Laura Conn spent 35 years of her life as a social worker, dedicating her time to helping others navigate life’s challenges. But, in July 2023, Laura found herself in an unfamiliar position on the other side of the coin, at the end of the rope with nowhere to turn. Her attempts to address her mental health issues were met with messages like “You’re too chronic, you’re too sick or you have too many issues.’
Unemployed with no money or insurance, Laura’s hope was dwindling, as she struggled with post-traumatic stress disorder, bipolar two disorder, and borderline personality disorder.
Having traveled across North Carolina looking for answers, Laura found the solution right in her own backyard.
Through a colleague, Laura was introduced to Monarch and its services, ready more than ever to take the necessary steps to improve her quality of life.
“I thought, well, what the heck. I have nothing to lose,” said Conn. “I have everything to gain.”
The Clayton native began her journey with Senior Therapist Erica Bales and the support groups she helped lead. Laura was focused on addressing a lifetime of trauma, making Bales the ideal therapist for her challenges.
While Bales’ expertise in trauma has been a connection point for Laura, her approach to treatment also made a big difference.
Laura found validation when sharing her familial and health challenges, but more importantly, Bales, along with her intern Candace, focused on accountability.
“Accountability helps a lot. Nobody’s job here is to fix me. That’s my job,” said Laura. “If people aren’t serious and they just think that somebody’s going to have a magic wand, wave it and they’re going to be better, forget it. That’s a waste of their time. It’s a waste of the therapist’s time.”
After using this approach and working with Bales over the last two years, Laura began to see a new version of herself. After receiving disability, she became the new owner of a Lexus and has been aboard four separate cruises, setting sail on a new life.
As for hobbies, Laura is now a self-proclaimed ‘Tech Wiz” and has found herself enjoying cooking and hosting friends at her home.
However, the road to recovery when battling mental health challenges is not always linear. For Laura, an October incident left her experiencing emotional and physical trauma, as she was mistreated while recovering from an ankle operation that left her unable to live independently.
The experience not only brought back previously occurring issues but created new trauma as well. Laura decided to return to Monarch and reunite with Bales, understanding the severity of what she was about to face.
“We’re working on probably the hardest thing I’ve ever worked on in my entire life. It’s really, really tough. There’s issues I’ve never shared with anyone, and as we started this difficult journey, there are even things that Erica didn’t know,” said Laura. “The sessions I’m having now are really difficult, but I trust Erica and Candace implicitly. They’re very supportive. They’re very knowledgeable.”
Despite the setback, Laura remains focused on her upward trajectory, putting herself first. The previous validation and accountability have instilled confidence as she remains focused on her goals, including caring more about and embracing herself.
“[I’m] trying to get in touch more with my femininity and caring about the way I look and the way I dress and my hair, earrings and jewelry,” said Laura. “That’s a big deal for me, learning to care more about myself and getting to know and embrace all of me. I think it’s going to be very helpful, and that’s something I’ve never had before.”
As someone who has helped the lives of others for the better half of three decades, Laura has even more appreciation for the help that both Bales and Monarch have provided her.
“When you have people that make it so easy, that’s a wonderful thing. I’ve never experienced any rejection here,” said Laura. “I’ve never experienced judgment. I’ve never experienced a harsh word. I can be whoever I want to be.”
If you or someone you know is struggling, professional help is available. Monarch offers a range of services to address behavioral health issues. Contact Monarch at (866) 272-7826 to connect with a therapist who can help.