Michael L. Bourke, Ph.D.
Board Member
Dr. Michael Bourke is a clinical and forensic psychologist with over 20 years in federal law enforcement. From 2008 to 2021, he served as Chief Psychologist for the U.S. Marshals Service, where he created and led the Behavioral Analysis Unit (BAU). Prior to that, he worked in the federal prison system, conducting risk assessments, polygraph exams, and treatment for sex offenders.
A respected consultant and researcher, Dr. Bourke has advised federal, state, and local agencies on sexual criminality, interrogation techniques, and safeguarding personnel. He has taught for the Defense Intelligence Agency and is currently adjunct faculty at George Washington University and Nova Southeastern University.
Dr. Bourke co-authored the landmark “Butner Study” and has published key research on tactical polygraph use, staff wellness, and the Interdiction for the Protection of Children (IPC) program. In 2008, he received the highest research honor from the UK’s Child Exploitation and Online Protection Centre (CEOP). His work has been featured in The Washington Post, The New York Times, and multiple forensic psychology textbooks.
Now in private practice, Dr. Bourke continues to support national efforts to combat child exploitation.