John J. Lawless, Ph.D., MPH is a Professor in the School of Social and Behavioral Sciences at SUNY Empire State College. Dr. Lawless’ career has spanned human services, psychology, human development, and public health. He has an A.S in Human Services from Mohawk Valley Community College, B.A. in Psychology from Binghamton University, M.S. in Counseling Psychology from University of Albany, Ph.D. in Child and Family Development from University of Georgia, and a M.P.H. from Drexel University. He is a licensed family therapist in New York State.

His clinical, teaching, and research agenda has focused on mental health disparities while advocating for cultural competence, equity, and inclusion. He has presented and moderated at local, national, and international conferences on the intersection of diversity and clinical practice.