Meet Our School Counsellors

Meet Sara Bidawi:

I am thrilled to join the BIS Abu Dhabi community! With over 20 years of experience in the educational field, I have worked with children with a wide range of behavioural, educational and emotional needs. My fascination for the human mind led me on a path to a teaching career, which eventually led me to embark on a journey of counselling families in a school setting. Along with my role as a school counsellor, I was privileged to take on the position of the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) to advocate for children’s safety and wellbeing in every aspect of their school and home life.

Having recognised that the parent-child relationship has a direct impact on a family’s quality of life and children’s future adjustment, I took a special interest in equipping parents with the necessary knowledge to build a solid foundation of trust and love. 

My counselling style draws from a “biopsychosocial” approach (addressing biological, psychological and social needs), with an emphasis on mindfulness and cultivating meaningful and secure relationships. I provide families support by using elements of Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, Dialectal Behaviour Therapy and Humanistic Therapy. Together we create an action plan that is tailored to their lifestyle and needs to maximise their success.

Being a mother, educator, counsellor and DSL has given me a wealth of experience in identifying effective conflict resolution strategies and communication skills that empower parents and their children from all cultural backgrounds. I look forward to meeting each and every one of you and wish you and your family a year full of meaningful connections and personal growth.

Meet Sara Ennis: 

My name is Sara Ennis, I am originally from Ireland and I am delighted to be joining BIS Abu Dhabi as a school counsellor. I am an experienced Social Care Worker and Youth Worker, with a Bachelor of Arts honors in Applied Social Studies.

I have spent my entire professional career working with children and young people in a supportive role with Ireland's leading youth organisation. Over my ten years with this organisation I have coordinated youth projects all over Ireland’s capital. Much of my experience has been centered on providing support for young people in times of need often in extremely concerning situations. It's through this experience that I have discovered my skill to build professional meaningful relationships with young people. Thankfully this has led to young people finding me approachable and easy to talk to, I pride myself on this.

In addition to offering support during times of crisis, I have also facilitated personal development programmes which covered many different issues experienced by young people today including mental health and wellbeing, bullying, relationships and stress management to name a few.  I look forward to becoming part of the school's supportive environment and hope to provide a safe space for the students of BIS Abu Dhabi to come to in times of need as well as a resource to parents and caregivers alike.