GHEA21 Faculty

Sayed Jafar Ahmadi

Sayed Jafar Ahmadi, Ph.D., a distinguished psychologist, earned his doctorate in general psychology. During his studies, he founded the Autism Research department at the Autism Center of Isfahan and standardized the Gilliam Autism Rating Scale (GARS), a key reference in autism research. In 2010, upon returning to Afghanistan, he established the country's first clinical psychology department and authored a significant research book on human trafficking. As the founder of the Behrawan Research and Psychology Services Organization, he has advanced psychological practice and training. Collaborating with global institutions like Hunter College and Monash University, he has authored over 40 publications on autism, trauma, and peace. He is currently a Research Scholar at Bard College, a Visiting Scholar at The New School (Center for Global Mental Health), and an Affiliated Senior Research Fellow at Monash University, Australia. In recognition of his sustained humanitarian and scholarly contributions, Dr. Ahmadi received the 2024 APA International Humanitarian Award.