Owner, Monarch Grove Therapy
Name: Adrienne Hayes
Summers as a Camper: wasn't a camper
Years as a Staff Member/Positions held:
- 2015: Camp Store
- 2016: Assistant Head, Lower Camp 1
- 2017: Camper Services, Camp 2
Current Profession:
- Owner and Therapist, Monarch Grove Therapy (2023 - present)
Current Responsibilities and Career Path
I graduated with my undergraduate degree from the University of Alabama in 2018 before pursuing a master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy at the University of Southern Mississippi. I became a therapist because I truly believe that with the right support and tools, people can create change and navigate life’s challenges.
After finishing school, I moved to Raleigh and began working in higher levels of care for eating disorder treatment. In February 2024, I launched my virtual therapy practice, Monarch Grove Therapy, where I’ve been dedicated to helping individuals ages 14 and older navigate anxiety, eating disorders, trauma, and relationship challenges. My goal is to provide a space where clients feel supported and empowered to create a life that aligns with their authentic values.
Key Lessons from Camp
The lessons I learned at Camp continue to shape my life and were key in opening my own therapy practice. Camp taught me to believe in myself and pursue my goals, even when I felt underprepared or struggled with imposter syndrome. It pushed me to recognize my potential and develop confidence in my abilities.
During my time at Camp, I also learned how to connect with people from all walks of life, build trusting relationships, and approach challenges with creativity and resourcefulness. These skills have been invaluable in my work as a therapist, where I connect with diverse individuals and support them through some of their most challenging and painful moments.
Proud Achievements
I am most proud of opening my own therapy practice, Monarch Grove Therapy. I get to work with incredible clients, supporting them through life’s challenges and helping them move toward a more fulfilling future.
My experience at Camp played a significant role in this success. Camp taught me to believe in myself and recognize my creativity and love of people as a valuable asset—one that would one day help me build a business I’m proud of. It also showed me the power of truly connecting with people and meeting them where they are, a skill that continues to guide the work I do every day as a therapist.
Influential Camp Mentor
There are so many people who have had an impact on me, it’s hard to name them all! That’s the beauty of Camp. Amanda Huffman welcomed me with open arms and patiently showed me the ropes (this newbie definitely needed it). Lydia Warren saw potential in me and encouraged me to consider joining the AIR staff, which led to two of the most incredible summers of my life.
Jordan Lewis, Kirby Rose, and Jen Robson were fellow new staff members who, like me, hadn’t grown up at Camp, and we quickly formed a deep bond. They’ve since become lifelong friends, along with many others I met during my time there. The connections I made at Camp are ones I’ll carry with me forever.
Advice for Staff
Camp offers a unique opportunity to develop a wide range of skills, making it just as valuable as jobs or internships. You learn responsibility, creativity, problem-solving, and so much more. Beyond those skills, the friendships, connections, and memories you build at Camp last a lifetime. The experience shapes you in ways that stay with you long after the summer ends.
You create the culture of your cabin and your activity. Your attitude has SUCH an impact on both campers and other staff. Choose your attitude. Campers and fellow counselors will not forget the culture you created by choosing to make the most of every moment at Camp—even the stressful ones.
