Surveying the counselling needs of families with disablement in the United Arab Emirates

The counselling needs of families with handicapped children were assessed through a survey in the United Arab Emirates. Families of disabled children in the UAE are in need of information about disabilities but not on financial support. Some findings and recommendations for the governmental and non-governmental agencies are suggested: counselling programs must be developed; recreational activities and programs for children with disabilities must be provided; specialized centers and programs for children with disabilities must be established; legislations protecting the rights of the disabled must be adopted; and community-based rehabilitation programs must be developed.