10 Best Therapists for Depression in Dubai

A significant number of people living in the UAE experience mental health difficulties. Research conducted recently found that 57% of the population was affected by at least one mental health condition, with depression impacting 31.5% of individuals, respectively. Professional therapy can significantly reduce symptoms, strengthen coping skills, and promote recovery. 

For busy lifestyles, online depression therapy services offer evidence-based support and hope. In this article, we profile the 10 best therapists for depression in Dubai, who are experts with advanced training and compassion. Read on to discover how they can help you or a loved one find relief.

Paula Gasparini-Santos

Paula Gasparini-Santos is a Brazilian-born psychotherapist and expat coach based in Lisbon. She has advanced training in trauma therapy and depth psychology. Fluent in English, Spanish, and Portuguese, Paula specializes in cross-cultural and relocation stress. She uses a direct style, challenging limiting beliefs and integrating existential and creative techniques. 

Paula often works with expats facing depression, trauma, and adjustment difficulties, guiding them toward authenticity. Outside work, she is also an artist and adventurer, which informs her no-nonsense approach.

Sarah Rasmi

Being the best therapist for depression in Dubai, Sarah Rasmi serves as a CDA-licensed clinical psychologist and managing director at Thrive Wellbeing Centre. She holds an MA and PhD in Psychology from the University of Guelph, Canada. As a former university professor, she has completed advanced training in couples therapy and mindfulness-based stress reduction. 

Moreover, Dr. Rasmi works with adults on issues like mild to moderate depression and relationship challenges. Plus, she is an experienced couples therapist who helps clients change behavior and strengthen relationships. 

Carine el Khazen Hadati

Dr. Carine el Khazen Hadati is a French clinical psychologist with over 20 years of experience in Dubai. She earned her MA in Clinical Psychology from Saint Joseph University, a postgraduate DESS, and a DEA in Clinical Psychopathology. Carine trained at leading psychiatric hospitals in the UK, France, and Lebanon. As ACPN’s Clinical Lead, she has shaped mental health care in the region. 

Her expertise covers a wide range, including depression, anxiety, trauma, personality disorders, and eating disorders. Furthermore, Carine’s innovative work includes founding the UAE’s first multidisciplinary eating disorders program.

Saliha Afridi

As the best depression therapist in Dubai, Dr. Saliha Afridi works as a clinical psychologist who co-founded The LightHouse Arabia in 2011. A generalist clinician with over 13 years in the UAE, she has worked extensively with individuals and corporate clients on stress management. Her expertise spans depression, anxiety, adjustment issues, and childhood disorders. 

Other than that, Dr. Afridi is known for her empathetic yet empowering style. In addition to her PsyD in Clinical Psychology, she is also a member of the APA and licensed in Arizona.

Lara Foresi

Dr. Lara Foresi is a European-trained general adult psychiatrist with extensive experience in mood disorders. She earned her medical degree in Spain and completed a psychiatry residency in Pisa, Italy. Working as the best therapist for depression in Dubai, she also holds a Master’s degrees in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Addiction Medicine. 

Moreover, Foresi has treated culturally diverse patients across Europe and Latin America. Her expertise includes depressive and bipolar disorders, anxiety, ADHD, autism spectrum disorders, psychosis, and substance misuse.

Robert Chandler

Working as the best depression therapist in Dubai, Robert Chandler is a clinical psychologist and the Managing Director at The LightHouse Arabia. He completed his doctorate at the University of Bath and worked in the NHS before relocating to Dubai. With 15 years of experience, Chandler works primarily with adults on issues like depression, chronic stress, burnout, and impostor syndrome. 

Apart from that, he addresses relationship and family concerns. He uses evidence-based therapies (ACT, CBT, schema therapy) and offers consulting to improve workplace wellbeing. 

Sara Michli

Sara Michli is a Lebanese clinical psychologist and team leader at ACPN Dubai. She earned her Master’s in Psychology at the American University of Beirut and trained in psychodynamic and cognitive-behavioral therapies. Sara has experience working with trauma survivors (refugee and torture victims). She now focuses on people facing emotional challenges, such as depression, trauma, and personality disorders. 

Moreover, she emphasizes each client’s narrative and cultural background in therapy. Sara is licensed in Lebanon and the UAE, and provides both clinic and telehealth sessions.

Chasity O’Connell

Serving as the best therapist for depression in Dubai, Dr. Chasity O’Connell is a licensed psychologist and mental health counselor. She holds a doctoral degree in psychology and advanced degrees in counseling and psychological science. Moreover, O’Connell works with adults, couples, and families to overcome depression and personality disorders. 

On top of that, she uses a client-centered approach, drawing on CBT and ACT techniques. Plus, Dr. O’Connell is known for her compassion and a touch of humor in therapy.

Trevor Brown

Trevor Brown founded The Other Therapy in 2020 to support expats and digital nomads. He has years of clinical experience and offers online therapy suited to an international community. Trevor works extensively with expats on cultural transitions, dating, intimacy, and relationship challenges. To treat depression, his approach blends compassion with accountability. 

As one of the best depression therapists for clients located in Dubai, he holds an MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and is a licensed professional counselor (LPC). On top of that, he’s trained in Relational Life Therapy (RLT), PACT Level 2, ISTDP, and Motivational Interviewing. 

In addition to providing therapy for depression, Trevor deals with trauma, intercultural and relationship issues. His multicultural experience and expertise in ISTDP therapy help people facing depression fight the actual trigger. 

Muttahera Wyne

Dr. Muttahera Wyne is a Scottish clinical psychologist and co-founder of The LightHouse Arabia. With 20 years of experience, she originally practiced in the NHS working with severe trauma, abuse, and refugee mental health issues. At LightHouse, she treats adults on a broad range of concerns. Her expertise includes trauma, depression, violence recovery, and attachment issues.

Moreover, she addresses women’s health transitions (pregnancy, fertility, menopause). Plus, Dr. Wyne emphasizes an integrative approach (CBT, compassion-focused) to support healing.