PsyD Spotlight

Isam Maaz

Hometown: Bloomfield Hills, MI

Program: PsyD

Book I would recommend: The Girl on the Train by Paula Hawkins

Favorite Quote: “What lies behind us and what lies before us are tiny matters compared to what lies within us.” -Ralph Waldo Emerson

What would people be surprised to know about you? 

I am a mother to four boys. I’m also obsessed with tennis, which I believe is the greatest sport.

Name a cause you are passionate about.

I am passionate about promoting mental health awareness and supporting the Arab community, particularly in addressing the stigma around mental health issues. This passion stems from my desire to bridge cultural gaps in mental health care and provide culturally sensitive support to those who might otherwise be reluctant to seek help. I am also deeply committed to supporting mothers as they navigate the many challenges of raising families, including dealing with pre- and post-partum issues, as well as the complexities of parenting children with diverse needs. My personal and professional experiences have fueled my commitment to advocating for mental health education and access, especially within underrepresented communities.

Why did you choose MSP?

I chose to attend the Michigan School of Psychology (MSP) because of its strong emphasis on a humanistic approach to psychology, which aligns with my therapeutic philosophy. MSP’s focus on experiential learning, client-centered therapy, and integrating mind-body connections resonated with my interest in providing holistic care. The school’s commitment to diversity, social justice, and a supportive learning environment were also important factors in my decision, especially given my background and interest in working with diverse populations, including the Arab community.

What do you want to do with your degree?

With my degree in Clinical Psychology, I plan to continue advancing my career as a therapist, focusing on providing culturally sensitive care to underrepresented populations. I aim to work in settings where I can support individuals facing mental health challenges, particularly those related to anxiety, depression, trauma, and the specific issues that women and mothers face, such as pre- and post-partum challenges, infidelity, and the complexities of raising children with diverse needs.

I also plan to use my skills to promote mental health awareness, reduce stigma, and advocate for greater access to mental health services. Ultimately, I aspire to contribute to the field through both clinical practice and research, with a particular focus on the intersection of cultural factors and mental health.

How did you first get interested in the mental health profession?

I first became interested in the mental health field through my personal experiences and observations of the profound impact that mental health challenges can have on individuals and families. My journey began when I saw the struggles faced by people close to me, including my own family members, in dealing with issues like anxiety, depression, and stress. This personal connection sparked a deep curiosity and a desire to understand the complexities of the human mind and emotions.

My interest grew stronger as I learned more about the mind-body connection and how psychological well-being plays a crucial role in overall health. My background in Nutrition & Food Science also contributed to this interest, as I began to see the holistic nature of health, where mental and physical well-being are deeply intertwined.

Over time, my experiences, particularly helping my son through an eating disorder, solidified my commitment to pursuing a career in mental health. I realized that I wanted to be part of the solution—to help others navigate their challenges, provide support, and advocate for greater awareness and access to mental health care, especially within communities that might face additional barriers to seeking help.