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<p>The mental health system in the United Arab Emirates is in its early stages of development, and there is limited information about the professionals licensed as psychologists, counselors, and social workers—collectively referred to as Social (Care) Professionals. This study aimed to identify these licensed professionals, providing a foundational understanding to support the advancement of psychological, counseling, and social work practices in the UAE. Out of 382 licensed Social (Care) Professionals in Abu Dhabi and Dubai, 71 participated in a survey sharing information about their educational background and current practice. Most respondents were expatriate Asian nationals, female, Muslim, and English speakers. Implications of the findings are discussed in relation to engaging the growth of mental healthcare systems in the UAE by addressing training and professional identity challenges impacting Social (Care) Professionals, promoting the profession, and preparing for future challenges in the field.</p>

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Identifying Licensed Social Care Professionals in the UAE: A Foundation for Developing Psychological, Counseling, and Social Work Practices

  • 期刊论文

  • 发表日期：

    2025年6月20日

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  • Mazna Patka,
  • Hana Shahin,
  • Hamad Almehairi,
  • Shatha Al Hamedi,
  • Meera Bin Thalith,
  • Linda Smail

摘要

The mental health system in the United Arab Emirates is in its early stages of development, and there is limited information about the professionals licensed as psychologists, counselors, and social workers—collectively referred to as Social (Care) Professionals. This study aimed to identify these licensed professionals, providing a foundational understanding to support the advancement of psychological, counseling, and social work practices in the UAE. Out of 382 licensed Social (Care) Professionals in Abu Dhabi and Dubai, 71 participated in a survey sharing information about their educational background and current practice. Most respondents were expatriate Asian nationals, female, Muslim, and English speakers. Implications of the findings are discussed in relation to engaging the growth of mental healthcare systems in the UAE by addressing training and professional identity challenges impacting Social (Care) Professionals, promoting the profession, and preparing for future challenges in the field.