Bio of Dr. Dana E. Crawford, Ph.D.

Title:

Clinical Psychologist

Full Bio 

Dr. Dana E. Crawford: A Leading Expert in Trauma-Informed Care and Bias Reduction

Dr. Dana E. Crawford, a licensed clinical psychologist, is internationally recognized for her groundbreaking work in trauma-informed care, bias reduction, and cultural healing. From 2015 to 2020, she directed one of the nation’s largest trauma-informed care programs at Montefiore Medical Center, where she trained over 1,000 staff across 20 practices, transforming the care of more than 300,000 patients. Amid the COVID-19 pandemic, Dr. Crawford demonstrated visionary leadership by creating a Staff Emotional Support team, establishing a 24-hour emotional support hotline, and providing critical supervision for palliative care teams. Her initiatives became a national model for fostering emotional resilience among healthcare professionals.

In September 2020, Columbia University’s Zuckerman Institute created the prestigious position of Scholar in Residence specifically for Dr. Crawford, recognizing her expertise and thought leadership. Over her four-year tenure, she introduced the Crawford Bias Reduction Theory & Training (CBRT) framework to some of the world’s most advanced neuroscience labs, helping the scientific community adopt equitable, inclusive, and anti-bias practices. Using the Intercultural Development Inventory (IDI)—a leading theory-based assessment of intercultural competence—Dr. Crawford provided departments across the Columbia University with invaluable baseline assessments, individual coaching for principal investigators, institute-wide evaluations, and tailored trainings. Her work catalyzed institutional transformation, promoting a culture of inclusivity and equity.

Dr. Crawford is also the creator of Racial Awareness Conversations for Everyone (R.A.C.E. cards), a widely acclaimed 48-prompt discussion deck designed to encourage meaningful conversations about race and inclusion. Her much-anticipated book, Healing Bias, will be released in spring 2025 by Norton Professional Books, further solidifying her reputation as a leader in the fields of bias reduction and cultural healing.

Her clinical expertise is equally impressive, spanning all ages and addressing PTSD, moral injury, environmental and organizational trauma, and childhood trauma. Dr. Crawford holds advanced degrees in psychology, counseling, the arts, and education, alongside certifications in Practical Nursing, medical hypnosis, and biofeedback. Her rigorous training includes a pediatric psychology residency at Tulane University and fellowships with the U.S. Department of Defense and the Center for Early Connections.

Currently, Dr. Crawford operates a thriving private practice in Manhattan and leads the Crawford Bias Reduction Theory & Training Center, where she consults with universities, school districts, nonprofits, military organizations, and corporations. Known for her ability to tackle complex challenges, she delivers transformative results across sectors. Through her unwavering commitment to trauma recovery, cultural competence, and equity, Dr. Crawford continues to inspire meaningful change, earning her place as one of the most sought-after psychologists and consultants in her field.

Bio for verbal introduction

Good [morning/afternoon], everyone. It’s my honor to introduce Dr. Dana E. Crawford, a renowned licensed clinical psychologist and trailblazer in trauma-informed care, bias reduction, and cultural healing. Dr. Crawford has led transformative programs, including directing one of the nation’s largest trauma-informed care initiatives at Montefiore Medical Center and serving as Scholar in Residence at Columbia University’s Zuckerman Institute. She’s the creator of the Crawford Bias Reduction Theory & Training framework and the Racial Awareness Conversations for Everyone cards, and her upcoming book, Healing Bias, will further solidify her reputation as a leader in the field. With expertise spanning PTSD, moral injury, organizational trauma, and more, Dr. Crawford has shaped impactful change across healthcare, education, nonprofits, and corporate sectors. Please join me in welcoming Dr. Dana E. Crawford."