How to Find Therapy or Mental Health Support in Dubai as an Expat

How to Find Therapy or Mental Health Support in Dubai as an Expat

Let’s be real — moving abroad is a huge life change. You pack up your life, land in a whole new country, and suddenly you’re figuring out everything from housing and healthcare to where to buy your favorite coffee.

But there’s one thing many of us forget to plan for: what to do when the emotional weight hits.

Maybe it’s the loneliness that creeps in after the excitement fades. Or the stress of navigating constant change. Or maybe you just feel... off — and you’re not sure where to start.

This guide breaks it all down: how to find mental health support in Dubai, what your options are, and why you don’t need to wait for a crisis to get help.

1. Why Mental Health Support Matters (Especially When You’re Far From Home)

Even when life in Dubai looks picture-perfect — great weather, incredible food, travel every weekend — it doesn’t mean everything feels okay inside.

Being far from family, navigating cultural shifts, and rebuilding your support system (over and over again) can slowly chip away at your emotional wellbeing.

Support isn’t just for breakdowns. Therapy is a space to process, reflect, and reset — so you can keep showing up for your life and the people you love.

2. Types of Mental Health Support in Dubai

1. Private Therapy Clinics

Dubai is home to many well-established mental health centers offering individual therapy, couples counseling, family therapy, and more.

Some clinics to explore:

• Camali Clinic — Child, adolescent, and adult mental health services
• The Lighthouse Arabia — English-speaking psychologists, group therapy, and community talks
• Thrive Wellbeing Centre — Offers both online and in-person sessions with culturally aware therapists
• Human Relations Institute and Clinics (HRIC) — Known for multicultural therapists and trauma-informed care
• Sage Clinics — A multidisciplinary mental wellness clinic offering therapy, psychiatry, assessments, and wellness coaching in a warm and stigma-free environment
• Aspris Wellbeing Centre — Specializes in a range of psychological and psychiatric services, providing care for individuals, couples, and families in a professional yet compassionate setting

2. Online Therapy Platforms

If you prefer flexibility, there are licensed therapists offering virtual sessions in Dubai or internationally:

• TalkTime (UAE-based) — Offers online therapy services with a focus on accessible, flexible mental health support for individuals and families
• Open Minds Center — Provides online counseling alongside clinical psychology and wellness services through a multidisciplinary approach
• MindTalk (UAE-based)
• BetterHelp or Talkspace (international — check therapist credentials and regional availability)

3. Insurance-Linked Providers

Check with your health insurance provider — some plans include therapy, or partially reimburse certain clinics. Ask for a list of in-network mental health professionals.

4. Free or Low-Cost Resources

While therapy in Dubai can be expensive, there are also affordable or free mental health services:

• Dubai Foundation for Women and Children — Free support for women and children facing domestic or emotional abuse
• Open support groups — Some clinics and community orgs offer occasional free group sessions or mental health events
• Workplace EAP (Employee Assistance Programs) — Check if your company offers confidential sessions or wellness benefits

3. How to Choose the Right Therapist for You

Not all therapists will feel like the right fit — and that’s okay.

Therapy is a deeply personal experience. Here are a few things to consider when finding someone who works for you:

• Do they understand your cultural background or expat experience?
• Are you comfortable with how they communicate?
• What’s their approach (CBT, talk therapy, EMDR, etc.)?
• Do you want short-term guidance or long-term support?

Many clinics offer short discovery calls — don’t be afraid to ask questions before you commit.

You’re Not Alone and You Don’t Have to Do It Alone

Reaching out for support isn’t a weakness. It’s one of the strongest things you can do.

At Coffee With An Expat, we’re all about creating spaces where women feel seen, supported, and safe to be honest about what they’re carrying — whether it’s heavy or just a little too much.

Therapy is one path. But so is community. So is asking for help. So is saying "I need a break."

Whatever your step looks like — we’re with you.

Join our community at Coffee With An Expat to connect with like-minded women who’ve been through the journey!

Click here to be part of our community!