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Portrait of Dr. Samah Jabr

Dr. Samah Jabr

Palestinian psychiatrist, psychotherapist, and writer

Born
1976
Born in
East Jerusalem, Palestine
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Why Samah is here

Dr. Samah Jabr has made significant contributions to the field of psychiatry in Palestine, focusing on the treatment of personal and collective traumas and addressing the mental health implications of the Israeli occupation and other societal challenges. She stands out for her dedication to improving mental health care in a region with limited resources and high demand for such services.

Their story

Dr. Samah Jabr is a Palestinian psychiatrist, psychotherapist, writer, and former head of the Mental Health Unit at the Palestinian Ministry of Health. She has become a key figure in addressing the mental health crisis in Palestine, especially in the context of the Israeli occupation and other societal challenges. Her work extends beyond clinical psychiatry to include education, advocacy, and writing.

Milestones

The moments that shaped Samah’s path.

  1. Education

    Graduated from Al Quds University (Jerusalem), Pierre-et-Marie-Curie University and Diderot University (Paris), and the Israeli Institute of Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy.

  2. Professional Role

    Served as Head of the Ramallah Community Mental Health Centre.

  3. Leadership Position

    Appointed as Chair of the Mental Health Unit at the Palestinian Ministry of Health.

  4. 2018

    Authorship

    Published Derrière les fronts: chroniques d’une psychiatre psychothérapeute palestinienne sous occupation, a French collection of her writing, in 2018.

  5. Covid-19 Response

    Played a pivotal role in addressing the mental health crisis during the coronavirus pandemic as the director of the mental health unit of the Palestinian Authority Ministry of Health.

Legacy

What they built, changed and left behind.

  1. Mental Health Services Development

    Has overseen the expansion of mental health services across the West Bank, addressing both individual and collective psychological traumas.

  2. Covid-19 Mental Health Response

    Devised the mental health response plan for Covid-19 in Palestine, managing psychological distress in quarantine centers and the wider community.

  3. Community Impact

    Works as a clinician, medical trainer, and advisor for local and international NGOs, significantly impacting community mental health.

  4. Public Awareness and Advocacy

    Raised awareness about the psychological impacts of the Israeli occupation and other societal issues through her writings and lectures.

  5. Innovative Approach in Psychiatry

    Adapted psychiatric practice to suit the unique context of Palestine, addressing misconceptions about mental health and challenging societal beliefs.

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