Thank you that you were/are instrumental in the acknowledgement and experience of my journey with depression.
Children and Teens
In South Africa there is no formal registration as a Child Psychologist, however, I have a special interest in the area of child psychology and this is a special focus area in my work.
My work with children as a child therapist is strongly influenced by my experience both locally and abroad with special needs education, training as a play therapist and the importance of art, stories, language, play and imagination in the development of the child. I work closely with parents/caregivers, speech therapists, occupational therapists, remedial teachers and schools in order to provide a comprehensive intervention for a range of challenges including:
- Emotional struggles (anxiety and depression)
- Behavioural challenges
- ADD / ADHD
- Self esteem
- Bullying
- Aptitude (career/subject choice)
- Scholastic development assessments
Consultations with children involve the parents, family and other significant people where appropriate. In consultation with young people I often draw on the principles of play therapy, as well as other ideas that are best suited to the individual child I am working with.
In addition to all the challenges that modern life brings, transitioning from child to teen is filled with its own unique challenges. When these challenges are not held in a supportive and understanding space we tend to see teenagers in conflict with themselves. Therapy can help individuals to untangle the conflict and help families to create supportive and understanding spaces.