Mental Health Counseling

Ms. Shivanee Singhvi, a Counselling Psychologist, based in Dubai, United Arab
Emirates. I have completed my Masters in Counselling from Monash University, Australia.
She specializes in counselling for all kinds of issues ranging from depression, anxiety, low
self-esteem, negative thinking, and identity crisis body image issues to personality disorders
such as borderline personality disorder, dependent personality disorder and much more. And
sincerely believe in taking the sessions to a level where a sense of self awareness and
positivity thrives.

She has a keen interest in psychology since her school days but could not pursue it and
ended up in the field of aviation. Thanks to my mother, she has grown up to believe that
every woman can achieve the world and make the impossible happen. Hence with this
notion, after fifteen years of living through a hardcore corporate life, being a mother of two
beautiful children, witnessed a call from her conscious. It was a strong indication that drove
me to change the direction of my life in order to contribute something towards our society
and add meaning to others lives. This is when she enrolled into the Masters programme,
studied for three years and successfully graduated to become a Counsellor. Her aim is to
listen to people and create a personal connection in order to help them explore themselves
towards a better and healthier tomorrow by focusing more on the various coping
mechanisms that can be adapted to one’s daily lifestyle.

Area of Specialization:

• Adolescence issues such as body image, low self-esteem, peer pressure etc.

• Mood Disorders

• Anxiety and Depression Disorders

• Behavioural Issues

• Behavioral Problems

• Relationship challenges

• Coping with loss Traumatic events

• Corporate and workplace-related issues

Qualification and Membership:

• Masters of Counselling | Monash University, Australia

• Certificate in Counselling | University of Southern Queensland, Australia

• Member of Australian Counselling Association (ACA)

• Adult to adult mental aid certification

The opportunity to feel understood and empathize with, to be offered a concerned ear, and to create a human connection are all hallmarks of the holistic care that we desire as human beings. For her, this became a passion, a duty and a calling.

Born and raised in Dubai, she understood the cultural and societal dynamics of the city, instilling a receptive attitude towards varying individuals. She received her education and clinical training from England and worked in private and government facilities, mainly with adolescents and adults struggling with stress, bereavement, trauma, adjustment disorders, gender identity, existential concerns and life transitions, phobias, interpersonal conflicts between families and couples.

Having trained in health psychology, she also work with individuals struggling to cope with chronic disease, evaluation and management of bariatric surgery, stress, the initial shock of a new diagnosis/disability and women’s sexual health.

Aside from her clinical work, she hold a keen interest in horse riding and the therapeutic benefits it offers. She have been around horses since the age of 9 and trained for almost 6 years. She facilitate support groups for parents with children with special needs that include equine activities in an equine environment to promote increased self awareness, communication and emotional growth.

Specializations:

• Depression and mood disorders
• Postpartum depression
• Anxiety disorders – including phobias.
• Adjustment disorders
• Grief and Loss
• Body image issues
• Trauma and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder
• Emotional, physical and sexual abuse
• Interpersonal and relationship difficulties
• Health related distress
• Sexuality and sexual concerns
• Gender discrimination
• Anger management
• Personal growth

Therapeutic Approach:

• Narrative Therapy
• Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
• Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT)
• Psychodynamic approaches
• Integrative approaches
• Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)

Qualifications & Memberships:

• in Health Psychology, University of Bath – UK
• in Clinical Psychology, University of Kent – UK
• Member of Health and Care Professional Council (HCPC) – UK
• Member of British Psychological Society (BPS) – UK
• Licensed by Community Development Authority (CDA) – UAE

Mr. Mohammad Fraijis a Jordanian / Palestinian Psychologist, He joined Lifeworks Counselling and Mental Health in April 2023. He was coming from GMC Clinics where he started practising in 2020 as a Clinical Psychologist till March 2023.

Qualifications:

Mr. Fraij is a Psychotherapist with a Master of Arts degree in Psychology from the University of Jordan.

Experience in Jordan:

Mr. Fraij has worked with a number of International Non Governmental Organizations (INGOs) including:

Care International: where he has to work as a Community Counselor for Refugees communities in Jordan.

International Medical Corps: worked as a Psychosocial Program Officer to build the capacity for vulnerable communities.

The Center for Victims of Torture: Mr. Fraij worked as a psychosocial consultant for survivors of turture who moved to Jordan coming from hot conflict areas like Syria and Iraq.

in addition Mr. Fraij used to work as a freelancer psychotherapist and trainer for other Organizations: (Save The Children, Relief International, UNHCR, Red Crescent and more)

Experience in UAE:

Mr. Fraij working in Saudi German Hospital since 2019. and used to practice Psychotherapy at Northwest Clinic in Dubai from July 2017 till 2020. before that he worked with American Center for Psychiatry and Neurology (ACPN) where he has practising psychotherapy as a clinical psychologist for a 4 years. In 2011 he joined Rashid Hospital in Dubai Health Authority as Senior Psychology Practitioner, where he worked in the Mental Health Department as a Psychotherapist.

Area of Interest:

Mr. Fraij has experience working with children and adults who suffering from:

Anxiety Disorders:

• Phobias
• Social Phobias
• Panic Disorder
• Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)
• Obsessive – Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
• Post – Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
• Adjustment Disorders

Mood Disorders:

• Depression
• Manic Episode
• Bipolar Disorder

Somatoform Disorders:

• Hypochondriacal Disorder
• Pain Disorder

Sleeping Disorders.

Personality Disorders.

Behavioral and Emotional Disorders:

• Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
• Conduct Disorders
• Separation Anxiety Disorder
• Elective Mutism
• Tic Disorders

Activities and membership:

Mr. Fraij is active in the Social Media and T.V Shows, he participating in most hit T.V programs like:

• Good Morning Arab on mbc1
• Good morning Dubai on DUBAI T.V
• Week in Hour on CNBC Arabia
• Bala Routine with Merna on Al-Arabiya 99 FM
• Gentle Steps on mbc3
• Today Al-Hurra T.V
• And many more
• Member of American Psychological Association (APA) as International Affiliate.

Sailaja is an American trained Licensed Counseling Psychologist, with 30 years of clinical experience in the field of Mental Health, Counseling, training, teaching and supervision.

Prior to joining Lifeworks, Sailaja worked in various leading Public and private settings – non-profit mental health centres, prestigious Universities and clinical mental health settings in the USA, Singapore, India and Dubai.

Sailaja graduated as the first Psychologist with a Post Masters Degree specializing in Multicultural Counseling from the world-renowned and prestigious Johns Hopkins University, Maryland, USA and has a Masters Degree in Psychology from Radford University, Virginia, USA and a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Presidency College, Chennai, India. Sailaja is an American of Indian-origin, born in Malaysia and spent her childhood there before moving to India where she spent most of her formative years.

In her clinical capacity, Sailaja strongly emphasizes the importance of incorporating a holistic model of services that takes into consideration the mental/emotional, physical/biological, social, community and the spiritual aspects of the client to ensure well-being and self-sufficiency.

Her theoretical orientation is primarily client centered; however, she is eclectic in her approach and often integrates other models of therapy such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Compassion based therapy, Mindfulness based therapy, Emotion focused therapy, Acceptance and Commitment therapy.

Sailaja works primarily with couples, individuals and families on a broad range of mental health issues.

With Couples, Sailaja has worked extensively on issues related to- relationship issues, breakdown in communication, trust and confidence, loneliness and sadness, inability to adjust to a marital life conflicts with extended families, infidelity, addictions, anger management and abuse.

With Individuals, Sailaja has worked extensively on depression, anxiety, personality issues, anger management, stress management, and issues related to adjustment and acculturation in new surroundings, relationship issues and management, workplace conflicts, loss of identity and grief and loss

With Families, Sailaja has worked extensively on issues related to intergenerational issues, parenting, conflict management, grief and loss, stress management, abusive and dysfunctional family functioning

Therapeutic Approaches:

• Couple’s/ Marital therapy
• Client Centered therapy
• Acceptance and Commitment therapy (ACT)
• Solution focused therapy
• Cognitive Behavioral therapy(CBT)
• Supportive therapy
• Mindfulness and compassion based therapy
• Critical incident Stress Debriefing
• Family therapy
• Psycho-Educational therapy

Specializations:

• Mood disorder (e.g. Depression)
• Adjustment Issues
• Marital /relationship issues
• Acculturation / Assimilation issues
• Intergenerational conflicts
• Psycho education
• Family conflicts
• Issues of transition in youth
• Corporate/employee assistance
• Academic challenges and behavioral issues in youth

• Cross Cultural Training

Educational Qualifications:

• Post Masters (CAGS- Multicultural Counseling), Johns Hopkins University, USA

• MS (Psychology), Radford University, USA

• BA (Psychology), Presidency College, Chennai, India

Professional Memberships:

• American Counseling Association (ACA),

• American Psychological Association (APA)

• American Multicultural Counseling and Development (AMCD)

• International Association of Marriage and Family Counseling (IAMFC)

Ms. Gopika Govindan is a highly skilled Clinical Psychologist with extensive and diverse experience across clinical, educational and organizational sectors in UK, India and UAE. Prior to joining Lifeworks, Gopika was the Clinical Director for Ghobash group of clinics, spearheading rehabilitation teams and clinical operations for both clinics in Dubai and Abu Dhabi.

Gopika also served as Senior Clinical Psychologist for Novomed Hospitals, Dubai Marina.

Gopika holds MSc in Clinical and Abnormal Psychology from Swansea University, UK and an MPhil in Clinical Psychology from one of the most reputed medical colleges in India, Kasturba Medical College. She is also a certified Neuro-Cognitive trainer by BrainRx, USA and was Asst. Programme Director for Brain Rx in Neuropedia, Dubai. In addition, Gopika is certified in Dance Movement Therapy (UK) and Neuro-Linguistic Programming (USA). She began her career in 2009 with the NHS, UK as the youngest Psychologist to join the team at Cefn Coed Hospital, Wales helping individuals deal with psychological difficulties.

She was an active volunteer for the COVID-19 mental health project launched by the Dubai Health Authority providing psychological support for those affected by the pandemic.

Gopika provides a holistic and multi-disciplinary approach to therapy, working closely with psychiatrists and neurologists. She uses an eclectic and integrative approach to her clinical practice that is tailored to suit each individual’s specific needs.

Gopika believes that non-judgmental acceptance, trust and empathy are of utmost importance in establishing a therapeutic bond with her clients, thereby guiding her clients through their journey of self-discovery and healing.

Gopika is currently based in Cleveland, USA and will be offering telehealth services.

Therapy modalities:

• Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT)

• Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)

• Mindfulness

• Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT)

• Creative Arts Therapy (CAT)

• Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT)

Areas of expertise:

• Adjustment

• Addiction

• Anger

• Attachment patterns

• Anxiety

• Behavioural Medicine

• Chronic pain and illness

• Depression

• Emotional regulation

• Grief

• Life Crisis

• Marital discord

• Neuropsychology

• OCD

• Organizational & time management skills

• Personality disorders

• Phobia

• PTSD

• Relationship dynamics

• Self-image & Self-confidence

• Stress management

• Trauma & Abuse

• Work -Life Balance

QUALIFICATIONS:

MPhil Clinical Psychology, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal University, India

MSc Clinical & Abnormal Psychology, Swansea University, UK

Post Graduate Certificate in Psychological Counselling, Christian Medical College, India

BSc Psychology, Bharathiar University, India

Certified in Dance Movement Therapy, UK

Certified in Neuro-Linguistic Programming, USA

Certified in Cognitive Training, BrainRx, USA

MEMBERSHIPS:

British Psychological Society (BPS)

Dubai Health Authority (DHA)

Department of Health Abu Dhabi (DOH)

Rehabilitation Council of India (RCI)

Ms. Omera Niyaz Zeenath is a speech language pathologist with over 10 years of experience and is a level 1certified oral placement therapist. She is also a certified Makaton signs which is useful in establishing communication with young children.

Her interest is on childhood communication disorders, fluency disorders, voice disorders, articulation, adult language disorders and post stroke management. She is also a certified LSVT clinical which helps in voice issues faced by individuals affected with Parkinson’s disease. Ms.

Omera is also a member of Emirates Speech Language Pathology Society & Indian Speech & Hearing Association.

Area of interest:

• Mood disorders
• Anxiety disorders
• Improving life skills (social skills, self- esteem, decision making, coping with stress, problem solving, and time management)

Qualification and Membership:

• Masters in Audiology & Speech & Language Pathology, Sri Ramachandra University, Chennai, India
• Dubai Health Authority
• Emirates Speech & Language Pathology Society
• Indian Speech & Hearing Association
• Rehabilitation Council of India
• Basic Life Support
• Oral Placement Therapy
• LSVT
• Makaton
• Oral Placement Therapy

For almost 20 years, Mr. Eugene Traboulsi has had a passion for supporting people through times of difficulty. Known for his intuitive and soulful spirit, both online and in-person, he brings authenticity, genuineness, and good humour into everything he does. Motivating people to reach their maximum potential is at the forefront of his approach.

He has worked in a wide range of professional settings. He has held positions in both government and non-government organizations with extensive experience in the field of mental health and dual diagnosis, in both clinical and non-clinical based roles.

He earned his Bachelor of Social Work from the Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology University (RMIT) in 2009. Since graduating, Eugene gained licensing as an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker (AMHSW) and established and operated a full-time private practice in Australia. In addition, he has years of experience utilizing variety of evidence-based strategies to support both youth and adults across a range of personal concerns. Eugene is a CDA Licensed Social Worker (LSW).

Area of interest:

• Stress

• Anxiety

• Addictions

• Gambling

• Depression

• Grief and Loss

• School Issues

• Family Separation & Divorce

• Suicidal Thoughts

• Gender issues

• Cultural issues

• Bullying

• Gaming

• Life-stage changes

• Life Transitions

• Occupational Burnout

• Pre-Marital and Marital Assessments.

• Clinical Supervision

Qualification and Membership:

• Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology (RMIT)

• Master of International and Community Development – Deakin University

• Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training (ASSIST) – Suicide First Aid

• Mental State Examination

• Mental Health Clinical Supervision Training “Supervisor Training”

• Psychological First Aid Training

• Community Justice Services Commissioner for Declarations and Justice of the Peace – QLD Justices Association

• PREPARE/ENRICH Facilitator

• Community Development Authority Licensed Social Worker (CDA)

  • Dubai.

• Australian Association of Social Workers Membership (AASW)

Therapeutic Approach:

Eugene incorporates a collaborative therapeutic approach that is person- centered, strengths-based and honours the individual. This eclectic approach marries person-centered, solution- focused, and cognitive behavioural methods to help everyone get what they need in a supportive and understanding environment.

Ms. Ailien Sy is a Clinical Psychologist that is experienced in treating clients of different ages, backgrounds, sexual orientations, and psychological and psychiatric conditions. She got her Master’s degree in Clinical Psychology for United Arab Emirates University, UAE.  She is a member of the Middle East Psychological Association (pending approval).

She’s offered her services to individuals of diverse backgrounds, ages, and socioeconomic statuses. She strongly supports versatility in psychotherapy treatments because she acknowledges that there is no single approach that would work for every individual.

To continue being an effective psychologist, she familiarizes herself with different types of psychotherapies.  She recently got certified as an Advanced Grief Counselling Specialist and is currently working on her Trauma professional certification.  She administers different types of psychological assessments as well.  She has a keen interest in Research, and has co-written an article that was published in the Journal of Anxiety and Depression Research | Vol 3 Iss 2 ISSN: 2582-3264, and worked as a Research Assistant at United Arab Emirates University to standardize Behavioral Assessment System for Children (BASC-3) among the Arab population.

Therapy is not a “one size fits all” kind of treatment.  That being said, Ailien employs an integrative approach to her treatment planning and execution.  She combines therapeutic elements from different theories to cater to the treatment and experience specific to the clients.  She is particularly fond of using Schema therapy, Solution-focused therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and other effective brief therapies.

Areas of Specialization

• Anxiety disorders
• Mood disorders
• Psychotic disorders
• Personality disorders
• Eating disorders
• Trauma & Abuse
• Complicated Grief
• Addiction
• Stress Management
• Relationships

With everything that is going on and the fast-changing development of the world right now, it is so easy to feel lost and overwhelmed; oftentimes, our mental health takes a huge beating.  Ironically, it is also the most neglected.  A lot of us also carry trauma in our bodies that many of us may not even be aware of, which makes us respond to certain situations in very unhealthy ways and affects how we deal with and connect with other people.  I encourage everyone to pay attention to their mental health and start listening to what our bodies and our minds are trying to tell us. There is no shame in seeking help when needed.  You’ve taken the first step by being here.  It will be my privilege to work through things with you, bring you comfort, and help you in any way I can as your therapist

Dr. Deepa Sankar is a level 4 -DBT trained Clinical Psychologist (DHA and HAAD Licensed) withmore than 20 Years of experience working with children, adolescents, adults, couples,and families. She completed intensive training in DBT and specialized training in adaptations of DBT
for adolescents and children, Trauma and Eating Disorders.She believe in providing evidence-based psychotherapy. She is passionate about helping adolescents, teenagers, and adults who struggle to manage their mood, extreme emotion dysregulation, suicidal/parasuicidalbehaviours, Non-Suicidal Self- Injury, and problem behaviours. She provide a non-judgmental and genuine space for my clients to feel heard.

She can also provide hands-on strategies for parents who struggle to manage behavioural difficulties in children. She utilize various evidence-based treatment approaches to work with her clients.

Comprehensive Dialectical Therapy (DBT adult and Adolescent), which includes

• Individual therapy, DBT Group Skills Training, Phone Coaching and Team Consultation)
• Dialectical behaviour Therapy for children (DBT- C)
• Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT)
• Motivational Interviewing (MI)
• Prolonged Exposure protocols (PE)

Ms. Chaanan Kaur is a psychologist with a mixed bag of experiences in the mental health field- from understanding the “behind the scenes” of treatments and interventions to practicing as a psychologist and mentoring other young psychologists. She has helped several adolescents, adults, and couples experiencing unique emotional stressors and challenges in their environments. She has a master’s degree in Health, Social, and Organizational Psychology from Utrecht University in Utrecht, The Netherlands.

Ms. Chanaan is a member of the British Psychological Society (BPS) and has also been associated with the Nederlands Instituut van Psychologen (NIP). In her experience as a psychologist, she has offered therapy to individuals of diverse backgrounds, namely ex-pats and international students while being associated with YourDOST, an online mental health platform, and Heyy, a mental health app based in Singapore. Besides offering online therapy, Chaanan has also been volunteering with her knowledge of mental health in non-profit organizations since 2013.

Her key focus areas are gender discrimination, ADHD, identity and sexuality, life transitions, marital and family difficulties, reclaiming cultural roots, relationship challenges, anxiety, stress, loss, bereavement, and trauma.

In addition to traditional therapy, Ms. Chaanan is familiar with using Positive Psychology Interventions; and Solution Focused Brief therapy when working with corporates and their Employees.

Area of interest:

• Depression

• Stress, Anxiety and Panic

• Attacks

• Trauma and abuse

• Gender Discrimination

• LGBTQIA+

• Smoking Cessation

• Social Withdrawal, isolation

• Work-related difficulties

• Procrastination

• Adjustment to life-changing events

• Relationships, couples and

• family difficulties

• Grief and loss

• Self-Esteem, Self-image, Self- identity

• Body Image

Qualification and Membership:

• Social Health and Organizational Psychology from Utrecht University, Utrecht

• Psychology with Management from Heriot Watt University, Dubai

• Human Sexuality Continuing Education Course Aspira

• Community Development Authority Licensed Psychologist (CDA) – Dubai.

• British Psychological Society membership

Therapeutic Approach:

• Eclectic Therapy (usually through a trauma informed and narrative therapy lens).

Ms. Annabel George is a Psychologist, Psychotherapist and Counsellor with a master’s in counselling psychology from University of Mumbai, India where she earned her degree with distinction.

She has worked as a psychologist at various schools back in India and the UAE. She is also a consultant psychologist on several online platform.

She works with clients from a wide variety of age-groups and backgrounds – students, parents, young adults, as well as people in the corporate sector. She has been successful in assisting them as they deal with several different issues such as stress, anxiety, phobias, academic concern or career related issues, mood disorders, family concerns, relationships, procrastination, behavioural issues, self-harm, abuse and has also worked with clients focused on self-improvement.

Apart from individual sessions she also held group sessions and several workshops on confidence building, communication skills, non-judgmental listening, and career growth.

She makes use of Cognitive behavioural therapy, art and play therapy, interpersonal psychotherapy and solution-focused brief therapy in her sessions depending on what is relevant for the client.

She wants to help people deal with the challenges and concerns they are faced with. To help them grow as individuals and live their lives to the fullest. Additionally, she wants people to understand the importance of mental health and wellbeing and freely seek help when it’s required.

“In my sessions, the aim is on identifying the client’s concerns and working through it together. I believe that people know the path that they are on… and when their car breaks down along the way… I’d like to be the one who provides them with the right tools so that they know how to fix it and deal with it should such a situation arise again” .

Area of interest:

• Social and Emotional concerns
• Children and adolescent counselling
• Trauma counselling
• Improving life skills (social skills, self- esteem, decision making, coping with stress, problem solving, and time management)

Qualification and Membership:

• Community Development Authority (CDA) Licensed Psychologist

Therapeutic Approach:

• Eclectic Approach
• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
• Solution Focused Behavioral Therapy
• Art and play therapy and
• Interpersonal Therapy

Ms Boitumelo Sefolo, affectionately known as Tumi Sefolo is a DHA licenced Clinical Psychologist with 13 years’ expertise, and a committee chair for the American Psychological Association (APA) Division 52 of International Psychologists. She is devoted to helping individuals, couples, and families build healthier relationships. As a family systems-oriented therapist and an expert in relationships, she provides empathy and unconditional acceptance for essential transformations to unfold, leading to more fulfilled life experiences and relationships. She believes relationships determine the quality of the person’s life from childhood to adulthood and in other spheres of life such as workplace.

She is deeply involved in the LifeWorks Employee Assistance Program and serves multiple big corporates through psycho-educational talks and workshops, as well as program development. She cares about giving support to Dubai employees and their families, who struggle with a myriad of migration, relationships, and cultural issues.

She has certification from the Progressive Goal Attainment Program (PGAP) in Canada, a rehabilitative evidence-based intervention that minimizes disability and psychosocial stress following illness or injury and assists them to successfully returning to work.

Her expertise extends to neurological assessments which identify and manage neuropsychological illnesses due to injuries and work incapacity. She has extensive experience as a forensic expert determining the impact of personal injury into future functioning and reporting as well as testifying to the High Court of South Africa.

Her assessments and interventions encompass a culturally sensitive approach that is cognizant of the cultures and cultural milieu of respective individuals.

In addition to her experience in medical and mental health hospitals, Tumi Sefolo often engages in media and public speaking events. She has worked as an adjunct lecturer/professor in a South African university. She has also contributed to some articles in South Africa and mental health products in Kuwait.

Area of interest:

• Relationship difficulties

• Family problems

• Bereavement/loss

• Trauma and abuse

• Anxiety disorders

• Adjustment difficulties (dealing with life changes)

• Mood disorders (depression and bipolar)

• Parental guidance (single, blended & divorced families, dealing with acculturation)

• Cultural related difficulties

• Acculturation stress (related to migration)

• Coping with medical condition

• Work-related stressors

• Organizational and change management

Qualification and Membership:

• Pursuing PhD in International Psychology (USA)

• MSc in Clinical Psychology (South Africa)

• Dubai Health Authority

• Health Professions Council South Africa

• Singapore Psychological Society

• Member of Singapore Register of Psychologists

• Member of American Psychological Association International Affiliate

• Co-chair of American Psychological Society Division 52 of International Psychologists

Therapeutic Approach:

• Family systems therapy

• Humanistic Therapy

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

• Gestalt Therapy

• Solution Focused Therapy

Dr Akhtar Ali Syed is a practitioner, teacher, trainer and researcher of psychotherapy with more than thirty-one years of experience. He did his PhD in Psychology from the University College Dublin, Ireland. Dr Syed got his training in Eidetic Psychotherapy from New York. He is a licensed Clinical Psychologist in the UAE and a Chartered Clinical Psychologist with the Psychological Society of Ireland.

Having worked for two decades as Head of the Psychology Department with Brothers of Charity Services in Ireland, Dr Sayed subsequently took up positions at various organizations across Ireland as Visiting Clinical Psychologist. After extensive research and training, he originated two models of psychotherapy for two different groups of people: the Eidetic Model of Growth for people with intellectual disability and Brief Trauma Therapy, with empirical evidence of efficacy.

Dr Syed taught psychotherapy and related issues at different universities and is a co-supervisor for PhD projects.

Dr Syed’s work has been published in reputed Journals and presented at conferences. He also writes on psychosocial issues for websites and newspapers regularly.

Besides the models of psychotherapy he adopted, Dr Syed helps people with psychological, emotional, and experiential difficulties through his clinical work. He also supervises trainees from different backgrounds and cultures. Belonging to the school of post-modern psychotherapy, he uses up-to-date, evidence-based psychological treatments with his patients.

Languages:

• English, Urdu, Hindi, Punjabi, Seraiki

Dr. Naeema Ali trained psychology and social worker students of UAE University. She is actively providing counselling support to cancer patients and their families. She launched an occupational therapy for cancer patients and cognitive behavioural therapy in Tawam.

Due to her continued support in oncology and ongoing support to cancer patients, Naeema received countless awards locally and international to recognize her achievements and skills. She has been invited to participate in various conferences and workshops around the world and invited as a guest speaker in various subjects that covers psychology.

She also joined Al Sayegh Medical Center as a Social Worker, providing comprehensive assessment and treatment services to children and families, in inpatient and/or outpatient settings, and communicates with referral sources as indicated by applying psychometric test, such as IQ Test, MMPI, Wechsler Test for children. Exhibit superior communication skills to uncover complicated mental health issues; develop and recommend treatment plans based on patient needs and diagnosis.

She continued working as a clinical psychologist providing counselling within the multi-cultural environment of the Emirates Airlines for the past 15 years. Her main task is providing mental health support to inflight and ground staff and addresses any problems, anxieties, or job-related stresses that they are dealing with. She uses her findings to help improve processes and behaviors of a patient to maintain a safe environment, to manage stress, overcome trauma, or avoid job-related conflicts. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is the method Naeema is using to reduce the difficulties, anxieties, and stress that employee faces.

Naeema is also part of “ Shawer ”, the “Seek Our Advice”, and “We Listen To You” program of the Family Development Foundation of Abu Dhabi. The aim of the program was to promote family awareness and support a stable family life. It involves a group of community members who deal with family problems in a positive manner and provide individual and group counseling in social, psychological, and educational areas. They do so in a systematic way according to the needs of community members.

Besides “ Shawer ”, Naeema is also a volunteer of “ Friends of Cancer ” of Sharjah, supporting patients and their families to overcome the multitude psychological difficulties that they are experiencing due to cancer treatment as well as introducing some programs such as health education, self-care and some community programs wherein they can collaborate and share their experiences.

Area of interest:

• Psycho-oncology

• CBT

• Psychometric Assessments

• Children, Adults and Family therapy

Qualification and Membership:

• Psychology graduation from the University of Wisconsin

• Licensed by Community Development Authority

Ms. Jacqueline Naidoo was born in Durban, South Africa and relocated to Dubai in Oct 1998.

She obtained her master’s degree in Clinical Psychology at the United Arab Emirates University in Al Ain.

Her global travels combined with her time in Dubai provide Jaqueline with invaluable experience, insights and knowledge of diverse cultures and people, reaffirmed by continuous interaction within a multicultural and cosmopolitan environment on a social as well as professional level.

Area of interest:

Her spectrum of specialization includes diagnosis and treatment of:

• Depression
• Anxiety
• Panic attacks
• OCD
• Bereavements and loss
• Domestic violence
• Bipolar and mood related disorders
• Eating disorders
• Gender related difficulties
• Neurological disorders including Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s
• ADHD and behavioural related difficulties
• Stress and fatigue management.
• Isolation and adjustments difficulties
• LGBTQIA+
• Family and couple therapy

Qualification and Membership:

• M.Sc. – Masters in Clinical Psychology
• CDA – Social Professional License

Therapeutic Approach:

Jacqueline’s approach is unique to everyone. Clients are actively involved in their treatment process and can share their inner thoughts and feelings without any bias or judgement.

She follows various integrated therapeutic techniques including Cognitive and Dialectical Behavioural Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Client centred therapy, all, in an approachable and warm manner, creating a welcoming and safe environment for her clients of all backgrounds.

Administration scoring and report writing of behavioural, educational clinical, intellectual assessments and personality assessments.

Dr. Zahra Afsahari is a psychodynamic therapist, helping people to gain insight into their lives and present-day problems. She also evaluates patterns people develop over time. Through this, she reviews certain life factors with a person in therapy:

• Emotions

• Thoughts

• Early-life experiences

• Beliefs

She recognizes recurring patterns that can help people to see how they can avoid distress or develop defense mechanisms to cope. This insight may allow them to begin changing those patterns.

The therapeutic relationship is central to psychodynamic therapy. It can demonstrate how a person interacts with their friends and loved ones. In addition, transference in therapy can show how early-life relationships affect a person today. Transference is the transferring one’s feelings for a parent, for example, onto the therapist. This intimate look at interpersonal relationships can help people understand their part in relationship patterns. It may empower them to transform that dynamic.

She also encourages people to speak freely about their emotions, desires, and fears. Being open may help reveal vulnerable feelings that have been pushed out of our conscious awareness. According to psychodynamic theory, behavior is influenced by unconscious thought. Once vulnerable or painful feelings are processed, the defense mechanisms reduce or resolve.

She also works with clients ages 10 years old and above.

Area of interest:

• Depression
• Anxiety
• Family counseling
• Couples therapy
• Anxiety, trauma
• Life transitions
• Question of identity and purpose
• Psychodynamic, social justice, body image
• Somatic and present- moment therapy
• Sexuality and intimacy

Qualification and Membership:

• Doctorate in clinical Health Psychology from Payame Noor Tehran University of Iran
• Master’s in Clinical psychology from Islamic Azad University of Iran – Tehran

Therapeutic Approach:

• Psychodynamic therapy

Dr. Mohammed Bardi M.B.B.S, M.D (Psychiatry) has worked under different capacities in clinical and hospital setups in Saudi, USA, and UAE. He comes with over 15 years of experience in mental health. He specifically worked with cases relating to schizophrenic, bipolar disorder, dual diagnosis, major depressive disorder with suicidal risks, anxiety disorders, Intellectual disabilities, Autistic spectrum disorders and attention deficit hyperactivity disorders (ADHD).

Area of interest:

• Mood disorders

• Anxiety disorders

• Improving life skills (social skills, self- esteem, decision making, coping with stress, problem solving, and time management)

Qualification and Membership:

• MBBS COLLEAGUE OF MEDICINE, KING SAUD UNIVERSITY 2003 (KKU).

• ARAB BOARD OF MEDICAL SPECIALTIES IN PSYCHIATRY 2007

• ANXIETY DISORDERS WORKSHOP (DIPLOMA), 2010

• ADDICTION FELLOWSHIP UCLA, USA, 2010-2011

• ADDICTION RESEARCH AND MATRIX TRAINING, ISAP, UCLA, LOS ANGELES, CA, USA 2014-2015

• BACHELOR’S DEGREE OF MEDICINE AND SURGERY

• ARAB BOARD OF MEDICAL SPECIALTIES IN PSYCHIATRY

• ADDICTION FELLOWSHIP UCLA 2011, 2015

• BETTY FORD CERTIFICATE, ADDICTION PROGRAM 2010

• CDA) Licensed Psychologist

Therapeutic Approach:

• At LifeWorks Holistic Counselling Center Dubai, Dr. Bardi works collaboratively within our expert multidisciplinary team, in treating a wide array of psychiatric conditions including:

• Anxiety disorders

• Substance use disorders

• Mood disorders including depression and Bipolar affective disorders

• Psychotic disorders (Schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders)

• Personality disorders

• Cognitive disorders including Dementia

• Learning disabilities (intellectual disability disorders)

• Child and adolescents’ disorders like Separation anxiety disorders, conduct

• disorders and ADHD

Safia Ali Malik is DHA licensed Clinical Psychologist with comprehensive knowledge and understanding on different therapeutic techniques. Compassionate, dedicated and empathetic with clients. Experience of working with clients with different needs and nationalities with utmost cultural sensitivity. Excel at providing adolescents and adults with individual psychotherapy to help them facilitate their social and personal growth and allow them to lead more meaningful and fulfilling lives.

She specializes in psychological and educational assessments and provides individual, family and group therapies.

Her Therapeutic Approach

Psychometric and Psychological assessment, Cognitive therapy, Group therapy, individual therapy, Management, Dialectic Behaviour therapy, Solution Focused and Problem solving Approaches depending on the need of the client.

Specialization:

• Behavioural Disorders

• Anxiety Management

• Psychometric Assessment

• Cognitive problems

• Coping skills

• Grief therapy

• Mindfulness

• OCD and PTSD.

Education:

• Masters in Psychology from Government College University Lhr, Pakistan.

• Post Graduate Diploma in Child and adult Psychotherapy from Government College University Lhr, Pakistan.

• Graduation in Psychology from Punjab university Lhr, Pakistan.

License : Dubai Health Authority.

Language: English , Urdu (Hindi)

Ms. Corina Saramet has her master’s degree in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and has been working in the Mental Health field since 2007. She believes that therapy is a collaborative process and she kindly guides clients to increase self-awareness, gain new perspectives, decrease symptoms, and increase personal strengths to have a more meaningful life experience.

Throughout her career, she worked with adults, adolescents, and children, across various settings, including private practice and outpatient primary care clinics, in Romania, Spain and UAE. She has been working as a psychologist in the Emirates since 2017, in Abu Dhabi and Dubai. Her last position was in a children’s medical center, where she had helped families overcome various challenges, such as anxiety, depression, challenging behaviors, and OCD, to name a few.

She has also an extensive experience in applying various empirically supported Cognitive Behavioral Therapies (CBT), including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), Solution Focused Brief therapy (SFBT), Trauma Focused CBT (TF-CBT) and Motivational Interviewing (MI). In her clinical practice, Corina delivers evidence-based treatments to individuals facing a wide range of emotional, behavioral and adjustment problems.

Area of interest:

• Anxiety Disorders

• Anger and Stress Management

• Behavioral Challenges

• Depression

• PTSD

• Self-Harm Behavior

• Grief and Loss

• Obsessive- Compulsive Disorder

• Trauma

• Family and Relationship Challenges

• Low Self Esteem

• Suicide prevention

Qualification and Membership:

• Master’s degree in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Bucharest, Romania

• Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology, Bucharest, Romania

• Community Development Authority License (CDA), Dubai, UAE

• Romanian College of Psychologists, Bucharest, Romania

• ) Licensed Psychologist

Therapeutic Approach:

Dr. Marwa Abd El Hamid is a licensed clinical and educational psychologist who completed her dual doctoral (Ph.D.) from AIN SHAMS University. She has many diplomas and Certifications from many international organizations like Beck Institute for Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) and a clinical diploma.

She is over 20 years of clinical experience in the field of Mental Health, Counseling, supervision and training- teaching in academia as a delegated lecturer in the American University in Emirates (AUE), Middlesex University Dubai (MDX), and Alexandria University in Egypt and several Companies like Vox Media, (RTA) Ministry of Climate Change and Environment, Ministry of Energy and infrastructure in Dubai and working with most of the nationalities.

As a professional psychologist always consider the importance of the client’s religious, national, cultural, and personal circumstances backgrounds. Her therapeutic approach is to use several methods of modern psychotherapy for short – long therapy for children & special needs, young people and adults through sessions with individuals, couples, and families, or group therapy based on the needs of the client (CBT), (DBT), (REBT), (CFT), (ACT), (SFBT),(PPT), (GA), etc. Also, she still studies schema therapy for personality disorder.

Some of her professional Experiences:

• Anxiety disorders, including panic disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and phobias
• Mood disorders (Depression, bipolar disorder)
• Eating disorders
• Personality disorders
• Post-traumatic stress disorder PSTD
• Psychotic disorders, including schizophrenia
• Somatic symptoms and related disorder
• Substance-Related and Addictive Disorder
• Paraphilic disorders
• Sexual Dysfunctions
• Gender Dysphoria & Conversion disorders
• Sleep-wake disorder
• Adjustment disorders
• Stress-related disorders
• Grief and loss
• Self-harm behaviors
• Pre-marital & Marital issues
• Low self-esteem & Body image issues
• Psychoeducation -Child / special need psychology Including Cognitive disorders, Memory disturbance, Attention-deficit, hyperactivity disorder, behavior modification, and any related disorders

Area of Specialization:

• Kids & Special needs (play therapy)

• Dealing with Autism – Asperger – Down syndrome using (PECS –TEACCH –HELP –LOVAAS-INTEGRATION-PORTAGE).

• Skills development

• Childhood Emotional disorders.

• Behavioral Problems

• Attention difficulties

• Developmental learning difficulties

• Cognitive difficulties

• Difficulties of remembering

• Difficulties in conceptual formation

• Difficulty solving problems

Qualification and Membership:

• Ph.D. In Psychology Ain-Shams University

• Master’s In Educational Psychology Ain-Shams University

• Special Diploma in Mental Health Alexandria University.

• Professional Diploma in Special Education Alexandria University

• Educational Diploma in Education At Alexandria University

• Cda, Dubai

• American Psychological Association (APA)

• Egyptian Psychologists Association( RANM)

• Egyptian Association for Psychological Studies (EAPS)

• Psychologist

Therapeutic Approach:

• Kids & Special needs (play therapy).

• Dealing with Autism – Asperger – Down syndrome using (PECS – TEACCH –HELP –LOVAAS- INTEGRATION-PORTAGE).

• Skills development.

• Childhood Emotional disorders.

• Behavioral Problems.

• Attention difficulties.

• Developmental learning difficulties.

• Cognitive difficulties.

• Difficulties of remembering.

• Difficulties in conceptual formation.

• Difficulty solving problems