MEET DR. ASTRA KASSIRAM

Student Counsellor

UTT Chaguanas, ECIAF, Tamana & Tobago Campuses

Dr Astra Kassiram is a clinical psychologist with a Doctor of Philosophy in Psychology from Middlesex University, UK, and advanced degrees in Clinical Psychology, and Criminology and Criminal Justice from the University of the West Indies (UWI). She also has a Bachelor of Science in Psychology with a minor in Sociology. As a Certified Traumatologist and Compassion Fatigue Therapist and Educator, Dr Kassiram also specialises in trauma-focused therapies, including Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR), Traumatic Incident Reduction (TIR), and Critical Incident Stress Debriefing (CISD). She also holds post-graduate certificates from various institutions such as, Regent University in treating traumatised families, children and adolescents; treating sexual trauma; assessment and treatment of post-traumatic stress disorder; research methods; grief and loss; addictions and psychological first aid among others.

With extensive experience in the field of mental health, Dr Kassiram has worked with a diverse range of clients and as a psychologist, lecturer, head of department, student counsellor, researcher, and with several NGOs, among other roles. She provides individual, family, and group therapy, and conducts clinical and forensic assessments. Dr Kassiram was a member of UWI's Quality Assurance Team for Psychology in 2019. Prior to her joining The University of Trinidad and Tobago she held the position of Head of Psychology at the North West Regional Health Authority and conducted forensic assessments for the Law Courts of Trinidad and Tobago. Her academic contributions include research on somatisation disorder and domestic violence amongst the Caribbean diaspora.

Dr Kassiram possesses a profound passion for helping others and believes that supporting individuals in their journeys is a vital aspect to their development. Her commitment to service is driven by a desire to empower others hereby fostering an environment where individuals can thrive and reach their full potential. Dr Kassiram's dedication to uplifting those around her is not just a responsibility but a calling that continually inspires her work and interactions. Dr Kassiram is thrilled to join UTT as a Student Counsellor and is eager to contribute to its mission.

Dr Kassiram has recently joined the UTT family as a student counsellor, and provides services  to UTT Chaguanas, ECIAF, Tamana and Tobago campuses. You can now book appointments to meet with Dr Kassiram using the student portal or on UTT's main website under the Student Counselling Services Tab.  

Dr. Astra Kassiram   
Tel: (868) 642-8888/223-4888 Ext. 40922 
astra.kassiram@utt.edu.tt