Pushing Limits:

In Leadership, Mental Health, and Open Water

Dr. Laurie Craigen is a speaker, consultant, therapist, professor, and elite endurance athlete with a passion for helping individuals and organizations master the psychology of resilience, performance, and well-being. With over 20 years of experience in mental health and leadership development, she works at the intersection of fear, mental optimization, and high-performance mindset—whether in the workplace, in open water, or in personal growth.

A national and international speaker, Dr. Craigen has delivered keynotes and workshops to over 40 government-affiliated groups, private-sector organizations, and academic institutions on topics such as:

  • Fear and Performance: Mastering mental barriers and optimizing mindset

  • Psychological Safety in the Workplace: Building cultures of trust and innovation

  • Mental Resilience: Stress management and burnout prevention

  • The Science of High-Performance Leadership: Insights from mental health research

  • Vulnerable Leadership Models: Redefining strength in leadership

Academic Background

Associate Professor of Psychiatry, Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine

Award-Winning Educator: Recognized for excellence in teaching and mentorship

Private Practice Owner (Greater Boston): Specializing in fear, mental health, and wellness

Developer of Leadership Curriculum focused on vulnerability and resilience

Consultant & Mental Health Expert for high-stakes professionals, government agencies, and corporate teams

Dr. Craigen’s deep expertise in psychology and leadership development has helped professionals from diverse industries—including first responders, healthcare leaders, executives, and endurance athletes—navigate stress, decision-making, and performance optimization.

The Mindset of an Endurance Athlete

Dr. Craigen isn’t just an expert in mental toughness—she lives it. She is a Triple Crown Open Water Swimmer, a feat completed by only 357 people worldwide, which includes:

·       Swimming around Manhattan

     Crossing the Catalina Channel

Crossing the English Channel