When Should One Seek a Psychiatrist?

Most of the people in Dubai are confused about who can help with their particular mental health problems. The first step is visiting our psychiatrist or psychologist at CHMC in Dubai, who will investigate patients’ specific needs and choose the proper therapy method.

Psychiatric disorders can arise suddenly, like panic attacks or distressing hallucinations. Other mental health disorders, such as depression, OCD, eating disorders, and generalized anxiety, may appear gradually.

Especially for serious psychiatric disorders like bipolar disorder or psychosis, an early intervention from the start is crucial. Addressing a problem promptly can prevent it from escalating and evolving into prolonged suffering. Whether it’s a sudden crisis or a persistent struggle, reaching out to a psychiatrist is a crucial step towards mental well-being and personal growth.

An early intervention can prevent problems from worsening. Whether it’s a sudden crisis or a persistent struggle, contacting a mental health professional is a crucial step towards mental well-being and personal growth. Unfortunately, many people delay seeking treatment, often attempting to handle problems on their own before realizing the need for professional help.

However, at CHMC, you are not alone. Regardless of whom you visit first, our therapists are interconnected, and they will guide you to the right professional.

Psychiatric Assessments at CHMC Dubai

Our expert psychiatrist, Dr. Gregor Kowal, offers customized therapy for a wide range of mental health conditions.

The starting point of effective psychiatric treatment is an extensive clinical interview, physical examination, and further diagnostic measures. Such methodological and profound investigation reflects the highest German standard, allowing us to identify not only the main psychiatric diagnosis but also any co-occurring mental health and physical conditions.

Making Psychiatric Diagnosis 

Dr. Kowal usually sees his patients for 30 minutes for the initial consultation. Such a pre-assessment allows us to make a provisional diagnosis and explain to the patient the best therapy options, the frequency of visits, and the treatment costs.

In emergency cases, he will move immediately to full evaluation, which takes 90 minutes. The follow-up visits can take place in person or online. However, we suggest “face-to-face” therapy, which is more natural.

Step-by-Step Diagnostic Procedure

At CHMC, the therapy with psychiatric medication follows the international guidelines for treatment of mental health disorders. The proper in-depth psychiatric assessment lasts around 90 minutes. The investigation starts with the clinical interview, physical examination, laboratory test, and ECG. In some cases, more elaborate diagnostics (CT-Scan, EEG) may be necessary.

The reason for such a profound assessment is securing the diagnosis as well as excluding pre-existing physical and/or psychiatric illnesses. The psychiatric medication today is very well tolerated and used in the proper way, unlikely to create side effects. Nevertheless, five to six weeks after starting the treatment with medication, laboratory and ECG control are necessary to exclude any adverse effects.

Psychiatric Diagnostic Systems

Psychiatric diagnoses today are made based on international guidelines described in so-called diagnostic statistic manuals.

The International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems (ICD) is the most widely recognized system for diagnostic classification and coding worldwide used by the World Health Organization (WHO).

The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM), developed by the American Psychiatric Association (APA), is another classification system. The current versions of those manuals are ICD-10 and DSM-5. The diagnostic criteria of psychiatric diagnoses largely overlap in both systems.

Due to the multifactorial genesis of mental health disorders, the current diagnostic systems abandoned the classification based on the root causes of the psychiatric illnesses. They classify mental illnesses according to their symptom quality and severity.

These systems are expert-approved manuals serving as “psychiatric common language” to exchange information between mental health specialists but also for statistical purposes. They ensure consistent diagnoses and facilitate treatment of psychiatric disorders.

Comprehensive Treatment for Mental Health Disorders at CHMC

People trapped in critical or uncomfortable situations develop mental health problems that just reflect their individual suffering. Depression, anxiety, and other psychiatric symptoms are just a signal of a deeper-rooted problem.

Every patient is different, and so are their treatment requirements. At our psychiatric clinic, we create customized treatment plans addressing every patient’s particular needs.

From this perspective, a mental health disorder represents a “cry for help.” It can be compared to a fever by someone suffering from pneumonia caused by bacteria. Treating the fever, we will not remove the root cause, the bacteria or viruses causing the infection.

CHMC’s strength is our relatively small, dedicated team consisting of psychiatrists, psychotherapists, and nurses. We cooperate closely with each other, providing the best possible treatment quality.

Conflicts are the rootcauses of mental health disorders

The fundamental reasons for mental health illnesses are the unconscious disparity, called a “conflict,” between patients’ internal “blueprint” for what they are “designed to be” and their real situation.

The main objective of therapy for psychiatric disorders is to understand the nature of the conflict causing the symptoms and then find its resolution. Resolving an inner conflict always requires the patient’s “change of paradigm,” which means a deeper shift of understanding of himself and the world around him. The process requires the support of an experienced psychotherapist.

Psychotherapy and Counselling at CHMC Dubai

Based on the above-mentioned concept, the main pillar of our treatment is psychotherapy. In a more severe case, the psychotherapy wouldn’t be applicable without using medication. In patients suffering from ongoing panic attacks or being fully inhibited by depression, we offer supportive therapy without “touching” the patient’s main conflict. Going to the “core” problem is possible after suppressing the anxiety and restoring the energy, mood, and sleep.

At our psychiatric clinic in Dubai, we provide a variety of psychotherapeutic methods such as DBT (Dialectical Behaviour Therapy), CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy), EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), psychodynamic therapy, hypnosis, couples counselling, and more.

The Goals of Psychotherapy

Our treatment assists patients, helping them to find coping mechanisms until they find the resolution without just “coping.” The short-term scope of psychotherapy is enhancing emotional control and restoring patient’s social and professional skills.

The ideal long-term objective is helping patients to change their perspective along with reshaping their social and professional situation. Such changes need a secure and comfortable therapeutic environment and experienced therapists who are accessible at any time in case of a crisis.

One can understand that such a process requires a particular setting, patience, consistency, and time. Therefore, we prefer rather longer but less frequent psychotherapeutic sessions.

The ideal frequency of psychotherapy is initially twice a week and subsequently once a month, for a minimum of one year. Escalating the number of sessions will not accelerate the patient’s inner transformation and healing.

The Role of Psychotherapist

The therapeutic guidance shouldn’t deprive the patient of his autonomy on how to make important life choices. The psychotherapist serves as a mirror, reflecting the patient’s thoughts and feelings. He helps the patient to find the connections with past experiences and traumas, often being the cause of his current symptoms. However, it’s always the patient himself who must find the way out of the crisis.

Why Choose CHMC’s Mental Health Services in Dubai?

We offer psychiatric therapy developed to address a wide range of mental health conditions. They include diagnostic assessments, developing treatment plans, and implementation of the therapy. We take the time to understand our patients’ backgrounds and their private and professional situations.

The starting point of effective psychiatric treatment is an extensive clinical interview, physical examination, and further diagnostic measures. This thorough and methodical investigation meets the highest German standards and helps us to identify not only the main psychiatric diagnosis but also any other mental health or physical disorders that may be present.

Insurance Coverage for Psychiatric Treatment in Dubai

Our patients from Dubai and abroad possess a variety of medical insurances. Therefore, it’s impossible for us to have pre-assigned agreements with all of them. Therefore, we offer a pay-and-claim option.

Most of our patients possess insurance covering psychiatric and psychotherapeutic services. In such cases, we help them to clarify whether the treatment in our facility can be paid for or not. In case the insurance doesn’t cover the treatment, we do not start the therapy unless the patient wants to cover the costs privately.

For further information regarding the particular plans and how we could help you understand your coverage, kindly get in touch with our office.

Psychiatrists and Use of Psychotherapy 

Psychotherapists come from diverse educational backgrounds—either a completed medical degree or a master’s/diploma in psychology.

Medical Psychotherapists

The therapeutic toolkit of a well-educated psychiatrist encompasses psychotherapeutic training. For example, in Germany, since 1994, psychotherapy has been an integral component of psychiatric specialization. This enables psychiatrists to provide psychotherapeutic treatment alongside medication management.

In the field of psychotherapy, psychiatrists can also choose specializations and focus areas for further training and practice. Options include behaviour therapy, psychoanalysis/depth psychotherapy, or gestalt therapy. These specializations allow them to tailor their expertise to specific therapeutic approaches and patient needs.

During his psychiatric curriculum, Dr. Kowal was trained in biological psychiatry and, in parallel, psychoanalytical psychotherapy.

Psychological Psychotherapists

Upon completion of psychology studies, psychologists should participate in psychotherapeutic training so that they can become psychological psychotherapists. This training typically spans 3 to 5 years. Afterward, psychological psychotherapists also receive professional licenses, granting them the ability to independently treat patients.

A notable distinction is that psychological psychotherapists cannot prescribe medications, unlike their medical counterparts.

Ultimately, both of our specialists, whether with medical or psychological backgrounds, play crucial roles by offering diverse approaches to treatment and collaborating to ensure that patients receive the most appropriate care for their specific needs.

Treatment with Psychiatric Medication at CHMC Dubai

Many people think that treatment of mental health disorders mostly depends on medication. This is partially true. Why partially? With medication, we are able to reduce or even fully suppress the symptoms, but not to heal psychiatric disorders.

The medication is indispensable in cases of severe psychiatric illnesses. Patients suffering from severe anxiety, depression, and sleeplessness are not accessible for psychotherapeutic treatment. By suppressing patient’s symptoms through medication, we can stabilize their status, paving the way for psychotherapeutic treatment.

Psychotherapy is not a “mental shortcut”; it requires time. During this process, patients have to be fully functional, performing their social and professional duties. However, patients treated only with medication are very likely to relapse even while taking the same dosage that was effective at the beginning.

Monitoring of psychiatric medication at CHMC Dubai

At CHMC, we provide medication management solutions, choosing the proper medication in order to avoid or minimize the side effects. In the majority of our patients, the side effects can be fully avoided.

Psychiatric medications require several weeks to reach their maximum effectiveness. The same happens by reducing the medication dosage, as their effect on the central nervous system doesn’t stop abruptly. Therefore, the use of medication at the beginning, during the titration process, and at the end of therapy should happen slowly and under close monitoring.

After suppressing the symptoms with medication, the patient needs several months of psychotherapeutic treatment. After the patient’s sufficient stabilization with medication, along with psychotherapy, the medication dosage can be gradually reduced. We always start the process in small steps, reducing the dosage gradually over a longer period of time.

Combining Psychiatric Medication with Psychotherapy

The combination of medication and psychotherapy is state-of-the-art therapy, providing the best results. Simplifying the process: with medication, we suppress the symptoms, while psychotherapy makes its use obsolete. By using such a method, in most cases the medication can be fully discontinued, and if not, then at least significantly reduced.

Our individualized treatment for challenging mental health disorders is evidence-based, addressing patient’s particular demands. Medication and psychotherapy should be chosen individually. For example, for PTSD treatment, we use EMDR, or trauma-focused psychotherapy. For phobias, CBT or exposure therapy combined with medication will be the best fit.

Mental Health Disorders We Treat

At CHMC we treat a wide spectrum of mental health conditions.

A psychiatric disorder is defined as a prolonged or recurring significant deviation of feeling, thinking, or behavior. In the past decades, mental health disorders have increased dramatically, ranking among the most common diseases. Nearly half of all people experience at least one relevant psychiatric disorder in their lifetime.

In recent years, sick days and early retirements due to psychiatric illnesses have steadily risen, with depression and anxiety making up most diagnoses.

A variety of factors can cause mental health disorders. Genetic factors, physical illnesses, current life events, past stressful events, psychological conflicts, and interpersonal tensions all can trigger the onset of psychiatric disorders.

At CHMC Dubai, we offer treatment for a broad spectrum of mental health disorders, such as:

Depression

Clinical depression, also known as Major Depressive Disorder (MDD), is a widespread psychiatric condition characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, fatigue, loss of interest in activities, and sleep deprivation. Untreated depression has a devastating impact on an individual’s well-being, including decreased quality of life and increased suicide risk.

At CHMC Dubai, we offer the best psychiatric treatment for depression, consisting of psychotherapy and medication. Our therapy plan is individually tailored. In less severe cases, the method of choice is the use of psychotherapy. However, in moderate and severe depression affecting a person’s performance and putting at risk his family life and job, medication is necessary. It quickly restores a person’s normal functioning, paving the way for psychotherapeutic treatment that addresses the underlying causes of depression.

The psychotherapy methods applied at our psychiatric clinic in Dubai for treatment of depression are evidence-based therapies, including CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), Interpersonal Therapy (IPT), psychodynamic psychotherapy, trauma therapy, EMDR, and family therapy. Involving family members in the treatment created a solid support system.

Anxiety Disorders

There are a variety of anxiety forms, such as generalized anxiety disorder, panic attacks, social anxiety, and particular phobias.

We provide focused therapies meant to reduce the level of anxiety and improve our patient’s day-to-day performance. The treatment of anxiety disorders is not that different from treating depression. In some people, the “inner discomfort” appears in the form of depression; in others, it appears as anxiety.

Also, here the mild forms of anxiety can be treated psychotherapeutically. In more severe cases, the medication offers quick symptom suppression. However, mediation alone will not be enough to achieve a full healing; therefore, we always combine it with psychotherapy.

For treatment of anxiety, we are using CBT and exposure treatment, as well as psychodynamic psychotherapy. We help our patients to pinpoint the causes of their worries and create a treatment plan for sensible management.

PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder)

A person’s mental health can suffer long after a traumatic event. Our specific PTSD treatment heals trauma by processing trauma memories and lowering symptoms, including hypervigilance and flashbacks. We apply Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), and prolonged exposure treatment, among other evidence-based therapies. Our therapists are qualified to create a secure and encouraging space in which you may work through your experiences at your own speed.

Long-Term Psychiatric Treatment at CHMC Dubai

Apart from “conventional” psychiatric disorders such as depression, anxiety, and treatment for burnout or trauma, we provide specialized therapy for more complex psychiatric illnesses. Such disorders as Bipolar Disorder, OCD (Obsessive Compulsive Disorder) or psychosis require a high level of psychiatric and psychotherapeutic expertise as well as much longer treatment intervals.

Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar disorder is a severe psychiatric illness that often needs lifelong treatment. Managing the highs and lows in bipolar patients requires consistent management by an experienced psychiatrist. In the treatment of bipolar disorder, medication plays the most important role. Untreated bipolar disorder can run out of control, ending in so-called “rapid cycling.” The frequent manic episodes, followed by depressive phases interrupted by short periods of stability and frequent hospitalizations, lead to job loss, disruption of family ties, and often to full invalidism.

Treatment for bipolar disorder emphasizes long-term management with medication supported by psychotherapy under family involvement in the treatment plan. The treatment with medication doesn’t mean that the patient will suffer from side effects. Using mood stabilizers in long-term treatment usually does not create any adverse effects. The combination of tailored pharmacotherapy, psychotherapy, and lifestyle changes protects patients from relapses, helps to sustain a stable mood, and restores their normal social and professional performance.

ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder)

ADHD affects not only children but also adults. We provide comprehensive diagnostics and psychometric testing to secure the ADHD diagnosis.

We shouldn’t understand ADHD as an illness. Individuals with ADHD have a particular “brain wiring.” They have an “interest-based nervous system.” They are not motivated by reward or punishment but only by passion for a task. Therefore, there is no cure for ADHD.

Under everyday life circumstances, we are not able to do only interesting things. While a normal individual can compromise and fulfill repetitive or boring tasks, people with ADHD “zone out.” If they are interested in the task, they will excel. However, to fulfill normal duties at school and later in professional life, they need lifelong treatment.

The most effective treatment method is the use of medication. In parallel, we employ behavioural therapies, psychoeducation, and family therapy. We involve families in the treatment in order to create understanding and support for the affected individuals.

OCD (Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder)

OCD is marked by repeated behaviours (compulsions) and intrusive thoughts (obsessions). To help our patients control intrusive thoughts and obsessive behaviours, we provide individually tailored therapies. The state-of-the-art treatment for OCD is a combination of medication (usually using antidepressants) with CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy) with exposure and Response Prevention (ERP).

Psychoses

Psychosis is a severe mental condition. The most serious form of psychosis is schizophrenia. People with psychosis disconnect from reality. In the psychotic state, the border between the surreal world of delusions and hallucinations and the real world frequently doesn’t exist. People’s thinking, emotions, perception (seeing, hearing, smelling, and touching), and the sense of one’s own body all change. Psychosis is like dreaming with open eyes.

Treatment of psychosis requires a profound psychiatric experience and long treatment intervals, sometimes even treatment lasting for the entire life.

Professionals Dealing with Mental Health Disorders

At the beginning, we explain the meaning and roles of specialties dealing with mental health disorders and disorders of the brain and nerves.

Psychiatrist. Scope of Work

A psychiatrist is a medical doctor whose work revolves around cases where mental disorders intersect with physical illnesses or have neurobiological root causes.

This intertwining of body and mind compels us to approach these disorders from a medical perspective. For instance, in treating depression, talk therapy (psychotherapy) can not be sufficient. In such situations, people need treatment with antidepressants to address neurotransmitter imbalances in their brains.

A specialist in psychiatry focuses on cases involving mental illnesses caused by neurobiological changes in the brain. He approaches these changes from a medical perspective, influencing them with medication.

For instance, in cases of severe depression, psychiatrists prescribe antidepressants. While counteracting a deficiency in the mood-enhancing neurotransmitters, antidepressants reduce or even remove the symptoms. Simultaneously, a psychiatrist can apply psychotherapy himself or by referring the patient to a psychotherapist.

What is Psychiatry? 

Psychiatry is a medical field focusing on the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of mental health disorders. What makes this field unique is its position bridging natural and social sciences. Psychiatry integrates knowledge from fields like biochemistry, physiology, and genetics with psychology, sociology, and philosophy. Such an interdisciplinary approach is crucial, as physical and mental illnesses often intersect or influence each other.

Psychiatric Disorders

A psychiatric disorder is defined as a prolonged or recurring significant deviation of feeling, thinking, or behavior. In the past decades, mental health disorders have increased dramatically, ranking among the most common diseases. Nearly half of all people experience at least one relevant psychiatric disorder in their lifetime.

In recent years, sick days and early retirements due to psychiatric illnesses have steadily risen, with depression and anxiety making up most diagnoses.

A variety of factors can cause mental health disorders. Genetic factors, physical illnesses, current life events, past stressful events, psychological conflicts, and interpersonal tensions all can trigger the onset of psychiatric disorders.

Psychiatric Treatment

Mental health treatment comprises various therapeutic interventions and supportive services designed to address and manage mental health conditions and difficulties. Its objective is to enhance psychological well-being, alleviate symptoms, bolster coping strategies, and foster overall mental health and functioning. The specific approaches to treatment may differ depending on the type and severity of the mental health condition.

Psychologist. Scope of Work

Psychologists come from a distinct educational background and hold master’s degrees in psychology. Their field revolves around comprehending and analyzing human experiences, including thoughts, emotions, and behaviour.

One significant difference between psychologists and psychiatrists is that only the latter are authorized to prescribe medication and administer medical treatments due to their medical training.

Psychologists do not immediately obtain licensure upon graduation, which means they cannot treat individuals with mental illnesses right away. Often, they engage in research and education or pursue careers in fields like human resources. Some psychologists undergo further training to become psychological psychotherapists, equipping them with the qualifications necessary for treating mental health conditions.

While psychiatrists focus on the medical aspects of mental health, psychologists delve deeper into the psychological dimensions, providing insights into the human mind and behaviour.

Psychotherapist. Scope of Work

Psychotherapists represent a diverse group with varied educational backgrounds, including completed medical degrees or master’s degrees in psychology. Both groups can choose psychotherapy training to become either medical psychotherapists or psychological psychotherapists.

This intensive training period typically spans 3 to 5 years. It culminates in the acquisition of a professional license that empowers them to independently treat patients. Both medical and psychological psychotherapists play indispensable roles in mental healthcare. They work hand in hand, offering diverse approaches to treatment to ensure that patients receive the most appropriate care tailored to their specific needs.

Difference between Psychiatrist and Psychologist

The main difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist is that a psychiatrist is a medical doctor specializing in the neurochemistry of the brain. He treats mental health disorders by prescribing medication that restores the imbalance of the neurotransmitters in the brain, reducing or removing the symptoms.

On the contrary, a psychologist uses “talk” therapy, known as psychotherapy or counselling.

Neurologist. Scope of Work

like psychiatrists, are also medical doctors, but their focus is on conditions caused by physical malfunction of the central nervous system. These conditions can range from epilepsy to brain damage resulting from accidents or strokes and other conditions like multiple sclerosis or Parkinson’s disease. If you’re experiencing symptoms such as dizziness, headaches, coordination problems, or motor skill impairments, consulting a neurologist is the prudent course of action.

However, when dealing with mental disorders such as depression, anxiety, phobias, OCD, or psychosis, consulting a psychiatrist is generally preferred.

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

A person who has developed mental problems very often is not sure whether to see a psychiatrist or psychologist. Many people are not aware of the differences between those two specialists. The following article will assist those interested in our psychiatric services in selecting the mental health professional who best suits their needs.

The following FAQs answer the most common questions asked by our patients about the area of experience of our psychiatrist and the option of psychiatric treatment in Dubai.

I am moving to the UAE. Is there any chance to continue my psychiatric treatment in Dubai?

Our psychiatrist and psychologist will be pleased to provide continued care for your daughter. We recommend that she request a letter from her treating mental healthcare provider. Since you were not specific about her disorder and the care she receives, consider whether she will need an appointment with the psychiatrist, psychologist, or both. We can seamlessly take over her care and provide all necessary documentation when she leaves Dubai again.

I moved to Dubai. I’m taking an antidepressant. How can I get it?

In the UAE, any kind of psychiatric drug, including antidepressants, is controlled medicine. Only a psychiatrist with access to the Ministry of Health digital panel can prescribe this type of medication. If you plan to stay longer in the UAE, you will need a psychiatrist who will monitor and treat your depression, prescribing the right medication, for example, antidepressants. To issue a prescription, the psychiatrist is obliged to secure the diagnosis on his own, taking a history, doing an examination, and creating a file for the patient.

I’m planning to travel to Dubai. How can I purchase the medication in Dubai?

The easiest way would be to bring enough medication with you to Dubai. Before you travel, you should approve the medication on the website of the Ministry of Health. You can take with you a stock of medication for a maximum of 3 months. If you plan to stay longer in Dubai, the treatment and prescribing the medication should be continued by the local psychiatrist.

What types of psychiatric conditions do you treat at CHMC?

Our psychiatric clinic in Dubai typically treats a wide range of mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, substance abuse, eating disorders, and personality disorders, among others.

How do I know if I need psychiatric treatment?

If you find yourself grappling with enduring symptoms such as profound sadness, anxiety, mood fluctuations, alterations in behaviour, challenges in managing daily life, or contemplations of self-harm or harming others, it is crucial to seek assistance from a mental health professional.

What treatment options are available for psychiatric conditions in Dubai?

Treatment options may include medication, psychotherapy (such as cognitive-behavioural therapy or counselling), hospitalization for severe cases, and lifestyle changes. Some facilities may also offer alternative treatments such as art therapy, yoga, or mindfulness practices.

Is psychiatric treatment covered by health insurance in Dubai?

Many health insurance plans in Dubai provide coverage for psychiatric treatment, but benefits can vary depending on your specific plan and provider. It’s important to check with your insurance company to understand what is covered and any associated costs.

What should I expect from my first visit to the CHMC psychiatric clinic?

In case of a mental health crisis, you can contact emergency services or go to the nearest hospital emergency department. Many hospitals in Dubai have psychiatric emergency services available to provide immediate assistance. Additionally, you can reach out to helplines or crisis hotlines for support and guidance. If you’re in Dubai, please make your way to Rashid Hospital without delay. Situated in Oud Metha, it serves as the primary emergency department, equipped with a psychiatrist available around the clock.

I’m not sure whether I should consult a psychiatrist or a psychologist.

It’s not always straightforward to understand the differences between a psychiatrist and psychologist.

The decision to consult a psychiatrist or psychologist depends on the impact of mental health issues on a person’s life. The rule of thumb is:

If you suffer from severe depression or anxiety paralyzing your life, your first choice would be to visit a psychiatrist. However, if the symptoms don’t affect your social and professional performance, you can start with the psychotherapy provided by a psychologist.

Will I have access to psychiatric medication being treated in Dubai?

Yes. Treating psychiatric disorders in Dubai, we have access to modern medication, the same as used in the US or Europe.

Can I bring psychiatric medication while moving to Dubai?

Travelers entering the UAE with psychiatric medications must get approval through the Ministry of Health portal. They are allowed to bring a maximum of a three-month supply. Travelers must also carry an original prescription from their home country and a medical report authenticated by the relevant health authority.

How can I get psychiatric medication in Dubai?

The UAE has a strict policy controlling psychiatric medications. Unless legally prescribed, one cannot import, transport, or possess psychiatric substances. In Dubai, only registered psychiatrists can prescribe psychiatric medications using a digital system linked to Emirates ID.

Does your psychiatrist provide online treatment?

In cases of psychiatric treatment using medication, an in-person visit will be necessary. The follow-up consultation can be done online; however, we need between them also in-person contacts.

Is a psychologist the right specialist to treat my bipolar disorder?

Bipolar disorder requires long-term medication, including psychiatric monitoring. A significant distinction between psychologists and psychiatrists is that only psychiatrists can prescribe medication and other medical treatments, a privilege granted through their medical training.

Psychologists come from a different background. The field of psychology revolves around understanding and analyzing human experiences, including thoughts, emotions, and behaviour.

While psychiatrists focus on the medical treatment of the bipolar disorder using medication, psychologists deal with the psychological problems, offering valuable insights on how to prevent bipolar relapses. The psychologists treat bipolar patients after the acute phase, especially a manic state, is under control and individuals are accessible for psychotherapy.

Are there support groups for people with mental health conditions in Dubai?

Yes, there are various support groups, community organizations, and helplines available in Dubai for individuals struggling with mental health issues. These resources can provide valuable support, information, and connections to additional services.

Parking Facilities in Al Rhazi Complex

CHMC is located in the Al Razi Building (No. 64) within a medical hub area called Dubai Healthcare City (DHCC). The clinic is located in Block B, on the 3rd floor of the Al Razi Building Complex. The complex has 3 easily accessible parking areas.

1. Curbside parking

The curbside parking is located directly in front of the Al Razi Building and paid according to the RTA park tariff.

The RTA zone number is: 315G

Valet services are also offered directly in front of the building for a fee.

2. Free 1 hour basement parking

This two-level basement parking is conveniently located directly under the building and equipped with elevators leading to each floor. Our clients can enter the basement by driving to the end of Al Razi Building and then turning right onto the ramp. Regardless of the level chosen, the most convenient is to try to find a space within Block B. From there, there are the elevators to the 3rd floor, where our clinic is located. For our patients, this parking space is free of charge for 1 hour.

3. Free 3 hour parking across the street from the Al Razi medical complex

Access to the parking lot is uncomplicated. There is a small roundabout at the end of the Al Razi medical complex; turning left and then making a U-turn, our clients will access the parking lot entrance. Upon pulling a ticket, which we will validate, patients will have access to 3 hours of free parking.

Book Today Consultation by Dr.Kowal, Our Expert Psychiatrist

Dr. Kowal is a Counsultant in Psychiatry and Psychotherapy with over 30 years of experience in psychiatry. Before moving to Dubai, he worked in Germany, passing all levels of psychiatric training, including being a head of department and later medical director in distinct German psychiatric hospitals.

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Dr.Kowal is specialized in the treatment of the entire spectrum of psychiatric disorders, including depression, anxiety, panic attacks, phobias, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, and more.

Valuable Sources on Mental Health

WHO on Mental Health, WHO on Mental Disorders

American Psychiatric Association on

What is Psychiatry? What is Mental Illness?  Depression,  Anxiety Disorders, Bipolar Disorder, OCD,  ADHD, PTSD, Schizophrenia,  Eating Disorders, Personality Disorders