As a clinical neuropsychologist and public mental health speaker, I’ve had the privilege of addressing a wide array of groups on topics ranging from self-care to assessing financial capacity in older adults, and much in-between. My areas of expertise include aging, assessment, disability, trauma, and neuropsychology, so I often present on topics around the intersection of mental health and physical aspects of health, for example, the aging brain, coping with Multiple Sclerosis, PTSD and aging, assessment of capacity or dementia in older adults, menopause and ADHD, or cognitive function in Spinal Cord Injury. While I always tailor my presentations to the specific audience, some engagements stand out as unexpected and rewarding. I love building presentations for an engaged audience, and I’ve had a lot of enjoyable speaking engagements. Here are a few of my most surprising experiences as a psychological public speaker.
Wellness and Self-Care in the Legal Profession
One of my most memorable speaking gigs as a mental health keynote speaker in Los Angeles, CA was for a group of lawyers, where I presented on wellness and self-care. Lawyers are often known for their demanding schedules and high-pressure environments, making "self-care" seem almost an oxymoron in their world.
I admit, I went into that engagement feeling a little intimidated. Would the group be receptive? Would they see the value in taking time for themselves amidst their intense workloads? Were my insights and suggestions realistic for folks juggling so much? To my surprise, the group was engaged and full of curiosity about how to incorporate self-care into a busy and demanding work life. We had really great group discussions about practical strategies for managing stress, setting boundaries, and cultivating mindfulness, even in the midst of intense caseloads and high-stakes work. What struck me most was their genuine engagement. They asked insightful questions, shared their own struggles, and were remarkably candid about the challenges of maintaining well-being in their profession. It was a powerful reminder that regardless of the demands of our careers, the need for balance and personal well-being is universal.
Understanding the Human Side of Workers' Comp
Another impactful speaking gig as a mental health speaker was for a group of workers' compensation claims adjusters and attorneys about psychological adjustment to disability. This was a great audience, and a group that I present to regularly. Their daily work involves navigating complex legal codes and regulations, long medical reports, and often, the difficult realities of individuals facing life-altering injuries and strict procedures for how treatment is managed. My goal for this presentation was to help the group understand the deeper psychological impact of disability, moving beyond the medical charts to the human experience. Adjustment to disability is a process that can reshape a person’s identity and sense of self, relationships, and views about life, and I think it’s important for folks working in the work comp world to understand the changes that come with a disability.
I focused on topics like grief, loss of identity, coping mechanisms, and the crucial role of support systems. What impressed me was the audience’s empathy, thoughtfulness, and desire to better serve those they work with. The group asked thoughtful questions about how to communicate more effectively, how to identify signs of distress, and how to encourage resilience. It was clear that these professionals were impacted by the human stories behind the work comp claims they manage, and interested in doing their best work.
Adapting Neuropsych Testing for Physical Realities
Finally, my talk to a neuropsychology assessment group on adapting neuropsychological testing for physical disabilities was another unexpected journey. Neuropsychologists are experts in brain-behavior relationships, often working with individuals who have neurological conditions or injuries. However, the practicalities of administering tests to someone with significant physical limitations can be a real challenge, and not one that many neuropsychologists have experience with or learn much about in school. During my early career, I built and directed the neuropsychological testing clinic in the Spinal Cord Injury/Disorders unit at the Long Beach VA Medical Center for several years, and I learned a lot in the process about adaptive and flexible testing for patients with physical disabilities.
I shared insights and strategies for modifying standard testing procedures, from adjusting the physical environment to adapting verbal instructions and response methods, to seeking out tests designed well for different abilities. The group, already deeply committed to their patients' well-being, was incredibly receptive to these practical solutions, and the discussion about inclusivity and our responsibilities to our patients was really meaningful. We had a lively discussion about creative problem-solving and ensuring accessibility in their practice. It was inspiring to see a group of highly specialized professionals so open to refining their methods to better serve their diverse patient population.
Preparing for a New Frontier: Menopause in the Municipal Workplace
As I reflect on these public speaking experiences in the realm of mental health and physical health, I’m also looking forward to an upcoming presentation series for city staff on navigating menopause. When the initial inquiry came through, I was intrigued. While menopause is a natural part of life, it's a topic often relegated to private conversations or medical appointments, not typically something openly discussed in a workplace setting. I was really pleased that a city government recognized a need among many employees, and created the budget and time to enhance workplace wellness! My aim for this series is to demystify menopause for the group, provide practical coping strategies and tools for navigating the big changes that come with this aspect of aging, and foster a more understanding and supportive work environment for those experiencing this significant life stage. I anticipate a mix of curiosity and perhaps a touch of apprehension from the audience, but I’m genuinely excited to see the impact of bringing this often-overlooked aspect of women's health into the conversation, recognizing its potential influence on daily work life and well-being. It’s another opportunity to connect with an audience on a deeply human level, addressing a topic that, while common, is rarely given the attention it deserves in a professional context.
These experiences share a common thread: the inherent human capacity for growth, understanding, and connection. Whether it's high-powered lawyers seeking inner peace, claims adjusters striving for greater empathy, neuropsychologists refining their craft for inclusivity, or city staff navigating a significant life transition, I've learned that many audiences hold a depth of curiosity and a willingness to engage with topics that matter. These speaking engagements serve as a powerful reminder that our shared humanity often transcends the boundaries of our professions, and that the most rewarding conversations can happen in the most unexpected places.
As a keynote speaker in Los Angeles, CA, I value the chance to create these conversations that spark growth, connection, and meaningful change.
READY TO BRING INSIGHTFUL CONVERSATIONS TO YOUR AUDIENCE? BOOK A MENTAL HEALTH SPEAKER IN LOS ANGELES, CA
Conversations about mental health, wellness, and resilience can transform the way professionals approach their work and their lives. Whether in the legal field, healthcare, or city government, meaningful dialogue about well-being helps audiences feel seen, supported, and equipped with strategies that truly make a difference.
As a trusted mental health speaker in Los Angeles, CA, Dr. Stacy Reger brings both expertise and authenticity to every presentation. Her approach blends professional knowledge with real-world experience—creating engaging talks that encourage reflection, growth, and lasting impact. Each presentation is tailored to the needs of the audience, empowering participants to walk away with clarity, confidence, and practical tools they can use right away. Take the next step today:
Call (424) 262-1925 to schedule a speaking engagement
Partner with an experienced keynote presenter for your next event
Create conversations that inspire insight, resilience, and connection
MORE SUPPORT FROM DR. STACY REGER IN LOS ANGELES, CA
As a geropsychologist and neuropsychologist, Dr. Stacy Reger knows that conversations about wellness, capacity, and life transitions extend far beyond the therapy room. Through her work as a speaker and consultant, she creates opportunities for professionals, families, and communities to engage with these topics in meaningful and practical ways. Her talks are designed to spark reflection, reduce stigma, and empower audiences to approach sensitive issues with clarity and confidence.
In addition to speaking on wellness in the legal profession, workers’ compensation, and neuropsychological testing, Dr. Reger continues to provide clinical expertise when appropriate. Her background in neuropsychological assessments—covering conditions such as dementia, ADHD, and traumatic brain injury—brings depth and credibility to her presentations, grounding complex topics in real-world experience.
She also serves as a trusted resource for organizations, attorneys, fiduciaries, and community groups through tailored presentations, training, and consultation. To learn more about her approach to mental health, independent living, and capacity, visit Dr. Reger’s blog for further insights.