ABOUT KATHA
Two decades of hands-on experience helping people build healthier relationships
Katha grew up in Chattanooga, Tennessee, where she saw women in her family struggle through painful relationships. Early on, she decided to make helping others build healthier relationships part of her life's work. Her path took her through field research at Michigan State University, a master's in Social Service Administration from the University of Chicago, and more than two decades working with individuals and families as a case manager, domestic violence prevention advocate, and program administrator.
Katha spent eleven years at Partnership Against Domestic Violence in Atlanta, including four as President & CEO. In 2026, she stepped away to build a practice centered on direct, one-on-one work with people navigating challenges in their relationships and leadership. Her approach draws on the programs she led there, including shelter and housing services for hundreds of families each year, and a $6 million capital campaign for a new emergency shelter.
A Licensed Master Social Worker, Katha is the author of two books on healthier relationships, including one published under the pen name Coach Dean Black. She has been featured on NPR and radio and has spoken at conferences nationwide.
- Former President & CEO, Partnership Against Domestic Violence, leading shelter, housing, and crisis-line programs for hundreds of families a year
- Led a $6 million capital campaign to build a new Atlanta shelter facility
- Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW), State of Georgia
- "Woman of Influence," Atlanta Business League (2019) · Leadership Gwinnett graduate (2024)
- Featured on NPR's Closer Look, the Rickey Smiley Morning Show, and as keynote speaker at Washington State University
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