Meet Anjelica Markray | Educator & Mental Health Advocate

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

Hi Anjelica, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
In 2019, I started going to therapy to get help due to me having feelings of anxiety and depression. I was 29 years old, and I had everything that I could ever dream of when it came to what I at the time defined as success. Regardless of having everything I was not okay, and it lead me to my journey of self-discovery and finding peace within myself. Making the choice to start therapy was nerve wrecking yet exciting, and I can honestly say it was the best decision I’ve ever made because it changed my life. Because I received such a great benefit from it, it lead me to want to help others overcome their mental health challenges within my own community. An idea that started out to just spread Mental Health and Wellness Education also turned into me creating inspirational, therapy-themed t-shirts and hoodies as a form of expression. You’ll be surprised how a therapy-themed t-shirt or hoodie can spark up some productive conversations about mental health. The name of my business is The Missing Piece, I decided to name it this because therapy was the missing piece in my life. My goal is to continue to spread knowledge and help break the stigma that surrounds mental health in hopes that more people will go get the help they need regardless of what society thinks.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I’m currently a Physical Education Teacher, Volleyball, and Basketball Coach. Sports has played a major role in my life which led me to this career path. What I love about my career is that I get the opportunity every day to make a difference in children’s lives. I have taken on the role as a mentor with my students, and I take pride in building meaningful relationships with them. If it was not for me taking on my self-discovery journey, I would not be able to pour into my students in this way. I’m so grateful that I can be that teacher that they know will listen to them, validate their feelings, and help guide them as they go through different transitions and challenges every day. This has not been an easy journey but definitely worth the while. I’m an untraditional college graduate. It took me over 5 years to obtain my Bachelor of Science degree in Kinesiology due to different life circumstances. However, throughout all of my challenges I persevered because I was determined to cross the finish line. Little did I know, that once I started my career and healing journey that I was going to inspire others by just being my authentic self with everyone I encounter. Furthermore, as I continue on this journey, I aspire to attain my masters degree in Counseling, so that I can help more people overcome their challenges.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I like to say I’m a homebody, but I do have my moments when I just want to get out after a long week of work and enjoy the city. Some places I enjoy are Ra Sushi in City Centre, every time I go I make sure to order my favorite, The Viva Las Vegas Roll and Garlic Edamame. Also, City Centre is a good place to shop and just enjoy the outside when the weather is nice. Jinya Ramen Bar located in Midtown is another of my favorite spots that has a great vibe at night and the best Spicy Chicken Ramen, Fried Brussel Sprouts, and Lycheetini in town. Sakura near the Pearland Town Center has the best Hibachi Grill experience, and the food is very delicious. I’m also a seafood lover; Crafty Crab in Jersey Village has a nice ambiance and the best seafood I’ve had in a long time. Furthermore, some places I’ve visited that I enjoyed hanging out at are Prospect Park and Nomad Houston near the Galleria, Lost and Found and Belle Station in Midtown, and bar hopping in The Montrose area on Sunday Funday.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
First and foremost, I have to thank my therapist, of course I can’t mention her name, but I have to thank her for creating a safe space for me to release and go through my process of healing to help me become the person I am today. Furthermore, thanks to my family, friends, and colleagues for the love and support they have displayed as I’ve been on my journey of self-love and entrepreneurship. Also, thank you to everyone who has purchased a t-shirt or hoodie, shared my information about my movement, or shared their own personal journey with me. Each and everyone of you have inspired me more than you may know. In November 2020, it was very a tough time in my life but thanks to a close friend, she recommended me to read the book “The Subtle Art of not Giving a F*ck”. In my opinion, that book was so profound and another vital part of my growth. It played a major role in why I took the leap of faith to start my business and to just do anything else my heart desires.

Website: theemissingpiece.com

Instagram: Therapyisforblackpeople_tmp

Linkedin: Anjelica Markray

Image Credits
Angel Brooks- AM Photography