So Glad We Connected!

Dr. Mercedes Samudio, LCSW
Director of Mental Wellness & Representation

Dr. Mercedes Samudio reads her book Shame Proof Parenting, highlighting her work as an author and mental wellness advocate, while wearing a “X Debate Club” shirt in a softly lit indoor setting.

Meet Dr. Mercedes Samudio

Dr. Mercedes Samudio is a licensed psychotherapist, author of Shame Proof Parenting, educator, and cultural commentator whose work explores how storytelling shapes identity, trauma, resilience, and belonging.

Her work bridges mental health and media, offering insight into how film, television, comics, and horror reflect and influence our emotional lives and cultural narratives.

Through her role as a Director of Mental Wellness & Representation, she advocates for more intentional, culturally aware, and psychologically grounded storytelling.

WHAT I DO

MENTAL WELLNESS

Therapy for parents, families, & creatives

Brainspotting practitioner

Parenting education and workshops

SPEAKING & MEDIA

Convention panels and keynote speaking

Podcast and media commentary

Collaboration with creators, writers, and studios

CULTURE & REPRESENTATION

Cultural analysis of film, comics, horror, and television

Mental health themes in storytelling

Representation and narrative consultation

WHERE YOU’VE SEEN ME

Dr. Mercedes has been featured in many media outlets such as NPR, Good Morning America, and countless podcasts.

She is often sought out for her unique commentary on parenting, mental wellness, and geek & gaming culture.

MEDIA APPEARANCES

Dr. Mercedes Samudio on GMA

Dr. Mercedes discussing "Spiderman: Across the Spider-verse"

Dr. Mercedes talks grief, trauma, and emotional resilience across Marvel’s Black heroes.

WRITING AND BOOKS

Dr. Mercedes’ chapter:

‘On Your Left!' Resilience, Legacy, Mentorship, and the Psychological Evolution of Secondary Characters in the MCU

Dr. Mercedes’ chapter:

The Oreo, the King, and the Wakandan Salute: What Black Panther Shows Us About Why Representation Matters

Dr. Mercedes’ bestselling book that explores parenting and shame.

LET’S CONNECT

Interested in speaking, consulting, or media collaboration? Let’s connect!