Feedback from Participants

am an Australian expatriate, currently working in Dubai and attending part-time postgraduate studies at the Dubai Campus of the Wollongong University of Australia. In August I felt the need to seek counseling and asked U.O.W. for a contact.  She gave me the Employee Assistance Program brochure.

I write this letter to you to convey how positively the EAP Program has assisted me personally.  I have been seeing Dr. George Kaliaden since mid-August, initially for one hour weekly for two months and now about every three weeks.

I was quite surprised how quickly we addressed many issues and separated the areas of difficulty. So much more came up for me on a personal level relating to childhood and self, which was unexpected. Dr. Kaliaden initiated a personality test and an I.Q. test, both of which have dramatically positively enhanced my understanding of my own behavior traits and my level of ability and confidence academically. I feel my most effective results have been releasing past paternal issues. This has reduced my general level of anger and reaction and I find myself communicating more effectively in general. It has been important for me to identify the difference between aggressive and assertive behavior and to work on relaxation techniques to modify my responses.

I have enjoyed Dr. Kaliaden’s relaxed and kind manner which have been imperative for me to build trust. He has been systematic and given me continued positive reinforcement and support. We have shared humour, which has helped alleviate stress and I have looked forward immensely to the sessions.  Although not all my troubles are resolved, I certainly feel more able to deal with them and move on.

I must thank you for providing a psychological service in Dubai, where it is often difficult to find comparable “western” standard support services. To have this available at such high professional standing in Dr. Kaliaden is indeed commendable. With thanks for supporting those of us in The Gulf who truly appreciate this.

Yours sincerely,
Maggie Staggs, R.N.  (Note: I have granted permission to Dr Kaliaden to publish my name and identification on the website posting)