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Dr. Maysa Akbar
Pioneering Psychologist & Best-Selling Author
Dr. Maysa Akbar
Pioneering Psychologist & Best-Selling Author
Biography
Dr. Maysa Akbar is a pioneering psychologist, best-selling author, and highly sought-after speaker, trainer, and consultant. As the curator of the Urban Trauma® framework, Dr. Akbar has dedicated her career to understanding the lasting effects of social and cultural barriers on vulnerable communities and guiding individuals and organizations toward healing and transformation.
A board-certified clinical psychologist, Dr. Akbar has served as an Assistant Clinical Professor at Yale University School of Medicine. She is a recognized expert in racial trauma, restorative practices, and community resilience, offering powerful, research-based strategies to professionals across sectors, including mental health, education, corporate leadership, and social services.
Through her books, Urban Trauma: A Legacy of Racism and Beyond Ally: The Pursuit of Racial Justice, Dr. Akbar provides deep insight into the lived experiences of communities affected by generational trauma and outlines actionable pathways toward empowerment and change. As a dynamic and engaging speaker, she delivers compelling keynotes and interactive trainings, equipping individuals and organizations with the tools to foster authentic connection and meaningful impact.
Dr. Akbar is also the founder of Integrated Wellness Group, a psychotherapy and consulting practice specializing in race-based trauma and culturally responsive healing. Her work continues to inspire change, challenge conventional narratives, and create spaces for dialogue and action.
Speech Topics
Identifying and Addressing Ethics & Biases
Ethical decision-making and bias awareness are critical for organizations across all sectors, from corporations to school districts and beyond. Led by Dr. Maysa Akbar, this training explores how unconscious biases shape interactions, policies, and workplace culture, often leading to unintended disparities. Participants will gain a deeper understanding of ethical responsibilities and learn actionable strategies to identify and mitigate biases at both individual and systemic levels. Through real-world case studies and interactive discussions, this session equips organizations with the tools to foster accountability, inclusivity, and ethical integrity in their environments.
Promoting Workplace Collaboration & Psychological Safety
A thriving workplace is built on trust, open communication, and a culture of psychological safety. Led by Dr. Maysa Akbar, this training provides organizations—including corporations, school districts, and nonprofits—with the tools to foster inclusive collaboration and innovation. Participants will explore the impact of workplace dynamics on team performance, learn strategies to cultivate psychological safety, and identify ways to reduce barriers to effective teamwork. Through engaging discussions and real-world applications, this session equips leaders and teams with the skills to create a work environment where all voices are valued, and collaboration leads to success.
Workforce Development Strategies
A strong and adaptable workforce is essential for organizational success. Led by Dr. Maysa Akbar, this training provides corporations, school districts, and other organizations with strategic approaches to workforce development. Participants will explore best practices for talent acquisition, retention, and professional growth while addressing challenges such as skill gaps, diversity, and employee engagement. Through interactive discussions and real-world case studies, this session equips leaders with the tools to build a resilient, inclusive, and high-performing workforce that meets the evolving demands of today's industries.
Understanding & Addressing Urban Trauma®
Urban Trauma is a lived experience shaped by systemic inequities, historical injustices, and the challenges of marginalized communities. Led by Dr. Maysa Akbar, this training provides a deep exploration of the Urban Trauma® framework, equipping organizations—including corporations, school districts, and community agencies—with the knowledge and tools to recognize, address, and heal the impacts of trauma. Participants will gain insights into how Urban Trauma affects individuals, workplaces, and communities, while learning actionable strategies to foster resilience, equity, and culturally responsive practices. This session is essential for leaders and professionals seeking to create more inclusive, trauma-informed environments.
Addressing Health Disparities
Health disparities are deeply rooted in systemic inequities, impacting communities, workplaces, and institutions across all sectors. Led by Dr. Maysa Akbar, this training equips organizations—including corporations, school districts, healthcare systems, and community agencies—with the knowledge and strategies to identify, address, and reduce health disparities. Participants will explore the social determinants of health, examine the role of bias in healthcare access and outcomes, and learn actionable approaches to creating equitable policies and practices. Through engaging discussions and real-world case studies, this session empowers leaders and professionals to foster healthier, more inclusive environments for all.
Creating Opportunities for Inclusive Leadership & Team Success
Inclusive leadership is the foundation of high-performing, innovative, and resilient teams. Led by Dr. Maysa Akbar, this training provides organizations with the strategies to cultivate leadership that values diversity, fosters collaboration, and drives meaningful change. Participants will explore the principles of inclusive leadership, learn how to create equitable opportunities for professional growth, and develop strategies to build team cultures rooted in trust and belonging. Through interactive discussions and real-world applications, this session equips leaders and teams with the tools to enhance engagement, performance, and long-term success in any organizational setting.
Customized Training & Programs
Dr. Maysa Akbar offers tailored training programs designed to meet the unique needs and goals of any organization. Whether addressing leadership development, workplace equity, trauma-informed practices, or team collaboration, each program is customized to align with organizational priorities and challenges. Through a strategic and interactive approach, Dr. Akbar provides practical solutions that foster growth, inclusion, and long-term success.