Deanna Powers Citarella, OTR/L ’04 earned her bachelor’s degree in health science and a master’s degree in occupational therapy from Dominican University in 2012. As a licensed and registered occupational therapist in New York State, she has always been deeply passionate about her profession.
However, becoming a mother shifted her perspective, helping her recognize the importance of providing greater support both in her own home and in her clients’ homes.
Today, Deanna focuses on helping individuals develop essential developmental skills within their homes and communities. She firmly believes that accessible parent support and community classes can profoundly impact people’s lives. This belief is the driving force behind her business, Reimagined NY. As the founder and owner, Deanna leads an incredible team of therapists who share her vision.
Deanna is married to her high school sweetheart, Anthony ’04, and is the proud mom of three daughters. In her free time, she enjoys cooking, dancing, going to the beach, and playing with her children and their two golden retrievers.
You can connect with Deanna at The Nesting Place, where her office and classes are located. The Nesting Place is a beautiful, family-focused wellness center with three locations across Long Island: Merrick, Farmingdale, and Yaphank. As the program director, Deanna loves connecting with and supporting her clients and their families.
What inspired you to pursue a career in occupational therapy?
I discovered my passion for occupational therapy as a sophomore at Kellenberg. From a young age, I knew I wanted to pursue a career in a caring profession. I was particularly drawn to working with children of all abilities. The combination of creativity and health science drew me to occupational therapy. My older sisters were also pursuing careers in physical therapy and speech therapy. Seeing the joy their professions brought them further inspired me to follow a similar path.
How do you think your time at Kellenberg Memorial helped to prepare you for your success in your academic and professional pursuits?
My time at Kellenberg profoundly shaped me into the professional, wife, and mother I am today. As an occupational therapist, Kellenberg provided me with the educational foundation to succeed in a competitive program. As a business owner, it gave me the confidence and skills to become an entrepreneur and build something I am passionate about. As a wife and mother, Kellenberg taught me that family is my greatest gift. The school consistently emphasized the importance of family and faith—values that continue to play a central role in my life today.
Do you have any advice for current students or young alums interested in pursuing a career in occupational therapy?
My best advice to students aspiring to become occupational therapists or any type of health professional is this: never lose sight of your end goal. The programs are challenging and competitive, and you’ll study harder and longer than you ever thought possible. But stay diligent and motivated because the reward is worth it. Being able to do what I do daily—supporting families, witnessing kids’ progress, and helping them reach their goals and milestones—is truly one of the greatest joys.
Do you have any favorite teachers, coaches, or club moderators from your time at Kellenberg Memorial?
This is a tricky question because Kellenberg is such a unique and supportive community. All of the teachers had a positive impact on my life. However, Mr. A’Hearn, Mr. Solosky, and Mr. Benintendi are unforgettable. They led with kindness and truly helped me build my confidence. Now that I have children of my own, I hope they, too, are fortunate enough to have incredible mentors and teachers like them.
