Check Out Dez Durden’s Story

Today we’d like to introduce you to Dez Durden

Dez, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I’m a small-town girl from Benton Harbor, a place often labeled as dangerous but also rich in talent and culture. Growing up, I was surrounded by both the challenges and beauty of my community. But for a time, my dreams took a backseat as I was thrust into survival mode, navigating the weight of trauma and adversity.

My story starts in the darkest places. but it doesn’t end there. It ends with healing- a journey of rediscovery, resilience, and growth. Today, the woman I’ve become is the woman I wish I’d had by my side as a child: strong, compassionate, and determined to show up for myself and others in ways I’ve never had before. That transformation is my mission now- to be the person I needed when I was younger.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road. I’ve faced a lot of challenges on the way, starting with a traumatic childhood, sexual abuse, and unknowingly navigating life with undiagnosed mental health issues. As an adult, I continued to experience physical, mental, verbal, and emotional abuse from people I loved, all while trying to balance my education and love for modeling. What once brought me joy started to feel like a burden – something the world demanded rather than something I could enjoy at my own pace. For a while, it felt like I was drowning under the weight of everything.

Eventually, I reached out for help – seeking therapy and leaning on the support of family and friends. I had to relearn how to care for myself and prioritize my well-being. Once I took those necessary steps, things began to fall into place. My work caseload was full, but my students were thriving, my daughter is happy, and my modeling career reached new heights. I also launched my mental health platform “When Roses Bloom,” which has been a source of healing for me and others.

Though the journey didn’t start out smooth, I’m grateful to say that things are going better than I could have imagined now.

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I specialize in behavioral analysis with a focus on trauma, holding a masters degree in this field. I’m passionate about understanding the complexities of human behavior and how trauma affects mental health, especially in children and families. In addition to my professional work, I’m a published model, having had the honor of gracing the covers of two magazines and being featured in many others. I’m also proud to collaborate with my daughter on commercial photoshoots, creating memories together. Recently, I launched and founded When Roses Bloom. My very own 24/7 mental health discussion forum. I’m most known for my current title as Miss Kent County USA 2024.

What I’m most proud of, however, is the journey I’ve gone through to build the confidence to launch my mental health platform. It’s a space where I aim to become the person I needed as child, helping others heal and find their own strength. Breaking generational curses, healing my inner child, and sharing the process with my daughter are accomplishments that bring me deep fulfillment. What sets me apart is my ability to blend my professional expertise with my personal healing journey, offering a perspective that resonates with others facing similar struggles.

Is there a quality that you most attribute to your success?
For me, this question isn’t as simple as it seems. I’m a behavioral therapist, mom, model and founder of a mental health platform. I want to be successful in all of those roles. Not just one.

Empathy. Understanding and connecting with others’ emotions is fundamental, whether I’m working with my students in our sessions, collaborating with others or supporting my family. Empathy allows me to listen deeply, validate experiences and create meaningful, compassionate solutions.

Resilience. The ability to bounce back from setbacks and adapt to challenges is key in all areas of my life. There are constant demands. but resilience helps me stay focused, motivated, positive, even during tough times.

Authenticity. Being true to myself and my values has been crucial. It allows me to be genuine in my interactions and builds trust in both my professional and personal life. Authenticity fosters transparency.

Time management. Juggling multiple roles means I need to prioritize effectively and efficiently. This enables me to be present in each of my responsibilities.

Lastly, continuous learning. Staying open to learning and growth allows me to bring fresh perspectives and innovative solutions to the table, ensuring I’m always evolving both personally and professionally.

I feel like these qualities help me succeed in my different roles, but also help me contribute meaningfully to the lives of others.

Pricing:

• When Roses Bloom is free to join!
• I love to create and collab with others. Commercial pricing depends on time, concept, publication.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.skool.com/when-roses-bloom-6643
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/missdez__?igsh=MXM5NHJzNmI4NXdiMQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1E6P7WpBpq/?mibextid=kFxxJD
• Twitter: For questions, insight, comments, bookings: [email protected]
• Other: https://linktr.ee/BookMissDez