Originally from Dinétah, Dr. Tommy K. Begay is a citizen of the Navajo Nation and a Research Assistant Professor in the Department of Psychiatry at the University of Arizona College of Medicine. Trained as a cultural psychologist, he draws on sociocultural theory and cultural-historical psychology to understand how social interaction, context, and culture shape human cognition, neurodevelopment, and identity. He also holds a Master of Public Health with a focus on International Health.

Dr. Begay's work centers on Native American health and wellness, with particular attention to the lasting effects of historical trauma, chronic stress, and early childhood adversity on Indigenous communities and the cultural strengths that support healing and resilience. He contributes to psychosocial health education, positive psychology, and self-empowerment approaches in substance abuse recovery and behavior change. He lives in Tucson, Arizona.

Dr. Tommy Begay