Speaker Profile Thumbnail for Patrick Kennedy

Former U.S. Representative | Founder of The Kennedy Forum | Leading Advocate for Mental Health & Addiction Equity

Patrick Kennedy Speaking Fee: $30,000 to $50,000

Former U.S. Representative | Founder of The Kennedy Forum | Leading Advocate for Mental Health & Addiction Equity

Speaker Profile Thumbnail for Patrick Kennedy
Speaking Fee:
$30,000 to $50,000

Travels From:
ACY - Atlantic City, NJ

Primary Topic Category:
Mental Health / Wellness / Self-Help

Secondary Topic Category:
Politics

 

Patrick Kennedy Speaker Profile: At A Glance

Upon leaving Congress in 2011, Kennedy made a promise: to be a vocal advocate for the full and unequivocal implementation of the 2008 Parity law, and to push for a greater global investment in brain research, which Mr. Kennedy says is the “next great frontier in medicine.” Weaving together both private and professional narratives, Rep. Kennedy is also the co-author of A Common Struggle: A Personal Journey Through the Past and Future of Mental Illness and Addiction (October, 2015).

Patrick J. Kennedy is a prominent advocate for mental health and addiction equity, leveraging his political legacy and personal experiences to drive significant reforms in these critical areas. As a former U.S. Representative from Rhode Island, Kennedy is best known for his sponsorship of the Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act of 2008, a landmark legislation ensuring that mental health is treated on par with physical health. Throughout his 16-year tenure in Congress, he was a vocal proponent of mental health reform, dedicating his efforts to improving the lives of those affected by mental illness and substance use disorders.In 2013, Kennedy founded The Kennedy Forum, a non-profit organization aimed at transforming mental health and addiction care delivery. The Forum seeks to unite mental health advocates, business leaders, and government agencies around a common set of principles to advance evidence-based practices and policies. Under his leadership, The Kennedy Forum has launched numerous initiatives, including the Alignment for Progress, a national strategy for mental health and substance use disorders, and Don't Deny Me, an educational campaign to empower consumers and providers about parity rights.Kennedy's contributions extend beyond legislation and advocacy; he is also a prolific author. His memoir, "A Common Struggle," co-authored with Stephen Fried, details his personal battles with mental illness and addiction, offering a comprehensive roadmap for mental health equity in the United States. His latest book, "Profiles in Mental Health Courage," continues this mission by sharing the stories of individuals who have bravely faced mental health challenges, aiming to inspire and mobilize broader societal change.Currently, Kennedy continues to influence mental health policy as a partner at Healthsperien, where he leads the national mental health and addiction policy practice. His tireless work in the field has garnered numerous accolades and positioned him as one of the foremost voices in mental health advocacy today. Residing in New Jersey with his wife, Amy, and their children, Patrick Kennedy remains dedicated to advancing the cause of social justice and health equity for all.
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