Position: Instructor
Department: Psychology/Social Science
Faculty: Humanities and Social Sciences
Office: NW N3428
Office Phone: (604) 527-5437
Email: rostamh@douglascollege.ca
Education and Credentials
- Ph.D., Counselling Psychology, The University of British Columbia
- M.A., Counselling Psychology, The University of British Columbia
- B.A., University of Toronto
- R. Psych (Registered Psychologist with the College of Psychologists of BC, #2275)
Academic and Professional Profile
I completed my PhD in counselling psychology at the University of British Columbia, with an accredited internship at the University of California at Berkeley, Counselling and Psychological Services. I am also a registered psychologist with the College of Psychologists of BC that enables me to provide therapy for clients presenting with a range of mental health concerns.
In 1996, as a refugee from Afghanistan, I was selected by the World University Services of Canada to settle in Canada based on my academic excellence. WUSC is an agency that enables refugee students fleeing war to pursue higher education. Coming to Canada exposed me not only to a journey of reconciling my multiple cultural identities but also shaped my choice of a career in psychology and the helping profession.
Teaching Concentrations
I am passionate about teaching psychology in general and particularly courses that concentrate on cultural psychology, and counselling psychology (training, supervision and consultation).
Courses
- PSYC 1200
- PSYC 3340
- PSYC 3375
- PSYC 3390
- PSYC 4370
- PSYC 4371
- PSYC 4373
Research/Clinical Activities
RESEARCH BIO
I received a doctoral research training mentorship with IMPART: The Intersections of Mental Health Perspectives in Addictions Research Training (2011-2013), funded by UBC, CIHR and BC Centre of Excellence for Women’s Health. This training provided me with learning to become skilled at conducting multidisciplinary health research with a focus on the intersections of violence, trauma and mental health with addictions.
CLINICAL ACTIVITIES
Given that I spend time providing clinical services to clients in the community, I am able to link practice and application of psychology to my teaching at Douglas College. While my training has exposed me to diverse theoretical approaches, I place emphasis on evidence-based therapies such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) and Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT), and mindfulness based practices. My approach to therapy and assessment is collaborative and relational.
I have developed specialization in treating depression, anxiety and stress related problems. Furthermore, I have delivered integrated treatment for trauma, alcohol and drug related concerns. Additionally, I have gained extensive experience working with university and college students, as well as international, immigrant and refugee populations. An important part of my training has been to honour diversity and raise awareness around discrimination, social oppression and systemic inequalities that marginalize my clients. www.drhajerarostam.com
Open to Supervising Honours Students for 2022-23: NO
Professional Affiliations and Community Service
2016 - present, Member, BC College of Psychologists
Hobbies and Interests
Dance, yoga, camping, and playing with my children.
Selected Refereed Publications:
Torchalla, I., Nosen, L., Rostam, H., & Allen, P. (2012). Integrated treatment programs for individuals with concurrent substance use disorders and trauma experiences: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Journal of substance abuse treatment, 42(1), 65-77. Young, R.A., Marshall, S. K., Foulkes, K., Haber, C., Lee, C., Penner, C., Rostam, H. (2011) Counseling for the transition to adulthood as joint, goal-directed action, Journal of Vocational Behavior, doi:10.1016/j.jvb.2011.02.005 Rostam, H., & Haverkamp, B. E. (2009). The Iraqi expatriates’ experience of the North American media coverage of Iraq war. International Journal for the Advancement of Counselling, 31(2), 100-117.