Meet Aalia Al-Barwani, MD DABFM DABOM
Dr. Aalia Al-Barwani is a double board-certified physician in Family Medicine and Obesity Medicine, based in Houston, Texas. She is the founder of Albidaya Wellness and works with high-performing women who are tired of doing “all the right things” yet still feeling stuck, overwhelmed, and out of sync with their bodies, struggling to follow through despite knowing what to do.
Dr. Aalia graduated with distinction from Weill Cornell Medicine and completed her Family Medicine residency at the University of Connecticut, where she served as Chief Resident in her final year. Over the course of her medical career, she began to notice a consistent pattern. Many of the women she worked with were intelligent, capable, and deeply motivated, yet traditional approaches to weight loss and health were not addressing the deeper drivers of stress, emotional eating, burnout, and inconsistency.
This realization led her to pursue advanced training in Obesity Medicine through the American Board of Obesity Medicine, as well as certifications in Neuro-Linguistic Programming and mind–body coaching. Her work now integrates evidence-based medicine, behavioral science, and subconscious patterning to support sustainable, identity-level change.
Today, Dr. Aalia helps women understand why change feels hard and how to create internal safety so healthier habits can finally take root. Rather than relying on willpower, restriction, or rigid plans, her approach focuses on nervous system regulation, emotional awareness, and self-trust.
Her clients often experience improvements in sleep, energy, emotional regulation, and their relationship with food, along with a greater sense of calm, clarity, and confidence in daily life. Her work is especially resonant for women who are high-achieving, carry significant responsibility for others, and are used to pushing through, yet are ready for a steadier and more grounded way of living.
In addition to her clinical and coaching work, Dr. Aalia is a Visiting Expert Practitioner with Six Senses, where she brings her integrative mind–body approach to luxury wellness settings. She is also the creator and host of What’s Up, Doc? on Muslim Network TV, where she translates medical and wellness topics for a broader audience.
At the heart of Dr. Aalia’s work is a simple belief. Lasting change does not come from forcing yourself to be different. It comes from understanding yourself more deeply and learning how to work with your body rather than against it.
When she is not working with clients, Dr. Aalia enjoys spending time outdoors, traveling, and exploring new cultures and cuisines. These experiences continue to shape her appreciation for the complexity and individuality of the people she serves.
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FAQS
What is weight wellness?
Weight wellness encompasses the journey towards achieving and maintaining an optimal weight for a happy and healthy life. Recognizing that this varies for each individual, our approach is tailored to address unique needs, incorporating nutrition, lifestyle adjustments, mindset shifts, and, when appropriate, medical interventions. This includes but is not limited to weight loss, weight maintenance, pre and post bariatric surgery care.
Why should I see an Obesity Medicine Doctor ?
Obesity Medicine Doctors (OMDs) specialize in addressing patients with obesity, overweight, and associated conditions. OMDs undergo specialized training to navigate the complexities of weight management, enabling them to prescribe tailored medications and nutrition plans based on the most up-to-date evidence. Dr. Al-Barwani's commitment to obesity medicine ensures that she remains informed about the latest research and guidelines, empowering her patients with the best chance for success.
What medications do you prescribe? Do I have to take them?
Weight loss medications offer a safe and effective solution for some individuals. These medications work by restoring the balance of hormones that regulate hunger, cravings, and the sensation of fullness, thereby promoting weight loss. During the consultation, Dr. Al-Barwani will review all available weight loss medications with you to make an informed decision together ensuring the chosen medication aligns with your needs and preferences, always prioritizing your well-being.
How is Albidaya Wellness different from other weight loss options?
Albidaya Wellness offers a holistic approach, addressing emotional, mental, physical, and nutritional needs. We prescribe FDA-approved medications and provide personalized support through telehealth, with regular video consultations and ongoing messaging. Our founder, Dr. Aalia Al-Barwani, also incorporates mindset coaching bringing in Neuro Linguistic Programming (NLP) techniques to help you bridge the gap between knowing and doing, ensuring lasting results.
Does Albidaya Wellness also offer in-person appointments?
No, our appointments are entirely through telehealth, so there's no need for office visits. Albidaya Wellness provides comprehensive weight loss management in Texas, including regular video consultations with your physician and specialists to discuss nutrition, medications, and more. You also receive support via messaging and access to educational tools through our platform.
Telehealth programs increase adherence and success due to the convenience of scheduling and attending appointments.
Do I need a doctor referral to enroll in your program?
No, you do not need a doctor referral to enroll at Albidaya Wellness. However, we recommend that you have an active relationship with a Primary Care Provider (PCP). This is important for several reasons:
1. Medical Records: Upon enrollment, we will communicate with your PCP to obtain your medical records. This helps us understand your medical history thoroughly and ensures your safety.
2. Physical Examination: Telehealth limits our ability to perform physical exams. Having a PCP who has evaluated you in the last 12 months ensures that you have a recent health assessment.
3. Coordinated Care: We will update your PCP regularly about your progress in our program. This ensures that all aspects of your health are monitored and managed comprehensively.
Having a PCP allows us to provide safe and effective care while addressing any health issues that may arise during your weight loss journey.
Do you accept insurance plans?
No, Albidaya Wellness does not accept insurance plans. Our goal is to provide personalized care while reducing your financial burden through affordable and transparent costs. You only pay for the care you receive, with no "Fee for Service" billing or third-party involvement inflating expenses.
Opting for direct care offers several benefits:
- Affordability: Avoid the high premiums and confusing rules of traditional insurance.
- Flexibility: Create a care plan that suits your lifestyle, with options for multiple visits per week, weekly, or monthly appointments.
- Convenience: Enjoy virtual visits from the comfort of your home, with same or next-day availability.
- Personalized Care: Longer, more thorough visits that offer a comfortable and comprehensive experience.
If needed, we can provide an insurance-coded, itemized receipt for you to submit to your insurance company for possible reimbursement.
Direct care empowers you to receive high-quality, accessible medical care without the constraints of traditional insurance. At Albidaya Wellness, we are proud to offer this model to better serve our patients.
Will I be expected to pay out of pocket for medications?
Please note, all prescriptions are covered by your insurance plan just as they would be if written by an in-network doctor. For prescription refills or prior authorizations, please contact your pharmacy and request that they fax a request to 888-719-7861.
For more information about your medication coverage, we recommend reaching out to your insurance company directly. They can provide detailed information about what is included under your plan.