ISPP Alumni Spotlight: Dr. Hayat Nadar, PsyD VOL. 11
Please tell us about one of your most impactful experiences at ISPP. One of my most impactful experiences at the Illinois School of Professional Psychology (ISPP) was my involvement in the Personal and Professional Development Diversity Program (PPD). This program is a mandatory four-year process designed to help clinicians in training develop awareness of and sensitivity to racial and cultural factors. The program aims to raise consciousness and enhance self-understanding in relation to clients from diverse cultural backgrounds. Initially, I participated in the PPD program as a clinician in training, which profoundly influenced my personal and professional growth. The experiential learning component of the program was particularly transformative, allowing me to engage deeply with the material and reflect on my own cultural experiences and biases. This process helped me better understand myself and prepared me to serve clients with different worldviews and cultural experiences more effectively. As I progressed through the program, I was elected as a co-leader for the weekly interpersonal groups, summer process groups, and the yearly retreat. In these roles, I facilitated discussions and activities aimed at fostering a deeper understanding of diversity and inclusion among my peers. This leadership experience was incredibly rewarding as it allowed me to contribute to the development of future clinicians, helping them navigate the complexities of cultural and racial dynamics in therapeutic settings. My involvement in the PPD program at ISPP was a cornerstone of my professional journey, equipping me with the tools and insights necessary to
Do you have any advice for prospective students?
As an adjunct professor and experienced clinician, one of the most significant pieces of advice I can offer to clinical psychology students is to deeply engage in the consciousness-raising process. This journey is not just about acquiring knowledge; it is about introspection and self-discovery. Embrace the opportunity to explore and unearth your core values. Understanding your values is crucial as they will guide your professional path and decision-making. To students embarking on this journey, I encourage you to immerse yourselves fully in experiences that challenge and expand your understanding of different cultural perspectives. Engage in conversations, participate in diverse groups, and be open to the discomfort that often accompanies deep self-examination. This process will not only make you a better clinician but also a more empathetic and understanding individual. As you navigate your training, take the time to identify where your passions lie and where you shine the most. Reflect on Joseph Campbell's wisdom: "Follow your bliss." Consider who you want to work with and what types of settings resonate with you. Whether it's working with marginalized communities, addressing systemic oppression, or focusing on trauma-informed care, let your values and passions guide you. For me, founding The Depth Collective was a manifestation of following my bliss. This practice centers on the needs of marginalized communities, including the Diaspora, LGBTQIA+ intersections (QTBIPOC), Neurodivergent and Gifted Folx, and BIPOC individuals. It is an affirming, anti-racist, and culturally sensitive environment that aligns with my core values of liberation, decolonization, reclamation, emplacement, emergence, and accountability. Your path in clinical psychology will be unique to you, shaped by your values and passions. Embrace the consciousness-raising process, let your values illuminate your way, and pursue the areas where you feel most alive and effective. By doing so, you will not only find fulfillment in your career but also make a profound impact on the lives of those you serve.
advocate for social justice and support marginalized communities effectively
Dr. Nadar is the recipient of the National Louis University Outstanding Dissertation Award in Promoting Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI). Specifically, her research focuses on the Arab-American Migrant experience.
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