Symposium
Breaking the Cycle, Mental Wellness Across Every Generation
Welcome Message
Dear Guests,
Welcome to the 2025 Mental Health Symposium, hosted in partnership by Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. Sigma Rho Zeta Chapter and Pleasant Grove Church. We are honored to have you join us for a meaningful day of insight, conversation, and community focused on “Breaking the Cycle: Mental Wellness Across Every Generation.”
This symposium was born from a shared desire to break down barriers and promote healing, understanding, and empowerment for all regardless of age or stage in life. Today, we will explore topics that touch every generation, from managing stress and anxiety to navigating the unique mental health challenges related to fitness, menopause, and supporting our loved ones.
We are grateful for the dedicated speakers, vendors, and volunteers who have come together to make this event possible. Most importantly, we thank you our attendees for showing up and choosing to invest in your mental well-being and that of your community.
We encourage you to engage, ask questions, and take what you learn today back to your families, workplaces, and communities. Let today be a step forward in breaking the cycle and building a healthier future for all.
With heartfelt gratitude, The Mental Health Symposium Planning Committee
Mental Health Symposium Disclaimer
The information provided during this Mental Health Symposium is intended for general educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. The views expressed by speakers, panelists, or vendors are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of the event organizers, Pleasant Grove Church, SRZ, or their affiliates.
Attendees are encouraged to consult a qualified mental health professional for any personal mental health concerns. Participation in this event does not create a therapeutic relationship between presenters and attendees.
If you or someone you know is in crisis, please seek immediate help from a licensed professional or contact emergency services.
Order of Events
31 May 2025
11:00 AM – 11:15 AM
Welcome & Opening Remarks
Emcee: Ms. Erica Jones
11:15 AM – 11:35 AM Balancing Fitness and Mental Wellness
Speaker: Ms. Felicia Baxter
11:40 AM – 12:40 PM Breakout Session I (Choose One): Room 1
Are You There God? It’s Me, Navigating Perimenopause
Speaker: Dr. Janelle Simmons Room 2
Recreating the O’s of Menopause
Speaker: Ms. Jonique Miller
12:40 PM – 1:10 PM Lunch Break
Order of Events
31 May 2025
1:10 PM – 1:30 PM Your Hormones and You
Speaker: Dr. Wendell John
1:35 PM – 2:35 PM Breakout Session II (Choose One): Room 1
Woosah: Practical Ways to Manage Stress and Anxiety
Speaker: Dr. Anita Wilson Room 2
Women, Aging & Mental Health
Speaker: Dr. Natalie Montague
2:40 PM – 3:00 PM Closing Reflections & Takeaways
Ms. Ericka Thomas
Ms. LaQuetta Sanders
Closing Prayer: Minister Bonita Croney
MEET THE SPEAKERS
ERICA JONES
METANOIA WHOLISTIC HAVEN
Erica is a passionate holistic health and lifestyle expert with a Master’s in Public Health and Leadership, focusing on Epidemiology, and a certificate in Healthcare Informatics After years in the healthcare field and facing her own health challenges, she embraced holistic medicine, honoring her ancestral roots
Now a Board-Certified Holistic Health Practitioner, Erica is trained in Herbalism, Health & Lifestyle Coaching, Doulaship, Reiki, and Yoga. She brings an intuitive, therapeutic approach to healing and loves empowering women through panels, group sessions, and her podcast, Brown Girl Table Talk. Erica is ready to walk with you on your journey to a renewed, healthier you.
MEET THE SPEAKERS
FELICIA BAXTER
BALANCED FITNESS, LLC
Felicia Baxter is a committed and innovative consultant and coach with a passion for empowering others to reach their full potential both professionally and personally. With a strong foundation in fitness, wellness, business development, and workforce development, she brings a dynamic skill set in wellness, strategic planning, project execution, and cultivating impactful partnerships.
Her diverse experience includes over 14 years as a fitness and wellness coach, being actively involved in community organizations, client engagement, workforce development, and career coaching all with a consistent focus on building authentic and sustainable relationships. Felicia is deeply dedicated to creating meaningful opportunities that inspire growth, promote holistic wellness, and support individuals in becoming the best version of themselves.
MEET THE SPEAKERS
DR. ANITA WILSON
REGIONAL MEDICAL DIRECTOR
Dr. Wilson is a Board-Certified Family Physician with more than 20 years of experience. She begin her medical career as a Community Health Center physician and continues to follow her passion for serving the underserved as she now focuses on healthcare for justice-involved populations. She firmly believes that knowledge is power when it comes to managing illnesses and disease Everyone should be afforded the opportunity to understand the medical challenges they face
MEET THE SPEAKERS
DR. JANELLE "THE CURVY DOC" SIMMONS
PLUS SIZE MODEL, PAGEANT QUEEN, AUTHOR, AND COACH
Dr. Janelle "The Curvy Doc" Simmons is a plus-size model, pageant queen, author, and senior program manager at a prestigious scientific research honor society. She empowers women to embrace body confidence and self-worth through her work in modeling, storytelling, and public speaking. Janelle is a proud member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc., Sigma Rho Zeta Chapter, where she continues her commitment to service and sisterhood. With a unique blend of elegance, intellect, and authenticity, she is redefining beauty, leadership, and representation across industries Her mission is to inspire others to live boldly, love themselves fully, and lead with authenticity
MEET THE SPEAKERS
JO’NIQUE WHITAKER
BALANCED FITNESS, LLC
Jonique D. Whitaker, a proud native of Raleigh, North Carolina, and Monroe, Louisiana, has built a life rooted in service, leadership, and excellence. A graduate of the University of Oklahoma with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing, she was honored with the OU Standard Award for her outstanding contributions. Her journey of community involvement began early as a Teen Ambassador for Wake County’s 4-H Youth Development Program and continued with notable accolades such as the 2012 Miss Teen Volunteer North Carolina State title and the Obama Presidential Award for her extensive volunteer work.
In her nursing career, Jonique is known for her compassionate care, having received 17 Daisy Award nominations and ultimately earning the prestigious award. A three-time published author, she shares her insights and experiences to inspire others. Whether at the bedside or the podium, Jonique combines professional excellence with a genuine passion for uplifting communities
MEET THE SPEAKERS
DR. NATALIE MONTAGUE
CLARITY CULTIVATIONS
Dr Natalie Montague is a psychologist, former high school teacher, and published author She earned her Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) in Neuropsychology from the Feinberg School of Medicine, a Doctor of Education (EdD) in Organizational Leadership from Argosy University in 2014, and an MBA from the University of Phoenix. She completed her undergraduate studies at Shaw University, graduating in 1999 with a Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice with a concentration in Political Science. In the fall of 1997, she became a proud member of the Omicron Chapter of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated.
MEET THE SPEAKERS
DR. WENDELL JOHN
HERITAGE URGENT AND PRIMARY CARE
Dr. Wendell John is Co-Owner of Heritage Urgent & Primary Care-Raleigh. He is a distinguished Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP-C), and a Fellow of the American Academy of Anti-Aging Medicine (FAAMM) with additional certification from the American Board of Anti-Aging Health Practitioners (ABAAHP). Receiving his Nurse Practitioner Degree from UNC-Chapel Hill and Doctoral Degree from East Carolina University. Knowledgeable in bioidentical hormone replacement therapy, lifestyle medicine, weightless, whole body heath paradigm and anti-aging medicine Dr John helps his patients achieve hormonal balance, improved vitality, and optimized health outcomes
MEET THE SPEAKERS
ERICKA THOMAS, MA, LCMHC
SERENITY THERAPY, PLLC
Ericka Thomas, MA, L mental health counselor in North Carolina, s dult women navigating anxiety, trauma, and and owner of Serenity Therapy, PLLC, and o the Heart: Lessons in Healing, Resilience, a ember of the Sigma Rho Zeta Chapter of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc., Ericka is also a proud mother who skillfully balances the demands of her professional career with the joys and responsibilities of family life.
MEET THE VENDORS
ERICKA THOMAS, MA, LCMHC
Serenity Therapy, PLLC
Ericka Thomas, MA, LCMHC, is a licensed clinical mental health counselor in North Carolina, specializing in supporting adult women navigating anxiety, trauma, and OCD She is the founder and owner of Serenity Therapy, PLLC, and the author of Whispering to the Heart: Lessons in Healing, Resilience, and SelfLove.
DR. EDWARD COFFEY
Coffey Counseling Services PLLC
Dr Edward Coffey and I am a licensed Clinical Mental Health Therapist. I am accepting new clients and I utilizing many traditional methods of counseling including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Person-Center therapy, and Behavioral Modification. Building a positve rapport and trusting relationship while maintaing ethics and confidentiality is the cornerstone of the counseling process as well as my ethical belief system as it relates to the therapeutic process
AZIA B. HARRIS
Azia B’s Beauty Studio Health & Wellness Teas & products
MEET THE VENDORS
ANGELA DENISE NELSON
Abundant Life Services, LLC
Facilitate BLS CPR, AED, First Aid training along with supplemental trainings such as Caregiver training/support, medication aid training, Drug overdose/prevention, health and wellness.
CAROLYN COVINGTON
CEO Haircare
Carolyn Marshall Covington is a trailblazing beauty industry leader, entrepreneur, author, and advocate with over four decades of experience in cosmetology, salon ownership, and product development. As the founder of CEO Haircare, she has revolutionized hair and scalp health, while her unwavering commitment to inclusivity has shaped the beauty industry for the better
ANNETTE SESSOMS
A-Vision Productions Craft, gifts, wellness boxes.
On behalf of Pleasant Grove Church, we extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who attended and supported the Mental Health Symposium. It was truly a pleasure to host this meaningful event and to collaborate with the ladies of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. Sigma Rho Zeta Chapter in creating a safe space for learning, connection, and healing.
Your presence and participation made the day impactful. We are grateful for each speaker, vendor, volunteer, and guest who contributed to the success of the symposium. Together, we took a powerful step in breaking the cycle and promoting mental wellness across every generation.
May the conversations started and connections made continue to inspire growth, understanding, and wellness in our communities. We also invite you to join us for worship our doors are always open. Come as you are, and experience the love, community, and encouragement that make Pleasant Grove Church a special place to grow in faith and fellowship.
Thank You Contact Information
Thank You
The Sigma Rho Zeta Chapter of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. extends our heartfelt thanks to everyone who made our Mental Health Symposium a meaningful and impactful event.
A special thank you to Pleasant Grove Church for graciously hosting and collaborating with us—your hospitality and support created a warm and welcoming space for all.
We are deeply grateful to our National Initiatives Committee, our dynamic speakers, our dedicated vendors, and every attendee who took time to be part of this important conversation around mental wellness. We sincerely hope you enjoyed the event and found it informative, encouraging, and empowering.
Please take a few moments to complete our short survey —your feedback is invaluable and will help us improve and grow the Mental Health Symposium for years to come.
You Are Not Alone
Seek Help for Mental Health Support. Your mental health matters, and seeking support is a sign of strength, not weakness. If you’re experiencing stress, anxiety, depression, or any other mental health challenge, help is available.
Here are some ways to take the first step:
Talk to someone you trust – whether it’s a family member, friend, pastor, or mentor.
Reach out to a licensed therapist or counselor – many services are available in person and online.
Use community resources – support groups and outreach programs can provide a sense of connection and hope.
Call a mental health helpline – trained professionals are available 24/7 to listen and guide you.
Veterans Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1 Teen mental health app: https://somethings.com
