How to Choose a CDA-Licensed Psychologist in Dubai (Business Bay Guide)
- Samdeep Singh
- Oct 1
- 4 min read
Introduction
In today’s fast-paced world, mental health is no longer a luxury; it’s essential. Taking the step to see a psychologist can feel daunting, but having the right one makes all the difference. In Dubai, not all practitioners are equal: choosing a CDA-licensed psychologist (or another valid license) ensures you’re working with someone who meets rigorous standards. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to choose a trustworthy psychologist in Business Bay and show how Journey Wellness Center can be your partner in that process.
What Is a CDA-Licensed Psychologist?
CDA stands for Dubai Community Development Authority. A CDA psychologist is licensed to practice in Dubai under the relevant regulatory authorities (often also involving DHA, DHCC, or similar).
Licensing isn’t just a formal check; it signals that the psychologist has met training, ethical, clinical supervision, and continuing education standards.
A licensed psychologist is legally accountable, meaning your rights to confidentiality, professional standards, and recourse are better protected.
By choosing a licensed practitioner, you reduce the risk of unqualified therapy, substandard care, or ethical issues.
Why Choose a Licensed Psychologist in Business Bay?
Local presence, easier access: If your psychologist is based in Business Bay, you save on travel time, can more easily attend in-person sessions, and have better continuity of care.
Regulation & oversight: Licensed professionals are subject to oversight by Dubai’s health authorities — this offers more accountability and assurance of standards.
Cultural familiarity: A local therapist is more likely to understand UAE’s multicultural context, legal norms, and expatriate/local dynamics.
Convenience & trust: Knowing your psychologist works in a recognized center (like Journey Wellness Centre in Business Bay) fosters confidence, especially when you’re opening up deeply.
Journey Wellness Center is located in The Binary by Omniyat, Marasi Drive, Business Bay. This central location provides easy access for many Dubai residents.
Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a Psychologist
When you begin your search, keep these criteria in mind:
1. Licensing and Credentials
Always ask: “Are you CDA-licensed? Or licensed by DHA / DHCC?”
Verify via official regulatory directories if needed.
Check academic credentials (Master’s, PhD, or equivalent) and whether they have clinical training.
At Journey Wellness Centre, many psychologists also hold CDA licenses and are listed on the “Meet the Team” page.
2. Areas of Specialization
Therapy is rarely “one size fits all.” Look for someone who works in your area of concern:
Anxiety, depression, trauma
Couples, family, adolescent therapy
Grief, life transitions, stress
Executive coaching, professional development
Journey Wellness Centre’s service offerings include individual and couples therapy, meditation, coaching, and community support.
3. Clinical Experience & Approach
Ask how many years they’ve practiced and in what settings.
Understand their therapeutic approach (CBT, psychodynamic, humanistic, trauma-informed, etc.).
Ask for testimonials (client feedback) — many centers publish anonymized reviews.
4. Fit, Rapport & Comfort
The therapeutic relationship is central. You should feel safe, heard, respected, and not judged.
Many psychologists offer an initial consultation or “meet & greet” to assess fit.
Trust your instincts — if something doesn’t feel right, it’s okay to seek someone else.
5. Range of Service Delivery
In-person sessions vs. online/teletherapy
Flexible scheduling (evenings, weekends)
Additional supports (meditation sessions, coaching, group workshops)
Journey Wellness Center offers meditation, coaching, community support in addition to therapy.
6. Cost & Insurance Considerations
Ask about session fees and whether insurance is accepted.
At Journey Wellness Center, direct billing with insurance is not offered; clients pay upfront and can submit claims themselves.
Check cancellation and no-show policies (e.g. 24h notice).
About Journey Wellness Center
Journey Wellness Centre is a holistic mental health and wellbeing center in Dubai, combining psychotherapy, coaching, and meditation in its approach. Their mission is to empower individuals on their journey toward holistic wellbeing.
Resha Erheim — Founder, clinical director. Licensed social counselor (CDA) and couples/individual therapist.
Sara Makke — Adolescent & adult psychologist. Licensed in Dubai (CDA) & Lebanon.
Imane Akhlafa — Adult psychologist with international experience, CDA license.
Hima Mammen, Maya Zaghloul, and others — skilled psychologists with specialization in families, couples, trauma, etc.
Nancy Sarieddine — Holistic health coach & mindfulness teacher.
Because many of their therapists hold valid CDA licenses and bring diverse expertise, Journey Wellness is well positioned to meet varied client needs in Dubai.
How to Get Started
Explore the Meet the Team page on their website to see profiles, specializations, languages, and photos.
Contact Journey Wellness Centre via website form, email, or phone, stating that you’d like a CDA-licensed psychologist near Business Bay.
Schedule a free intro call (Journey Wellness Center offers a free 15-minute introductory call).
Ask the key questions (licensing, specialization, session format, fees) during that call.
Book your first session once you feel confident.
Commit, review, adjust — therapy is a process; your comfort and evolving needs matter.
Conclusion
Choosing a psychologist is one of the most personal health decisions you’ll make. By ensuring they’re CDA-licensed, aligned with your needs, and located conveniently in Business Bay, you set yourself up for safe, ethical, and effective care.
If you’re ready to begin your healing journey, Journey Wellness Center is here to welcome you with licensed professionals, a holistic approach, and compassionate support.
👉 Book a free intro call or visit their website now to find the right psychologist for you.
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