Max E. Guttman

Max E. Guttman, LCSW, is a distinguished author, social worker, and mental health advocate whose journey from overcoming personal challenges with schizophrenia to becoming a beacon of hope and recovery for others is truly inspiring. With a Bachelor's in English from Binghamton University, he navigated through a significant mental health crisis during his college years, which led him to reassess his life's direction. Choosing resilience over adversity, Guttman pursued and attained a Master's in Social Work, leveraging his experiences to fuel his passion for helping others. As a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), he has made remarkable strides in mental health, from providing direct support as a mobile mental health therapist to teaching and supervising MSW students. Guttman's commitment extends beyond clinical practice to significant contributions to mental health advocacy and education. He founded the influential Mental Health Affairs blog, blending peer and clinical perspectives to foster self-management skills in mental health care. His memoir, "University on Watch," offers a candid look at his experiences, serving as a critical resource for understanding and navigating mental health challenges. Beyond personal achievements, Guttman actively shapes mental health policy and services in New York City, chairing the Consumer Advisory Board for the NYC Department of Mental Hygiene. His work has been recognized with awards, including the Bold 10 Under Ten from Binghamton University Alumni Association, underscoring his impact in the field within a decade of his career. Through public speaking, blogging, and his private practice, Mindful Living, LCSW PLLC, Max E. Guttman inspires, educates, and advocates for mental health, embodying the power of recovery and the impact of dedicated service. Max also goes by J PetersJ. Peters is the pseudonym of a Yonkers-based licensed clinical social worker. He has authored six memoirs, including *Small Fingernails*, translated into Portuguese as *Nunca Foi Amor*, and his seminal manifesto, *New Freedom*. The pseudonym is used to protect his privacy and navigate libel laws due to the autobiographical nature of his work. His writing critically examines the mental health system, patient rights, and the need for reform, blending professional insight with personal experience to advocate for more ethical and compassionate care.