Sara Kohlbeck, Ph.D., is an assistant professor of psychiatry and behavioral medicine and director of the Division of Suicide Research and Healing at the Comprehensive Injury Center at the Medical College of Wisconsin in Wauwatosa. She is also the assistant director of MCW’s Ph.D. program in Public and Community Health.
Kohlbeck researches social determinants of health, health disparities and suicide prevention, focusing on high-risk populations like farmers, veterans and youth of color and seeking to develop appropriate prevention strategies. She also engages directly with local communities implementing suicide prevention programs, such as the City of Milwaukee’s Suicide Review Commission, bringing together key partners to inform prevention efforts.
In addition, Kohlbeck mentors potential future leaders in her field through initiatives such as the Health Disparities Research Scholars program. She also hosts an educational podcast to share her knowledge on suicide research and prevention.
“With her impressive background of research, community engagement and education, Dr. Kohlbeck is saving lives and advancing public health,” said Terri deRoon-Cassini, director of MCW’s Comprehensive Injury Center.
