Psychiatric Treatment at CHMC Where Science Meets Empathy
CHMC-German Mental Health Clinic
CHMC is Dubai’s leading German clinic for Psychiatry and Psychology. We provide comprehensive mental health care based on Western medical standards. Led by Dr. Gregor Kowal, our multilingual team is trained in Europe and offers a safe, supportive space where recovery begins with understanding and trust.
We don’t just treat symptoms—we aim to fully restore mental health. By combining psychiatric treatment with psychotherapy, we help our patients achieve lasting change and a better quality of life.
We focus on identifying and addressing the root causes of emotional and psychological issues. This is why we always combine medication with counselling when needed. This integrative approach supports full recovery and long-term well-being.
Our clinic is located in Dubai Healthcare City, close to Wafi Mall and Creek Park, and is easily accessible from all parts of Dubai.
About Dr. Gregor Kowal – Psychiatrist and Medical Director at CHMC
Dr. Gregor Kowal studied human medicine at Ruprechts – Karl – University in Heidelberg, the oldest and currently top-ranked university in Germany. After conducting clinical research, he earned his doctoral degree (PhD) at the same institution.
In the following years, he completed postgraduate training in psychiatry and psychotherapy, finishing with a specialist examination at the Medical Chamber of Koblenz, Germany.
In 2004, Dr. Kowal was appointed Senior Consultant and Head of Department at Hochtaunus Hospital for Psychiatry and Psychotherapy near Frankfurt. He later served as Medical Director at a hospital for Psychiatry and Psychotherapy near Marburg. In both roles, he was responsible for the training of junior doctors and psychologists and served as a psychiatric expert for the courts in Frankfurt am Main, Koblenz, and Marburg.
Dr. Kowal’s specialist education includes extensive expertise in biological psychiatry and psychotherapy. His therapeutic background is rooted in psychoanalytic psychotherapy, based on depth psychology developed by Sigmund Freud, Carl Gustav Jung, and their successors.
In recent years, Dr. Kowal has been the Director of the Clinic for Health and Medical Care (CHMC), a psychiatric and psychotherapeutic center located in Dubai, UAE. Under his leadership, CHMC has become a state-of-the-art facility for mental health care in the region.
Dr. Kowal specializes in treating a broad range of mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, PTSD, psychosis, and more.
Schedule an Appointment with Our Leading Psychiatrist
Open Monday to Saturday | 10 AM – 6 PM
Our friendly reception team is here to help you schedule your first appointment and answer any questions you may have. We offer discreet, professional support throughout your entire journey with us.
Why Choose CHMC for Mental Health Support?
We believe that good psychiatric treatment is more than just prescribing medication. It takes time, trust, and a deep understanding of each person’s unique needs. That’s why your care at CHMC is always provided by the same psychiatrist and psychologist, building a lasting therapeutic relationship. Your treatment begins with a detailed 90-minute initial assessment. This allows us to fully understand your situation. Follow-up sessions last 30 minutes and are customized to your progress and goals.
We believe that good psychiatric treatment is more than just prescribing medication. It takes time, trust, and a deep understanding of each person’s unique needs. That’s why your care at CHMC is always provided by the same psychiatrist and psychologist, building a lasting therapeutic relationship.
Every treatment begins with a detailed 90-minute assessment consisting of a clinical interview, physical check-up, and further tests if needed. Follow-up sessions last 30 minutes and are customized to patient’s progress and goals. This structured approach, based on German medical standards, helps us spot not only the main issue but also any hidden mental or physical health problems.
Tailored Treatment Plan for Every Patient
Mental health problems often develop in response to overwhelming situations. Depression or anxiety can be signs of something deeper going on.
No two people are the same, and neither is their treatment. That’s why we design personalized therapy plans based on each individual’s unique story and needs.
At CHMC, therapy is our main tool—but in more serious cases, medication is often needed first. For patients overwhelmed by panic or deep depression, we start with supportive care to ease the distress before addressing deeper-rooted conflicts.
Our Psychiatric Team and Therapeutic Approach
Our team of Western-trained psychiatrists and psychologists treats a wide range of psychiatric conditions. We support patients from the UAE and neighboring countries with short-, medium-, and long-term care.
In addition to treating mental health disorders, we also help with everyday life challenges—such as family issues, workplace stress, grief, relationship problems, sexual disorders, and personal development. We take time to understand each patient’s background and life circumstances.
Every treatment plan begins with a comprehensive clinical interview, physical check-up, and, if necessary, further diagnostic tests. This thorough process—aligned with German healthcare standards—helps us accurately diagnose both primary psychiatric disorders and any related mental or physical health conditions.
For your care to be consistent and effective, you’ll work with the same specialists throughout your treatment. This continuity helps build trust and ensures better long-term results.
Psychotherapy and Counselling at CHMC
At CHMC, psychotherapy is the core of our treatment approach. In more severe cases, however, therapy alone may not be enough. For patients struggling with intense symptoms—such as frequent panic attacks or deep depression—we begin with supportive therapy. This helps stabilize mood, reduce anxiety, and improve sleep before addressing deeper emotional issues.
Only after symptoms are under control can we explore the underlying causes of a patient’s distress.
Therapeutic Methods We Offer
Our Dubai clinic provides a wide range of evidence-based psychotherapies, including:
- CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy)
- DBT (Dialectical Behaviour Therapy)
- EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing)
- Psychodynamic Therapy
- Hypnotherapy
- Couples Counselling
- And more
Therapy Sessions at CHMC
Each psychotherapy session lasts 60 minutes. Our therapists provide individual, personalized care in a supportive and professional environment. We base our treatments on the latest research and clinically proven methods.
We serve patients not only in Dubai but also internationally. Through telemedicine, we offer ongoing psychiatric and psychological care, making it possible to continue treatment from anywhere in the world.
Common Questions from Our Patients
What’s the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?
A psychiatrist is a medical doctor who can prescribe medications and treat mental health conditions using both medical and psychological methods. A psychologist is trained in therapy and counselling but cannot prescribe medication.
Do I really need medication, or can I just do psychotherapy?
Not everyone needs medication. For mild to moderate conditions, therapy may be enough. In more severe cases, like major depression or panic attacks, medication can help stabilize symptoms so therapy becomes more effective.
How long will I need to stay on medication?
It depends on your diagnosis. For example, many people with depression take medication for 6–12 months. Others with chronic conditions, like bipolar disorder, may need long-term treatment. Your psychiatrist will adjust your plan based on your progress.
Will my mental health diagnosis be kept private?
Yes. Your information is confidential and protected by privacy laws. Nothing is shared with employers, family, or others without your permission—unless there’s a serious safety risk.
Can I get better without medication?
In many cases, yes—especially with mild symptoms. Therapy, lifestyle changes, and support can be very effective. But for more serious or long-lasting problems, medication may be necessary to support recovery.
What happens during my first visit to a psychiatrist?
You’ll have a detailed conversation about your symptoms, background, medical history, and lifestyle. The psychiatrist may also do a physical check-up or order tests. It’s a calm, structured session—no judgment, just understanding.
Will I need to be hospitalized?
Most people do not need hospitalization. It’s usually only recommended in cases of severe crisis—like suicidal thoughts or when someone is a danger to themselves or others. The goal is always to keep treatment as comfortable and outpatient as possible.
Can mental health conditions really be cured?
Some mental health problems can be completely cured, while others may come and go over time. With the right treatment plan—including medication, therapy, and self-care—most people can live healthy, balanced lives.
What conditions do you treat?
We treat a wide range of mental health concerns, including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, schizophrenia, eating disorders, and addiction issues.
When should I seek psychiatric help?
If you’re struggling with ongoing sadness, anxiety, mood changes, harmful thoughts, or trouble coping with daily life, it’s time to speak with a mental health expert.
What types of treatments do you offer?
We use a mix of therapies depending on your situation—this might include medication, psychotherapy (like CBT), or supportive care. We may also recommend lifestyle changes or holistic options such as mindfulness or yoga.
What happens at my first CHMC visit?
During your first appointment, we’ll take a full history, perform any needed checks, and begin to plan your treatment. If you’re in crisis, head to the nearest Hospital
Can I receive treatment online?
Initial consultations for psychiatric medication must be done in person. Follow-up appointments can be held online, but occasional in-person visits are still needed.
Is a psychologist enough for bipolar disorder?
Bipolar disorder requires long-term medical treatment, and only psychiatrists can prescribe medication. Psychologists offer therapy that helps stabilize emotions once the acute phase is over.