Sandra G. Zakowski

Dr. Sandra G. Zakowski is a Professor at the Illinois School of Professional Psychology, specializing in Clinical Psychology. She holds a Ph.D. in Medical Psychology from the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences and completed a Clinical Respecialization at the Illinois Institute of Technology. Her career spans over 20 years, with previous roles at Rosalind Franklin University and international mental health leadership roles in Northern Iraq. She currently teaches courses such as Psychology and Trauma and Clinical Supervision.

Her research focuses on trauma, refugee psychology, and international psychology, particularly addressing the psychological impact of genocide, forced migration, and gender-based violence. She has contributed to programs like the AAAS Scientists-on-Call initiative, providing consultations for human rights documentation. Her work includes field-based studies in conflict zones and refugee communities, alongside clinical contributions to the Kovler Center for Torture Survivors.

Her publications span trauma interventions, health psychology, and cross-cultural mental health. Notable works include studies on expressive writing interventions for cancer patients and analyses of trauma in post-conflict regions like Iraqi Kurdistan. She advocates for culturally sensitive psychological practices globally and engages in pro bono asylum evaluations and training workshops.

Dr. Zakowski has developed academic programs in Iraq, including a Master’s program at Koya University, and integrates service learning into her teaching. Her professional activities reflect a commitment to merging clinical practice with human rights advocacy and international collaboration.