About Andrea Monroe
My Story
Why did I become an Equine Life Coach?
I grew up on the West Side of Chicago, and I have a dark past.
My life changed when I enlisted in the USAF. After my time in the service, it was hard transitioning back into civilian life; I still felt out of place. After about 20 years of Federal Service, I trained as a Peer Specialist. It was then, that my life held purpose and meaning by helping others. By helping others, I helped myself heal from all of the trauma and pain from my past.
Why Horses?
Throughout my life and career, I gradually became fascinated with unicorns, Pegasus (an immortal, divine creature in Greek Mythology), and horses - I had them plastered all over my apartments like wallpaper. Wherever I was stationed, I made sure to always look for a place to ride. When I landed a job that involved horseback riders, the journey to having my own horses began.
Whenever I was near a horse, I felt free. If the horse paid me any attention at all, it felt magical. One of my favorite horses, Jazz, ultimately saved my life because he was with me during dark times. If I didn’t have that outlet, I honestly don’t know if I would still be here. So, I decided to share the healing that I’ve experienced while working with those mystical beings.
Education
Certified WISE Equine Assisted Life Coach | 2022
SMART Recovery for Professionals GSF-301 | 2020
25-CE Hour
Certified Peer Support Specialist Course | 2017
76 Hour Course hosted by RI Consulting
WRAP Facilitator Training | 2016
40-hour course by Copeland Center for Wellness and Recovery
Certified Peer Support Specialist Course | 2014
40-hour course hosted by Mississippi Department of Mental Health
Bachelor of Arts, Applied Science | 2010
Midwestern State University, Wichita, TX
Relative course work:
Social Work in Human Resources; Human Resource Management; Diversity
Experience
Has worked in the Medical Field since 1985
Certified Peer Support Residentialfrom 2019-present
Certified Peer Support Homeless Program from 2015-2019
Completed Whole Health Training in 2018
Member of U.S. Air Force from 1985-1993
Mortuary Temporary Duty Assignment in 1991
Wrote book Jezebel’s Wings in 2009 under alias Joan Crossing
Jezebel’s Wings
By Joan Crossing
Jezebel’s Wings is about a ten-year-old going to bed only to awake to a different mom - same face but different soul. From this point on, her life changes; her mother has gone completely mad. This day marks the change and challenges from child to woman. She embarks on desperate journeys to be something other than what the street has in store.