Today we’d like to introduce you to Danielle Mars.
Hi Danielle, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
I was born and raised in Marion, AL, a city known for its pivotal part in the Civil Rights Movement. I attended Auburn University in Montgomery, AL where I received a bachelor’s in Psychology and a Master’s degree in Community Counseling. It was during my internship in Counseling that I realized that I didn’t really want to be a counselor, even though I did believe that counseling was beneficial. In 2015, I began my work in domestic and sexual violence, working my way from case manager to supervisor to Clinical Director. I have worked for different agencies in Alabama and have gained a real passion for speaking out against domestic violence and speaking for victims to be treated better. In 2018, I launched Yes…I Have A Therapist” with my best friend Renee, where we talk about issues and topics surrounding wellness and African-American Women.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It has not been smooth. Growing up in one of the poorest counties in Alabama and coming from a large family, there were things that grew up without but as I look back now, I can see that I had a loving mother and leaned in a lot in school. In 2020, I lost my mom, and that really rocked my world and how I saw myself and my future.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
Currently, I am a Clinical Director at One Place Metro Family Justice Center. We collaborate with various nonprofit organizations in Birmingham, AL to provide on-site access for victims of domestic and sexual violence. I coordinate with the nonprofit partners, making sure they have what they need so they can be successful and provide clients with the best services. At One Place, we understand that victims of crime are usually confused, scared, and traumatized and we provide a client-centered environment to help them navigate services and ultimately provide them autonomy over their lives.
Are there any books, apps, podcasts or blogs that help you do your best?
There are a couple of books lately that I have recommended: “What Happened to You ?” by Dr. Bruce Perry and Oprah Winfrey, “Hope Rising” by Casey Gwinn and Dr. Chan Hellman, “No Visible Bruises” by Rachel Louise Snyder, “Don’t Cry for Me” by Daniel Black, and “The Master Plan” by Chris Wilson.
My go-to Podcasts are The Read with Crissle and Kid Fury and Here’s The Thing with Kevonstage and That Chick Angel.
Apps: Libby and Hoopla, you can read free books or listen to audiobooks; all you need is your library card.
Contact Info:
- Website: linktr.ee/yihatbham
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dmars-lmsw-med/
