Dr. Salman Shahzad

Dr. Salman Shahzad is a Consultant Clinical Psychologist and working as an Associate Professor in the Institute of Clinical Psychology at the University of Karachi. He is currently leading as clinical incharge, and Incharge “Research and Training Unit for prevention and treatment of SUD” at the Institute of Clinical Psychology (ICP). He completed his specialization in substance use prevention and treatment, education and policy, epidemiology of mental health and substance use as Fulbright Humphrey Fellow from USA. He is an International Certified Addiction Professional and Global Master Trainer in treatment (UTC), as well as Global in Prevention Coordinator in prevention (UPC) of substance use. As a researcher he published numerous research papers in well reputed scientific journals both national and international level and supervised numerous post graduate students (PhD & MS). He has sat on numerous editorial boards of scientific journals. The principle areas of Dr. Salman’s research program are early detection and risk for mental health (trauma and suicide), substance use, epidemiology and psycho-social risk factors of Substance use (i.e., tobacco, opioids, alcohol & marijuana), coping skills, neuro-cognitive functioning and personality characteristics, and relapse prevention for substance use in adolescents and young adults, and translation an adaptation of measurement tools/instruments. Further, he expands his work on HIV/AIDS and co-occurring mental and medical disorders, stigma related to substance use and suicide. He designed and implemented programs for patients in residential facilities and individuals at risk for substance use and mental health problems. Being an International trainer he served a resource person in numerous national and international training courses related to substance use treatment and prevention. Dr. Salman is also part of Pakistan Institute of Living and Learning for the last 3 years as consultant in numerous groups including; training and development, Substance use, Ethics and Governance. Dr. Salman’s strength and track record lies in building and growing programs, leveraging through collaboration, inspiring others to work in teams, a passion for excellence, strong leadership skills, proven administrative experience, strategic planning, executing transformational culture change, and the ability to create an atmosphere that nurtures, values, and celebrates diversity.