The Bipolar & Depression Outcomes Research Institute is led by individuals who bring both lived experience with bipolar disorder and depression, along with extensive expertise in research, advocacy, and community building. Our unique peer-directed approach ensures that all aspects of our work are grounded in the real-world experiences of those we serve.
Our Approach to Leadership
Peer-Directed Governance
BDORI is uniquely composed entirely of individuals who either live with bipolar disorder or depression themselves, or are direct family members of someone who does. This peer-only composition of our leadership ensures that our research priorities, program development, and organizational decisions are always informed by lived experience.
Collaborative Decision-Making
Our leadership structure emphasizes collaboration and shared expertise, recognizing that the best outcomes come from combining diverse perspectives within our shared experience of mental health challenges.
Board of Directors
Tom Wootton, Executive Director & Founder
Background and Experience
Tom founded BDORI after more than 20 years of personal experience managing bipolar disorder and extensive research into optimal outcomes approaches. His journey from traditional treatment models to developing innovative functionality-based strategies forms the foundation of BDORI's research methodology.
Professional Expertise
- Research Development: Creator of assessment protocols that measure comfort, understanding, and functionality at various mood intensities
- Program Innovation: Developer of the "Bipolar IN Order" approach that focuses on optimal functioning rather than remission
- Community Leadership: Advocate for peer-directed research and empowerment-based mental health approaches
- Public Speaking: Regular presenter at conferences and educational events on bipolar management and research
Contributions to BDORI
Tom's lived experience combined with his research background drives BDORI's unique approach to mental health research. His development of measurement tools for assessing bipolar and depression outcomes has enabled community members to track their progress and identify effective strategies. Under his leadership, BDORI has maintained its commitment to peer-directed research while establishing credible scientific methodologies.
Personal Philosophy
"Mental health conditions are not limitations to overcome, but aspects of our lives to understand and optimize. Our research focuses on finding the best possible outcomes, not just managing symptoms."
Tom Flaherty, Director of Operations
Background and Experience
Tom brings over 16 years of experience in mental health advocacy, community organizing, and program development. His personal experience with bipolar disorder, combined with his skills in organizational development, helps ensure BDORI's research translates into practical resources and sustainable programs.
Professional Expertise
- Program Management: Oversight of research study implementation and participant support
- Community Outreach: Development of partnerships with mental health organizations and advocacy groups
- Operations Coordination: Ensuring efficient resource allocation and program effectiveness
- Volunteer Coordination: Management of volunteer recruitment, training, and support systems
Contributions to BDORI
Tom's operational leadership ensures that BDORI's innovative research approaches are implemented effectively and sustainably. His focus on community building has helped establish BDORI's reputation as a trusted resource for peer-directed mental health research. He oversees the practical aspects of study design and implementation, ensuring research protocols are accessible and meaningful to participants.
Areas of Focus
- Community engagement strategies
- Research participant support and retention
- Program sustainability and growth
- Partnership development and maintenance
Sheyla Stevens, Secretary & Administrative Director
Background and Experience
Sheyla has been instrumental in BDORI's development for over 16 years, bringing both personal experience with mental health challenges and professional administrative expertise. Her attention to detail and commitment to organizational excellence ensure BDORI maintains high standards in all aspects of its work.
Professional Expertise
- Administrative Excellence: Management of organizational records, compliance, and reporting requirements
- Communication Coordination: Oversight of internal and external communications
- Documentation Management: Maintenance of research protocols, participant records, and organizational documentation
- Compliance Oversight: Ensuring adherence to nonprofit regulations, research ethics, and privacy requirements
Contributions to BDORI
Sheyla's meticulous approach to administration ensures BDORI meets all regulatory requirements while maintaining focus on its research mission. Her work behind the scenes enables the organization to operate efficiently and transparently. She plays a crucial role in maintaining the organization's credibility and professional standards.
Key Responsibilities
- Board meeting coordination and documentation
- Research ethics compliance monitoring
- Participant privacy and confidentiality protection
- Organizational record keeping and reporting
Declan Devereau, Treasurer & Financial Director
Background and Experience
Declan oversees BDORI's financial operations and has been committed to the organization's mission for over 16 years. His combination of financial expertise and personal understanding of mental health challenges ensures responsible stewardship of resources while maintaining focus on community impact.
Professional Expertise
- Financial Management: Oversight of budgeting, accounting, and financial reporting
- Grant Administration: Management of research funding and donor contributions
- Transparency Initiatives: Ensuring clear communication about resource allocation and impact
- Strategic Planning: Long-term financial sustainability and growth planning
Contributions to BDORI
Declan's commitment to financial transparency and responsible resource management enables BDORI to maintain its promise that 100% of donations go directly toward research and program activities. His strategic financial planning supports the organization's growth while preserving its core mission and values.
Financial Philosophy
"Every dollar entrusted to BDORI should directly advance our research mission and benefit the communities we serve. Financial transparency and accountability are essential to maintaining community trust."
Staff and Research Team
Peer Researchers
Community-Based Research Team
BDORI's research is conducted by a dedicated team of peer researchers who bring lived experience to every aspect of study design, implementation, and analysis. Our peer researchers receive specialized training in research methodologies while contributing their unique perspectives and insights.
Peer Researcher Roles:
- Study design and protocol development
- Participant recruitment and support
- Data collection and analysis
- Research findings interpretation
- Community education and outreach
Volunteer Coordinators
Program Support Team
Our volunteer coordinators manage various aspects of BDORI's programs, ensuring smooth operations and effective resource utilization. All coordinators have personal experience with mental health challenges and understand the importance of peer-directed approaches.
Coordination Areas:
- Educational program delivery
- Community outreach initiatives
- Administrative support services
- Event planning and logistics
- Communications and marketing
Advisory Network
Professional Advisors
Research Methodology Consultants
BDORI works with experienced researchers and mental health professionals who provide guidance on study design, ethics compliance, and research best practices while respecting our peer-directed approach.
Community Advisors
Lived Experience Council
Representatives from various communities affected by bipolar disorder and depression provide ongoing input on research priorities, program development, and organizational direction.
Organizational Structure
Governance Model
Board Oversight
The Board of Directors provides strategic guidance, ensures fiduciary responsibility, and maintains organizational accountability while preserving BDORI's peer-directed mission.
Collaborative Leadership
Decision-making processes emphasize collaboration, with all major organizational decisions reviewed by the full board and key stakeholders.
Community Input
Regular community feedback mechanisms ensure that BDORI's leadership remains responsive to the needs and priorities of the communities we serve.
Operational Philosophy
Peer-Centered Approach
All leadership decisions are filtered through the lens of lived experience, ensuring programs and research remain relevant and accessible to the communities we serve.
Transparency and Accountability
Open communication about organizational decisions, financial stewardship, and program outcomes maintains community trust and supports informed participation.
Continuous Learning
Leadership team members engage in ongoing education and professional development while maintaining connection to their lived experience perspectives.
Leadership Development
Succession Planning
BDORI is committed to developing future leaders from within our community, providing training and mentorship opportunities for emerging peer leaders and researchers.
Professional Development
Leadership team members participate in ongoing training in nonprofit management, research ethics, and community organizing while maintaining their commitment to peer-directed approaches.
Contact Our Leadership
General Inquiries
Email: contact us
Mail: 3252 Capstan Way, Colorado Springs, CO 80906
Board Communications
For matters requiring board attention, please direct correspondence to our general contact information with "Board of Directors" in the subject line.
Media and Speaking Requests
Leadership team members are available for speaking engagements, media interviews, and professional consultations. Please contact our general information email with details about your request.
Our Commitment
BDORI's leadership is committed to maintaining the highest standards of organizational integrity while never losing sight of our core mission: improving outcomes for individuals living with bipolar disorder and depression. Our peer-directed approach ensures that those with lived experience remain at the center of all our work.
Leadership that understands, because we've been there too.