Cultural Faith Based Empowerment Program

Rev. Dr. Dawnn M. Pirani Brumfield is a mental health clinician, pastoral counselor, and consultant with over 30 years of experience managing her own mental illness while helping others navigate their healing journeys. A Black woman of faith and a native of the South Suburbs, she is a graduate of Rich Central High School and deeply understands the unique challenges and strengths of the community she serves. Dr. Brumfield also has a deep understanding of the intersections between mental health, spirituality, and cultural identity in healing work. She holds a Doctorate in Counseling and Pastoral Care and is a leader in trauma-informed mental health care, culturally responsive therapy, and community-based healing initiatives.

A passionate advocate for expanding mental health support beyond traditional talk therapy, Dr. Brumfield integrates Playback Theatre, Narrative Therapy, and expressive arts into her work. She is a local pastor in Chicago and serves as the Director of the Cultural Faith-Based Empowerment Program at Envision Unlimited, which provides culturally relevant trainings, workshops, and activities that honor the unique experiences of Communities of Color. Through this work, she develops storytelling-based healing initiatives that uplift the lived experiences of historically marginalized communities.

She has worked extensively with youth, faith communities, and BIPOC populations to create inclusive, community-centered mental health solutions that embrace both cultural and spiritual dimensions of healing. Dr. Brumfield brings a unique, lived experience as both a clinician and someone who has successfully managed her own mental illness for over three decades. Her workshops are engaging, interactive, and transformative, equipping attendees with innovative, culturally relevant tools for mental wellness and emotional resilience.

Angela Russell, BA, MHP

Angela Russell is a mental health professional and restorative justice practitioner with over 25 years of experience in social services. Passionate about mental wellness, behavioral health, and community healing, she has worked extensively with children, adults, and educators to create safe spaces for growth, dialogue, and transformation.

A graduate of Chicago State University with a degree in psychology, Angela is a certified Youth Mental Health First Aid Instructor and Youth Mental Health First Aider through the National Council on Wellbeing. Her work spans outpatient mental health, school-based advocacy, and faith-centered counseling, always with a focus on breaking down barriers and fostering open, courageous conversations.

As a Restorative Justice Practitioner, Angela has led healing circles, trained staff and students, and organized community-driven justice initiatives. She has been an active member of the Citywide Restorative Justice Committee, helping to shape summits, trainings, and reconciliation efforts in partnership with organizations such as Touch Gift Foundation, Purple Path, Alternatives, Inc., and Blue Cross Blue Shield.

At the core of Angela’s work is her belief that healing happens through connection, compassion, and faith. She is committed to supporting individuals, families, faith leaders, and communities in navigating mental health challenges with practical tools, restorative practices, and spiritual care. Her impact continues to inspire and empower those she serves.