Pepperdine GSEP Spotlight Series: Parsa Peykar (MA ’21 and Phd '24)
The Pepperdine GSEP Spotlight Series celebrates students and alumni whose journeys reflect Purpose, Service, and Leadership—the core of our University. Through their stories, we highlight the impact of their work and the strength of our community.
We’re proud to begin with Parsa Peykar (MA in Clinical Psychology, MFT ’21 and PhD in Industrial and Organizational Psychology '24), a psychotherapist, educator, and podcast host whose work exemplifies the transformative power of service and leadership.
In the field of psychology, few professionals embody the integration of service, leadership, and personal growth as effectively as Pepperdine GSEP alum Parsa Peykar. With a multifaceted career as a psychotherapist, educator, and podcast host, Parsa graduated from Pepperdine GSEP's MA in Clinical Psychology MFT program and Liberty University's PhD in Industrial and Organizational Psychology program and has profoundly impacted individuals and communities by leveraging a deep commitment to service as a guiding principle. Through various professional avenues—teaching, clinical work, and media— Parsa has cultivated an environment of learning, empowerment, and transformation.
For the past three years, Parsa has taught at Pepperdine GSEP, mentoring graduate students to pursue meaningful careers in psychology. Through their role as an educator, he has reinforced his belief in the transformative power of education and personal growth.
“Teaching at Pepperdine has allowed me to blend academic rigor with a service-oriented approach, equipping future therapists with the tools to lead and serve their communities effectively, reflects Parsa. “Each of these endeavors reflects my core mission: to lead with purpose, inspire through service, and cultivate leadership in others.”
One of Parsa's most notable achievements is the creation and success of The Professor P Podcast, which is ranked in the top 10% globally in Leadership and Education. By interviewing experts and students alike, Parsa has created a platform for in-depth conversations on service, leadership, and influence, offering listeners actionable insights while also providing students a safe space to share their perspectives.
In his clinical practice, Parsa works with Olympic-level athletes and professional soccer players, blending psychology and performance coaching.
“I’ve had the privilege of supporting professional athletes in overcoming challenges, enhancing their mental resilience, and achieving peak performance, Parsa says. “This work exemplifies my commitment to empowering others to excel in their personal and professional lives.”
In 2021, Peykar achieved another milestone in his career with the publication of his book The Bird from the Kingdom of Heaven. The book was translated into four languages, including Farsi, and published in Iran. This accomplishment reflects his commitment to sharing stories and ideas that transcend borders and resonate with a global audience.