Yasaman Emad

PhD. HlthPsych, BSc. MSc. ClinPsych

Position

Senior Lecturer

Teaching areas

Counselling – Working with Trauma – Working with Children and Young People

Biography

Yasaman holds a PhD in Health Psychology from the University of Auckland, following her master's and bachelor's degrees in Clinical Psychology. With over a decade of experience, she has worked extensively with individuals facing trauma, depression, and high suicidality, including asylum seekers and refugees who have endured multiple layers of adversity.

In addition to her clinical work, Yasaman has spent over a decade teaching psychology courses, sharing her expertise with students and contributing to the academic field. She also holds an Honorary Research Fellow position at the University of Auckland and serves as an editorial board member for academic journals. Her primary therapeutic modality is Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), with a collaborative, compassionate, and solution-focused approach, aiming to empower clients in navigating their challenges and improving their well-being. Yasaman is an accredited ACC treatment provider for sensitive claims and is currently practicing as a registered counsellor in New Zealand.

Beyond her professional work, Yasaman is a devoted mother of two and finds joy in spending quality time with her children and her gorgeous cat.

Why I love MIT

I appreciate MIT’s strong commitment to diversity, inclusion, and practical learning. The collaborative environment fosters meaningful connections and supports both personal and professional growth. Being part of a community that values real-world impact and empowers individuals to thrive aligns closely with my own passion for education and support.

Publications

https://auckland.academia.edu/YasamanEmad

Scholarly activities

Yasaman have led and contributed to research projects that explore mental health interventions, client-cantered therapy approaches, and culturally sensitive care practices. Her work has been presented at conferences and contributed to peer-reviewed publications in the fields of health and clinical psychology. In her academic role, Yasaman supervises student research projects, mentor emerging professionals, and supports clinical placements.

Research interests

Medication adherence, Suicidal Ideation, Elderly Mental Health, Use of Technology and AI in Mental Health, Risk Assessment.

Awards and grants

Granted Auckland University Doctoral Scholarship, Selected as an exceptional student by the Ministry of Education.

Memberships and affiliations

Registered NZAC Counsellor, Accredited ACC Treatment Provider for Sensitive Claims, Honorary Research Fellow (University of Auckland).