Dr. Nifemi Ajala

Therapy, for me, is about cultivating a safe environment for those to share their experiences and get closer to the version of life they aspire to live. As a qualified Clinical Psychologist who was born, raised and trained in the UK, I have received specialist training in evidence-based approaches that I draw upon, tailored to the client’s needs, hopes and goals. I hold a Doctoral degree in Clinical Psychology from University College London (UCL), in addition to a Master’s degree from King’s College London, both world-renowned institutions.

I bring a decade’s worth of experience across different UK NHS and private sector clinical settings including forensics; child and adolescent mental health services; charity organisations and specialist psychological services. I have a wealth of knowledge and expertise in various therapeutic approaches including Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy (CBT); Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT); Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT); Compassion Focussed Therapy (CFT); Narrative Exposure Therapy (NET); Family Interventions and systemic approaches. This extensive training allows me to adopt an integrative, person-centred stance adjusting therapy to your individual style and personality. I value building strong and trusting therapeutic relationships that ensure I can understand your circumstances and help you to reconnect with your strengths and values.

Prior to relocating to Dubai, I worked in a specialist service supporting individuals, couples and families with a range of presentations including anxiety, low mood, trauma, stress management, relationship difficulties, low self-esteem and psychosis. I have experience working across the lifespan and my clinical practice is rooted in cultural sensitivity, empathy and integrity. I work with all aspects of identity such as gender, culture and religion as I believe these unique factors in addition to your life experiences shape who we are.

Clients describe me as warm, non-judgmental and compassionate and my aim is for each individual to leave therapy feeling valued and understood. I pride myself on creating a therapeutic space where everyone can be their true, authentic self and be supported to overcome life’s difficulties whether these issues exist in the home; workplace or interpersonally. If you’re seeking therapy for personal growth or for mental health concerns, my goal is to walk alongside you in your journey towards living a more fulfilled life.

Beyond the therapy room, I am a firm advocate for widening conversations about wellbeing and mental health particularly among marginalised and minoritized communities. I recognise the stigma that may exist for some individuals and groups, therefore I pro-actively strive to explore ways these dilemmas may be addressed. I find joy in working in partnership with communities and the sharing of knowledge from multiple perspectives.