Rakhshan Rouhakhtar

Dr. Rakhshan Rouhakhtar is a Clinical Assistant Professor at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC) and the University of Maryland School of Medicine (UMSOM). Her research focuses on psychosis spectrum disorders, early intervention strategies, and cultural disparities in mental health care, particularly concerning race. She co-directs the Strive for Wellness clinic within the Maryland Early Intervention Program, offering assessment and treatment for youth experiencing early psychosis symptoms.

Education:

• B.A., Psychology and Spanish (minor), Colgate University, 2007
• M.A., Human Services Psychology, UMBC, 2019
• Ph.D., Human Services Psychology, UMBC, 2021
• Predoctoral Psychology Internship, Veterans Affairs Maryland Health Care System/University of Maryland School of Medicine Consortium, 2021

Her work emphasizes validating psychosis assessments, applying advanced quantitative methods to early psychosis studies, and addressing racial inequities in diagnosis and treatment. She leads the EQUIPS Lab, dedicated to advancing equity in psychosis services through research, education, and clinical innovation.

Publications reflect her focus on racial disparities, trauma, and screening tool validity, with contributions to journals like Schizophrenia Research and Psychiatric Services. She collaborates widely on projects analyzing symptomatology, community rehabilitation, and intervention strategies for youth at risk of psychosis.