Dr Nazli Balkir Neftci
Specialisation
Allied - Psychologist
Languages Spoken
English, Turkish
Experience
Dr Nazli Balkir Neftci is a DHA-licensed clinical psychologist and psychotherapist with almost two decades of experience in culturally sensitive mental health care and the treatment of a wide range of psychological disorders.
Start feeling better, one step at a time.
As a DHA-licensed clinical psychologist in Dubai, I provide psychotherapy for adults and adolescents aged 16 and above, addressing a broad range of emotional and mental health concerns. Each session takes place in a confidential, respectful, and professional therapeutic environment, focused on working through the challenges and achieving real, lasting change.
My practice is grounded in evidence-based approaches and informed by nearly two decades of international clinical experience across Europe and the Middle East. Sessions are available in both English and Turkish, making therapy accessible and comfortable for individuals from Dubai’s diverse community.
My therapeutic approach is integrative and culturally sensitive, tailored to your specific goals and personal background. If you’re looking for a psychologist in Dubai, the path to improved emotional well-being is clear and achievable—one step at a time.
Professional Background
I earned my PhD with honours in Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy from the University of Heidelberg in Germany. My doctoral research was supported by the German Research Foundation’s Cluster of Excellence, recognizing both academic merit and research innovation. This academic foundation continues to inform my clinical approach, ensuring it remains rooted in the latest psychological science.
Prior to moving to Dubai, I held the position of Associate Professor of Clinical Psychology in Istanbul, where I was involved in teaching, research, supervision, and psychotherapy. During this time, I also published in peer-reviewed journals and contributed to the development of graduate clinical training programs for the future mental health professionals.
Since settling in Dubai, I have continued to work as a licensed clinical psychologist under the Dubai Health Authority (DHA). In addition to my clinical practice, I have remained active in research and higher education, collaborating with mental health professionals and institutions across the region.
Areas of Expertise
Common concerns I help address include:
- Generalized anxiety, panic attacks, and persistent worry
- Depression, low mood, or emotional numbness
- Trauma recovery, grief, and unresolved childhood experiences
- Burnout, major life transitions, or identity-related stress
- Relationship difficulties, boundary-setting, and self-esteem issues
- Obsessive or intrusive thoughts and compulsive behaviors
- Eating and body image concerns
- Psychosomatic symptoms such as fatigue, chronic pain, or sleep disturbances
Treatment Techniques
My approach draws on evidence-based models, including:
- CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy)
- DBT (Dialectical Behaviour Therapy)
- Schema Therapy
- Mindfulness-based strategies
Qualififcation
- PhD (with honours) in Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy – University of Heidelberg, Germany
- German Research Foundation Cluster of Excellence – Scholar
- Former Associate Professor of Clinical Psychology – Istanbul and Dubai
- Licensed Clinical Psychologist – Turkish Psychological Association
- Licensed Psychologist – Dubai Health Authority (DHA)