04/02/2026

Meet KPMA Immediate Past President, Dr. Zubi Suleman

Can you please let us know about yourself? 

Dr. Zubi Suleman: I am a board-certified adult psychiatrist and Distinguished Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association, currently practicing at the Robley Rex VA Medical Center. I serve as an Assistant Professor with the University of Louisville Department of Psychiatry and as Site Director for the VA Psychiatry Residency Program, where I am actively involved in the education and mentorship of residents and medical students. I recently completed my term as President of the Kentucky Psychiatric Medical Association and currently serve as the APA District Branch Disaster Representative for Kentucky. I have also been an active member of the Kentucky Eating Disorder Council for over five years and chair the Health Service Providers Education Committee.

My professional interests include medical education, women’s mental health, and eating disorders. Originally trained in Pakistan, with further experience in Canada, I bring a diverse and global perspective to my work. Outside of my professional life, I enjoy spending time with my family and exploring my passion for cooking and creative food presentation

What inspired you to choose psychiatry as a career, and what continues to motivate you in this field today?

Dr. Zubi Suleman:  Psychiatry has always been my passion. If I were ever given the chance to choose my career again, I would still choose psychiatry wholeheartedly. I find it an extremely rewarding field ,not only because you care for patients with mental illness, but because you support their entire families as well. Seeing my patients make progress brings an immense sense of fulfillment and continues to motivate me every day.

What do you find most fulfilling about working as a psychiatrist, both professionally and personally?

Dr. Zubi Suleman: The most fulfilling aspect of working as a psychiatrist, both professionally and personally, is the continuous growth it brings. Every day, I see myself evolving ,not only in my clinical skills, but also as a person. Working with challenging and complex cases pushes me to think deeply, expand my understanding, and develop greater empathy and resilience. These experiences shape me professionally while also enriching me personally, making the work deeply meaningful.

What are some common misconceptions people have about psychiatry, and how do you address them in your work?

Dr. Zubi Suleman: One of the most common misconceptions about psychiatry is the stigma surrounding mental illness. Many people still view it as a personal weakness rather than a medical condition. In my work, I focus on breaking this stigma through awareness and education. It is important for people to understand that mental illness is a disease like any other one that requires attention, acknowledgment, and proper care.

Another misconception is that psychiatric help is only needed when symptoms become severe. In reality, mental health exists on a spectrum. Everyday stress, anxiety, and low mood are common experiences, and seeking help early can prevent conditions from worsening. I encourage open conversations and emphasize the importance of caring for one another, recognizing that mental well-being deserves the same attention and compassion as physical health

What challenges have you faced in your psychiatric career, and how have they shaped your perspective or practice?

Dr. Zubi Suleman:  One of the biggest challenges I have faced in my psychiatric career is the limited availability of resources for the patient population we serve. Although access has improved with the rise of telehealth ,allowing us to reach individuals who are unable to travel long distances or who live in areas with few or no mental health providers ,significant barriers still remain. Many patients struggle with the high costs of medications and treatments, and it is heartbreaking to realize that some are unable to meet even their most basic needs, such as stable housing or access to food.

These challenges have deeply shaped my perspective and practice. They have reinforced my belief that psychiatrists must advocate for their patients above and beyond the clinical encounter. Navigating hurdles such as prior authorizations, long wait times for medications or procedures, and systemic delays is often exhausting, but it is essential. Being a voice for our patients, especially those who cannot easily advocate for themselves is a responsibility I take seriously, as it directly impacts their treatment outcomes and quality of life.

What advice or message would you like to share with medical students or upcoming psychiatrists who are considering this path?

Dr. Zubi Suleman:  Medicine is an incredibly rewarding profession, and I truly believe psychiatry stands at the very top of it. As psychiatrists, we treat the human being not just a disease or disorder. We care for the individual, their families, and ultimately the broader community. I strongly encourage medical students and young physicians to consider this path. Psychiatry offers deep, meaningful work that challenges you intellectually and fulfills you emotionally. 

To current psychiatry residents and psychiatrists around the world, I congratulate you for choosing such a compassionate and impactful profession. Your work truly makes a difference!!

Dr. Zubi Suleman, Immediate Past President, KPMA