John Ackerman, PhD, is a child clinical psychologist and the Suicide Prevention Coordinator for the Center for Suicide Prevention and Research (CSPR) at Nationwide Children’s Hospital (NCH). The CSPR helps schools and community organizations in Ohio implement evidence-based prevention strategies. Dr Ackerman and his team have provided training to many schools throughout central and southeastern Ohio using an enhanced Signs of Suicide (SOS) prevention programming model with a focus on fidelity and long-term sustainability. Efforts are underway to support out-of-school programs such as the Boys and Girls Clubs to implement effective suicide prevention strategies as well. Dr. Ackerman also supports clinical training of psychologists, social workers, and counselors at Nationwide Children’s Hospital. He serves on the Zero Suicide Implementation team at NCH and is involved in training on suicide screening and risk assessment in primary care and community settings.

Dr. Ackerman has a strong research interest in risk factors and treatments for mood disorders and suicide. His research focuses on neurocognitive risk factors for youth suicidal behavior. He has also published on how media reporting impacts youth suicide and has provided training to the journalist in Ohio on best practices in discussing suicide as part of a grant funded by the Ohio Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services. Additionally, Dr. Ackerman is an active member of the American Association of Suicidology, the Franklin County Suicide Prevention Coalition, Franklin County Child Fatality Review Board, Zero Suicide Institute, and the national Behavioral Health Innovations (BHI) Advisory Council.

Ackerman received his Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from Loyal University, Maryland, and his Ph.D. from the University of Delaware.