(Executive Director & Founder of Khalil Center)
Dr. Hooman Keshavarzi
Introduction
Dr. Hooman Keshavarzi is a highly respected licensed clinical psychologist, researcher, and educator specializing in Islamic Psychology. He is the Executive Director and Founder of the Khalil Center, the largest provider of Islamically oriented mental healthcare services in North America. With a mission to integrate Islamic spirituality with modern psychology, Dr. Keshavarzi has pioneered therapeutic frameworks that cater to the mental health needs of Muslim communities worldwide. His leadership at Khalil Center has set a standard for culturally and spiritually sensitive mental health services.
Educational Background
Dr. Keshavarzi's educational background reflects his deep dedication to both psychological sciences and Islamic studies. He holds a:
- Doctorate in Clinical Psychology
- Master’s in Clinical Psychology
- Bachelor of Science in Psychology with a specialist track in psychology and a minor in Islamic Studies
In addition to his formal academic training, Dr. Keshavarzi has pursued extensive Islamic theological studies. He studied under prominent Islamic scholars, including Shaykh Muhammad Zakariya (Toronto, Canada) and Shaykh Azeemuddin Ahmed (Chicago, USA). He later enrolled at Darussalam Academy for four years, completing specialized coursework in Islamic counseling with Shaykh Amin Kholwadia, and currently continues his Islamic education at Darul Qasim. This unique blend of psychological and Islamic training informs his holistic approach to mental health.
Professional Roles and Responsibilities
- Executive Director & Founder of Khalil Center: Leads and oversees all operations, clinical activities, and community outreach at the Khalil Center, which serves as a community-based psychological and spiritual wellness center.
- Program Director for Masters in Counseling (Islamic Psychology) in Doha, Qatar: Guides academic and programmatic development to train future counselors in Islamic Psychology.
- Visiting Scholar at Ibn Haldun University (Istanbul, Turkey): Collaborates on academic research and provides guest lectures.
- Adjunct Faculty at Hartford Seminary: Teaches courses on the intersection of Islamic studies and mental health.
- Senior Fellow at the International Association for Islamic Psychology (IAIP): Conducts academic research on Islamic Psychology and mental health.
Research and Publications Dr. Hooman Keshavarzi is an active researcher who has published peer-reviewed journal articles on the integration of Islamic spirituality into modern psychological practice. His research explores how Islamic teachings can inform evidence-based therapeutic models. As a thought leader in Islamic Psychology, Dr. Keshavarzi aims to bridge the gap between traditional Islamic concepts and modern psychological frameworks.
Clinical Focus and Areas of Expertise Dr. Keshavarzi’s clinical expertise addresses a wide range of mental health issues, including:
- Anxiety Disorders
- Depression
- Trauma and PTSD
- Obsessive-Compulsive Disorders (OCD), including Scrupulosity
- Adjustment Problems (grief, loss, stress management, and life transitions)
- Spiritual and Personal Development
He approaches each case with a holistic lens that integrates Islamic spiritual principles with evidence-based therapeutic techniques. His therapeutic approach addresses not only the cognitive and emotional needs of his clients but also their spiritual well-being.
Therapeutic Modalities
Dr. Keshavarzi’s methods reflect his diverse training in clinical psychology and Islamic counseling. His therapeutic modalities include:
- Individual Therapy: Works with adults to address personal and mental health challenges.
- Marital Therapy: Offers couples guidance to strengthen their marital relationships.
- Family Therapy: Addresses family dynamics and provides support for collective healing.
- Psychological & Cognitive Evaluations: Conducts cognitive and psychological assessments to support diagnosis and treatment planning.
Languages Spoken
Dr. Keshavarzi’s linguistic abilities enable him to cater to a diverse clientele. He speaks:
- English (fluent)
- Turkish (fluent)
- Azeri (fluent)
- Classical Arabic (advanced proficiency)
His multilingual skills allow him to serve clients from various linguistic and cultural backgrounds, enhancing his ability to deliver culturally competent care.
Role at Khalil Center
Founded in 2010, Khalil Center is a pioneering Islamic psychological and spiritual wellness center. It is dedicated to advancing the professional practice of psychology through Islamic principles. As the largest provider of Muslim mental healthcare in North America, Khalil Center operates multiple locations and offers community-based mental health services that prioritize cultural and spiritual sensitivity.
The Role of Khalil Center
- Islamic Counseling: Provides counseling rooted in Islamic values and traditions.
- Mental Health Awareness: Conducts workshops, webinars, and educational events for the community.
- Professional Training: Offers training for psychologists, therapists, and counselors on culturally relevant practices.
- Research and Advocacy: Contributes to the growing body of knowledge in Islamic Psychology and advocates for improved mental health services in Muslim communities.
International Contributions and Public Speaking
Dr. Hooman Keshavarzi is a highly sought-after international speaker and trainer on the topics of Islamic Psychology, mental health, and the integration of Islamic studies with modern psychology. He has spoken at numerous global conferences and forums, offering thought-provoking insights and practical strategies to address the mental health needs of Muslim communities worldwide. His public speaking engagements have taken him to Qatar, Turkey, Canada, and the United States, among other countries.
Awards and Recognitions
Dr. Keshavarzi’s contributions to the field of Islamic Psychology have been recognized both nationally and internationally. He is widely regarded as a pioneer in Islamic Psychology and has been instrumental in advancing Islamically integrated mental health models. His role as an academic, researcher, and practitioner continues to influence the broader field of mental health for Muslim communities.
Contact Information
- Email: [email protected]
- Phone: 1-855-5KHALIL Ext. 703
- Location: Chicagoland, USA