Greetings and Welcome!
My name is Bri, but here, I go by Monique. Many of you may recognize my voice or know me as the first point of contact when you call our office, alongside our receptionists. Today, I want to take a moment to properly introduce myself, share a bit about my story, and explain why I’m here.
I work here because one of my life’s core goals is to help others in ways I didn’t receive help growing up. In the book of Genesis, it says we are the peacekeepers of this world, and I strive to live by that principle. A close friend once shared that perspective with me, and I’ve fully embraced it. I have a deep empathy for people because my own experiences have shaped me in ways that make me want to serve others. I grew up in a loving home, but it was also filled with challenges. My childhood wasn’t easy, and I had to learn to navigate life mostly on my own. I wasn’t taught emotional maturity or how to ask for help, fearing I’d burden others. I overworked myself, taking on responsibilities for my family and ignoring my own needs. I thought that growing up faster would solve everything, but in doing so, I missed out on much of my childhood.
At 17, I experienced the consequences of a poor decision that would forever change my life. I went to a party against my mom’s wishes, and that night, I suffered a severe head injury, slipping into an induced coma. Only thanks to a true friend who called my mom and performed CPR did I survive. That moment made me realize how fragile life is and how crucial it is to make better choices.
Even after that, I still struggled. Peer pressure, self-worth issues, and bullying plagued me. I worked hard to maintain good grades and played two sports, but my inner battles continued. In my early twenties, I moved to Georgia to start over with family, but eventually, I returned to Michigan to rebuild my life. It was there I found the love of my life, who is now my wife. I am proud to be part of the LGBTQ+ community and have learned that self-acceptance is a lifelong journey.
Along the way, I faced more hardships as well do often enough, but for me it included family struggles and a car accident that led to surgery and a long recovery. During this period, I discovered my passion for psychology, I received my Bachelor’s in Industrial Organizational Psychology this past June, fun words that basically means study of the human behavior in the workplace and I started Grad School this past August. I realized that helping others through their healing journeys was my calling whether you work or a client of a facility.
In my own recovery, I did much of the work alone before seeking professional help. I turned to journaling, crying, and even screaming into pillows (I had a lot of tension inside, LOL). But what truly facilitated my healing was meditation. At first, I tried it out of sheer desperation, but soon, it became a vital practice in my life. Meditation, mindfulness, and focusing on my mental well-being became the foundation of my healing process. I began with just a few minutes a day, and I quickly saw how it helped me gain clarity, make better decisions, and emotionally heal. Meditation wasn’t just about finding peace—it helped me reconnect with myself and learn how to move forward, no matter how heavy the journey felt.
Meditation isn’t just about finding inner peace; it’s about embracing discomfort and working through it. It taught me to accept my struggles, face my past, and keep moving forward. Over the past three years, mindfulness has been my anchor, even during setbacks.
Click here and start your first 5 minute guided meditation.
I’ve also learned the importance of self-forgiveness and letting go of past hurts. This is why I’m taking this moment to offer a public apology to anyone I may have hurt. I’m also learning to forgive those who’ve hurt me. Letting go of resentment has been freeing and allowed me to grow.
When you are ready, Click here check out our staff and we would love to help, please call at 734-729-3133.
I’m here because I believe in helping others on their own healing journeys. We all have stories, and I’m committed to being part of yours. Whether through individual or couples counseling, I’m here to support you in your path to a healthy lifestyle and mental well-being.
Thank you for taking the time to read my story. I’m always here to listen, support, and help however I can.
I hope to hear all your stories. Please comment below.
With love and gratitude,
Bri a.k.a Monique