I graduated from the University of Johannesburg in the mid 80s with a BA in English and Psychology. At that time I volunteered as a counsellor at an organization that helped women and children impacted by domestic violence. Thereafter I immigrated to the United Kingdom and spent years there furthering my studies and working. I attended courses at the London School of Counselling and Therapy and at the London School of Economics whilst carrying out research for the Chair of a psychoanalytic training organization in London.

This time in London was lovely and lively and I met my lifelong partner there. We returned to live in Cape Town at the time when Mandela was released from prison and went on to settle with children into family life. I completed my Masters Degree in Clinical Psychology at UCT in 2001 where my love for psychology grew along with my theoretical knowledge of the complex development of a self. I was particularly drawn to theories that placed value on development and a person’s relationships.

I eventually found a theoretical home in post modern relational theory. This theory has its underpinnings in current neurobiology and infant research about how the mind develops only in relationship with another mind from birth and throughout life.

I believe that my job is to help clients attain insight and self awareness so that they can become conscious of self-limiting ways of coping and relating. Developing compassionate self reflection helps one identify hurtful triggers and relationship patterns, manage anxious critical thoughts and feelings about self and others, and prevents one from endlessly repeating unhelpful behavioural patterns. This leads to realistic self-esteem, more solid identity, resilience and a greater sense of agency. Depression, shame, anxiety and guilt decrease. The client can live with a greater sense of choice, appreciation of mind and body.