Who we are
Team

- AdwoaAboahFounder
Recognized as a ‘Next Generation Leader’ on the cover of TIME Magazine and alumni of the Forbes’ 30 Under 30 list, Adwoa Aboah has had a multifaceted career as a model, actress, advocate, podcast host and founder. Inspired by her own mental health journey, Adwoa created Gurls Talk in 2015 as a judgment-free space where girls can talk, relate, share, validate and support. Under Adwoa's guidance, Gurls Talk quickly transformed from an online platform to a full-fledged organization with programming, mental health resources and a robust community--both online and offline.
Adwoa’s advocacy work with Gurls Talk is expansive, having already held global events and impacted millions more online. Adwoa has appeared on a wide variety of global stages, from the Women in the World Summit and One Young World, to WE Day and Google Zeitgeist, and spoken alongside the likes of Salma Hayek, Idris Elba, Oprah Winfrey, Hillary Clinton, and HRH Meghan Markle.
Adwoa is guided by a personal philosophy that embraces vulnerability, authenticity, and the power of community, which have all shaped the ethos and mission of Gurls Talk. Adwoa’s work goes beyond dismantling taboos; it seeks to redefine societal standards and understanding of mental health, and create a community where every girl and woman feels heard.
- DaniellaRavehExecutive Director
Daniella joined Gurls Talk in 2020 as the Executive Director. Daniella is a passionate advocate for mental health, and brings a wealth of experience and commitment to fostering a global community where girls and women can openly discuss the challenges they face, while engaging in a practice of support.
As the Executive Director of Gurls Talk, Daniella leads the organization's mission and strategy to create a safe and inclusive space for girls and young women to discuss issues related to mental health, utilizing an intersectional and inclusive lens. Under her guidance, Gurls Talk has expanded its reach globally, developing innovative programs, community-driven initiatives and global partnerships.
Before joining Gurls Talk, Daniella held positions in both the corporate and non-profit spaces, including as an attorney, social impact advisor and non- profit program manager. Daniella received her Bachelor of Arts from Princeton University and a JD from NYU School of Law.
- CiaraDockeryChief Clinical Advisor
Ciara Dockery, Ph.D., is a licensed clinical psychologist based in NYC. Throughout her career, Dr. Dockery’s main areas of focus have been in crisis intervention, suicide prevention, trauma-informed interventions, public outreach and large-scale mental health program development. As the chief clinical advisor, Dr. Dockery plays a pivotal role in shaping and guiding the clinical strategies of Gurls Talk, bringing a wealth of experience. Dr. Dockery focuses on working to reduce stigma and elevate the conversation around issues of mental health for girls - all with the ultimate goal of increasing access to care.
Dr. Dockery received her B.A. from Harvard University and her Ph.D. in clinical psychology from Fordham University. She also holds an M.A. in journalism from New York University.Dr. Dockery served as the director of the NFL Life Line, a free and confidential 24/7 emotional wellness and suicide prevention hotline available to the entire National Football League community and administered by Vibrant Emotional Health.
- ChaveliDe LeonProgram Manager
Chaveli joined Gurls Talk in 2022 serving as the Program Manager for the "Coach in Your Corner" initiative at Gurls Talk. As program manager, Chaveli plays a pivotal role in designing, implementing, and overseeing initiatives that furthers the mission of Gurls Talk. Her role within the organization has been focused on creating a supportive and empowering environment where girls can access guidance, mentorship, and resources tailored to their individual needs. Chaveli works closely with Gurls Talk’s other mental health professionals and community partners to ensure that the organization's initiatives are grounded in credible and reliable clinical information.
Chaveli holds a B.A. in psychology from Hunter College, and an M.A. in Mental Health Counseling from NYU. Chaveli is a licensed mental health counselor, and independently works in private practice.
- GretaPeterson-NafzigerSocial Media Manager
Greta joined Gurls Talk in 2021 as an ambassador where she cultivated her skill of telling impactful stories about mental health. In 2022, she became Gurls Talk’s Social Media Manager, combining her passion for storytelling with the team’s deep mental health knowledge.
Through her friendly voice and visual skills, Greta aims to create a welcoming community where girls connect with one another, feel safe to express themselves, and learn about all topics impacting mental health.
Greta received her B.A. from Columbia University in Film and Media Studies.





