Dr Rania Awaad is a trailblazer at the intersection of mental health and Islamic spirituality. She is a Clinical Professor of Psychiatry at Stanford University and the Director of the Muslim Mental Health and Islamic Psychology Lab. She is also the President of Maristan—a holistic mental health centre for Muslims.

Through her groundbreaking work, Dr Rania has become a leading voice in integrating Islamic teachings with modern psychological practices to address the unique challenges faced by Muslims today.

As an ustadha with multiple ijazas in Qur’an and the Islamic sciences, and having served as the first female professor of Islamic Law at Zaytuna College, Dr Rania combines her deep understanding of traditional Islamic knowledge with her expertise in psychiatry to bridge the gap between faith and mental well-being. Her work focuses on destigmatising mental health in Muslim communities and offering practical, faith-centred solutions for emotional and spiritual challenges.

In addition to her academic and clinical roles, Dr Rania is a sought-after speaker and educator, inspiring audiences around the world with her insights on mental health, resilience, and spiritual healing. Whether she’s addressing the complexities of mom guilt, overthinking, or coping with grief, Dr Rania brings a compassionate and empowering approach to every discussion.

Her contributions to the field are paving the way for a more holistic understanding of mental health—one that honours the soul as much as the mind.