Donna Saunders, Ph.D., LCPC
President & CEO
Dr. Donna Saunders, Ph.D., LCPC
Clinical Psychologist | Public Behavioral Health Advocate | Trainer | Speaker | Author
Founder GGHI/Powering Guide Services Network
Dr. Donna Saunders is a clinical psychologist and pastoral counselor with over 20 years of experience providing professional services to disadvantaged youth, families, and the agencies that serve them. Her work focuses on building competencies that empower individuals and communities for long-term success. Dr. Saunders is committed to leveling the playing field so that success is achievable for everyone, regardless of socioeconomic status or structural disadvantages.
At the heart of Dr. Saunders' work is a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion across public health, education, and criminal justice. She advocates for a bottom-up, servant leadership model, empowering communities to lead from within and fostering systemic change through collaboration. Dr. Saunders is known for promoting a compassionate service delivery approach, reminiscent of the Good Samaritan model, particularly in the post-COVID era, where the human touch is crucial in health and human services despite increased reliance on technology.
Clinical Services
Dr. Saunders’ clinical practice supports disadvantaged youth and families using a holistic, strength-based approach. She helps her clients develop the necessary skills to thrive despite challenges, aligning her services with integrative health models that promote community-wide health equity.
Research and Writing
Dr. Saunders co-authored The Faith Factor: A Review of Clinical Research on Spiritual Topics and contributed to the Templeton-funded Validation of the Laws of Life. In 2017, she co-published the Saunders-Leak Faith-Based Integration Assessment Tool, which emphasizes the need for establishing standards for FBI funding approval. This tool highlights the importance of identifying interventions that are truly faith-based and contribute to public health research, ensuring evidence-based benefits of faith practices in improving health outcomes.
Speaking/Lectures
Dr. Saunders has been a featured speaker at institutions such as Harvard University, Johns Hopkins University, Wheaton College, and the National Institute for Drug Abuse. Her presentations focus on the need for systemic reform and interdisciplinary collaboration to address 21st-century public health challenges. She advocates for servant leadership as a powerful tool for creating equitable systems that support marginalized communities.
Training Services
For over 25 years, Dr. Saunders has provided training and health education to faith communities and human service agencies, focusing on equity-driven public health solutions. Her training programs equip leaders and organizations to foster inclusive, compassionate service environments, creating systemic upgrades that lead to lasting social change.
Media Appearances
Dr. Saunders has made numerous radio appearances and has been interviewed by national networks, including CNN. Through these interviews, she shares insights on public health and social issues, promoting community-centered solutions and emphasizing the need for collaborative, all-hands-on-deck approaches to create equitable health systems.
Program Development
Dr. Saunders designs programs aimed at building youth competencies and supporting agencies serving disadvantaged communities. Her work reflects her commitment to leveling the playing field, ensuring every young person has the tools to succeed. She is dedicated to advancing systemic reforms that tackle the 21st-century challenges of public behavioral health.