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.
We will work with you every step of the way to guide you towards a sober, happier and healthier life.
Rebecca Rivera is the founder of Sakina Rehabilitation and a passionate advocate for healing, growth, and transformation. Now 4.5 years sober, Rebecca brings both lived experience and professional insight to her work. Originally from Australia, she moved to the UAE in 2008 and built a successful career with Emirates Leisure Retail and Meraas Holdings.
In 2017, she launched her own F&B company in Dubai, continuing to grow as an entrepreneur. Her personal recovery journey inspired a deeper mission — to create a safe, supportive, and residential space for others walking a similar path. In 2021, she began the intensive process of establishing Sakina Rehabilitation, the first licensed private residential rehab center in the UAE.
Rebecca’s leadership is grounded in resilience, compassion, and a deep belief in life beyond alcohol and mental health struggles. She is committed to building a healing community where recovery, dignity, and lasting change are possible.
As the Program Director and Co-Founder of Sakina, Dr. 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.
Dr. Gregor Kowal is a German Board-Certified Consultant in Psychiatry and Psychotherapy. He works in partnership with Sakina to provide psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and support for clients with mental health concerns. His collaborative approach ensures continuity of care alongside Sakina’s psychological and recovery service. Read more about Dr.Kowal here.
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.
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.
Malicah is a licensed Psychologist, Somatic EMDR practitioner and Certified Pilates Instructor.
As a mother of three, she brings both personal insight and professional expertise to her work, deeply committed to trauma healing and post-traumatic growth. She integrates a holistic, body-centered approach into her practice, drawing on her training as a certified Pilates instructor to incorporate movement and somatic awareness.
Malicah works with different modalities in sessions, tailoring her approach to the unique needs of each client and integrating them as required over multiple sessions. With deep respect for each client’s unique journey, she fosters a safe, supportive space where individuals can discover their inner resources, empowering them toward healing and growth.
Malicah is a member of the International Society for Traumatic Stress Studies (ISTSS), The Middle East and North Africa Trauma Alliance (MENATA) and the International Association of Applied Psychology (IAAP)
Sessions offered in English and Arabic.
Melody is the driving force behind the day-to-day operations at Sakina Rehabilitation. With a strong background in management and client services, she ensures that everything at Sakina runs smoothly, efficiently, and with care.
Melody is deeply committed to creating a safe, welcoming space for all our guests. She works closely with the team to coordinate schedules, maintain high standards, and support both staff and clients throughout their journey.
Her calm, capable presence and strong organizational skills make her an essential part of the Sakina community.
Ebtesam Gamal is the heart of our operations at Sakina Rehabilitation. With a background in administrative management and a passion for helping others, she ensures the smooth day-to-day running of our center.
Known for her warmth, professionalism, and attention to detail, Ebtesam is often the first friendly face our guests meet. From coordinating schedules to supporting both clients and staff, she plays a vital role in creating the welcoming, organized environment that makes Sakina feel like home.
Her dedication reflects our core values of compassion, trust, and excellence in recovery support.
