Mental health advocate, educator, speaker and coach, Karl Shallowhorn, has a proven track record of delivering engaging and informative presentations to wide-ranging audiences across the United States. His combination of lived experience and clinical expertise makes him a unique resource, whether you are looking for a keynote speaker, behavioral health trainer or leadership development coach.

Karl is the author of Working on Wellness: A Practical Guide to Mental Health, Leadership Through the Lens of the 12 Steps and is the creator of a Mastermind course based on the 12 Step Leadership concept. He has been a featured blogger and writer for BP magazine. Karl has received numerous awards for his work in the mental health field including from the National Federation of Just Communities and the Buffalo Association of Black Social Workers. He has also been selected as a presenter for TedX Buffalo 2021 with his topic being, “African American Men and Mental Health: Crisis or Opportunity.”

Karl is a much sought-after speaker and a member of the Black Speakers Network, He is the host of a Facebook Live public affairs and health program sponsored by the Community Health Center of Buffalo. Karl has also been a guest on numerous podcasts, Including Landmark Recovery Radio and Mental Health and Wealth.

As a person in long-term recovery from bipolar and co-occurring addiction disorder, Karl’s goal is to help people discover their unmet potential and eliminate the stigma associated with mental illness. He has educated diverse audiences, including behavioral health providers, law enforcement, youth, educators, veterans and faith communities, among others.

Karl has worked professionally for over 28 years in the fields of addiction counseling, mental health advocacy, higher education, and leadership development coaching. His broad experience enables him to connect with individuals and groups in a unique manner.

Karl received his Bachelor’s degree in Broadcasting and Master’s degree in Student Personnel Administration from SUNY Buffalo State. He also earned his New York State Credential in Addiction Counseling and completed the University at Buffalo Online Trauma-Informed Clinical Foundation Program.

Karl is a Health Leadership Fellow, a program sponsored by the Health Foundation of Western and Central New York.

Karl has delivered over 200 trainings and workshops on mental health and addiction-related topics and is a Certified Mental Health First Aid Instructor. His passion for excellent emotional health and wellbeing is demonstrated by his ever-increasing desire to help others.

Karl is happily married to his wife Suzy and is the proud father of two adult daughters, Sarah and Lillie. In his spare time, he enjoys collecting vinyl records and cycling.