Dr. Sandra Pimentel, PhD, Chief of Child and Adolescent Psychology at Montefiore Einstein, has been elected as the President of the Association for Behavioral and Cognitive Therapies (ABCT). ABCT, a multidisciplinary organization founded in 1966, is a prominent force in the field of mental health, dedicated to research, prevention and treatment grounded in evidence-based behavioral, cognitive and biological principles. 

In her role at Montefiore Einstein, Dr. Pimentel serves as Chief of Child and Adolescent Psychology, Associate Director of Psychology Training and Associate Professor of Clinical Psychology in the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Medicine. She also launched and is the Director of the Anxiety and Mood Program (AMP), a specialty training program in the Child Outpatient Psychiatry Department and is the co-Director of the Becoming an Emerging Adult at Montefiore (BEAM) Program. Prior to her tenure at Montefiore, Dr. Pimentel held a significant position at the Columbia University Medical Center, where she was deeply involved in program development and training in the field of anxiety disorders.

Dr. Pimentel's expertise lies in cognitive behavioral treatments (CBT) for children, adolescents and young adults with anxiety, mood and behavioral difficulties. Her commitment extends beyond clinical practice to include teaching, mentorship and the advancement of evidence-based interventions. Her work has notably impacted the dissemination of these interventions in various settings, particularly schools and community environments. Dr. Pimentel's election as President of ABCT is not only a personal achievement but also a reflection of her dedication to enhancing the field of mental health through her extensive research, clinical work and advocacy.