful for the blessing of his life.
Love, Elizabeth
---------------
I knew Paul personally through his former group involvement. I had the privilege of being part of his recovery workshops for former cult members. His wisdom, experience, strength and hope, and dry sense of humor was inspiring.
He was an elder in the same group that Tammy and I were in. He helped me sort out of the loss and the grief I was suffering in the early years of my recovery.
I had the honor of being a member of a church who left its shepherding roots. In a private conversation with the pastor, it was revealed that Paul officiated their wedding. That a small world.
I know there are other forum members who were personally helped by Wellspring. Please remember the family and those in the cult recovery community who are saddened by his passing.
Ex-shep
http://www.christianrecovery.com
-------------
I never met Paul Martin but appreciated the Six Myths (They were GREAT!) and ordered something of his from Amazon.com. Best regards from Christine
---------------
Paul was kind, sensitive, tolerant, thoughtful, insightful, a good friend, fierce when he needed to be, and true to our cause. He did so much for so many. His contributions will not be forgotten and he will be sorely missed.
Janja Lalich, Ph.D.
Chico, California
------------------
Paul was one of the most gentle men I ever met. He cradled my soul until it could stand on it's own. I will miss you, Friend. Until we meet again-
JS. Texas.
-----------------
Hi, all - such sad news. I very much enjoyed hearing from Paul duringsome of the Philly sessions. The work at Wellsprings made such adifference to so many. It's unfortunate that people who do great workwith such committment face such obstacles in life. Thank you for lettingus know what happened.
Patti
----------------
It was a privilege and a honor to have known and worked with Dr. Paul Martin. He was able to blend his own life experiences, his training, and his love for people to assist them through difficult times and bring them to a point where they were able to rediscover their uniqueness and value.
I had the opportunity to be there with Dr. Martin and his staff at the beginning of Wellspring. The Center filled a void for those who wanted to sort through their experiences and its impact on their lives while exploring their spirituality in a safe and loving environment if they chose.
Dr. Martin was respected for his academics, his research, and his support for those that were victims of totalitarian situations and groups. All those that knew him and had the pleasure to work with him will sorely miss him.
My condolences go out to his family and staff whom he leaves behind and I know that he will hear the words that he longed to hear:
Well done you good and faithful servant.
Rand Burkey
----------------------
I will leave that for those who knew him, but I DO want to express my sympathy to you...I know he was very special to you. I am so sorry for your loss. If you need anything, I am an e-mail away :).
Though I did not know him, I feel very grateful for the impact he had in helping people find "themselves" after leaving cults. It sounds like he was a wonderful man. My husband and I took a drive to the Albany/Athens area last weekend and my heart was heavy, thinking about he and his family going through such a difficult time. I am sad that I did not get the chance to meet Paul, but I know I will "get to know him" through those he had relationships with and those he helped. I respect him for living his passion and for making such a positive difference.
Linda
------------------
My memory of Paul Martin was he was one of the first people I chatted with at my First national conference (CAN) many years ago. Since then we talked about many topics including tips on clients we both had. I had referred many clients to Wellspring over the years and always got positive feedback from them. Paul Martin will be sorely missed.
Hal Mansfield
-----------------
I was shocked to hear of Paul's passing. That must have been sudden.
I knew Paul and several Wellspring staff members quite well.
I lost a friend to Great Commission in 1984. Paul helped me sort out my cult involvement and the loss of Chrissa.
In another small world connection, I was involved in a Great Commission church in Texas which went through so many reforms that they eventually ended leaving GC. When Paul was an elder in the then Blitz Movement, he presided over the wedding of who was later to be the senior pastor of Grace Community Church in Plano TX. I was a member at Grace 2005-2007.
My fondest memory was Paul speaking at the FOCUS pre-conference in Oklahoma City. His wit and wisdom was inspiring.
No doubt he will be missed. I did forward your announcement to the forum off spiritual abuse.com. There are several forum members who knew Paul personally through Wellspring. Thank you for letting meknow.
Mark
---------------
This is such a shock to me! I went to Wellspring as an inpatient for 2 weeks in 2001--they saved my life. I was hoping for an opportunity to speak to him again someday.
EL
---------------
Hello to all the friends of Dr.Martin
I was lucky enough to meet Paul on a couple of occasions one of them being at Wellspring. His organization saved my sanity and through Wellspring I healed my life. I will be eternally grateful for the help that I received thanks to his example. I met him recently at a cult education seminar and I wish now that I had told him what an amazing person he is and how grateful I am that he started Wellspring. Unfortunately I was far too shy and I think he probably wouldn't have accepted the compliment anyway as he was such a humble person.
I am just so sad that an angel such as Paul has been taken so unfairly, but confident that he is in a better place. I send all my love to the family and close friends and I am truly sorry for their loss.
Deepest sympathy
Katie
------------------
I am so saddened to learn of Paul Martin's death. I know he had struggled with serious health issues for some time. We have lost a very important contributor to the entire field. Not only was he a former member himself, but went on to become a psychologist, did expert witness work, and of course opened and ran Wellspring, which I sent clients to for many, many years.
The last time I spoke at length with Paul was at the ICSA conference in Philadephia in '08 when we renewed our connection of some 30 years. We spoke of our many decade parallel journey in the field of raising awareness about destructive mind control relationships and groups. We also discussed how tragic it is that there is so much unfortunate politics, cliques and undercutting of people in the underfunded cult awareness field who are just trying to help. He too wished we could put any of our petty differences aside and focus on the big picture- helping people who need help, and raising awareness, so that we can help alleviate human suffering and avert further tragedies.
I truly hope that Paul's contributions will be recognized and that more can be done to provide options for people who have been through a devastating mind control experience can have the option to go and heal. With the announced closing of Wellspring, that leaves only Bob and Judy Pardon's Meadowhaven, for now. It is so sad that with the cult problem being bigger than ever, there are fewer resources available.
No one lives forever, but Paul died way too young. He will be missed.
Steve Hassan
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Dr. Martin made a immense and lasting contribution toward helping Christians who have suffered at the hands of cultic churches. His article “Dispelling the Myths” is the best resource for pastors and counselors on the issues involved. The film “Join Us”, which has just come out on DVD, will be of inestimable value. As Dr. Martin described many times, his own cult involvement took a huge toll on his health, and yet he spent himself unreservedly in the fight against cultism. We will benefit from his labors for years to come.
Margaret Irons, Editor http://geftakysassembly.com/
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Dr. Paul Martin was so well-versed in cult manipulation and abuse that I was truly amazed. When I arrived at Wellspring, I had no idea of what I had gone through and how it had affected my life. I did not know what it meant to be brainwashed. And when I left I felt relieved of not only revealing the "secrets" I had been keeping from the world for so long, but now I saw them in a new light, and I saw myself in a new way as well. I was given permission to be upset with my abusers and feel angry. I could now own my thoughts, feelings, and doubts. He gave me a new beginning by teaching me about mind control and cultic relationships. He listened with a kind heart and showed me how strong I had been in the face of opposition.
Karen Young
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Thank you for letting me know about Paul Martin's death. I was a client at Wellspring in 2004, and had received a letter from them a few months ago letting me know of his illness and that he was in treatment for it. But what a shock!! And what a sad loss.... I am so sorry to hear this.... Wellspring was a really helpful place for me.... And is for so many others....
I was recruited into a cult by both a psychology teacher and a school counselor at the time that I disclosed childhood sexual abuse for the first time. It was to say the least, a very vulnerable time for me and I was taken advantage of for sure!! Wellspring really helped in my recovery, as did the Cult Awareness Network conferences that I attended back in 1993 and 1994 where I had heard of Wellspring. I never thought I would use their services though because I thought cults were where people lived together and I did not live with the "counselors" who exploited me. I also never thought I would use their services because the abusers were still "in my head" keeping me from reaching out for any kind of help again....
I really hope the people involved with Wellspring will be able to keep it open and going. And the need still exists as is evidenced by the recent case of the missing girl who has now been found 18 years later!! And she was taken by a predator who had "weird" religious beliefs, has now two kids by him, one of which when she was 14, and this guy had been previously in prison for rape among other things. This girl (now woman), along with her family is going to need help, the kind of help that Wellspring provides, which can not only educate her on why she bonded with this creep, but how she can exit that thinking process and be able to move forward with her life....
Thank you for this opportunity to honor Dr. Paul Martin. I am so grateful that he founded a place like Wellspring that not only has helped me, but has helped so many other people....
Elizabeth Fleischer
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It is so difficult for me to express the loss of a dear friend and dedicated colleague who meant so much to so many.
It was back during the mid-1980's that I met Dr. Paul Martin. He and I were both former members of bible based cult-like groups that had mainstream Christian doctrines but shared in similar cultic dynamics. As a former member having met someone like Paul with his enormous talents and training in the mental health profession added a truly needed contribution for former members who walked away from their groups truly hurting. They really needed and appreciated recovery assistance from Paul that his stature as a clinical psychologist provided. It was truly an honor to work with Dr. Martin on various former cult member workshops and counseling encounters. Paul gave both his time and care when money wasn't always there to compensate him for really needed professional help that Dr. Martin would provide.
The more cult related conferences and workshops we attended Dr. Martin began to see the need for a facility to help former members recover from psychological and spiritual abuse. I agreed with Paul's vision and hope he could realize it. Before Dr. Martin created Wellspring -- it should be kept in mind that previous cult rehabilitation or recovery centers did not last, but closed their doors before Dr. Martin's Wellspring was established. The professional standards provided by Paul excelled the previous recovery facilities. In the total number of years of Wellspring's existence there have been cult organizations along with their academic and legal allies who would make assertions about the cult phenomenon and alleged atrocity tales of former members, their families and supporters. Dr. Martin was fully dedicated in dispelling the myths by providing sound professional research and documented studies that Wellspring provided that data under his directorship. There were cultic realities we who lived it know the truth of it, but Dr. Martin methodically documented and publically demonstrated it's reality in published findings. We will be forever in Dr. Martin's debt for his tireless efforts to get the truth out about the cult world we who lived it know so well.
It was truly a rewarding experience to watch Dr. Martin give his findings at academic along with cult related conferences and workshops on a worldwide level factually demonstrating what the true harm and abuse really does to cult victims and recovery assistance that brings true and lasting healing.
Dr. Martin truly advanced the cause of psychology and science with his professional projects for AFF and ICSA. Paul was a legal expert witness in cult related litigation cases and helped those who required his help. Cultic organizations battled and harassed Wellspring and under Dr. Martin's supervision weathered those storms and kept Wellspring functioning. Where other facilities did not survive legal battles and harassment -- Wellspring prevailed. Dr. Martin was not only a giant in our field he was also a genuine hero under such relenting and trying circumstances, BRAVO.
I am an early fellow pioneer in this field and truly admire the courage and steadfastness of Paul and his tireless mission to help those who battle groups that did not leave some people alone. Dr. Martin's historic legacy will be remembered with much affection to those who knew and loved him. My heart and prayers go out to his wife Barbara and his family who stood by his side through all the difficulties and the many rewards they shared together.
Dr. Martin's vision should continue and we who knew him best need to continue to support the work he gave his life to -- until he could do it more.
With heart-felt appreciation,
David Clark
