03/04/2026
💫 Shands Therapeutic Peer Highlight 💫
Monique Smith has been a vital member of Shand's Therapeutic
Solutions since April 2023, serving as a Peer Recovery
Specialist, Certified in the State of Virginia. She also has
certifications as Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), Personal
Care Assistant (PCA), Direct Support Professional (DSP), and
Behavioral Health Technician Assistant (BHT-A). Her
commitment to recovery 1S deeply rooted in her own. journey;
having embraced sobriety since January 2020, she has overcome
the challenges of a alcoholism through resilience, hard- work, and
unwavering determination. Monique is passionate about
empowering others on their recovery. Journeys, and she takes
pride in helping individuals achieve their goals.
Currently pursuing her associate's degree in S social work at
Bryant and Stratton College. Monique is set to graduate in the
spring of this year. Following this achievement, she plans to
continue her education and pursue her bachelor's degree at
Norfolk State University, startng in the fall of 2026. Monique
aspires to become a qualified mental health professional and
hopes to work part-time as a Victim Witness Advocate, role
that resonates deeply with her after the tragic loss ofher
daughter to gun violence mn 2023.
In addition to her protessional pursuits, Monique is opening a
group home for individuals with intellectual disabilities,
demonstratıng her dedication to serving diverse community
needs. She also plans to launch her own thrift store, MZ Kitty's
Kloset, named in honor of her mother. It is currently an online
business. However, the future plan of a storefront is in the
making. Furthermore. Monique is writing a book titled Shattered
Diamonds, named in honor ofher daughter. This deeply
personal work will explore her life growing up with an alcoholic
father and an uneducated mother, shedding light on her
resilience and, journey toward healing.
Outside of her professional commitments, Monique enjoys
reading and traveling in her spare time. She cherished the
moments spent with her family, including her loving husband
Brian, their six children, and her four cherished grandchildren.
Monique's journey is a testament to the power of perseverance
and the importance of giving back to the community she holds dear.
Call Us to be paired to a Peer that'll match with what you've been through & where you're heading...
☎️ 757-645-5595
Shands Therapeutic Solutions
