Child Psychologist in Sharjah | Get Expert Help for Your Child's Behavior and Emotions
Most parents don't start looking for help because one bad day happened. They start looking because something has been going on for months. Maybe the meltdowns are getting bigger, or the nursery keeps calling. Maybe your child seems lonely at school or worries about everything. Or maybe you just have a feeling that something isn't quite right, and you're tired of being told to wait.
That's usually when parents start searching for a child psychologist in Sharjah. What many families need first is someone who can look at the whole picture, explain what's really going on, and tell them what to do next.
A child behavior and development consultation looks at your child's behavior, emotions, social skills and development; explains what's driving the difficulties; and gives you a clear plan. If your child needs a psychologist, a diagnosis, or another type of therapy, you'll know exactly where to go.
Asha Susan Mani, BCBA (USA), offers these consultations at her practice in Karama, Dubai, an easy drive for families from Al Nahda, Al Qasimia and Al Majaz. Online sessions are available anywhere in the UAE.
Child Behavior and Development Support at a Glance
What it does: Looks at your child's behavior, emotions, social skills and development, and explains what's behind the difficulties
Who it's for: Children from 14 months to 12 years with emotional, behavioral, social or developmental concerns
What you get: A clear picture of what's going on and a step-by-step plan for home, school and next steps
How long: One consultation of around 60 to 90 minutes, or more, with follow-up if needed
How it works: Parent interview, report review, behavioral assessment based on ABA, and developmental psychology principles
Where: Karama, Dubai, or online across the UAE
Good to know: Asha is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst, not a licensed psychologist. If your child needs a psychologist or a formal diagnosis, she'll tell you and help you find the right professional
When Should You See a Child Psychologist in Sharjah?
There's no rule that says when it's time. But if any of these sound familiar, it's worth talking to someone:
You're worried about your child's feelings or mood, and it's not getting better
Your child worries a lot or seems anxious most of the time
Small things lead to big meltdowns, and they struggle to calm down
Their behavior at home or school is getting harder to manage
They find it hard to make or keep friends
School is a struggle, whether it's learning, behavior, or not wanting to go
You've noticed differences in how they talk, play, or develop
Your child has autism or ADHD and needs extra help with behavior or emotions
The school or nursery has suggested you see a specialist
You've already had an assessment and want a second opinion
You're simply not sure if what you're seeing is normal for their age
If you're unsure, that's reason enough to ask. Most parents who call us aren't sure either.
What Can We Help Your Child With?
Anxiety and Worry
Some kids worry about everything: school, getting sick, and you leaving. It wears them out, and it wears you out too. We look at what sets the worry off and give you ways to help them feel safer.
Big Emotions and Meltdowns
When a child can't calm down, every small problem turns into a big one. Mornings, mealtimes and bedtime can all become battles. Understanding why it happens is the first step to making it better.
Behavior Problems
Hitting, refusing, shouting or running off is usually a child's way of telling you something. Using a child behavioral assessment, Asha works out what the behavior is about, so you can respond in a way that actually helps.
Trouble With Friends
Some kids want friends but don't know how to join in. Others get left out and don't understand why. We look at what's making it hard and how to build their social skills.
School Problems
Teacher complaints, falling grades, or tears before school can have many causes, from anxiety to attention problems. We help you figure out which one it is and what the school can do to help.
Attention and Impulse Control
A child who can't sit still, blurts out answers, or forgets instructions isn't being naughty on purpose. We look at whether attention is the real issue, and if ADHD should be looked at more closely. Our page on ADHD and behavior support explains more.
Trouble With Change
A new school, a new sibling, or even a change in routine can throw some kids off for weeks. We help you prepare your child and make transitions easier.
Developmental Differences
If your child is talking, playing or developing differently from other kids their age, you'll want to know why. We help you understand what you're seeing and whether it needs a closer look, such as autism assessment and support.
Not Knowing What Kind of Problem It Is
Is it behavior? Anxiety? Development? Often it's a mix, and that's confusing. Sorting the confusion out is one of the most useful things a consultation does.
Not Knowing What to Do Next
Many parents have heard "let's wait and see" too many times. You'll leave with a clear plan, not more questions.
What Happens at Your Child's Consultation?
Step 1: We Talk With You
We start by listening. What's been happening? When did it start? What have you already tried? We also ask about your child's early years, family life and school, because the past often explains the present.
Step 2: We Read Your Child's Reports
Bring anything you have: school reports, nursery notes, doctor's letters, or past assessments. Asha reads through them and explains anything that's unclear.
Step 3: We Get to Know Your Child
Asha spends time with your child, watching how they play, talk, follow instructions and handle their feelings. It's relaxed and friendly, and your child doesn't need to "perform." If something only happens at home, short phone videos help a lot.
Step 4: We Put the Pieces Together
Asha looks at everything together: what you've told her, what the reports say, and what she's seen. This shows what's really behind the difficulties. It might be anxiety, attention, development, or a mix.
Step 5: We Explain What We Found
Asha sits down with you and explains it all in plain words. No jargon, and no rushing. Ask as many questions as you need.
Step 6: You Get a Clear Plan
You'll leave with specific next steps. That might be strategies to start at home, tips for the school, a suggested therapy, or a referral to a psychologist or doctor for further assessment. Either way, you'll know what to do first.
After the consultation, most parents tell us they finally feel like they understand their child. Here's what you can expect:
A clear explanation of what's behind your child's behavior, emotions or development
An honest read on the patterns you've been seeing and what they might mean
Simple strategies you can start using at home this week
Tips you can share with the school or nursery
Advice on whether therapy or a further assessment would help
Coaching and support for you as a parent
A clear sense of whether autism, ADHD, anxiety or something else should be looked at more closely
A step-by-step plan that fits your child
Why It Helps to Get Support Early
Every child has tough phases, and many pass on their own. But when the same problems keep coming back or start to affect school, friendships and family life, it's better to look into them sooner rather than later.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention explains that some fear and worry is a normal part of childhood, but worry that is strong or long-lasting can be a sign of anxiety. It also notes that anxiety can show up as anger or irritability, not just fear. For developmental concerns, NHS guidance encourages parents to speak to a professional if they notice possible signs of autism.
Getting help early gives your child more time to learn how to cope and manage their feelings. It also means you understand what's going on before things get harder at school or at home. And if your child does need therapy or an assessment, they can get it sooner.
If you're ever worried about your child's safety, for example, if they talk about hurting themselves, contact a doctor or emergency services straight away.
Why Parents in Sharjah Trust Asha Susan Mani
Asha has been working with children and families in the UAE for over 20 years. She was one of the first Board Certified Behavior Analysts in the country, and she has led child therapy programs in Dubai, Sharjah and other emirates. Parents often say she's the first person who really explained their child to them.
Advanced training in Behavior Analysis, Florida Tech University
20+ years working with autism, ADHD, speech delay and child development
7,000+ children supported, and 2,000+ who moved into mainstream schools
What She Helps With
Child behavior assessment
Autism and developmental concerns
ADHD and behavior difficulties
Emotional and behavior support
Parent coaching
School and nursery support
Her Experience in the UAE
Works with nurseries and schools in Dubai and Sharjah
Supports families from many backgrounds, including English and Arabic-speaking homes
Knows the child development and early intervention services in the UAE
Do You Need a Child Psychologist in Sharjah or a Behavior Specialist?
It depends on what your child needs. Asha is a behavior analyst, not a licensed psychologist. She can assess your child's behavior and development, explain what's going on, and give you a plan. She doesn't diagnose mental health conditions or provide psychotherapy. If your child needs that, she'll tell you and help you find a licensed psychologist or doctor. Many families start with Asha because they're not sure which kind of help they need yet.
Author and Clinical Review
Author: Asha Susan Mani, BCBA (USA)
Title: Board Certified Behavior Analyst and Developmental Consultant
“Asha is doing wonderful work with children on the autism spectrum. She is
highly professional in her approach, very systematic in her treatment design and interventions, and an
excellent facilitator between home and school. Parents often report how quickly their children have
transitioned into mainstream schooling after working under Asha’s guidance.”
★★★★★
ON
Dr. Onita Nakra
Educational Psychologist, Dubai
“My appreciation for your outstanding efforts in helping so many children
return to mainstream education. As you are aware, parents often face significant emotional challenges while
raising such wonderful children, partly due to societal reactions and partly due to rigid systems. I can
confidently say that you have done a great deal to ease that burden and support families through their
journey.”
★★★★★
SR
Dr. Sundar R
Dubai
“Mrs. Asha has been working with our son, Ahmed Khan, and we have seen clear
improvement over the past few months. Initially, Ahmed had frequent emotional outbursts, difficulty
following instructions, short attention span, and struggled with transitions between activities. Mrs. Asha
developed a structured plan and introduced simple, consistent strategies such as visual schedules, clear
first–then instructions, positive reinforcement, and planned transition warnings. She also guided us on how
to respond calmly and consistently during challenging behaviours at home. She regularly reviewed his
progress, adjusted goals when needed, and ensured we were involved in every step of the process. Ahmed is
now more settled, follows instructions better, and has improved in managing daily routines and transitions.
We are very grateful for Mrs. Asha’s guidance and support.”
★★★★★
SK
Mrs. Sara Khan
Parent · Behaviour Support
“Mrs. Asha has been supporting our daughter, Lavanya Nair (4 years old), who
was diagnosed with ADHD and was facing significant behavioural challenges in nursery. Initially, Lavanya had
difficulty sitting in class, frequent impulsive behaviours, emotional outbursts, and struggled with
following group instructions. The nursery also reported concerns about her attention and participation in
structured activities. Mrs. Asha conducted a detailed assessment and introduced a structured ABA-based plan
in coordination with the therapy team. She implemented clear routines, visual supports, reinforcement
strategies, and short, achievable task instructions to improve attention and compliance. Over a period of 4
months, we saw noticeable improvements. Lavanya is now more regulated in class, follows simple instructions
better, and her tantrums have reduced significantly. We are very grateful to Mrs. Asha and her team for
their consistent support and close collaboration.”
★★★★★
PN
Mrs. Priya Nair
Parent · ADHD Support
“Our son, Philip Cruz (3.5 years old), was referred to Mrs. Asha by his
nursery, Chubby Cheeks Nursery, Dubai, due to concerns around limited communication, difficulty following
group instructions, and frequent frustration during structured activities. When we started, Philip often
struggled with transitions and would become upset during classroom routines. Mrs. Asha conducted a detailed
assessment and introduced a structured behaviour plan using visual cues, consistent routines, and positive
reinforcement strategies. She also worked closely with his ABA therapist and the nursery team to ensure a
consistent approach across all environments. Within a few months, we noticed clear improvements. Philip is
now more settled in class, follows instructions more consistently, and is gradually engaging better with
peers and teachers. We are very grateful to Mrs. Asha for her guidance and practical strategies.”
★★★★★
EC
Mrs. Elena Cruz
Parent · Behaviour Support
“Our son, Arjun Menon (5 years old), was referred to Mrs. Asha by his
pediatrician at Aster Clinic, Al Qusais, for ADHD-related concerns, including inattention, hyperactivity,
and difficulty following instructions at home and school. Mrs. Asha conducted an assessment and introduced a
structured behavior plan using visual schedules, clear routines, reinforcement strategies, and parent
guidance. She also coordinated closely with the ABA therapist and school to ensure consistency across all
settings. Within a few months, Arjun showed noticeable improvement in attention, behavior regulation, and
daily routines. We are very grateful for Mrs. Asha’s support and structured approach.”
★★★★★
NM
Mrs. Neha Menon
Parent · ADHD Support
Consultation vs. Diagnosis: What's the Difference?
Consultation
Diagnosis
What it is
Understanding what's going on and getting guidance
A formal clinical label, like autism, ADHD, or an anxiety disorder
Who does it
An experienced child specialist, like Asha
A trained expert, like a psychologist, psychiatrist, or developmental pediatrician
What you get
A clear plan and next steps
A diagnosis that can guide treatment and services
Our autism diagnosis guide explains how a formal diagnosis works.
Who Should Your Child See First?
Parents in Sharjah often aren't sure whether to call a psychologist, a pediatrician, or a behavior specialist. Here's a simple way to think about it:
Mostly worried about behavior?
Meltdowns, hitting, refusing, or not following instructions. Start with a behavior specialist like Asha.
Mostly worried about mood or feelings?
Sadness that won't lift, strong anxiety, or talk of self-harm. See a licensed child psychologist or psychiatrist.
Mostly worried about development?
Late talking, limited eye contact, or playing very differently from other kids. A developmental pediatrician or psychologist can diagnose. Asha can help you work out whether that's needed.
Worried about attention?
Can't sit still, easily distracted, very impulsive. Asha can look at the behavior side, and a psychologist or pediatrician can do a formal ADHD assessment.
Not sure at all?
That's very common. A consultation with Asha can help you sort it out and point you to the right person.
You don't have to choose perfectly. The right first conversation will usually show you where to go next.
Helping Families Across Sharjah
Asha's practice is in Karama, Dubai, and she supports many families from Sharjah. It's an easy trip from areas like Al Nahda, Al Qasimia, Al Majaz, Al Taawun and Al Khan, and after-school slots make it easier to fit around work and school runs.
She has worked with nurseries and schools in both Dubai and Sharjah, and is used to supporting families who speak more than one language at home. For busy parents, or families who'd rather skip the drive, online sessions work well for talking through concerns, going over reports, and parent coaching.
Appointments are available Saturday to Thursday, 9 AM to 7 PM, with after-school slots. To check a time, call or WhatsApp +971 54 329 1664.
Frequently Asked Questions
A child psychologist helps children with feelings, behavior, learning and development. They can assess what's going on, give a diagnosis where needed, and provide therapy.
There are licensed psychologists across Sharjah. If you're not sure yet what kind of help your child needs, many families start with Asha at her practice in Karama, Dubai, close to Al Nahda and Al Qasimia. She'll tell you if a psychologist is the right next step.
Ask your pediatrician or your child's school for names, and check that the person is licensed. If you'd like help working out what your child needs first, call or WhatsApp Asha on +971 54 329 1664.
When a problem has gone on for a few months, is getting worse, or is affecting school, friends or family life. You don't need to wait for things to get really bad.
A bad mood, anxiety, anger, behavior issues, issues with friends, stress at school, and developmental issues like autism or ADHD.
We talk with you, read your child's reports, spend time with your child, and then explain what we found. You'll leave with a clear plan.
Some do. Autism is usually diagnosed by a psychologist, psychiatrist or developmental pediatrician. Asha can't diagnose autism, but she can tell you whether an assessment is worth doing and help you get one.
Yes, a licensed psychologist can assess ADHD. Asha can look at your child's attention and behavior and tell you whether a formal ADHD assessment makes sense.
Yes. Asha also helps with anxiety-related behavior, like avoidance and meltdowns, using practical strategies. If your child needs therapy for anxiety, she'll point you to the right professional.
Yes, that's Asha's specialty. She works out what's behind the behavior and gives you strategies that actually fit your child.
Yes. We look at what triggers the big feelings and teach your child, and you, ways to calm down and cope.
Yes. Whether it's behavior, attention or not wanting to go, we work out the cause and give you tips for the teacher.
Asha works with children from 14 months to 12 years.
No. You can book directly by phone or WhatsApp.
Any school reports, nursery notes, doctor's letters or past assessments. Short videos of the behavior you're worried about help too.
A plan will be made for you. There could be plans for at home, school, or therapy, or the person could be sent for a formal evaluation.
Not at all. A counselor can help you with problems and changes in your daily life. Psychologists can look at, diagnose, and help people with more complicated issues.
No. A developmental pediatrician is a medical doctor who looks at development and can prescribe medicine. A psychologist focuses on behavior, emotions and thinking.
Yes. Asha has worked with thousands of autistic children and their families on behavior, communication and everyday skills.
Yes. Parents are a big part of the consultation, and young children usually feel more relaxed with you there.
Yes. We look at what makes it difficult and how to build your child’s social skills, step by step.
To find a reliable child psychologist in Sharjah, make sure they have a license, ask if they have worked with kids your child's age before, and make sure they give you a clear plan. You can talk to Asha to figure out what kind of specialist you need if you're not sure.
Yes. You can join Asha's online sessions in the UAE. These sessions are a good way to talk about problems and look over reports.
Areas We Serve in Sharjah
We provide autism therapy, speech therapy, occupational therapy, ABA therapy, and child development support to families in Al Nahda Sharjah, Al Taawun, Al Khan, Al Qasba, Al Majaz, Al Mamzar, Al Qusais, Muwaileh, Al Yarmook, and Abu Shagara, as well as surrounding areas within approximately 10 km of Al Nahda, Sharjah.
Not Sure Where to Start?
If you've been searching for a child psychologist in Sharjah and still aren't sure what your child needs, you're not alone. A consultation with Asha can help you understand your child's behavior, feelings, friendships, or development and work out the right next step. If that next step is to see a psychologist in Sharjah, Asha will let you know.
Ask Asha a Question