Dr. Derek J. Lee is a therapist, educator and expert in suicide prevention and intervention. He currently serves as an Associate Professor at Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center and as the CEO for The Hope Institute. THI is a facility that focuses on treatment for individuals struggling with serious thoughts of suicide in an outpatient setting with offices in several states across the country.

Dr. Lee holds a Ph.D. from The Ohio State University and has published on the topics of mood disorders, telehealth, and suicide. His research has been instrumental in developing innovative intervention programs that are widely adopted in schools, hospitals, and communities across the country.

In addition to his academic and clinical work, Dr. Lee is a passionate advocate for mental health awareness, education, and equality in healthcare. Dr. Lee is an active member and the former chair of the Insurance Advocacy Committee for the Ohio Counseling Association, serves as the NAMI Wood County Board Chair, and is a member of several professional organizations.  He frequently collaborates with public health organizations, policymakers, and community leaders to promote comprehensive mental health services and support systems.