Abdelfattah Alkhawaja

Abdelfattah Alkhawaja is an Associate Professor of Psychological & Educational Counseling at the University of Nizwa's College of Arts and Sciences in Oman. He holds a PhD in Psychological & Educational Counseling along with multiple advanced degrees in related fields including an M.A. in Psychological & Educational Counseling, Higher Diploma in Counseling & guidance, Bachelor of Art in Philosophy & Psychology, and a Diploma in Chemical Engineering. His academic career at the University of Nizwa spans from 2005 to present, with his current position as Associate Professor beginning in August 2015.

Dr. Alkhawaja specializes in psychological counseling with particular expertise in developing and evaluating group counseling interventions for various psychological issues. His research interests span psychological assessment, psychopathology, mental illness treatment, behavioral psychology, and psychotherapeutic processes. He has developed numerous group counseling programs utilizing Rational-Emotive Behavior Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Logo-Therapy, and art therapy approaches to address specific psychological concerns among Omani students.

His extensive publication record of 85 works demonstrates a strong research focus on anxiety-related issues (test anxiety, social anxiety, gelotophobia), stress management, psychological resilience during the pandemic, internet addiction, and career counseling. Recent publications show a clear emphasis on the psychological impact of the coronavirus pandemic on students and educators in Oman, with numerous studies examining anxiety, resilience, and coping strategies during this period.

• Psychological Counseling Techniques
• Group Therapy Interventions
• Mental Health Assessment
• Anxiety Disorders Treatment
• Educational Psychology Applications
• Pandemic Mental Health Impact

Dr. Alkhawaja has actively supervised research and collaborated with colleagues across multiple departments at University of Nizwa, contributing significantly to the development of counseling services and mental health support within the Omani educational system. His work demonstrates a strong commitment to evidence-based practice in psychological counseling with a focus on culturally relevant interventions for the Omani context.