Karen Liberman
Executive Director
Mood Disorders Association of Ontario (MDAO)

Karen Liberman is the Executive Director of the Mood Disorders Association of Ontario. Karen is a long time community activist and planner, workshop presenter, group facilitator, and social justice advocate. Karen is a well-known presenter on the topic of mood disorders, mental illness, stigma, and, above all, recovery.

Karen has been honoured by Chatelaine as a Health Hero and by the Royal Bank of Canada for her work combating the stigma of mental illness. Recently, Karen was featured on the nationally televised CTV documentary "Fighting the Dragon."

Karen is also a 2003 "Courage to Come Back" Award recipient. Most recently, Karen received the 2004 Ontario Psychological Association's Public Service Award for her outstanding contribution to psychological well-being of the citizens of Ontario and the Toastmasters International 2005 Communication and Leadership Award.

Karen is a family member and a consumer survivor who has recovered from a decade long battle with severe clinical depression. Karen has spoken across Canada about her own journey and her battle against the illness, the darkness, the secrecy, and above all, the stigma. Karen has often said she will "go anywhere and speak to anyone" on the topic of mood disorders, recovery, and hope.