Carolyn R. Fallahi

Carolyn R. Fallahi, Ph.D., is a tenured Professor in the Department of Psychological Science at Central Connecticut State University (CCSU). She co-chairs the Sexual and Gender Minority (SGM) Stress and Health Lab, focusing on trauma, substance use, and mental health disparities among LGBTQ+ populations. Her scholarship extends to pedagogical innovation, including course design using Fink's Taxonomy and curriculum assessment initiatives.

• Doctor of Philosophy in Counseling Psychology – University of Missouri-Columbia (1989)
• Master of Science in Counseling Psychology – University of Missouri-Columbia (1985)
• Bachelor of Arts in Psychology – University of Missouri-Columbia (1983)

Her research integrates trauma psychology with LGBTQ+ mental health, examining how minority stress, family rejection, and political climates affect substance use and PTSD. She also investigates vicarious trauma from media exposure and educational reform through evidence-based teaching strategies.

Recent publications focus on pandemic-related stress in marginalized communities, neurocognitive effects of substance use, and pedagogical improvements. Grants include collaborations with the Hanover Research Group and applications to CCSU Student-Faculty Grant and CSU AAUP Grant programs.

She teaches core courses including PSY 136 (Lifespan Development), PSY 365 (Psychology of the Exceptional Child), and PSY 545 (Introduction to Clinical Psychology). Her departmental work includes curriculum mapping, assessment frameworks, and diversity integration projects.