Hi I’m Zahra Poonawala
A Licensed Professional Counselor in Dubai, U.A.E and a Certified Equine and Animal Assisted Therapist.
Being a resident of Dubai, I have had my share of experience working with clients from many different nationalities and cultural backgrounds.
My passion is to team up with individuals/families, who are seeking to combat anxiety, depression and/or relationship conflicts with the aim to promote emotional and psychological well- being.
I enable this, by facilitating an inward journey of self-discovery or exploring relationship dynamics in a safe and non-judgmental environment.
My work with my client’s is collaborative in nature. I believe my clients are the experts on their lives. Together, we gently could uncover painful emotions and unhealthy beliefs systems that prevent us from being our best selves.
During our work, we would explore old patterns of behaviors and build new strategies to promote well-being. From time to time, I may also send across some additional resource materials to go through in between our sessions.
I BELIEVE
You are unique.
You have the ability to transform your life.
You have the capacity to move past and let go of difficulties.
Your answers lie within, it’s about taking that inward journey.
Self-reflection and awareness are key elements.
Your therapy is a personal process
This is why I tailor my approach to suit your needs!
MY APPROACH TO THERAPY IS HOLISTIC
I integrate varies therapeutic approaches, namely:
Cognitive Behavior Therapy
Mindfulness
Client Centered Approach
Hypnotherapy
Equine and Animal Assisted Therapy.
I incorporate these different modalities, alongside, years of my own clinical experience and judgement to support my clients to lead their best possible lives. Being a self-proclaimed “psychology geek”, you will find me attending various trainings and conferences to deepen my therapeutic knowledge.
EDUCATION & CREDENTIALS
Masters in Clinical Psychology, University of Pune, India
Animal Assisted Training Certification University of North Texas, USA
Certified Equine Assisted Mental Health Practitioner, University of Denver, USA
Certified Clinical Hypnotherapist, Ekaa, formerly known as California Hypnoses Institute, India
Certified Meditation and Mindfulness Teacher, School of Positive Transformation, U.K
Licensed Mental Health Professional, Dubai Healthcare City
Associate Member, Indian Association of Clinical Psychologists
LET’S TALK
If you are an adult struggling with anxiety, stress, depression, or you are going through a rough emotional patch, I can help you develop inner strength to get through it.
If you are a parent of a child with autism or any social, emotional or behavioral issues and feel confused about how to tackle them, together, as a team, we can find ways to empower your little one. I’ll even bring along my therapy dog sometimes to enhance motivation.
If you are someone who is seeking ways to be fully immersed in the joys of life. With the help of mindfulness and meditation, we can explore ways to live your life to the fullest.
