Ms. Diala Kassab is a DOH Licensed Clinical Psychologist with advanced training in schema therapy, CBT, psychodynamic, and existential approaches. Currently working at KidsHeart Medical Center, Abu Dhabi, she provides evidence-based psychological support for children, adolescents, and adults.
With experience in clinical settings including Sheikh Khalifa Medical City and The Lighthouse Arabia, Diala has worked extensively with patients facing chemical dependency, depression, anxiety, trauma, schizophrenia, and developmental challenges. She is bilingual (English and Arabic) and skilled in administering standardized psychological assessments such as WISC-V, WAIS-IV, WRAT-V, RAVEN, MMPI-2-RF, and ABAS-4.
Her patient-centered approach combines compassion, clinical expertise, and cultural sensitivity, helping individuals improve emotional regulation, resilience, and overall mental health.
Education
- Master of Science in Clinical Psychology – United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, UAE | GPA 3.82/4.0 | 2021–2023
- Thesis: “The Association Between Attachment and Binge Eating Behaviours: Examination of the Mediational Role of Emotional Dysregulation in the Arab Region”
- Bachelor of Arts in Psychology – Notre-Dame University Louaize, Lebanon | GPA 3.75/4.0 | 2017–2020
Professional Experience
KidsHeart Medical Center, Abu Dhabi, UAE
Clinical Psychologist | Present
Sheikh Khalifa Medical City, Abu Dhabi
Clinical Psychology Resident | May 2024 – Nov 2024
- Worked with patients with chemical dependency and mental health disorders.
- Conducted assessments (IQ tests, ABAS, MMPI-2), follow-ups, and family sessions.
- Collaborated with psychiatrists, social workers, and multidisciplinary teams.
The Lighthouse Arabia, Dubai
Clinical Psychology Intern | Jan 2023 – Dec 2023
- Applied schema therapy, CBT, psychodynamic, and existential therapy.
- Managed risk assessments, safety planning, and clinical documentation.
- Conducted psychological testing and participated in clinical team development.
United Arab Emirates University
Research Assistant | Jan 2023 – May 2023
- Conducted literature reviews, launched a psychology magazine, and co-founded a graduate psychology club.
Psychiatric Hospital of the Cross, Lebanon
Student Practicum | Sep 2019 – Apr 2020
- Assisted with patient intakes, histories, and case management for schizophrenia patients.
Core Competencies
- Psychological Assessments: WISC-V, WAIS-IV, WRAT-V, WNV, RAVEN, MMPI-2-RF, YSQ-3, SMI, ABAS-4
- Therapy Modalities: Schema Therapy, CBT, Psychodynamic, Existential
- Risk Assessment & Safety Planning
- Schizophrenia & Substance Use Patient Care
- Family Counseling & Psychoeducation
- Bilingual Therapy (English & Arabic)
Certificates & Training
- Adult-to-Adult Mental Health First Aid – The Lighthouse Arabia
- Graduate Students Research Conference (2023)
- Suicide and Depression Seminar
- Positive Psychology Seminar
Why Choose Diala Kassab at KidsHeart?
Choosing Diala Kassab at KidsHeart Medical Center, Abu Dhabi means choosing a compassionate, highly trained psychologist who combines modern therapeutic approaches with deep cultural awareness. She helps children, adolescents, and adults navigate mental health challenges with evidence-based care, empowering families and individuals to build resilience, manage emotions, and achieve long-term well-being.