Dr. Shannon Sauer-Zavala

Dr. Shannon Sauer-Zavala is an award winning clinical psychologist, speaker, and researcher dedicated to making evidence-based mental health strategies both accessible and actionable. As the founder of Personality Compass and a professor at the University of Kentucky, she bridges the gap between cutting-edge psychological research and real-world transformation. Her work focuses on intentional personality change, burnout recovery, and transdiagnostic approaches to mental health, equipping audiences with practical tools to foster lasting change. Her insights have been featured in Psychology Today, The Conversation, WebMD, Verywell Mind, and CNET, establishing her as a trusted voice in psychology and mental wellness.

An engaging and dynamic speaker, Dr. Sauer-Zavala has delivered a TEDx talk, keynoted at Cambridge University (Cambridge, UK) and International Society for the Study of Personality Disorders (Sydney, AU). She has trained thousands of therapists worldwide in the Unified Protocol and BPD Compass, innovative mental health treatments she developed. Her speaking clients include organizations such as the University of Kentucky Women’s Forum and National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors, where she has inspired audiences to rethink how personality shapes emotional health and personal growth. With a compelling mix of scientific rigor and relatable storytelling, she captivates audiences ranging from corporate leaders and healthcare professionals to high-achievers seeking meaningful personal development.

Passionate about debunking mental health myths and empowering change, Dr. Sauer-Zavala is the author of the popular treatment manual, the Unified Protocol, and co-author of the academic book "Neuroticism: A New Framework for Emotional Disorders and Their Treatment." Her forthcoming book, BPD Compass, offers a science-backed, practical guide to understanding and transforming the core personality traits associated with borderline personality disorder. Whether discussing the psychology of burnout, the power of personality adaptation, or the future of evidence-based therapy, she leaves audiences with clear, research-driven takeaways they can immediately apply—all delivered with warmth, humor, and insight.