Deirdra Powell Robinson: A Journey of Advocacy, Empowerment, and Social Justice

Deirdra Powell Robinson’s journey from Harlem to Columbia University is a testament to the power of determination, resilience, and community. Born and raised in the Grant Housing Projects of Harlem by a single mother, Deirdra witnessed firsthand the stark contrasts between her neighborhood and the academic hub of Columbia University, just a few blocks away. Her passion for helping others was ignited at a young age, growing up. Surrounded by such stark contrasts between communities, she was drawn to understanding why the streets she lived on seemed worlds apart from those just a block away. The invisible lines dividing her neighborhood and Columbia University sparked a lifelong inquiry: Why do some people stay on one side of the road while others flourish on the other?

Her journey as a licensed clinical social worker and current Doctorate of Social Work (DSW) student at Wurzweiler School of Social Work at Yeshiva University, is also one of curiosity, and the pursuit of social justice. From her early experiences in high school, where she found a life-changing mentor, to her work as a social worker, Deirdra has always been committed to bridging the gap between communities, resources, and opportunities. Her journey into social work began with a desire to change her environment, spurred by programs like Columbia University’s Double Discovery Program and her own experiences in navigating the world of higher education. These experiences opened doors that led her not only to Hofstra University for her undergraduate degree but also into a career deeply rooted in helping others, particularly those from underserved and marginalized communities. Growing up in a community where many of her peers did not finish high school, Deirdra faced challenges but also found inspiration.

Deirdra’s professional path took her through various roles—from working with homeless mothers in Westchester County to serving as a case manager in supportive housing programs for individuals with serious mental illness. These experiences deepened her understanding of the complexities of social inequities and the systemic barriers that prevent people from living their best possible lives. Through every phase of her career, Deirdra remained steadfast in her belief that social work is not just about addressing immediate needs but also about advocating for long-term systemic change.

As Deirdra advanced in her career, she sought out more comprehensive ways to support her clients. She embraced the importance of understanding the entire person—their history, struggles, strengths, and aspirations. Moving away from traditional, problem-focused models of care, Deirdra became a proponent of strength-based and solution-focused approaches, which honor the inherent resilience within everyone. She also embraced motivational interviewing as a powerful tool for helping clients identify their internal motivations for change.

Deirdra’s approach is eclectic but always centered on the person’s narrative. She believes that narrative therapy has a unique role in social work, especially for those whose stories are often shaped by historical and systemic injustices. By helping clients reconstruct their narratives, highlighting their strengths and perseverance, she fosters a sense of empowerment and agency.

Throughout her career, Deirdra has recognized that social work is more than just a profession—it is a calling to advocate for those whose voices are often unheard. As an African American woman, Deirdra is acutely aware of how race and gender shape one’s experiences in America. She understands that her path, while shaped by her own efforts, was also influenced by a system that often predetermines opportunities based on identity. It is this understanding that fuels her commitment to social justice and to creating a more equitable world for future generations.

Deirdra’s journey is also one of continuous learning and professional growth. She credits organizations like the SWEET Institute for providing the space for reflection, growth, and self-care that social workers so often neglect. Her involvement with the Institute has reinforced her belief in the importance of feeding one’s intellectual and emotional needs while continuing to advance the profession.

Now, as she pursues her Doctorate in Social Work, Deirdra is focused on giving back to the profession that has given her so much. She envisions a future where social workers are equipped not only with the knowledge of traditional clinical practices but also with a deep understanding of social justice, trauma-informed care, and the current trends shaping the field. She is determined to contribute to the education of the next generation of social workers, ensuring that they are prepared to challenge systemic injustices and advocate for meaningful change.

Deirdra Powell Robinson’s one of resilience, empowerment, and a lifelong commitment to social justice. From Harlem to Columbia and beyond, she has used her platform to advocate for marginalized communities, and she continues to inspire others to do the same.

Her story is also a testament to the power of education, mentorship, and unwavering dedication to the betterment of others. It is a reminder that, with the right support and determination, we can cross any road, no matter how divided it may seem, and create lasting change for ourselves and our communities.

Deirdra Powell-Robinson, LCSW is a native of the Mecca of Harlem in New York City from birth to 1990.? Deirdra, her husband, and two adult sons currently live in Westchester County.? She credits her mother for the ultimate sacrifice of raising two children as a single parent while attending college part-time and becoming a Registered Nurse.? She also admires her brother, a practicing attorney in NY, for being purposeful in introducing her to the college experience during a high school weekend at Hofstra University in 1985, which ignited her gift of advocacy for oppressed and marginalized communities.

Deirdra received her BA from Hofstra University and her MSW from Columbia University. She is a Licensed Clinical Social worker with over 30 years of experience in providing mental health and addiction treatment in healthcare. Deirdra is a full-time Behavioral Health Care Manager in the insurance industry, and during COVID-19, she launched a virtual private practice, Change of Heart Counseling Consultation, LCSW, PLLC, to reduce barriers to mental health care. She has worked extensively with individuals suffering from depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship issues, chronic pain, and various addictions. Her motto is “If you are ready to move out of your comfort zone and outline your plan to relieve suffering while implementing healing elements for a lifestyle of change, I will walk with you no matter how long the journey.” Her approach to her work with her clients is strength-based and pulls from motivational interviewing, solution-focused brief therapy, problem-solving therapy, and Screening, Brief Intervention, and Referral to Treatment (SBRIT).

Deirdra is currently a Doctoral Student in Social Work at Yeshiva University.

Deirdra believes in the power of God and enjoys spending quality time with her family, cooking, hiking, and researching holistic healing methods.? She is also a volunteer with the Student Advocacy Overcoming the Odds Selection Committee in Westchester County and the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention L.E.T.S Save Lives program in Westchester County. She is a member of the National Association of Black Social Workers,