Meet Donte Bernard, Ph.D.

Donte Bernard, Ph.D.

Candidate for ABCT Representative at Large 2026–29, Liaison to Membership Programs

Autobiography

I am an Assistant Professor whose work reflects the core values that guide ABCT: rigorous clinical-science, diversity, and accountability to the communities we serve. As a licensed clinical psychologist, I have developed a community-embedded research program that centers the needs and strengths of communities historically overlooked in our field, with a particular focus on ethnoracially minoritized youth and families. In this vein, my work investigates how racism related stress shapes developmental risk and resilience processes and translates this knowledge into culturally responsive, prevention-focused interventions.

I approach this work with the understanding that meaningful change in our field happens collectively, and that our science and practice are strongest when they reflect the diversity of the communities we serve. Guided by this perspective, I am deeply committed to mentoring and service aimed at diversifying the workforce of our field by expanding who is trained, whose knowledge is valued, and how behavioral science is conducted and applied in clinical contexts. This commitment anchors my continued engagement in both patient-facing and supervisory roles, particularly with youth experiencing trauma and internalizing symptoms, and through leadership that strengthens pathways into the field. My engagement with ABCT spans more than 15 years, growing from early involvement in the Black Americans in Research and Behavioral Therapy SIG to leadership as Co-Director of the ABCT CHANGE Leaders Program, which
supports early-career professionals in advancing equity-focused leadership within and beyond ABCT. Drawing on these diverse professional experiences, I am humbled and honored by the opportunity to represent the membership as Representative-at-Large.

Position Statement

We are in a sociopolitical climate where threats to scientific funding, attacks on evidence-based practice, and systemic inequities not only undermine public trust and the progress of behavioral science but also limit the reach and impact of clinical care. As a scholar nearing the end of my early career period, I am keenly aware of the pressures facing academic and clinical trainees, faculty, and providers, and the real consequences these challenges can have for career development and retention. In these unprecedented times, disillusionment and resource constraints can make stepping back from our work feel necessary; yet it is precisely in moments like these that leaning in, through sustained scholarship, policy engagement, and clinical service, is essential to protect the integrity of our science and to advance equitable, evidence-based care for the communities we serve.

It is in this spirit that I seek to serve as Representative-at-Large for membership programs, committed to enhancing community and belonging among ABCT members. As Rep-at-Large, I would:

1. Engage members to identify evolving needs and inform responsive ABCT programming and initiatives.
2. Create and enhance infrastructure to elevate, track, and respond to member concerns, ensuring diverse voices meaningfully inform ABCT decision-making.
3. Amplify the contributions of members, especially those who may be early-career, under resourced, or negatively impacted due to shifting funding priorities.
4. Develop and strengthen practices that cultivate safe, inclusive, and affirming environments across ABCT conventions and professional spaces.
5. Work in partnership with SIGS to increase visibility, support, and integration into broader ABCT initiatives and convention programming.

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