June 30, 2025

Looking Ahead: A Vision for ASCP

Dear ASCP Community,

It is both an honor and a privilege to begin my term as President of the American Society of Clinical Psychopharmacology (ASCP). This organization has been a cornerstone of my professional journey, and I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to lead it forward over the next two years.

As we face a period of global challenge and transformation, I feel a renewed sense of purpose about the role ASCP can and must play in advancing science, supporting clinicians, and building community. I want to thank my predecessors for their extraordinary leadership over the past few years. Their dedication has left ASCP well-positioned for continued growth and innovation. I’d also like to thank the chairs and members of our committees who have stimulated our creativity and forward momentum; and to all the members who have helped keep our organization strong and vibrant. 

I would like to take this opportunity to share my vision for my time as ASCP President:

Expanding and Engaging Our Membership

  • I aim to significantly grow our membership, especially by engaging early-career psychiatrists, trainees, and researchers. ASCP should be their professional home—a place where careers are launched, mentorship is found, and opportunities abound.
  • As ASCP continues to grow, one of our most powerful tools for attracting new members, fostering engagement, and amplifying our mission is a strategic, modernized marketing approach which as a board we will continue to develop.
  • Committees are the backbone of ASCP—where ideas are born, projects are shaped, and leadership is cultivated. One of my key goals is to ensure greater accessibility and transparency around committee involvement, so that all members feel empowered to participate and directly impact the ASCP.

Strengthening Public and Scientific Visibility

  • I am committed to elevating ASCP’s voice as a trusted leader in psychopharmacology. This includes engaging in national conversations around mental health, advocating for evidence-based practice, and forming new strategic alliances within academic and policy spheres.

Enhancing Educational Impact

  • Our field is evolving rapidly. ASCP will respond by delivering high-impact, accessible education—through a new psychopharmacology curriculum which is available now, online programs, and a growing portfolio of member-led content. We hope to continue and expand the Preceptorship for Pharmaceutical MSL and Medical Affairs Personnel that we held at the 2025 Annual Meeting in Scottsdale, AZ. From this workshop, we learned there are many opportunities and areas within the field to explore and ultimately provide impactful education and experiences.
  • Another impactful way we can shape the future of psychopharmacology is by contributing to and strengthening The Journal of Clinical Psychiatry—a platform that not only advances the field but also showcases the depth and diversity of ASCP's membership. I strongly encourage all members—especially early- and mid-career professionals—to become more involved with JCP.

Together, we stand at a moment of extraordinary challenge and opportunity. Through collaboration, creativity, and commitment, I believe we can grow our society, elevate our profession, and expand our impact. I am truly honored to serve as ASCP President and am here to listen, engage, and act on your behalf.

Please reach out at any time with your thoughts, ideas, and aspirations. Your voice is essential to our shared success.

Warm regards,
Anita Clayton, M.D.
President, American Society of Clinical Psychopharmacology (ASCP)