Dr. Danielle Cato is a native of Detroit,  Michigan, and a progressive byproduct of the Detroit Public School system.  Indeed, she is a testament to the infamous inquiry of the greatness that can, and has emerged from an Urban Utopia.  She is one of two children born to the late Hazel N. Jackson, and the only child born to the late David M. Cato, Esq.  An advocate for higher learning, Danielle graduated from Oakland University in 2003, receiving a bachelor’s of arts degree in Communication, and later obtained her Master’s Degree in Community and School Counseling from the University of Detroit.  

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In 2014, she successfully defended her dissertation titled: How to create a culture of healing amongst those who have suffered from the affects of relational grief and loss, and was conferred an earned doctorate.  More recently, Dr. Cato had the honor of returning to her alma mater to “pay it forward,” serving as a content specialist for a doctoral candidate. Her academic achievements and extensive training have further affirmed her proficiency as counselor for which she humbly receives recognition.  In 2012 and 2017, she was named recipient of the Spirit of Detroit Award, an award bestowed upon persons and/or organizations for outstanding achievement and contribution to the city of Detroit.

 

She was inducted into the Michigan Chronicle 40 under 40 Class of 2019, an honor for professionals who are making major community strides. She was also selected for the Oakland County Elite 40 under 40 achievement induction and Who's Who in Black Detroit. Such honorable mention exists amid other recognitions awarded her throughout her vocational tenure.  Over the past eighteen years, Dr. Cato has worked in the social service field focusing on youth and family development with extensive experience in program design, leadership, and community building.  She has worked towards seeing issues pertaining to human services advance within the city of Detroit.  

 

Dr. Cato has always had a passion for community.  She was initiated into Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, in 2002 where she collaborated with other like-minded and confident female leaders toward making positive change.  She is an active member of Alpha Kappa Alpha and remains consistent in her service and commitment to excellence. Dr. Cato holds valid licensure in counseling. She is a Clinical Directir and has a private practice. She has also launched several women empowerment groups where she utilizes a Psychotherapy modality.

 

Dr. Cato is the owner of  The HealHer Collective, Inc.  A non-profit organization and Multiservice Venue. Dr. Cato has a diverse following, and reaches countless individuals through social media.  She hosts a weekly series of motivational messages (Word Up Wednesday), She founded and manages a group, supporting over 1000 women and circulates daily inspirational messages from her Facebook Page. Dr. Cato is a chartering member of W.I.N (Women InvestHER Network) where she serves as the Vice President.

Her motto: “I’m not waiting for a drummer.  I’ll just make my own beat!”