Faculty Spotlight: Somer Saleh

As a second-generation Yemeni American and licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, she brings a narrative and relational approach to her work. Ms. Saleh creates space for clients and students navigating culture, faith, migration and intergenerational trauma. Her dedication to bridging the gap between mental health and Muslim communities earned her the 2025 Early Career Contribution to Family Therapy Award from the American Family Therapy Academy. She has developed programming on substance use prevention, healthy relationships and domestic violence awareness, and contributed two chapters to the book Muslim Mental Health in North America. In addition to teaching, she served as the activity director for the iHelp Fellowship, where she mentored a cohort of students and supported their professional growth.

In this Q&A, Ms. Saleh shares what drew her back to Mercy as an educator, her proudest professional accomplishments, and a surprising passion that has nothing to do with therapy or teaching.

Q&A

What drew you to the field you work in and what led you to work in higher education?

I was drawn to the field of Marriage and Family Therapy because I’ve always been passionate about understanding the ways relationships, culture and community shape our well-being. My own experiences as a second-generation Yemeni American deepened my commitment to making mental health care more accessible and culturally responsive, especially for communities where stigma is high. Teaching at Mercy felt like a natural extension of that passion. I wanted to return to the program that shaped me, mentor the next generation of clinicians and help students see how their work connects across disciplines.

What does working at Mercy mean to you?

Working at Mercy feels full circle for me. As a graduate of the MFT program, it’s deeply meaningful to return as a faculty member and contribute to the same community that shaped my own professional path. For me, it’s not just about teaching. It’s about mentoring students and helping future clinicians feel both prepared and inspired to make an impact.

What’s the most rewarding or most challenging part of your role that most people don’t realize?

The most rewarding part of my role is watching students grow as they move through the program, and hearing from them after graduation as they continue to thrive in the field. The most challenging part is staying constantly up to date with research, ethics and emerging trends so I can bring the most relevant knowledge and guidance to my students.

What accomplishment are you most proud of in your professional career?

The accomplishment I’m most proud of is being able to give back to the Muslim community through my work in mental health. When I entered this field, I didn’t see myself represented, and my professors at Mercy helped me lean into that voice. That journey led to my receiving the 2025 Early Career Contribution to Family Therapy Award from the American Family Therapy Academy (AFTA) for my work with Muslim communities. I’ve created programming and workshops on substance use prevention, healthy relationships and domestic violence awareness, as well as programs that highlight how spirituality encourages care for one’s mental health. To address the fragmented nature of mental health resources, I’ve also curated directories of therapists, social services, and crisis supports, making them accessible through events and initiatives like Mental Health Pop-Ups. Most recently, I contributed two chapters to the book Muslim Mental Health in North America, focusing on immigrant experiences and the role of Muslim NGOs in providing services.

What upcoming projects, research or initiatives are you excited about?

I’m excited to continue cultivating research, presenting at conferences and expanding my writing. A major passion of mine is bridging the gap between Muslims and the mental health community, and I’m committed to creating more spaces for that dialogue. I’m also beginning work on an anthology that will highlight the intersectional dimensions of the vast and multifaceted Muslim experience in America.

Share a favorite Mercy University memory.

One of my favorite Mercy memories was attending the SSBS Award Ceremony and presenting the MFT Award to one of my former students. It was such a beautiful moment to be able to celebrate their accomplishments and witness the impact of the work we do as faculty.

What’s the most important piece of advice you’d give to a freshman student about beginning their first day at Mercy University?

My advice to a freshman would be to lean into curiosity and connection. Even if you know what you want, don’t be afraid to let your story unfold. Letting go of something doesn’t mean giving up, it means creating space for new opportunities and growth. Ask questions, explore opportunities, and reach out to faculty or peers...these relationships will shape your experience just as much as your classes.

Do you have any hidden talents your colleagues at Mercy might be surprised to learn about?

I’m an avid reader of just about everything, from fiction to research to poetry. I also love writing and performing spoken word whenever I get the chance!

If you were to pursue a different career path outside of education, which field could you see yourself working in, and why?

Something I’ve always wanted to pursue is becoming a full-time poet. When I was younger, I performed in competitions and slams, but as I got older, I worried it wouldn’t be realistic or financially feasible. I still love poetry and performing, and it remains a central part of how I express myself and connect with others.

If your life was a movie, what would the opening credits song be (or, What song best reflects your personality)?

Best Day of My Life by American Authors

What topic could you give a 20-minute presentation on, with no preparation whatsoever?

Universal Studios — I’m obsessed! From the rides to the food, and especially the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, I could share all the tips, tricks, and must-see experiences with no prep at all.

Looking ahead, whether in your personal life, academics, or career, what are you most looking forward to and why?

Looking ahead, I think I'm most looking forward to the spontaneity that life has to offer. Whether it's a new project, a new vacation, or a new hobby.