SPEAKING

A keynote to inspire, educate, and support mental health.

I speak about my lived experience with mental illness, hospitalizations, incarceration, and recovery, alongside my work as a social worker and mental health advocate. This is not a generic awareness talk, but a direct examination of what happens when reality fractures and what it takes to rebuild a life afterward.

I speak candidly about challenges growing up, substance misuse, psychosis, mania, family strain, legal consequences, and the long work of reclaiming identity and hope. I do not offer easy answers. I challenge audiences to expand their understanding of mental health and to consider how we — as families, friends, professionals, and changemakers — can better support those facing a mental health difficulty.

What audiences walk away with:

A more accurate and human understanding of mental illness — and how it can emerge gradually, not suddenly, for anyone
Greater awareness of early warning signs, risk factors, and how to respond when someone begins to struggle
A deeper understanding of how mental health challenges affect identity, relationships, and decision-making
A clearer view of how peers, families, institutions, and systems can either intervene early or miss critical moments
Inspiration to strengthen mental health support — within themselves, in their relationships, and in their communities

Who I speak to:

Organizations and conferences committed to advancing mental health
Universities and colleges
Mental health and behavioral health organizations
Criminal justice and public policy groups
Healthcare systems and clinical professionals

I have delivered this keynote to more than a dozen organizations nationwide. If you are interested in bringing it to your organization, I welcome the conversation. Please complete the form below, and I will respond by email.

Cohen’s voice is powerful, authentic, and deeply needed. His keynote was one of the most impactful moments of the EmPATH Summit 2025. He brought a level of honesty and vulnerability that deeply resonated with every attendee in the room.

– EmPATH Consulting

Cohen has inspired me to share my story, help others seek help when the first signs appear, and advocate for those in need. I hope to inspire others someday.

– Gabriela Costa, Student, Bachelor of Social Work

Cohen’s story is raw and riveting. He exudes inspiration and aligns his remarkable experience with moving testimony about mental health complexities.

– Joan Dickinson, Adjunct Faculty, Stony Brook University

Cohen delivered one of the most impactful presentations I’ve ever attended. His ability to weave his journey with psychosis into actionable insights for advocacy and training is nothing short of inspiring. With authenticity and vulnerability, he created a space of understanding and hope. His deep knowledge and professionalism made it clear that he’s a true expert in his field.

– Whitney L. Closson, MS, Prevention Counselor, Consultant, & MHFA Instructor