Dan is a lawyer, mental health advocate, law professor, and public speaker who has delivered more than 250 presentations on stress, anxiety, burnout, and depression throughout the United States. His work has appeared in The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, The Washington Post, NPR, CNN, WebMD, The National Law Journal, The New York Law Journal, ABA Journal, Law360, Bloomberg Law, and many other national and international media outlets.
His most recent article, “Overcoming Loneliness in the Legal Profession,” was published in the New York State Bar Association’s Journal magazine’s 2026 Summer Edition. An earlier article he wrote, “One Lawyer Living and Working with Depression,” also appeared as the magazine’s cover story.
Over the past twenty years, Dan has delivered CLE-eligible mental health programs to law firms, legal organizations, national and state bar associations, and law conferences throughout the U.S., covering topics such as stress management, burnout, anxiety, depression, suicide awareness and prevention, and time management and productivity.
Dan was a major contributor to the New York State Bar Association’s Attorney Well-Being Task Force, which produced the report “This is Us: From Striving Alone to Thriving Together,” and serves as a member of both the New York State Bar Association’s Lawyer Assistance Committee and the Judges Wellness Committee.
He is a law professor at the University of Buffalo School of Law, where he graduated in 1988, and teaches the course “Mental Health and Well-Being in the Legal Profession,” which he created. He has also guest lectured at law schools, including Harvard, Yale, and the University of Pennsylvania, where he wrote an article for the school’s publication titled “Prioritizing Mental Health and Well-Being in the Workplace is Evolving and Driving Change in the Legal Profession.”
In 2007, Dan created a depression group with his local bar association for lawyers in his community. It is still going strong nearly twenty years later and meets twice a week.
Last year, he was appointed to the “New York State Judicial Task Force on Mental Illness,” where he serves on a committee dedicated to improving the mental health and well-being of the 16,000 employees of the New York State Court system.
For his work and advocacy, Dan has received several awards, including the New York State Bar Association’s “Merit Award for Public Service” and the University at Buffalo School of Law’s “Distinguished Alumni Award.”
As a trial lawyer, Dan enjoyed a successful legal career trying cases throughout New York State in both state and federal courts. He was voted by the 3,000 lawyers in his bar association as one of the most respected lawyers in his community and named to the “Top 10: Best of the Best.” He was also regularly listed in the publication, “The Best Lawyers in America.”
Dan is the executive producer of three mental health documentaries.
“A Terrible Melancholy: Depression in the Legal Profession” is a 30-minute documentary that explores the causes and solutions for clinical depression that affects over forty percent of lawyers at some point in their legal careers. It features interviews with lawyers, a judge, a psychiatrist, a law professor, a psychologist, and Joshua Wolf Shenk, a Yale graduate and the author of the best-selling book, “Lincoln’s Melancholy: How Depression Challenged a Presidency and Fueled His Greatness.” The film has been screened throughout the U.S. at law firms, law conferences, judicial conferences, and law schools.
“My Brother Lost in Time: A Bipolar Life” is a 15-minute documentary about Dan and his younger brother, Paul, that premiered in 2024. This heartfelt short film explores the bond between the brothers and their shared struggles with mental illness. Dan has lived with major depression for the past 25 years, and his brother Paul, who suffered from bipolar disorder, tragically passed away in 2023. The film premiered on PBS and is available on its YouTube page. New York State NAMI (the National Alliance for Mental Illness) screened the film at its 2025 conference, where Dan delivered the keynote address. The organization awarded him its “2025 Leader of Mental Health Awareness Award.” You can also watch a one-minute trailer for the film.
“Travels with George: A Journey Through Depression, Connection, and Friendship” is a 20-minute documentary that shares the story of Dan and his friendship with a nine-year-old boy named George, which began 10 years ago, and how it helped him heal and manage his depression. This inspirational film premiered before a sold-out audience in October 2025 and made its television debut on PBS in February 2026, and is available on its YouTube page. You can also watch the one-minute trailer for the film.
Dan created two websites. The first, Lawyers with Depression, launched fifteen years ago, aims to educate, support, and offer hope to those in the legal profession who struggle with depression and other mental health issues. The second, the Buffalo Depression Project, launched in 2025, provides information, resources, and support to the one million people in Buffalo and Western New York.
Testimonials
Dan delivered a concise, powerful, and engaging CLE presentation to more than 500 attendees at the ABA Forum on Construction Law 2025 Fall Conference in Louisville on recognizing lawyer burnout and finding a healthier way to practice law. He is a natural storyteller who forges an emotional connection with the audience through his experiences and passion for improving lawyers’ mental health. Dan’s CLE presentation on depression in the legal profession was compelling and illuminating. His warm, personal style facilitates honest, robust discussion. Dan has mastery of the statistics affecting the legal profession in particular, and of their impact on workplaces generally. Liz Kreagel, Esq., Partner, Duke, Holzman, Phototiadis & Ritter
It was my privilege to collaborate with Dan Lukasik to coordinate and tailor a presentation for our firm’s inaugural CLE, hosted by our WAVE (Women Attorneys Valued and Empowered) and Wellness Committees. Dan’s expertise and dedication were evident throughout the process, and today’s presentation on “Mental Health & Well-Being in the Legal Profession” exceeded all expectations. I wholeheartedly endorse Dan Lukasik as a speaker for any organization seeking to promote mental health awareness and well-being in the legal community. More than 300 members of our legal staff attended his Zoom presentation, and the response has been overwhelmingly positive! Olivia Orlando Donovan, Esq., Wilson Elsner
Dan Lukasik is, simply put, an incredible human being and a shining beacon of leadership for the legal wellness and well-being community. He not only bravely shared his story but also built an invaluable resource for the entire legal community through his Lawyers with Depression website. He is an excellent advocate, a rare leader who listens, and a masterful presenter. His talents are on full display when presenting to a room full of lawyers, He demonstrates empathy, kindness, and leadership in all he does, and his daily work makes a huge difference in the world. Mike Kasdan, Esq., Partner, Wiggins and Dana, LLP
Dan has broad and deep experience with lawyer wellness issues. He is knowledgeable, clear, empathetic, thoughtful, and helpful. He understands the complexity of lawyer wellness and is a great speaker on the subject. Jim Sandman, Esq., Managing Partner (Ret.), Arnold Porter, Adjunct Professor of Law, University of Pennsylvania School of Law
Dan’s presentation was certainly a highlight of the session. At Harvard Law School, we tailor our health and wellness programs so the content is relatable to students. Mr. Lukasik’s status as a practicing attorney who can speak personally and with authority about the unique mental health challenges in the legal profession was well received. The feedback was remarkable, so much so that we would like to invite Dan back. Lakshmi Clark, Ed.D., Director of Student Affairs, Harvard Law School
Dan’s presentation on depression in the legal profession was very compelling and illuminating. His warm and personal presentation style facilitates honest and robust discussion. Dan has a mastery of the statistics affecting the legal profession in particular and the impact on workplaces generally. Jody Ann Galvin, Esq., Partner, Hodson Russ, LLP
I cannot recommend Dan more highly! As someone deeply invested in the mental and emotional health of legal professionals, Dan brings the expertise, empathy, emotional intelligence, and insight needed to deliver a compelling, high-impact presentation. What sets Dan apart is his genuine passion for this critical issue. He understands the unique challenges attorneys face in today’s legal environment and offers practical strategies to dismantle stigma, manage depression and stress, prevent burnout, and cultivate resilience. Tracy Keppler, Director of Risk Control, Global Specialty Lawyers, Professional Liability at CNA Insurance
Dan gave a CLE talk at our law firm and his impact on us was profound. He addressed our attorneys during the first CLE session, shared his personal experience, and offered excellent tips for lawyers to manage their mental health and well-being. He also met separately with our legal support staff and outlined practical steps for everyone to lead better lives at work and at home. I recommend Dan to any firm looking to enhance the mental health of its attorneys and staff. The positive feedback I received was overwhelming, and we look forward to having him back in the future. Michelle Spitelli, Director of Human Resources, Morris, Nichols, Arsht & Tunnell LLP
I can’t recommend Dan enough. He brings gravitas, deep empathy, and specialized knowledge to conversations about mental health for legal professionals. As our society and workplaces recognize mental health as integral to overall health, expert voices like Dan’s need to be in the room. Susan Duarte, Esq., Bond Dickinson, LLP
T-Mobile engaged Dan to present to the legal organization a CLE on depression, anxiety, and related topics. His presentation was instrumental in driving an awareness campaign highlighting the particular relevance of these conditions among legal professionals and in creating a community where folks felt safe embracing their experiences. His presentation was educational, and his personal story was inspiring. We were lucky to have Dan and are so appreciative of his dedication to elevating people in the disability community! Christina Farno, Esq., Sr. Program Manager, Legal Affairs, T-Mobile
When Dan speaks, he has a remarkable ability to make you feel as if he is talking to you personally. His deep knowledge and passion are evident, but what truly sets him apart is his authenticity and relatability. Working with Dan leading up to the program was seamless, and with every exchange, it was clear he puts a lot of thought and care into his preparation and content. Can’t wait to work with Dan again in the future! Jean Tonorio, Professional Development Specialist, Bond, Schoenick, & King.
I had the pleasure of being Dan’s Session Coordinator for his “Healthy as a Horse?: Recognizing Burnout and Finding a Healthier Way to Practice Law” session at the ABA Forum on Construction Law 2025 Fall Conference. Dan was wonderful to work with through the planning process and was very communicative about schedule. Even though he was injured in a car accident, he was able to maintain schedule, complete a substantial writing requirement and, ultimately, give one of the best presentations of the conference. Attendees raved about Dan’s vulnerable story and how moving it was. Dan’s presentation was mentioned in several post-event highlights. Dan was easy to work with on the planning side and incredibly impactful as a presenter. I would highly recommend him to present about mental health issues. Sonja Seeder, Esq. General Counsel, Guidon
I highly recommend Dan, a remarkable lawyer and speaker who has devoted the past fifteen years to addressing the critical issues of stress, anxiety, and depression in the legal community. Having worked as a litigator for close to two decades, I have firsthand knowledge of how prevalent stress and anxiety are in the legal sector, and I hold a deep appreciation for the great work Dan is doing to support law students, lawyers, judges, and others in the legal profession. As a well-being advocate, Dan offers CLEs where people can learn practical tools and resources to promote mental well-being. I highly recommend Dan as a well-being advocate, CLE presenter, and lecturer. Dan’s commitment to supporting legal practitioners is invaluable and helps foster a healthier, more mindful legal community. Courtney Schulnick, Esq., Marshall, Dennehey, Warner, Coleman & Goggin
I had the privilege of collaborating with Dan on an American Heart Association event focused on attorneys’ mental well-being. His presentation was informative and deeply personal on many levels. The information he provided, both during his presentation and in the materials he handed out, is eye-opening regarding the percentage of lawyers who suffer from depression, and the suggestions he offers for combating such issues are equally impressive. I can’t imagine any lawyer not benefiting from his presentation. Michael Kushnir, Esq., Nutter, McClennen & Fish, LLP
Dan recently gave a CLE presentation to our organization on mental health in the legal profession. The presentation was excellent, and I received nothing but positive feedback from attendees. Dan is knowledgeable, warm, and engaging. He brings a personal touch to content that is all too relevant today, especially for those in the legal profession. I would highly recommend Dan as a speaker, and we’ll likely invite him to speak again in the future. Logan Dolph, Esq., Senior Counsel, The Wonderful Company
Dan provided our firm with wonderful insight and training on mental health issues in the legal profession in his CLE. He is thoughtful, sensitive, and so willing to help anyone struggling with or working to identify these important issues. I highly recommend his presentation and valuable advice to firms prioritizing mental health. Heidi Brauer Ruchala, Esq., Partner, Barclay Damon, LLP
Dan spoke at our law firm, first to the management team and then to our support team, on well-being, mental health, and wellness. He was not only incredibly knowledgeable but also truly engaging. He provided critical insights into the business and human case for well-being resources. His resources and materials were excellent. It was a pleasure to work with Dan to set up the programs. I truly hope to continue working with him and learning from him. Kim Wolf King, Esq., COO, Bond, Schoeneck & King, PLLC
Dan is a pioneer in every sense of the word. I have had the pleasure of working with Dan on a number of initiatives over the last several years, driven by our shared commitment to attorney well-being. Dan shares his personal experience and professional perspective with deep authenticity and compassion as he discusses the well-being challenges faced in the legal profession, both individually and collectively. Dan is an exceptionally talented speaker, a groundbreaking podcast host, the founder of a website for lawyers with depression, the first-ever NYS coordinator for judicial wellness, and a genuinely brilliant colleague. He was generous in serving on the NYSBA Task Force on Attorney Well-being and continues to provide volunteer assistance as the work progresses. I do not hesitate to reach out to Dan as a trusted source of wisdom, talent, and insight, and he always responds with help and grace.
Libby Clark, Esq., Chief Operating Officer, Bonocio Construction, Chair, New York State Task Force on Lawyer Wellbeing.
Dan has extensive experience with lawyer wellness issues. He is knowledgeable, clear, empathetic, thoughtful, and helpful. He understands the complexity of lawyer wellness and is an effective speaker on the topic. The CLE he presented to attorneys and support staff last year was honest, insightful, and validating for many members of our staff. I encourage others in leadership positions within their organizations, whether in a law firm, a bar association, a law school, or a court, to reach out to Dan for his expertise in improving mental health discussions in the legal field. Ann Dillon Flynn, Esq., Clerk of the Court, NYS Appellate Division, Fourth Department.
Dan’s CLE presentation drew rave reviews. Dan is a highly experienced expert on attorney mental health, and his delivery is exceptionally engaging. He generously amplifies the impact of his considerable knowledge by drawing on his own mental health struggles, and his empathy goes a long way toward encouraging audience participation. As an attorney who truly understands the overwhelming stress of practicing law and how to overcome it and thrive, he really gets the attorney wellness problem and how to address it. Dan Lukasik is one of the smartest and most thoughtful and compassionate lawyers I know – he speaks from his heart about depression and mental health in the legal profession. Every law firm, court system, law school, and government legal office should have him speak to their lawyers, judges, and paralegals about these topics.
Joe Belluck, Managing Partner, Belluck Fox, LLP
Dan has fearlessly stepped into some of humanity’s thorniest areas, bringing an exquisite understanding of what it means to struggle and suffer with mental illness and its myriad effects on those within its grasp, paired with a warmth and openness that is comforting and inspiring. As a fellow mental health advocate and lawyer, I continue to be both awestruck by Dan’s tireless advocacy and driven to shine as bright a light as possible on a subject that has long been hidden in our world, both in the population at large and in the legal profession, where so many have been and continue to be confronted by a constantly shifting combination of pressure, demands, expectations, and countless other factors that frequently have an immeasurable effect on the psychological well-being of so many of us legal practitioners. Dan’s efforts provide a constant beacon of hope. Michael Rexford, Esq., Partner, King, Holmes, Paterno & Soriano, LLP
I’ve also had the privilege of joining several of Dan’s presentations on mental health and well-being in the legal profession. In addition to being extremely knowledgeable about the subject, he brings passion, honesty, and earnestness that disarm participants and allow them to be open and receptive to the information. If you’re looking for a presenter who isn’t afraid to address sensitive or “taboo” topics and who has the demeanor and life experience to make these conversations relevant, safe, and productive, Dan is your go-to person! Margie Mangot, MSW, Corporate Counseling Associates, Inc.
I can’t recommend Dan enough. He brings gravitas, deep empathy, and specialized knowledge to conversations about mental health for legal professionals. As our society and workplaces recognize mental health as integral to overall health, expert voices like Dan’s need to be in the room. Karinn Glover, M.D., Psychiatrist, Montefiore Medical Center, CLE and keynote speaker
Dan was engaging and compassionate, sharing personal stories about himself and his family. If you need a CLE speaker on this topic, whether general or tailored to the legal industry, consider him. Jill Yonkers, Esq., Litigation Partner, Rupp Pflazgraph
Our chapter for the American Association of Legal Administrators asked Dan to provide a presentation to align with ‘Well-Being in Law’ week. Dan shared his personal experiences and provided the chapter with insight into wellness initiatives and advice on programs to initiate at our respective firms. In addition to furnishing the group with invaluable resources, the discussion on wellness in the legal industry was outstanding. Any organization would benefit from having Dan speak on this very important topic. Joseph Lofink, COO, CPA, Young, Conaway, Stargaff & Taylor, LLP
I recently co-facilitated an attorney wellness CLE program with Dan that drew rave reviews. Dan is a highly experienced expert on attorney mental health, and his delivery is exceptionally engaging. He generously maximizes the impact of his considerable knowledge by drawing on his own mental health struggles, and his empathy goes a long way in encouraging audience participation. As an attorney who truly understands the overwhelming stress of practicing law and how to overcome that stress and thrive, he really gets the attorney wellness problem and how to address it. Amy Wood, Psy.D. Psychologist, Lawyer Coach
Dan is a skilled presenter who connects with audiences through openly sharing his life experience as a lawyer with depression. Throughout Dan’s personal story, he seamlessly blends practical guidance, current research, and useful approaches to those who are experiencing depression or other mental health challenges. Dan is able to provide not only valuable resources and tools but also hope to those who are suffering. Stacey Whitely, M.S.W., Director, NYS Bar Association, Lawyers Assistance Program
I attended a Wellness Webinar that Dan presented virtually to the Office of Court Administration He presented a number of strategies that individuals can use to manage their stress and anxiety and cope with mental health challenges. Ultimately, I feel lucky to have been able to attend Dan’s webinar and now to work with him on these issues in my specific workplace. I think everyone and every workplace needs a Dan! Our profession is and will be better for having him in it! Alan Gray, Esq., Principal Appellate Lawyer, NYS Appellate Division, First Department
