Dr. Melanie Schlatter | Clinical Health Psychologist | Oncology & Psychiatry Specialist | Advocate for Psychosocial Oncology & Patient Well-Being
Meet Dr. Melanie Schlatter from Dubai
A dedicated Clinical Health Psychologist specializing in psycho-oncology, Dr. Melanie Schlatter has spent over 18 years at the forefront of integrating psychological care into medical treatment. She provides vital support to patients navigating the emotional toll of serious illness, ensuring they receive compassionate, holistic care. Driven by a commitment to reducing stigma and enhancing patient well-being, she continues to shape the landscape of psychosocial oncology in the UAE.
Early Foundations: A Passion for Psychology and Science
Born with a dual heritage from New Zealand and Switzerland, Dr. Melanie Schlatter’s journey into psychology was shaped by an early fascination with the intersection of mental and physical health. She pursued her academic career at the University of Otago, earning a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and a Master of Science in Pharmacology with Distinction.
With a desire to expand her expertise, she continued her studies at the University of Auckland, where she earned a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Psychology, alongside a Postgraduate Diploma in Health Psychology and a Postgraduate Diploma in Rehabilitation, deepening her understanding of the psychological impact of illness and recovery from injury. During her tenure, she secured an Honorary Research Fellowship, where her research on psychoneuroimmunology—the intricate connection between the mind, brain, and immune system helped lay the groundwork for her future work in oncology psychology.
Pioneering Psychosocial Oncology in the UAE
In 2006, Dr. Schlatter made a life-changing decision to relocate to Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Recognizing a significant gap in psychological services within the medical field, particularly for cancer patients, she dedicated herself to developing support systems that were virtually nonexistent at the time.
Reflecting on her mission, she notes, “It was a unique situation – I was the only health psychologist focusing on that kind of work at that time.”
This pioneering spirit led her to work closely with hospitals, advocacy groups, and medical professionals to establish psychological support as an integral part of oncology care.
For over 13 years, Dr. Schlatter contributed her expertise at the Well Woman Clinic, founded by the UAE’s first female surgeon, Dr. Houriya Kazim. Here, she played a crucial role in counseling patients through their cancer diagnoses and treatments, helping them navigate the emotional and psychological challenges of their journeys. She also contributed to community-driven initiatives, including the design and implementation of Majlis Al Amal, Dubai’s first cancer drop-in center, the original concept of Dr Kazim.
Leading Psychological Support at American Hospital Dubai
Today, Dr. Schlatter serves as a Clinical Health Psychologist at American Hospital Dubai, where she works in the departments of oncology, psychiatry, and behavioral health. She works closely with inpatients, outpatients, and their families, addressing concerns ranging from stress, anxiety, and depression to the profound emotional impact of serious medical conditions.
In her own words, “We need to recognize the psychological burden, the cultural context, and the deeply personal nature of each journey.”
Her holistic approach ensures that patients receive the emotional and mental support they need at every stage—whether they are grappling with a new diagnosis, undergoing treatment, or facing end-of-life care.
Beyond patient care, Dr. Schlatter actively engages in research, advocacy, and education. She wrote the first chapters on health psychology and psycho-oncology in the region, and her international publications on emotional regulation in breast cancer patients and the effects of psychosocial support on immune function underscore her commitment to advancing the field of psycho-oncology. She is also a vocal advocate for reducing the stigma around seeking mental health support, particularly in the Middle East.
A Voice for Compassionate Care
Dr. Schlatter’s impact extends beyond the clinic. As a sought-after speaker and thought leader, she frequently presents at medical and psychological conferences, shedding light on the critical role of mental health in patient outcomes. At the UAE’s first Palliative Care conference, she shared her insights on distress management, emphasizing that “What we may purely see as ‘symptoms’ or side effects may be interpreted so differently from one individual to another.” Her dedication to patient-centered care continues to shape healthcare policies and practices across the region.
Championing Community and Emotional Resilience
Outside of her hospital role, Dr. Schlatter remains deeply involved in community initiatives. She serves as a Board Member and Secretary for ‘Brest Friends,’ Dubai’s first breast cancer support group, where she helps organize monthly meetings and educational programs. She is also a Psychology Advisory Board member for the American University Dubai, and she facilitates workplace stress management sessions, advocating for mental well-being in corporate environments.
She often reflects on the power of human connection, sharing moving experiences from her work.
In one particularly profound moment, she recounted, “I’ve had some deeply touching moments with people facing their final days in the hospital. What always catches me off guard is when someone… still summons the strength to greet me in earnest and ask, ‘How are you?’”
These interactions, she believes, serve as a powerful reminder of resilience, empathy, and the need for compassionate care.
Looking Ahead: A Legacy of Advocacy and Change
Dr. Melanie Schlatter’s journey is one of breaking barriers, pioneering, and reshaping the way mental health is integrated into medical care. As she continues to push for greater awareness and systemic change in psychosocial oncology, her work remains a beacon of hope for patients and healthcare professionals alike.
Whether she is supporting a patient, training a new generation of psychologists, or speaking at a global conference, her message is clear: “Every response is a chance to demonstrate presence, validate concerns, and reinforce psychological safety.” With her commitment to compassionate care, Dr. Schlatter continues to redefine the standards of psychological support in the UAE and beyond.
The Nectar of Wisdom from Dr. Melanie Schlatter’s Journey
- Compassion in Care: “Every response is a chance to demonstrate presence, validate concerns, and reinforce psychological safety.”
- The Power of Support: “Social support matters—I’ve seen the benefits firsthand.”
- Mind-Body Connection: A deep interest in psychoneuroimmunology fuels her approach to holistic healing.
- Empowering Conversations: Breaking stigma around seeking psychological support is central to her work.
- Resilience Through Reflection: “Even in our darkest hours, the ability to consider others is a sacred gift.”
Editorial Note
Dr. Melanie Schlatter’s journey highlights the transformative power of psychological care in transforming lives. Her dedication to oncology and mental health support has paved the way for a more compassionate healthcare approach. At Executives Diary, we celebrate leaders like her who make a lasting impact. We invite fellow executives to share their own stories of resilience and growth at biographies.executivesdiary.com., where every journey is celebrated and every voice matters. Join us in inspiring the next generation of leaders!
