A Message From Monica…

I have been a member of the The Relational Center community since 2008 when I began my Marriage and Family Therapy traineeship. I remember feeling nervous and unprepared to work with clients. I also felt pretty much invisible in the world and did not think there was much that I could bring that would be of value. It was at The Relational Center where I first felt not only seen, but valued. My colleagues made space for me (a quiet, unassertive person) to come forward. They encouraged me to participate in whatever way I felt comfortable. I felt truly supported and was able to cultivate the resources needed to provide support to others as well. I realized that as a member of The Relational Center community, I have a network of people who are there for me in different ways and that I, too, can be there for others. During the course of my training, I learned so much more than the skills needed to work as an MFT. I learned what it means to truly participate in community and in life and how important it is for me to show up, participate, and take action. Because if we do not, then who will?

I am so thankful for the amazing people who supported me on my journey towards licensure and I am excited about what we can all do together in 2017. Your help is urgently needed in these unsettled times. If you have not already contributed this year, I hope you will join me in supporting The Relational Center so we can continue our work to develop engaged networks of support, smoothing the way for diverse groups to work together effectively to promote health and wellbeing in our communities.