Beyond Mentorship: A Heartfelt Journey with Sabrina Cesaire

by Lynn Nicole Turner

Let me tell you about my mentor, my sister, my friend, Sabrina Cesaire, LMSW. In the realm of mental health, she is not just a name but a remarkable force of compassion and expertise. For over two decades, she has dedicated herself to the field of Social Work as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Michigan. Her journey started with a foundation laid at Stony Brook University in Long Island, NY, where she earned both her Bachelor's and Master's degrees. She is the founder of Queen Carriage Horse rides, a recipient of the Spirit of Detroit award, as well as a recipient of a proclamation from the United States Congress given by the honorable Dr. Shri Thanedar.

But Sabrina's story goes far beyond her academic accomplishments. What sets her apart is her deep-rooted love for connecting with people, and it extends to an unexpected place—her passion for working with horses. This unique combination underscores her extraordinary ability to form genuine connections with those she meets. It's a gift that's been with her since a young age when she first visited and volunteered at stables in Central Park.

I've always believed that life has an uncanny way of bringing the right people into our paths when we need them most. In my journey, one such person, Sabrina Ceasare, has had a profound impact on my personal and professional development, and I'm filled with gratitude for her presence in my life.

It all began five years ago when Sabrina and I found ourselves working side by side in the field of psychiatric intervention. I was the new kid on the block, eager but unsure of my place in the highly specialized world of mental health care. In stark contrast, Sabrina was a seasoned professional who, as one of the most senior staff in the program, was renowned for her unwavering dedication to her patients, her meticulous work ethic, and her formidable knowledge.

I vividly remember our first encounter. As an extroverted and somewhat quirky personality, I had a knack for diffusing tense situations with humor and a touch of silliness. This couldn't have been more different from Sabrina's typical demeanor—serious, professional, and utterly focused on her patients and her case loads. To say she was standoffish would be an understatement.

But, the remarkable thing about life is that sometimes the most unexpected connections are the most profound. It didn't take long for my somewhat unconventional mannerisms to win her over. In a matter of days, Sabrina's stern façade began to crack as she found herself chuckling at my quirks and antics.

One day, to the astonishment of our supervisors and coworkers, Sabrina brought me a home-cooked lunch. It was a simple gesture, but it spoke volumes. She had gone from a mentor to a friend, and her warm smile and that heartfelt hug left me speechless. Her small stature was deceiving, for she was a powerful force who had, quite literally, dominated the room with her extensive knowledge and impeccable work ethic. The change in her demeanor, brought about by our friendship, was extraordinary.

Sabrina's mentorship was not just about professional development; it extended to personal growth as well. She showed me that while dedication to work is essential, life's richest experiences often come from the connections we build. Sabrina taught me to balance my professional life with the personal, to appreciate humor in the midst of seriousness, and to understand that there is more to a person than their job title.

Her impact on my life is immeasurable. She has not only opened doors for me professionally but also personally. In fact, my son had the privilege of flying an airplane at the tender age of 13, an experience that would have been unthinkable without Sabrina's intervention. It's a memory my son will carry with him throughout his life, and I will always be grateful to her for making it possible.

In closing, I'm reminded of a quote by Melody Beattie:

Gratitude unlocks the fullness of life. It turns what we have into enough and more.

Sabrina Cesaire has undoubtedly unlocked the fullness of my life, and for that, I'm forever grateful. The profound difference she's made in my life is immeasurable, and I can't thank her enough for the doors she's opened, the laughter she's brought, and the lasting friendship we've cultivated along this remarkable journey. Sabrina is a shining example of how gratitude, mentorship, and friendship can transform our lives in the most unexpected and beautiful ways.

Lynn Nicole Turner is a seasoned mental health professional with 20+ years of experience. Specializing in suicide prevention and high acuity patients, she is a trusted counselor, addiction treatment specialist, and certified life coach. Lynn's dedication extends to mentoring young women and advocating for the vulnerable in mental health. www.linkedin.com/in/lynnnturner