Mental Health AE
Mental Health AE (MHAE) is a UAE-based mental health and wellness initiative. The podcast aims to create awareness about mental health issues and provide a safe space for discussion. It also offers access to information and resources, and encourages listeners to follow their Instagram and website for further support.
Episodes
S04E15 - Media and Mental Health - Hala Nasar
What happens when the news we consume starts affecting our mental health? In this episode of the MHAE Podcast, I sit down with Hala Nasar, social media journalist at The National, to explore the complicated relationship between journalism, mental health, and the overwhelming amount of information we consume every day. In a world of breaking news, sensational headlines, misinformation, and endless
S04E14 - Transcendental Meditation - Sarah El Nabulsi
What happens when the pace of modern life starts working against us? In this episode, I sit down with DHA-licensed clinical psychologist Sarah El Nabulsi to talk about stress, burnout, anxiety, and the pressure to constantly perform. We explore what it means to build a life that is more aligned with who you are, and why slowing down can sometimes be one of the most productive things you can do.Sar
S04E13 - ADHD 360 Support - Nadia Mankani & Angela Marson
In this episode of the MHAE Podcast, Ali Khawaja sits down with Angela Marson and Nadia Mankani of ADHD360AE for an insightful conversation about ADHD, education, parenting, and the systems we can build to better support neurodivergent children and adults. Drawing from Angela's background in education and psychology and Nadia's lived experience as a parent in an ADHD family, they explore w
S04E12 - Mind Body Connection - Alaa Eldakrouri
In this episode, Ali sits down with Alaa Eldakrouri, a legal counsel and holistic counselor whose own healing journey transformed the way she understands the connection between the mind, body, and emotions.Alaa shares her experience of unexplained physical health challenges, years of medical treatment, and the personal and professional collapse that eventually led her to therapy. Together, they ex
S04E11 - Managing Stress and Anxiety - Amal Abdulcebbar
In this episode, Ali sits down with licensed psychologist, Amal Abdulcebbar, for a thoughtful conversation about mental health, identity, and what it means to live a healthier, more intentional life. Together, they explore why anxiety and stress have become so common, how social media shapes our perception of success, and why younger generations are becoming more open to seeking professional suppo
S04E10 - Cultural Stigma - Dr. Neelam Laxhman
Mental health conversations are becoming more common, but finding the right support can still feel overwhelming. In this episode, I sit down with clinical psychologist Dr. Neelam Laxman to discuss breaking the stigma around therapy, navigating the mental health landscape in the UAE, supporting children and teenagers through rising anxiety, and why finding the right therapist matters. We also explo
S04E09 - Stuck in the Stigma Cycle - Rehana Meghani
In this episode, Ali sits down with Rehana Meghani, a clinical and organizational psychologist, for a thoughtful conversation about mental health, stigma, generational trauma, parenting, and the importance of creating safe spaces for healing. Ali and Rehana explore why many people, especially in certain cultural and family systems, delay seeking mental health support until they are in crisis. They
S04E08 - Women's Health - Sophie Smith
In this episode, Ali sits down with Sophie Smith, founder and CEO of NABTA Health, to explore one of the most overlooked areas in healthcare: women’s preventative health.Sophie shares the story behind NABTA Health, the first women’s health tech company in the West Asia and Africa region, and explains why so many women are diagnosed late, dismissed by healthcare systems, or left without access to t
S04E07 - Coaching - Alaa Hamade
In this episode, Ali Khawaja sits down with Alaa Hamade, an ICF-certified professional coach, educator, and entrepreneur, for a practical and honest conversation about what coaching really is and what it is not. Together, they unpack the difference between coaching, therapy, mentoring, and consulting, while exploring why coaching is not about “fixing” people, but about helping them gain clarity, s
S04E06 - Full Circle Moment - Manahil Ijaz
In this episode, Ali Khawaja is joined by Manahil Ijaz, a marketing professional and community builder, to explore the power of authentic human connection, community spaces, and mental health awareness in modern urban life.Manahil shares her journey from graduating during COVID-19 into uncertainty, discovering Mental Health AE through Meetup, and finding a sense of belonging during one of the most
S04E05 - Staying Grounded in Times of Uncertainty - Dr. Elif Celebi Adam
In this episode, Ali Khawaja is joined by Elif Adam, a clinical psychologist and founder of Bellevue Therapy in Dubai, to discuss the psychological impact of ongoing regional uncertainty and conflict.The conversation explores how ambiguity, fear, and constant exposure to information are affecting individuals, families, and communities across the UAE. Elif explains how uncertainty activates the ner
S04E04 - The Bowen Method: A Gentle Approach to Healing - Genevieve Godward
In this episode, Ali Khawaja is joined by Genevieve Godward, a Bowen therapist based in Dubai, to explore the Bowen Method, a gentle, non-invasive approach to healing that works by regulating the nervous system.Genevieve shares her unconventional journey from the thoroughbred horse racing industry into alternative therapy, explaining how she first encountered Bowen therapy in Australia after years
S04E03 - Calm, Clarity, and Connection: The ICAN Collective Approach - Laura Brennan
In this episode, Ali Khawaja is joined by Laura Brennan, a family wellbeing and behavior specialist and founder of the ICAN Collective, to discuss a systems-based approach to calm, clarity, and connection in children, families, and schools.Laura shares her extensive international journey across education, therapeutic settings, and family environments in the UK, Japan, Australia, the US, and the UA
S04E02 - Holistic Approach: Balance - Purpose - Harmony - Marina Judd
In this episode, Ali Khawaja is joined by Marina Judd, founder of the Holistic Academy in Dubai, to explore a holistic approach to life, work, and personal transformation centered on balance, purpose, and harmony.Marina shares her personal journey from a corporate career in economics into holistic education, a transition sparked by personal loss and deep self-reflection. After experiencing the lim
S04E01 - The Power of Coaching: Creating Positive Workplaces - Faten El Ayache
In the Season 4 premiere, Ali Khawaja is joined by Faten El Ayache, founder of Brightfields, for a deep conversation on coaching, leadership, and creating psychologically safe workplaces.Faten shares her personal journey from pharmacy and corporate sales into learning and development, positive psychology, and coaching. Driven by a desire to make meaningful impact, she founded Brightfields with the
S03E17 - Transforming Educational Support for Dyslexic Learners - Rehab
In this episode, Ali Khawaja hosts Rehab Shahbal, founder and CEO of DYStinct Learners, an online center that provides support for children with dyslexia and other learning challenges. Rehab shares her journey from a high-ranking corporate role to establishing a center dedicated to personalized learning support after her son was diagnosed with dyslexia. She discusses the emotional impact of naviga
S03E16 - Multiple Sclerosis (MS) - Caregiver - Sadika
In this heartfelt and insightful episode of our podcast, we explore the profound journey of Sadika, a dedicated caregiver and mother, navigating the complexities of caring for her daughter Rana, who lives with multiple sclerosis (MS). Sadika's story is a powerful testament to the resilience and strength found in the face of life's most challenging moments.
Throughout the episode, Sadika ca
S03E15 - Multiple Sclerosis (MS) - Warrior - Rana
In this insightful podcast, hosted by Ali Khawaja, Rana bravely shares her journey with multiple sclerosis (MS). She discusses the emotional challenges following her diagnosis and the crucial role of awareness in fighting health-related stigmas. Rana's story goes beyond her personal struggle, reflecting on how MS has affected her family, particularly in her motherhood journey.
The podcast als
S03E14 - The Keto Connection - Shirley
In this enlightening podcast episode, Ali and Shirley delve deep into the keto diet, making it more accessible and understandable for the listeners.
They begin by clarifying the keto basics and emphasize the significance of using proper MCT oil and coconut oil to create a potent "bulletproof coffee."
Shirley shares insights into the keto lifestyle, explaining that it's not just about
S03E12 - Devastation & Mental Health - Nokhez - Part 1 of 2
In this riveting podcast episode, Ali and Nokhez dive deep into the emotional and psychological impacts of the regional crisis, especially in an age dominated by the relentless flow of information. They discuss the challenges posed by modern technology, the emotional toll of constantly being exposed to global tragedies, and the unique intensity surrounding the regional situation.
Offering both pe
S03E11 - MHAE and H&M DPSS
In this thought-provoking podcast, Ali, Dinkar, and Roshan engage in an honest and compassionate conversation about the pressing issues of mental health, equity, and the transformative power of small acts of kindness.
Ali, a dedicated mental health advocate, shares personal stories that shed light on the urgent need for equitable access to mental health support. He passionately discusses the chall
S03E10 - Communication in Healthy Relationships - Ray
In this enlightening podcast, Ali and Ray delve deep into the critical role of communication in relationship success. Throughout the discussion, they emphasize the transformative power of effective communication, unveiling practical strategies to enhance interpersonal connections.
The hosts stress the importance of active listening, highlighting its role as a cornerstone of healthy communication.
S03E09 - Not everything is a RED FLAG - Ray
In this insightful and candid conversation, Ali and Ray delve into the intricacies of relationship red flags and green flags. They explore various scenarios, discussing how certain behaviors might signal potential problems or positive qualities in a relationship.
Covering topics such as communication, compromise, emotional maturity, empathy, and personal growth, Ali and Ray share their perspectiv
S03E08 – Balance of Life – Yoga – Hazar
Dive into the world of yoga and life balance with Ali and his guest Hazar in this captivating podcast episode. As they chat about their shared journey in entrepreneurship and mindfulness, they explore how yoga serves as a powerful tool for achieving equilibrium in an ever-changing world. Hazar shares her personal evolution from electrical engineer to yoga instructor and the transformative impact o
S03E07 - Parenthood - Nokhez
Parenthood is a journey filled with immense joy, but it also comes with its fair share of challenges and stress. In our latest podcast episode, we dive deep into the often-underlooked stress of parenthood, focusing on the crucial topics of parenting, mental health, and finding balance.
We emphasize the importance of open communication and seeking support in promoting parental mental health. From p
S03E06 - The Healers - Ray
Healers, also known as light workers, are individuals dedicated to serving humanity and helping others navigate emotional pain. Sensitivity, emotional maturity, and a high level of empathy are common traits of healers. Healers can be professionals in fields such as therapy, teaching, or mental health coaching, but they can also be regular people with a natural inclination towards supporting and em
S03E05 - Behaviourism And Mental Health - The Basics - Nokhez & Yola
In this podcast, we have changed things up a bit. Tell us if you can spot the difference. We have our very own Nokhez Usama, deep dive into the topic of behavioural sciences with a particular focus on behavioural analysis. With our guest, Yolla Hassaniah, a Board Certified Behavioural Analyst, we explore behavioural analysis’s role in mental health management and care. They share insights on
S03E04 - Friendships - The Good The Bad And The Ugly - Ray
In this engaging conversation, Ali and Rahaf discuss the complexities of friendship and the qualities that define a good friend. They explore the importance of shared core values, accountability, and maintaining a non-judgmental space. Both emphasize that trust, respect, and the ability to hold each other accountable are vital for a healthy friendship. They also highlight the significance of not p
S03E03 - Ramadan Fasting - Nokhez
This week on Mental Health AE, we bring back a familiar voice to the platform. Our very own Nokhez Usama talks (extensively) on the fascinating topic of fasting and its impact on gut health, neuro health, and cognitive functioning. She dives into how fasting may help balance the gut bacteria and reduce stress and help mechanisms which facilitate repair and anti-inflammation. Lots of big words, wor
S03E02 - Understanding Breakups - Nora
In this episode of Tuesday Talks, Ali talks with Nora, a breakup recovery coach, to discuss the various challenges individuals face when dealing with non-functional and toxic relationships. Nora provides insights into why people struggle to leave such relationships and emphasizes the importance of having a support system during the healing process. They also discuss how cultural influences romanti
S03E01 - Mental Health Men And The World - Ray
In this episode of Tuesday Talks, Ali and Rahaf discuss the importance of checking in on friends' mental health, particularly for men. Despite reaching out to friends, Ali found that he often received responses like "it's all good," which didn't reflect the reality of mental health struggles that statistics and data indicate are prevalent. The conversation explores the societal stigma around menta
6 of 6 - From Adolescence to Adulthood - The Show Must Go On
6 of 6 - From Adolescence to Adulthood - The Show Must Go On
Tuesday Talks have taken a turn and we at Mental Health AE are doing something new with someone new. We are excited to introduce you to our podcast series: From Adolescence to Adulthood - Understanding the Challenges and Navigating the Journey.
In this series, we are joined by an expert in the field to give us valuable insights. Nokhez
5 of 6 - From Adolescence To Adulthood - Stayin’ Alive
5 of 6 - From Adolescence To Adulthood - Stayin’ Alive
Tuesday Talks have taken a turn and we at Mental Health AE are doing something new with someone new. We are excited to introduce you to our podcast series: From Adolescence to Adulthood - Understanding the Challenges and Navigating the Journey.
In this series, we are joined by an expert in the field to give us valuable insights. Nokhez Usama
4 of 6 - From Adolescence to Adulthood - Tik Tok on the Clock
4 of 6 - From Adolescence to Adulthood - Tik Tok on the Clock
Tuesday Talks have taken a turn and we at Mental Health AE are doing something new with someone new. We are excited to introduce you to our podcast series: From Adolescence to Adulthood - Understanding the Challenges and Navigating the Journey.
In this series, we are joined by an expert in the field to give us valuable insights. Nokhe
3 of 6 - From Adolescence to Adulthood - Small Step, Great Leap
3 of 6 - From Adolescence to Adulthood - Small Step, Great Leap
Tuesday Talks have taken a turn and we at Mental Health AE are doing something new with someone new. We are excited to introduce you to our podcast series: From Adolescence to Adulthood - Understanding the Challenges and Navigating the Journey.
In this series, we are joined by an expert in the field to give us valuable insights. Nok
2 of 6 - From Adolescence to Adulthood - Under Pressure
2 of 6 - From Adolescence to Adulthood - Under Pressure
Tuesday Talks have taken a turn and we at Mental Health AE are doing something new with someone new. We are excited to introduce you to our podcast series: From Adolescence to Adulthood - Understanding the Challenges and Navigating the Journey.
In this series, we are joined by an expert in the field to give us valuable insights. Nokhez Usam
1 of 6 - From Adolescence to Adulthood - The Hormonal Salad
1 of 6 - From Adolescence to Adulthood - The Hormonal Salad
Tuesday Talks have taken a turn and we at Mental Health AE are doing something new with someone new. We are excited to introduce you to our podcast series: From Adolescence to Adulthood - Understanding the Challenges and Navigating the Journey.
In this series we bring are joined by an expert in the field to give us valuable insights. No
S02E05 - Amal Counselling for a Better Tomorrow - Nokhez and Naila
Naila Al Moosawi the founder of Amal-CFBT, started the initiative during the peak of COVID-19. Our goal is to spread positive well-being through care and education, while simultaneously creating awareness to foster a psychological wellness culture in our society by providing affordable and easily accessible counselling services. Additionally, she will be accompanied by Nokhez Usama, a neuropsychol
S02E04 - Breaking the Silence on Domestic Abuse - Anna Lopes
Anna is a survivor of and expert on violence against women, and certified mental health first aider. She is committed to raising awareness about violence against women and its impact on mental health. Anna opens up and shares her story of surviving domestic violence and escape to freedom in the hope of empowering others to speak up and get help.
And has served as a member of renowned non-profit,
S02E03 - The Art of Living on Your Terms - Anastasia
Anastasia is a Harvard-certified Human Behaviosirst whose passion is to translate complex neuroscientific concepts into practical everyday self-development tools. Currently based in Dubai, she offers various services for individuals who want to achieve new heights in their professional and personal lives, build healthy relationships, overcome doubts and anxiety, and take control of their destiny.
S02E02 - ADHD - Q&A with Dr Emad - Anna
Dr. Farrag is a Consultant Child & Adolescent Psychiatrist at American Center for Psychiatry and Neurology.
Dr. Farrag brings over ten years’ experience as subspecialist in child and adolescent psychiatry in the UK and more recently in the UAE. His experience spans over two decades of medical practice in the UK complemented with a strong interest in academic research and teaching across the UK
S02E01 - Teenage Mental Health - Stay Alive DXB - Jude and Aarush
Jude Elfadil and Aarush Malhotra are representatives from STAYAL;VEDXB, a campaign run by teens, for teens to spread awareness about suicide prevention and mental health.
They will be addressing the stigma around branching out for professional mental health support and their experiences with mental health pivoted around the themes of academics, social media, and societal expectations.
Discussion
S01E18 - Managing Stress and Anxiety - Sabahat Ahmed
What is stress and how does it differ from anxiety
Our natural stress response
What can we do to manage stress and live a balanced life
S01E17 - Can more happiness equal less depression - Louise Lambert
What positive psychology interventions entail
Why boosting wellbeing matters as much as reducing ill-being
S01E16 - The Impact of Tourette - Fady Serry
Brief background of what Tucs are
Importance of Family Support
Having the right school of accommodations/support
Peer Education
S01E15 - اكتئاب ما بعد الولادة - فرح القيسية
اكتئاب ما قبل وبعد الولادة
فرح القيسيه، ام ل ٣ أولاد ولدي مبادرة اجتماعية
Stutter UAE ومنصة لمساعدة الأمهات في صحتهم النفسية Guiding Stars
حديثنا سيتمحور حول:
قصتي مع اكتئاب ما قبل الولادة – مهما كان شعور الفرح والسعادة بخبر الحمل، الا انني لم أستطيع منع نفسي من البكاء كلما بوركت بالحمل.
تخوفي من الذهاب الى دكتورة الطب النفسي
أهمية طلب المساعدة
اين وكيف نطلب المساعدة
Instagram handles @stut
S01E14 - Attitude - How it Defines the Quality of Life- Shilpa Mehra
Shilpa Mehta is a lawyer by profession, author by default and happiness ambassador by choice. Had a life-death experience in 2003, followed by 2 1/2 years on the bed, waist down paralyzed, a mother of 2 fought back to reclaim her life.⠀
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Our topic is titled “Attitude”. Your attitude defines who you are as a person, your relationships, the choices you make, and the quality of your life.⠀
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- What
S01E13 - Taking Charge Of Our Own Mental Wellbeing - Peer-Minded
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Anas, Hafsa and Sarah are students from New York University Abu Dhabi, where they studied a range of different majors. Inspired by a strong tradition of student-led wellbeing support network at their university, they recently founded Peer-Minded, an online peer-to-peer support network for university students in the UAE.⠀
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- Importance of students' mental health⠀
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- Contemporary mental heal
S01E12 - The Power Of Listening To Your Soul - Sally Mousa
Sally is an international presenter and moderator who has interviewed many of the world’s most influential change-makers across every field.
From Nobel Laureates Orhan Pamuk and Kailash Satyarthi to Oscar-nominated film director Nadine Labaki, entertainer Steve Harvey, Olympic-medalist Ibtihaj Muhammad to Youtube star Lilly Singh and Dr Jane Goodall amongst many others, Sally has a gift for tell
S01E11 - Mental Health is your most important asset at Work - Ivan
When Your Mental Health Is Your Most Important Asset at Work
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-Is well-being in the workplace improving?⠀
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-What is the psychology behind well-being at work?⠀
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-How can you use it for your own benefit? ⠀
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-Why does well-being at work have so much impact on our day-to-day lives?⠀
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18 years in the corporate world as a marketeer with a nice career track record ... until his
S01E10 - Know about the 4 Bodies of the Self - Shagufta Patel
Get acquainted with the 4 Bodies of the Self – The Physical, Emotional, Mental, and Energetic.
Whether you are a student, a homemaker, a parent, a CEO, or an executive the understanding of it will empower you to take charge and steer the wheel of your life on a path of a rewarding, happy & healthy journey.
Shagufta Patel is a passionate People & Parent Coach.
With a firm belief that lif
S01E09 - التنمر - هلا باكير
في حديث اليوم، ستتحدث هلا عن طرق لمعالجة قضية التنمر. حيث تتناول مفهوم التنمر و نشأته و كيفية منع هذا السلوك من أجل مساعدة كل من الطفل الذي يتعرض للتنمر و المتنمر.
هلا باكير ، ماجستير في الإرشاد الاجتماعي ومستشار التعليم ، هي مؤسسة هلا لتطوير أنماط الحياة. لديها خبرة واسعة في العمل مع الأطفال والآباء والمعلمين وغيرهم من المهنيين وأعضاء المجتمع. تؤمن هلا بفردية كل إنسان ، وبأهمية إبداع
S01E08 - Back to School Anxiety - Bisma Anwar
Addressing anxiety that children and parents are facing with returning back to school this year. There is a lot we don’t know, and uncertainty is creating a lot of stress.
Bisma Anwar is a Licensed Mental Health counselor. She has a Master of Education and a Master of Arts degree in Psychological Counseling from Teachers College, Columbia University.
@therappuccino
MHAE Website | https:/
S01E07 - أسمى الجعيتاني - هناك أمل
معظمنا شهد أو سمع عن انفجار بيروت ، سواء كنّا في لبنان أو في خارجه، كلنا متضررون! فكيف نتعامل مع هذه الحادثة؟ و كيف نتأقلم مع هذه الصدمة؟
انضم إلينا في حوارنا يوم الثلاثاء بعنوان "هناك أمل" لمناقشة الآثار النفسية و الاضرار التي صاحبت هذه الكارثة و كيفية التعامل معها مع الاخصائية النفسية أسمى الجعيتاني.
@lets.talk.psychology.by.asma
MHAE Website | https://mentalhealth.ae/
MHAE Instag
S01E06 - Through the eyes of a Worried Child - Liam Kelly
Liam will talk about his early worries as a child and how they made him feel. He will talk about how they could change his emotions throughout the day and how he ended up pleasing everyone at school, while neglecting himself.
He will continue to talk about how his early childhood worries had an impact on his teenage years.
Liam Kelly is the creator of the ‘Worried William Project’. Liam has used
S01E05 - جوانا العظم - كيف تبني مناعتك ضد السلبيه
كيف تبني مناعتك ضد السلبيه
كلياتنا منحتاج نحمي حالنا من افكارنا و من الي حوالينا لنأمّن سلامة عقلنا...مهيك ؟
اعطوني ساعة من وقتكن الثلثاء 28 يوليو من الساعه 7 المساء الى الساعه 8 لشاركّن المعادله الي اتوصلتلها من تجربتي الشخصيّه.
@talksbyjay
MHAE Website | https://mentalhealth.ae/
MHAE Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/mentalhealthae/
S01E04 - Slow down and avoid burnout - Ferina Aziz
Slow down and avoid burnout
When she was diagnosed with anxiety disorder and depression, she found this 'breakdown' as a blessing in her life as it brought her to the life purpose of becoming a guide and sharing how meditation has helped her in her healing and living the best life. Starting this #pauseinprogress movement in Singapore since 2015,
She is now teaching classes in private, pu
S01E03 - علا العمودي - تعزيز الثقة بالنفس لدى الفتيات
تعزيز الثقة بالنفس لدى الفتيات
علا العمودي مؤسس مبادرة همة الاجتماعية. تعمل على تمكين الفتيات وتعزيز ثقتهم بأنفسهم، لرفع مستوى الوعي الذاتي و ترسيخ القيم و إدراك المشاعر و اكتشاف المهارات الذاتية والسعي لتطويرها.
@himmacommunity
MHAE Website | https://mentalhealth.ae/
MHAE Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/mentalhealthae/
S01E02 - Unblocking Subconscious Emotions - Nipa Asharam
Unblocking Subconscious Emotions
Nipa is a certified health, wellness, and life coach. Her love to unfold human layers met her as a passion to shape and transform lives. As a full time practicing life coach and wellness coach under her brand
Eat.Breathe.Smile
@eat.breathe.smile
MHAE Website | https://mentalhealth.ae/
MHAE Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/mentalhealthae/
S01E01 - Mental Health & Coping during COVID-19 - Bisma Anwar
Mental Health & Coping during COVID-19⠀
Bisma Anwar is a Licensed Mental Health counselor. She has a Master of Education and a Master of Arts degree in Psychological Counseling from Teachers College, Columbia University.
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@therappuccino⠀
MHAE Website | https://mentalhealth.ae/
MHAE Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/mentalhealthae/
