Dr. Haneen Jarrar

Director of Child & Adolescent Services, Child Psychologist

The neurobiology of the brain has always fascinated me and the way it lends itself to the development of the brain in children is just astonishing. Another layer is how the brain function interacts with the environment and creates from very early on relationship dynamics, core beliefs and thus behaviors.

My approach relies on understanding the child’s developmental history starting from the womb until the current day. This will help me pinpoint where in the developmental journey issues might have risen that contributed to the difficulties we see today. I also rely heavily on information from the school, and I see the school as an integral part of the healing process and journey.

I believe that every child is unique, and I tend to attract gladiator kids and their families, who would like to understand some of the uniqueness of their child’s brain and how to support their child and help them reach their full potential. I typically see children aged 1year-13years of age.

From a mental health perspective, I believe that part of our human experience is to go through tests and turbulations that will ultimately mold us into the final versions of our beautiful selves. During those times, however, we might need support from individuals that can offer a safe and supportive space to accept feelings as they come and then offer coping mechanisms, strategies and techniques to empower us and put us in the driver’s seat again.

My therapy approach is client centered and I use an eclectic method of combining play therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy and acceptance & commitment therapy. I also rely heavily on mindfulness and meditation practices for older children.

Support for parents is vital and as such part of the client journey is to offer parent training as part of the therapy plan. This is done through monthly parent training sessions and workshops.

Serving the community has always felt like a privilege to me and I am very passionate about supporting schools, counselors, parents through free mental health initiatives. As well as fellow humans in underprivileged communities.

Activities that make me feel alive are horse-back riding, time in nature with my children or being curled up with a good book.

Email info@thefsc.earth to get in touch with me.

Qualifications

  • BA in Psychology with a minor in Biology, American University of Beirut
  • MSc in Cognitive & Clinical Neuroscience, Goldsmiths college, University of London, UK
  • PhD in Psychology,  Goldsmiths college, University of London, UK

Areas of Experience

  • Developmental Disorders (Autism, Developmental Delays, ADHD)
  • Psychoeducational assessments (Learning difficulties, dyslexia)
  • Mental health well-being (Anxiety, Depression, OCD)
  • Support for parents (Parent training)
  • Adjustment (Moving to a new country, divorce, grief support)