Paul Komarek is a consultant, author and educator focused on the social aspects of “biopsychosocial” problems like addiction, mental illness, violence, and suicide. His mission is to take on tough problems and help people make progress in their lives. 

His current work involves stopping the heroin epidemic; addressing trauma; confronting social determinants of health in Native American and African American communities; ending cycles of violence; addressing the effects of globalization. 

He has four decades of experience working with public systems, treatment systems, businesses, educational institutions, faith-based programs, and community groups, and has developed and led training programs for adult learners throughout his career.

Paul Komarek graduated from American University's School of International Service in 1977. In 1978, he began his career as a Claims Representative for the Social Security Administration. He led a national labor organization council in the early days of the Civil Service Reform Act. 

After attending night law school at Chase Law School in Northern Kentucky, Paul practiced law for eight years. In 1995, his legal career was disrupted by the onset of mental illness.

Following his recovery,  in 1995 Paul began a career  as a consultant, working with nonprofit organizations.  He used his experience of recovery  as he developed programs in the areas of mental health care, addiction care, and caregiver support. 

He has also helped mental health, youth services, and addiction treatment organizations with licensing, certification, and compliance with national accreditation standards.

Paul wrote Ohio's first mental health curriculum for courts and jails. The same curriculum was used across Kentucky to reduce jail suicides. 

Paul's book Defying Mental Illness: Finding Recovery with Community Resources and Family Support was named a top ten resource for families by Special Needs Book Review.

Paul's book SHARP Stop Heroin and Rescue People shows communities how to address drug overdose deaths.  

Paul worked with Dennis Banks, the founder of the American Indian Movement, on Longest Walk 5, a series of walks across America to address addiction, domestic violence and trauma. 

Paul is  currently board President for the Walker Center for Resilience, formerly NAMI Greater Urban Cincinnati.