This week’s Into-yous features Australian expat Johanna Richmond

Tell us a little about yourself:
I am a licensed psychologist practicing at the Cognitive Behavior Clinic, Dubai with one counselor. We can help with all emotional problems, either long standing or recent problems that have come up that have led to confusion, sleeplessness or distress. I am also a psychodynamic therapist, psychodynamic therapy is for long standing problems. Unfortunately psychological problems don’t get better with time, in fact often they can get worse, we do not ’grow out’ of these.

When did you move to Dubai and what brought you here:
I moved to Dubai 12 years ago. I had been living in London and a friend suggested I move here as there were very few psychologists. I am also an external therapist for Emirates Airlines.

Have you been an expat elsewhere and if so, where?
I lived in London, UK. I studied at the University of London and worked for Westminster Council for 5 years as a therapist for the underprivileged and the homeless.

The best advice you were given to prepare you for life in Dubai:
It takes time to adjust to a different culture.

What surprised you most about Dubai?
The diverse culture

What area do you live in?
Sheikh Zayed Road, opposite the DIFC

If money were no object, where would you most like to live in Dubai?
Where I am!

Your favourite Arabic word or phrase you have learned so far:
Anna Mapsoota – I am happy. I do speak very basic ’cafe’ Arabic. I also speak, read and write French.

Your least favourite word or phrase you have adopted since moving to Dubai:
None, I abolish it as soon as I hear it come out of my mouth!

What has been your best experience in Dubai to date?
The beach

Where do you hope to spend your next holiday?
Europe

Who is the person you most miss when you are in Dubai?
My best friend in Australia

What is your favourite restaurant in Dubai?
Mango Tree

What grocery item do you most miss from your home country?
I can find all that I need here.

When friends and family visit you in Dubai where will you absolutely take them?
The souks, Hatta pools, Burj Khalifa and Burj Al Arab

For Tips on choosing a therapist click here