Meet Your EAP Friend: Monica Travis

This is the second installment in a series introducing NASA Johnson Space Center team members to the many people working in the Employee Assistance Program (EAP). 

Oftentimes, it can be scary to take that first step and reach out when you’re struggling, and the pandemic has only exacerbated the number of people who are having a hard time. If you call or email the EAP and don’t reach Jasmine Thomas first, Monica Travis is most likely to be the next in line to answer or reply to your note. 

Monica fills in for the EAP during emergency operations for events such as hurricanes and the pandemic. As EAP Director Jackie Reese noted, “Monica brings a seasoned, grounded maturity — and quite a bit of nurturing — to our team. She always has a smile or words of support ready. We’re very fortunate that our larger Behavioral Health and Performance team is willing to share her with us!”

Get to know a little about her, below.  

What is your job title?  

Administrative assistant.

What do you do for the Employee Assistance Program (and otherwise, when not backing them up)? 

My main duties are supporting Space Medicine’s Behavioral Health & Performance group, which provides support to the astronauts and their families during their in-flight missions aboard the ISS (International Space Station). Since the EAP provides support to the JSC employees, it’s a perfect fit for me to be their backup!

For people hesitant to reach out to the EAP, what would you like them to know?

The EAP is a great first point of contact if you need information, resources, or counseling. Extremely knowledgeable, professional, and confidential. 

How has your own personal background influenced your work with the EAP?

I was raised with the "walk a mile in my shoes before you criticize me" philosophy by my parents. You never know what’s going on in someone else’s life, so always start with kindness. 

Being surrounded by such an emotionally supportive group of people, what’s a great piece of advice you’ve learned? 

Always ask for help. There's no sense in recreating the wheel. Plus, if the person you ask is having a hard day, it might lift their spirits to help you! 

Now, more about you!

Where did you grow up?

Dallas, Texas.

How long have you been at JSC?

Sixteen years.

Describe yourself in five words:

Always willing to help others.

What is your favorite TV show, book, or movie, and why?

The Bible. God is my source of comfort, strength, and hope.

When this pandemic is over, what can’t you wait to do?

Visit family.

Tell us a fun fact about you.

Quite happy to watch Christmas movies all year long. Yay, Hallmark channel!

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Please don’t hesitate to reach out to Johnson's EAP at 281-483-6130 or jsc-employeeassistanceprogram@mail.nasa.gov if you need someone to talk to.