Former Real Housewives of New Jersey provocateur Danielle Staub claims she has walked away from her pole-hugging job at Scores strip club in New York City just a day after the news (and photos) hit the internet. Staub tells People she is seeking psychological treatment for issues stemming from being abused as a child:

“My low self-esteem derived from childhood sexual abuse has messed with my mind and self-worth, and over the years I thought about getting help but pushed it deep into the depths of denial,” she says. “For years I have had the suicide hotline on my cell phone and would like nothing more than to free myself from this constant pressure.

“Seeing how I have hurt myself and my family this time,” she continues, “I can no longer push it behind me.”

She also tells the magazine that her former handlers “coaxed” her into signing the contract with Scores, but then admits that she has to own up to her own decisions.

Danielle, who is currently filming a new reality show in California and NOT dating Ray J, says she has sought out the help of none other than addiction specialist to the stars, Dr. Drew Pinsky! No word if “seeking out help” from the Drewster actually means she wants to be on the next season of celebrity rehab.

On a side note, our Teen Mom readers have probably done the math in their head and have the same concerns as I do. Danielle Staub – a notorious flirt and man jumper – is in California seeking help from Dr. Drew, who will be hosting a special on May 29 starring all the baby daddies from Teen Mom and Teen Mom 2. Can you say cougar alert?!? You may laugh but remember – this is Adam and Gary we’re talking about!

(Top photo: Danielle Staub at the ‘Welcome to New York’ party for Amar’e Stoudemire at Lucky Strike Lanes in New York City on October 23, 2010. Credit: C.Smith/WENN.com)