I work with individuals, couples, and families from all over the world to help them through the pain, distress, and challenges that may be preventing them from living a fuller and more engaged life. When working with me, you can expect to encounter compassion, acceptance, warmth and a little bit of humor—therapy can be painful at times, but can also include incredible moments of hope and discovery. I am licensed in the UAE and in the USA.

My areas of expertise include:

-Mood disorders
-Personality Disorders
-Family of Origin challenges
-Adult recovery from early childhood abuse
-Parenting Strategies (Incredible Years Program)
-Identity development
-Imposter syndrome
-Real/Ideal Self
-Family/marital conflict (Gottman and Bowen Family Systems)
-Unresolved/unmet needs
-Issues with Self-Worth and Self-Esteem
-Adjustment disorder; trailing spouse experiences; expatriate adjustment; identity
-Schooling challenges
-Neurodiversity-informed treatments
-Clinical supervision

I use an integrative approach to psychological therapy, incorporating Humanistic Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). This integrative approach enables her to rely on evidenced-based therapies while tailoring a treatment approach that is specific and unique to the individual.

Licensed and trained in the USA and in Dubai, Dr. O’Connell has multiple advanced degrees in counseling, psychological science, and a doctorate in psychology. She is a USA board-certified counselor (NBCC). In addition to providing therapy, Dr. O’Connell is the Clinical Director at Thrive and is a professor at the American University of Sharjah (AUS) where she teaches and conducts research.

Please feel free to reach out to learn more about how we might work together.