Dr. Bill Howatt

Dr. Bill Howatt is recognized in Canada for his expertise in workplace mental health, psychological health, and safety, with more than 30 years of clinical experience in mental health and addictive disorders. Howatt holds a range of academic credentials, including a BSc, BA, MEd, MSc, PhD, EdD, and a postdoctoral fellowship in behavioral science from the University of California, Los Angeles, Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior. He is the founder and president of Howatt Human Resources Consulting and identifies as a behavioral scientist focused on guiding employees and employers in creating psychologically safe, inclusive, and productive workplace cultures.

Howatt’s previous roles include chief of research, workforce productivity at Conference Board of Canada, and chief of research and development, workforce productivity at Lifeworks. He has contributed to national standards and policy, serving as chair of the CSA Technical Committee on the Management Impairment Standard, a CSA Technical Committee member for the Psychological Health and Safety Standard, and a member of the CSA Strategic Steering Committee for Occupational Health and Safety. He is also co-creator of the Psychologically Safe Workplace Awards.

Howatt developed the senate-approved Certificate in Psychologically Safe Leadership, Certificate in Management Essentials, Pathway to Coping, and Mental Fitness Practice through University of New Brunswick. He created the Quality of Work Life tool, later adapted into the Morneau Shepell Total Health Index, and co-created The Globe and Mail and Morneau Shepell's Employee Recommended Workplace Award, as well as The Globe and Mail Your Life at Work initiative. His research includes the Canada Pandemic Pulse Check: COVID-19's Impact on Canadians' Mental Health with the Mental Health Commission of Canada, and the CSA Group's investigation into employers' practices for safeguarding employees' psychological health and safety in the workplace.

Howatt has published more than 60 books, including the Globe and Mail bestseller "The Cure for Loneliness," "Stop Hiding and Start Living," and "No Regrets." He is the author of over 500 articles, contributing regularly to Talent Canada, OHS Magazine, The Chronicle Herald, HR News Canada, and more than 350 articles with The Globe and Mail. He is also a co-author and contributor to the Psychological Safety Blog with the CEO of the Mental Health Commission of Canada for WSPS Ontario CEO Health and Safety Leadership Network.

Howatt’s career includes recognition for contributions to workplace mental health, such as the 5-Star Safety Trainer Award and being named one of the Top 10 Admired Leaders. Drawing on his personal experiences, including overcoming early academic challenges, Howatt addresses barriers and stigma surrounding neurodiversity and mental health. His evidence-based approach to workplace well-being informs his work as a keynote speaker, equipping leaders and employees with practical tools to foster healthier, more resilient workplaces.