About Dr. Issak

I am a specialist psychiatrist based in Durban, passionate about supporting the mental well-being of children, adolescents, and adults. My approach combines empathy, evidence-based practice, and holistic care, ensuring every patient is treated with dignity and respect.

My Journey

My path in medicine began at the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN), where I earned my MBChB. During my internship in Gauteng and community service in Mpumalanga, I discovered my true calling: mental health. I realized how vital this field is, yet how often it is misunderstood or overlooked.

Returning to my alma mater, UKZN, for advanced training in psychiatry was a rewarding experience. I completed my MMed (Psychiatry) at UKZN, where my research focused on workplace bullying and its impact on the mental health of medical interns. This study highlighted the significant prevalence of anxiety and depressive symptoms among interns in KwaZulu-Natal, with a pervasive culture of bullying by senior medical and nursing staff. The findings underscore the urgent need for systemic change to support the mental well-being of junior healthcare professionals.

I also earned my FC Psych (SA) through the Colleges of Medicine of South Africa (CMSA).

Throughout my career, I have worked across inpatient and outpatient settings, caring for both children and adults, and developing special interests in:

  • Child & adolescent psychiatry
  • Personality disorders
  • Eating disorders
  • Mood disorders
  • Trauma-related conditions
  • Psychotic disorders
  • Neurocognitive disorders
  • Women’s mental health
  • Somatic symptom disorders

I am particularly fascinated by the mind-body connection, including gut-brain health and the impact of lifestyle on mental wellness. These elements are central to my approach and guide how I integrate care into my practice.

Academic Contributions

In addition to my clinical work, I am committed to advancing the field of psychiatry through research and education. I had the honor of presenting my research on workplace bullying and its impact on the mental health of medical interns at the Biological Psychiatry Congress. This opportunity allowed me to share insights into the challenges faced by junior healthcare professionals and the importance of fostering supportive work environments.

My Approach to Care

I believe that mental health care is most effective when it is patient-centred, collaborative, and holistic.

My focus is not only on treating symptoms but also on supporting individuals and families to achieve long-term wellness. I work closely with multidisciplinary teams and engage patients and their caregivers in every step of the treatment process. 

I provide a full range of psychiatric services, including:

  • Inpatient and outpatient care
  • Consultation-liaison psychiatry
  • Psychotherapy (including CBT and trauma-focused therapy)
  • Medication management
  • Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) when indicated

Why Choose Me?

  • Comprehensive care for both children and adults
  • Evidence-based treatments tailored to each individual
  • Empathetic and professional approach
  • Collaboration with families and healthcare teams
  • Integration of lifestyle, gut-brain health, and holistic wellness into care

Let’s Work Together

If you or a loved one are seeking professional mental health support, I am here to help you navigate the path to wellness with understanding, respect, and expertise.

Let’s Work Together

If you or a loved one are seeking professional mental health support, I am here to help you navigate the path to wellness with understanding, respect, and expertise.

You don’t need to walk this journey alone.

Take the first step toward support and healing.

📧 aakifah@draissak.co.za

📱 031 100 2120 / 071 864 0258

📍 Itheku Wellness Hospital
     1st Floor,
     Redlyn Business Park,
     5 Riverhorse Place,
     Riverhorse Valley, Durban,
     4001, South Africa

 

     Also admitting at:
     – Akeso Umhlanga
     – Itheku Wellness Hospital
     – Ribumed Ballito

You don’t need to walk this journey alone.

Take the first step toward support and healing.

📧 aakifah@draissak.co.za

📱 031 100 2120 / 071 864 0258

📍 Itheku Wellness Hospital
     1st Floor, Redlyn Business Park,
     5 Riverhorse Place,
     Riverhorse Valley, Durban,
     4001, South Africa

 

     Also admitting at:
     – Akeso Umhlanga
     – Itheku Wellness Hospital
     – Ribumed Ballito

Book an Appointment