Her Story
About Dr. Danyell
Dr. Danyell Samassa is a Philadelphia-based mental health and behavioral health clinician with nearly three decades of experience across nonprofit organizations, private practice, healthcare, and correctional settings. Her career began in 1996 as an addictions therapist working with individuals involved in the criminal justice system. Over the years, she has developed expertise in clinical assessment, therapy, public health and policy, strategic communications, and services for pregnant and parenting women involved with the criminal justice system. She also developed an in-house doula program for pregnant women in a female correctional facility, reflecting her commitment to addressing the complex needs of underserved populations.
Dr. Samassa is the founder of the Talitha Cumi Awakening Project, an organization focused on supporting women and professionals through emotional wellness, resilience, and life transitions. Its signature programs include Regulated Mama, which supports women navigating perimenopause while actively parenting, and Emotional Breaking Even, which addresses emotional wellness, stress management, emotional regulation, and sustainable helping practices. She has also served as an adjunct professor at Temple University, mentoring social work students and contributing to the development of future professionals. Her academic background includes a master's degree in criminal justice, a master's degree in health policy, and a Doctor of Social Work from the University of Southern California, where her doctoral work focused on the Grand Challenges of Social Work and smart decarceration.
Beyond her clinical and academic work, Dr. Samassa is an author and advocate for women of color, professional wellness, and equitable access to support. She is the author of Uncharted Realities: The Doctoral Journeys of Women of Color From Aspiration to Achievement and Beyond, a collaborative work exploring the personal and professional journeys of women pursuing doctoral education. As a trained doula and menopause coaching specialist, she brings together clinical experience, public health knowledge, and lived experience to create practical resources for women and helping professionals. Her work is grounded in a commitment to giving voice to people who often feel unheard and creating spaces where individuals can be seen, supported, and empowered.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Dr. Danyell
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to optimism, faith, determination, and a willingness to put in the work. Life experiences and the amazing people in my life have inspired and supported me along the way.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve received has come from my mentors and family. Cynthia Waters, Charlisa Porter, and my mother taught me the value of education, service, and supporting vulnerable communities. Their guidance continues to shape my career.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
You live the story you tell yourself. Trust the process, recognize the waiting time between promise and fulfillment, and stay strong, patient, and committed while you’re in the waiting room.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges is building an organization while navigating unemployment and financial uncertainty. Despite decades of experience and education, creating sustainable growth takes time, and the results are not always immediate.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Empathy, kindness, and inclusivity are at the heart of who I am. I believe these values are essential in both my personal life and professional relationships.
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