Meet Raquel Belt | Psychologist and Humanitarian

We had the good fortune of connecting with Raquel Belt and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Raquel, how has your background shaped the person you are today?
I am from Minnesota. I grew up in the system in and out of dysfunctional and abusive homes. I had so many adults around whom I asked for help and to be heard, no one listened. Between stints of experiencing homelessness and pursuing arts and eduction I grew up in a world that shaped who I am today. I pride my self on being a space of integrity, confidentiality, and motivation. No one should have to feel like their experience is as dark and lonely as mine was, and as long as I am here…they never will.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Many know me as a creative so putting my self out there as a business owner and not just a brand was one of the biggest challenges I over came. While my creative reputation is what sets me apart from others it was also a big hurdle to overcome. I am the creator of “The Safe Space”. A virtual space that allows you to have someone to talk, vent, or cry too. And I am excited about its growth and continued reach. I was able to leave my full time job to take more clients in The Safe Space, and the best part it is, I am seeing more people from my community. The stigma surrounding mental health is dwindling and I am a part of that change. My story makes me relatable and makes people embrace their vulnerability. I genuinely just wanted to give people a new form of “talk-therapy”, and it’s what people needed. I want to be the big sister to teens who need it and the open diary for those who need to release. From one business owner to the next, be authentic, people can feel when you aren’t. To the world, If you learn one thing from me let it be this, your human experience is yours to control, but don’t punish yourself by doing it alone.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I would think of everywhere I have been…and not go to any of those places. I know, I know, but hear me out. If my best friend came in town I would literally create a week full of exploration together. I am a sucker for sentimental moments, and would want to explore and discover together. I would google things like, “upcoming events” “outdoor adventures near me” “art exhibits” “new restaurants” and “night life”. I would fill the week with new hidden gems we either love or hate, either way the memory is made and I got to experience it the first time with my bestie. I love the excitement of, “I don’t know, let’s find out together”. I enjoy art in just about every form, and I enjoy learning anything new, so why not seek spaces that cater to that constantly.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Two women in my life play a huge role in who I am today. My best friend since high school, Byrdie Byrd, and my partner Tiara Brewer. When I was between homes as a child my best friend clothed me, fed me, and everything else in between. Her mom embraced me, got me ready for prom and let me come over pretty much all the time. My partner Tiara is one of the first people I was able to share all my secrets with. Making me realize that no matter how long ago something happened, no matter how old you are…you want to release it. I felt so safe for that first time in my life, and this inspired my business.

Website: www.raquelsturn.com

Instagram: Knownbystyle

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RLBeltexperience

Other: https://www.facebook.com/LetsTalkWithRocT/

Image Credits
Don Miller Studios Stan Fleming