Sara de Bernal

Executive Director | Clinical Psychologist | Activist Leader
Professional Summary

Dr. Sara de Bernal is a visionary leader, activist, and highly accomplished clinical psychologist with over four decades of experience serving vulnerable populations in the United States and internationally. Since 1980, she has dedicated her professional career to providing holistic treatments for individuals with complex and morbid conditions. Dr. de Bernal emphasizes faith-based and community-centered approaches, believing that holistic care, with God at its center, is essential to healing the human being.

Dr. de Bernal holds advanced degrees in clinical psychology from prestigious institutions, including a PhD in Clinical Psychology from Hunter College in New York and a bachelor's degree from the Catholic University of Cuenca in Ecuador. She also earned a doctorate from the International University of Graduate Studies, specializing in substance abuse. Her expertise encompasses criminal justice, human trafficking, homelessness, and family crisis intervention.

Professional Achievements
   •    Pioneering Contributions:
   •    The first Spanish-speaking clinical social worker to provide direct services to inmates on Rikers Island, New York.
   •    Developed affordable healthcare programs for Spanish-speaking families, advocating for prevention, treatment, and legal system education.
   •    Holistic Treatment Specialist:
   •    Coordinates outpatient, inpatient, and intensive substance abuse programs, including shelters, detoxification, and rehabilitation facilities.
   •    Provides clinical assessments and interventions for immigration cases and family courts in New York and New Jersey Supreme Courts.
   •    Community Impact:
   •    Executive Director of the Latin American Institute, where she has implemented innovative holistic programs for underserved communities.
   •    Conducts medical brigades in the Dominican Republic, El Salvador, Costa Rica, and Ecuador to expand access to care.
   •    Trains community leaders, pastors, staff, and family members to advocate for vulnerable populations and drive systemic change.
   •    Global Collaboration:
   •    Actively participates in international seminars, collaborating with professionals in medicine, substance abuse, and social work.
   •    Coordinates services with global consulates to ensure immigrant populations receive essential care and advocacy.

Key Expertise
   •    Criminal Justice Advocacy
   •    Substance Abuse Treatment and Program Coordination
   •    Holistic and Faith-Based Interventions
   •    Immigration and Family Court Clinical Assessments
   •    Human Trafficking and Homelessness Advocacy
   •    Training and Leadership Development for Community Stakeholders Education
   •    Doctor of Philosophy in Clinical Psychology
Hunter College, New York, USA
   •    Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology
Catholic University of Cuenca, Ecuador
   •    Doctorate in Substance Abuse Studies
International University of Graduate Studies

Licenses and Certifications
   •    Licensed Clinical Psychologist
   •    Certified Substance Abuse Counselor
   •    Specialized Training in Criminal Justice and Trauma-Informed Care
Publications and Teaching
Dr. de Bernal is a prolific educator and writer, offering training programs for professionals, faith leaders, and families. Her work empowers communities to advocate for equitable healthcare and social justice for marginalized individuals.
Vision and Philosophy
Dr. Sara de Bernal is driven by her belief in the transformative power of faith, compassion, and holistic care. Her life's mission is to bridge gaps in healthcare and legal systems, particularly for Spanish-speaking and immigrant populations, ensuring dignity, healing, and opportunity for all.