Nevzat Tarhan emerged as a prominent figure in Turkish psychiatry by transitioning from a career in military medicine to the founding of specialized academic and clinical institutions. Since earning his medical credentials in 1975, he has built an extensive portfolio spanning clinical research, neuropsychiatry, and social advocacy while operating primarily within the medical landscapes of Istanbul.
Early Career and Military Medicine
Born in 1952 in Merzifon, Tarhan completed his foundational education at the Kuleli Military High School in 1969 before graduating from the Istanbul University-Cerrahpaşa Medical School in 1975. His early professional path followed a military track, including internships at the Gülhane Military Medical Academy. He served in various medical capacities across Cyprus and Bursa garrisons. By 1982, he attained status as a specialist psychiatrist. His trajectory within the military medical system continued with clinical appointments in Erzincan and Çorlu, leading to an assistant professorship in 1988 and an associate professorship in 1990 at GATA Haydarpaşa. In 1993, he achieved the rank of colonel, ultimately reaching the position of professor in 1996.
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After voluntarily retiring from his military positions in 1998, Tarhan transitioned into private and academic neuropsychiatry. He assumed the representation of the Memory Center of America in Turkey, marking a shift toward focused cognitive research. He later established NPİSTANBUL, recognized as Turkey’s first neuropsychiatry hospital, where he served as chairman of the board. His academic work is represented by his role as the founding rector of Üsküdar University. Throughout his career, he has contributed to over 100 publications, including significant involvement in international congresses such as the 2007 7th International ECNS Congress held in Istanbul.
Institutional Memberships and Honors
Tarhan has maintained active membership in numerous global medical organizations, including the American Psychiatric Association, the EEG and Clinical Neuroscience Society, and the Society for Brain Mapping and Therapeutics, where he served as a board member starting in 2015. His contributions to the field have been acknowledged through various distinctions, such as the Golden Axon Leadership Award from the SBMT in 2019. Furthermore, he is the president of the Turkish American Neuropsychiatric Association, a role he assumed in 2017 to foster collaboration in his sub-field.
Social Advocacy and Literary Contributions
Beyond clinical psychiatry, Tarhan has authored extensive literature on family dynamics, faith, and neuropsychological phenomena, including titles like The Masnavi Therapy and Psychology of Happiness. His social engagement extends to presiding over multiple organizations, such as the İDER Human Values and Mental Health Foundation and the Happy Home Happy Life Association, which focuses on orphans and deprived children. His work also covers themes of child safety and human rights, reflecting his broader commitment to community mental health.
Fast facts
- Born: 1952, Merzifon
- Citizenship: Turkey
- Education: Istanbul University-Cerrahpaşa
- Primary Occupation: Psychiatrist
- Current Position: Rector of Uskudar University
- Key Award: Golden Axon Award (2019)
- Languages: Turkish, English
- Religious Affiliation: Sunni Islam
Questions readers ask
What is Nevzat Tarhan's academic background?
He graduated from Kuleli Military High School and Istanbul University-Cerrahpaşa before completing his psychiatric specialization at the Gülhane Training and Research Hospital.
Which neuropsychiatry institution did he found?
He is the chairman of the board of NPİSTANBUL, which is the first neuropsychiatry hospital in Turkey.
