Team

Our team is made up of compassionate and experienced individuals who are committed to ensuring that you receive the highest level of care and support. Our team will work with you every step of the way to guide you towards a sober, happier and healthier life.

Rebecca Rivera

Operations Director & Founder 

Rebecca Rivera is the founder and recovery coach of Sakina, driven by her personal journey of sobriety and recovery from alcohol addiction. Her motivation to create Sakina stemmed from her own experience of having nowhere to turn when she hit rock bottom. Through her years of recovery, Rebecca has gained profound knowledge of the recovery process, understanding the emotional, physical, and psychological challenges that addiction brings. Rebecca’s firsthand experience with addiction has equipped her with valuable insights into overcoming cravings, managing triggers, developing healthy coping mechanisms, and rebuilding lives and relationships. She emphasizes the importance of building a strong support network, practicing self-compassion, and setting achievable goals. Her vision for Sakina is to offer a haven where individuals can feel safe, loved, and supported as they embark on their own paths to recovery.

Dr. Annette Schonder

Program Director & Co-Founder

As the Program Director and Co-Founder of Sakina, Annette brings over 20 years of clinical experience  in providing addiction and mental healthcare therapy and counseling. In addition to overseeing all program operations, she works directly with clients through one-on-one “talk” sessions and supports families as they navigate the recovery process. Her commitment to compassionate, evidence-based care ensures that every client receives personalized support on their journey to lasting mental health and addiction recovery.

  • Skills and Expertise: Addiction Treatment and Recovery, Mental Health Counseling, Psychotherapy, Marriage Counseling, Family Therapy, Clinical Hypnotherapy, Leadership and Clinic Management.
  • Education: Ph.D. focus Addiction Disorders,  Master’s in Sociology, Bachelor of Arts in Psychology.
  • Licensure: MOHAP,  DHA, Substance Abuse Counselor, California, USA, California Board.

Krishna Priya V K

Clinical Psychologist and Psychometrist

Krishna Priya V K is a distinguished licensed clinical psychologist. Licensed by the Dubai Health Authority and a member of the Association of Allied Health Professionals in Kerala, India, she continues to advance the field of clinical psychology through her dedicated practice, innovative research, and commitment to professional excellence. Krishna Priya remains devoted to making a meaningful difference in the lives of her clients, blending her clinical expertise with a genuine, human-centered approach to provide compassionate and effective mental health care.

  • Skills and Expertise: Cognitive Behavior therapy ( CBT), Mindfulness Based Therapy, Addiction Counselling, Motivational Enhancement Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT) Advanced training in CBT from Beck Institute, PA, USA.
  • Education: Master’s of Science in Clinical Psychology and Bachelor of Science in Psychology
  • Licensure:  DHA

Ishita Shukla

Workshop Mentor

Ishita Shukla specializes in facilitating personal development workshops, drawing from her deep knowledge in psychology, including Rational Emotive Behavior and Cognitive Behavioral approaches. Her workshops are designed to empower individuals by enhancing cognitive functioning, building resilience, and promoting mental well-being. Ishita provides participants with practical tools to overcome challenges and achieve personal growth in a supportive, non-clinical setting. Her approach is firmly rooted in her academic expertise, offering a strong foundation for personal development and self-improvement.

  • Skills and Expertise: Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT)
    , Cognitive Behavioral Techniques (CBT), Cognitive Functioning Enhancement, Mental Health Promotion, Resilience Building.
  • Certifications and Education: Bachelor’s degree in Psychology,  Master’s degree in Psychology, Advanced REBT Certification (In VIVO, Albert Ellis), Massachusetts General Hospital: Advanced Psychotherapy Strategies (CBT, DBT, and Dynamic Concepts for Challenging Cases).

Mlungisi Cingo

Wellness

Mlungisi, also known as MB, has a deep passion for fitness and, through his own personal journey, has recognized the vital role that physical wellness plays in mental health and overall well-being. He guides individuals into regaining their strength and embracing a healthier lifestyle through tailored exercise and nutrition plans. MB has witnessed people surpass their limits, thriving on the empowerment they experience as their health and vitality grows. His compassionate and positive approach inspires clients to continue pushing forward, even in the face of challenges, fostering a true sense of renewal and peace. In his dual role, Mlungisi builds strong, supportive relationships that offer continuous encouragement throughout the recovery journey.

  • Certifications: Active IQ Level 2 Certification No. 138840, Fitness Instructor, Planning and Instructing Gym-Based Exercises, Client Consultations , Principles of Anatomy Physiology and Fitness, Qualification Accreditation Number 603/2692/X.
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