DAY 1 KEYNOTE

Keynote: Beautifully-Flawed

9 - 10:15 a.m. | 1 CE Credit
General Session Room

Dom Kelly

Dr. Kevin R. Scott Sr. is a nationally recognized trauma specialist, veteran peer mental health advocate, researcher, and public speaker whose work bridges lived experience, trauma science, and systems-level reform. He is a MDHHS Certified Peer Support Specialist (CPSS) and Certified Peer Recovery Coach (CPRC). A decorated United States Marine Corps veteran of the Persian Gulf era, Dr. Scott is widely regarded as a leading voice in trauma-informed peer support, justice-involved populations, and veteran crisis intervention.

He is the founder and executive director of the Crisis Peer, a community-based mental health and crisis response initiative rooted in trauma-informed, culturally responsive practice. Through training, consulting, media engagement, and direct service, Dr. Scott works with clinicians, first responders, justice systems, community organizations, and veterans nationwide translating complex trauma science into practical, real-world interventions that improve outcomes for historically underserved populations.

Dr. Scott holds a Doctor of Education in Traumatology, with doctoral research examining the perceived effectiveness and systemic utilization of peer support within the Veterans Health Administration. His research has been accessed internationally and contributes to the evolving evidence base for peer-driven models of care. He completed advanced trauma training under Dr. Bessel van der Kolk through the Trauma Research Foundation and holds an executive leadership certification in Global Mental Health from the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health.

Professionally, Dr. Scott has served in senior peer leadership roles within the United States Department of Veterans Affairs, supporting veterans affected by PTSD, substance use disorder, housing instability, moral injury, and justice involvement. Since 2019, he has delivered Crisis Intervention training and trauma-informed education to law enforcement, first responders, clinicians, and community stakeholders nationwide.