John Draper, Ph.D. Dr. John Draper is an expert in crisis center practices, with over 25 years of experience in crisis intervention and suicide prevention. Since 2004, he has served as the director of the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (800-273-TALK) funded by SAMHSA. Dr. Draper is also the Executive VP of National Networks at the Mental Health Association of New York City, and administers other national crisis support networks, including the SAMHSA-funded Disaster Distress Helpline, technical and backup support for the VA's Veterans Crisis Line, and the NFL Life Line.