Desireé N. Williford, PhD, MPH

I am a pediatric psychologist, behavioral scientist, and community advocate specializing in health equity in pediatric self-management science. I have a particular passion for the design, development, evaluation, and cultural adaptation of strengths-based behavioral interventions for youth living with type 1 diabetes. My overall goal is to help youth and families live their best life while normalizing and navigating the challenges of burdensome and complex treatment regimens. I also firmly believe in community engagement and the power of partnership between communities, researchers and clinicians to influence health, systems, and policy.

Throughout my clinical and research training, I have worked with many young people who have lived experiences with health inequity. I have heard repeated stories of the challenges of balancing the demands of chronic illness with other important needs such as safety, housing, food, expenses and the added weight and complexity of navigating intersecting identities. However, I have also heard many stories of strength and resilience and have watched these youth and families grow and thrive in ways which have inspired and impassioned me. As such, my work emphasizes understanding the unique impacts of social determinants of health on self-management and medical outcomes and the strategies which promote strengths and protective factors.

Beyond clinical and research interests, I am equally passionate about mentoring and growing and learning alongside others. I am a team scientist at heart and aspire to be a lifelong learner, continuously challenging myself, my team, and my colleagues to apply principles of diversity, equity, inclusion, and justice to our work and fields. I hold active membership and leadership positions with the American Psychological Association (APA) Society of Pediatric Psychology (Division 54), including serving as the Founder/Faculty Chair of the Committee for Outreach and Service which partners with local non-profits to deliver service and outreach events as part of annual conferences. I am also a member of the APA Minority Fellowship Leadership & Education Advancement Program (LEAP) for Diverse Scholars.

Personally, I am a proud Afro-Latina-Indigenous woman and enjoy traveling and learning about languages and cultures. In my free time, you will most likely find me spending time with loved ones, enjoying local cuisine and events, volunteering, or baking. I am also an avid writer and aspiring children’s book author.