Trauma and PTSD Therapists in Woodstock
Marlize Swanepoel
Art Therapist, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Woodstock 7925
Waitlist for new clients
I run a psychodynamic, trauma-informed, embodied and sex-positive practice online and in-person in Cape Town.
As an HPCSA- registered Drama Therapist I facilitate a non-judgmental and confidential space where equal attention is given to the body, heart, mind and soul. Arts processes such as images and stories give shape and form to things that are difficult to talk about or to discover new insight in old patterns. Our work is about looking at all the parts that make up the Self, both the healthy ones and the hurting ones. By making space and engaging with these parts we get to better understand ourselves and connect with who we truly are. Arts activities are invited sensitively and when it feels appropriate – no awkward role-plays!
I run a psychodynamic, trauma-informed, embodied and sex-positive practice online and in-person in Cape Town.
As an HPCSA- registered Drama Therapist I facilitate a non-judgmental and confidential space where equal attention is given to the body, heart, mind and soul. Arts processes such as images and stories give shape and form to things that are difficult to talk about or to discover new insight in old patterns. Our work is about looking at all the parts that make up the Self, both the healthy ones and the hurting ones. By making space and engaging with these parts we get to better understand ourselves and connect with who we truly are. Arts activities are invited sensitively and when it feels appropriate – no awkward role-plays!
Drama therapy is an embodied practice that is active and experiential. I have a person-centred approach: radical acceptance, unconditional positive regard with a non-directive stance. I strive to work with the healthy resilience of the individual or group, creating a sense of safety in the present so that personal challenges can be explored in a contained way. Whilst creativity is the foundation for curiosity and expression, the sessions are client led focusing on their preferred mode of expression. The work (with children and adults) is trauma informed and diversity sensitive. Restoring and encouraging agency is ever present
Drama therapy is an embodied practice that is active and experiential. I have a person-centred approach: radical acceptance, unconditional positive regard with a non-directive stance. I strive to work with the healthy resilience of the individual or group, creating a sense of safety in the present so that personal challenges can be explored in a contained way. Whilst creativity is the foundation for curiosity and expression, the sessions are client led focusing on their preferred mode of expression. The work (with children and adults) is trauma informed and diversity sensitive. Restoring and encouraging agency is ever present
I am a Registered Counsellor, focusing on trauma, childhood sexual abuse, confidence, self-worth, stress, phobias/fears, grief as well as sports performance.
Counselling provides a safe space to explore the problems that trouble all of us on this journey through life. We address behaviours, emotions and thoughts that are no longer serving us or which prevent us to optimally perform in different areas of our lives. This unfolding and unraveling may ultimately lead to improved relationships, new coping mechanisms, increased sense of self awareness, and personal development. My approach is warm and collaborative and I value the therapeutic relationship as a tool for meaningful change.
I am a Registered Counsellor, focusing on trauma, childhood sexual abuse, confidence, self-worth, stress, phobias/fears, grief as well as sports performance.
Counselling provides a safe space to explore the problems that trouble all of us on this journey through life. We address behaviours, emotions and thoughts that are no longer serving us or which prevent us to optimally perform in different areas of our lives. This unfolding and unraveling may ultimately lead to improved relationships, new coping mechanisms, increased sense of self awareness, and personal development. My approach is warm and collaborative and I value the therapeutic relationship as a tool for meaningful change.
It's not just about integrating trauma or coping with current issues, but getting the most out of your life and mind.
For all the beauty and joy that life has to offer, the modern world is a chaotic and frantic place. Dealing with rent; work; traffic; inflation; politics; existential anxiety etc., the average person has enough going on to warrant immense stress without even accounting for any of the other emergencies and crises that life throws at us. And even after putting a roof over one's head and food on the table, happiness and purpose can be more complex. Figuring out the next step forward can often seem impossible. My passion is in helping you to find the next step, and in helping you to develop the strategies and skills to keep doing so.
It's not just about integrating trauma or coping with current issues, but getting the most out of your life and mind.
For all the beauty and joy that life has to offer, the modern world is a chaotic and frantic place. Dealing with rent; work; traffic; inflation; politics; existential anxiety etc., the average person has enough going on to warrant immense stress without even accounting for any of the other emergencies and crises that life throws at us. And even after putting a roof over one's head and food on the table, happiness and purpose can be more complex. Figuring out the next step forward can often seem impossible. My passion is in helping you to find the next step, and in helping you to develop the strategies and skills to keep doing so.
Shani Senekal
Psychologist, MPsych, HPCSA - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Woodstock 7915
I have experience working with adjustment difficulty, grief, mood disorders, trauma, interpersonal and relationship difficulty.
Throughout my training and work experience, I've come to develop admiration for the resilience, wisdom & strength clients carry within themselves. I've learned that we all carry our own life stories and experiences. Some of these experiences may have contributed to unconscious emotional wounds and unhelpful beliefs which can contribute to disconnection, pain and pain and unhelpful ways of coping. By developing awareness of our stories and wounds we can start a process of healing which can equip us to take better care of ourselves and live full and healthy lives.
I have experience working with adjustment difficulty, grief, mood disorders, trauma, interpersonal and relationship difficulty.
Throughout my training and work experience, I've come to develop admiration for the resilience, wisdom & strength clients carry within themselves. I've learned that we all carry our own life stories and experiences. Some of these experiences may have contributed to unconscious emotional wounds and unhelpful beliefs which can contribute to disconnection, pain and pain and unhelpful ways of coping. By developing awareness of our stories and wounds we can start a process of healing which can equip us to take better care of ourselves and live full and healthy lives.
Robyn Raymond
General Counsellor, BSocSci Hons, ASCHP Specialist Wellness Counsellor
Verified Verified
Woodstock 7915
With over 10 years of counselling experience in NGO's in Cape Town, I specialize in trauma counselling, Rape Trauma Syndrome, adult and adolescent psychological support and anxiety.
Offering a safe, non-judgemental environment focusing on active and engaged empathic listening to foster a deep acknowledgement of the intrinsic value and power each person holds. I am an intersectional counsellor, body and sex-positive, Queer-friendly and gender affirming, kink and sex-worker safe.
With over 10 years of counselling experience in NGO's in Cape Town, I specialize in trauma counselling, Rape Trauma Syndrome, adult and adolescent psychological support and anxiety.
Offering a safe, non-judgemental environment focusing on active and engaged empathic listening to foster a deep acknowledgement of the intrinsic value and power each person holds. I am an intersectional counsellor, body and sex-positive, Queer-friendly and gender affirming, kink and sex-worker safe.
Some of my areas of interest include: Young adulthood; Anxiety and depression; Shame and guilt; Healthy masculinity, Complex trauma and traumatic grief; Psychedelic harm reduction and integration; Existential and spiritual issues; Co-dependency and addiction; Adjustment to life changes; and Personality disorders.
I offer an open-hearted and authentic connection for my clients. We are all human. I am here as a confidant and facilitator to explore and face the challenges of being alive.
Some of my areas of interest include: Young adulthood; Anxiety and depression; Shame and guilt; Healthy masculinity, Complex trauma and traumatic grief; Psychedelic harm reduction and integration; Existential and spiritual issues; Co-dependency and addiction; Adjustment to life changes; and Personality disorders.
I offer an open-hearted and authentic connection for my clients. We are all human. I am here as a confidant and facilitator to explore and face the challenges of being alive.
Life comes with many difficulties that can leave us feeling overwhelmed and uncertain about what to do next. Whether you are grappling with stress, trauma, relationship difficulties or simply want to work on your personal growth - feel free to reach out and book a session! Having a safe and non-judgemental space to navigate through those challenges can make a huge difference in living your best life as your authentic self. I graduated from a private university that provided BA and Honours which solely focused on Psychology. My skills involve career, individual and group counselling.
Life comes with many difficulties that can leave us feeling overwhelmed and uncertain about what to do next. Whether you are grappling with stress, trauma, relationship difficulties or simply want to work on your personal growth - feel free to reach out and book a session! Having a safe and non-judgemental space to navigate through those challenges can make a huge difference in living your best life as your authentic self. I graduated from a private university that provided BA and Honours which solely focused on Psychology. My skills involve career, individual and group counselling.
Wild Hearts Counselling
Registered Counsellor, BSocSci Hons, HPCSA - Counsellor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Woodstock 7915
I'm here to walk alongside you on your journey back home to yourself. I accompany people as they deal with life transitions, grief and loss, anxiety, depression, identity crises, suicide, burnout and trauma, from age 13 and up. To heal is to make whole again. It is calling back all the parts of ourselves that have been lost and exiled, tending to the old wounds, and coming alive to what we have inside of us. It is discovering all of who we are, and finding meaning in all of who we are.
I'm here to walk alongside you on your journey back home to yourself. I accompany people as they deal with life transitions, grief and loss, anxiety, depression, identity crises, suicide, burnout and trauma, from age 13 and up. To heal is to make whole again. It is calling back all the parts of ourselves that have been lost and exiled, tending to the old wounds, and coming alive to what we have inside of us. It is discovering all of who we are, and finding meaning in all of who we are.
My interests includes: Anxiety Disorders, Bereavement and Loss, Depression, Self-Esteem Difficulties, Personality Disorders and Trauma.
I am a registered Clinical Psychologist based in Rondebosch and Gardens, Cape Town. I predominantly provide therapy to adolescents and adults and use an integrative approach based on each client’s individual needs. I aim to provide a comfortable and caring space where clients can explore the challenges they face.
My interests includes: Anxiety Disorders, Bereavement and Loss, Depression, Self-Esteem Difficulties, Personality Disorders and Trauma.
I am a registered Clinical Psychologist based in Rondebosch and Gardens, Cape Town. I predominantly provide therapy to adolescents and adults and use an integrative approach based on each client’s individual needs. I aim to provide a comfortable and caring space where clients can explore the challenges they face.
I help adolescents and adults facing various challenges including low mood, suicidal thoughts, anxiety, grief, past trauma, difficult life transitions, low self-esteem, relationship issues, self-destructive habits as well as struggles related to identity.
My therapeutic style is gentle and warm, taking a special interest in forming a genuine connection with each person I work with. My intent is to create a safe environment where you feel empowered to show up as your most authentic self - supporting you in gaining a deeper understanding of yourself and your experiences and in healing the things that have been difficult to heal on your own.
I help adolescents and adults facing various challenges including low mood, suicidal thoughts, anxiety, grief, past trauma, difficult life transitions, low self-esteem, relationship issues, self-destructive habits as well as struggles related to identity.
My therapeutic style is gentle and warm, taking a special interest in forming a genuine connection with each person I work with. My intent is to create a safe environment where you feel empowered to show up as your most authentic self - supporting you in gaining a deeper understanding of yourself and your experiences and in healing the things that have been difficult to heal on your own.
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Marlize Swanepoel
Newlands Therapy Centre
Cape Town Psychologists
Though rarely easy, therapy requires clients to be brave, bold and willing to be vulnerable: I provide a safe and confidential space for therapeutic work which is life-changing and therefore a worthwhile personal investment. Psychotherapy is offered exclusively to adolescent and adult patients, with the option of individual and group sessions. My therapeutic approach is holistic and informed by psychodynamic approach, however, other modalities are used in specific cases where they are identified to be the best treatment.
Though rarely easy, therapy requires clients to be brave, bold and willing to be vulnerable: I provide a safe and confidential space for therapeutic work which is life-changing and therefore a worthwhile personal investment. Psychotherapy is offered exclusively to adolescent and adult patients, with the option of individual and group sessions. My therapeutic approach is holistic and informed by psychodynamic approach, however, other modalities are used in specific cases where they are identified to be the best treatment.
Sanctuary is what so many of us need in this turbulent world. We face internal and external challenges daily. My aim is to provide a nurturing space - a space in which we can safely explore and hopefully resolve any challenges you face. A space where you can feel safe to share your thoughts, your hopes, your dreams and your heartaches. A space that focuses on the work to help you overcome what is affecting your mental well-being. I aim to work with you to build a better foundation from which you can reach your full potential. Message us on 0735833831 for a call back from our administrator.
Sanctuary is what so many of us need in this turbulent world. We face internal and external challenges daily. My aim is to provide a nurturing space - a space in which we can safely explore and hopefully resolve any challenges you face. A space where you can feel safe to share your thoughts, your hopes, your dreams and your heartaches. A space that focuses on the work to help you overcome what is affecting your mental well-being. I aim to work with you to build a better foundation from which you can reach your full potential. Message us on 0735833831 for a call back from our administrator.
I see children, adolescents and adults. I have a particular interest in supporting families, whether parenting, managing life transitions, adoption, relationship or family struggles, dealing with chronic or life-threatening illness. I have many years of experience working with undergraduate and graduate students, and working professionals.
I see children, adolescents and adults. I have a particular interest in supporting families, whether parenting, managing life transitions, adoption, relationship or family struggles, dealing with chronic or life-threatening illness. I have many years of experience working with undergraduate and graduate students, and working professionals.
At Cape Town Psychologists, we strive to provide world-class psychological support and care. Are you having difficulty surviving a crisis? Are you riding an emotional roller-coaster? Are you struggling with intense or erratic emotions? Phobias? Hopelessness? Addictions? We are a team of responsible practitioners who want to help you be the best person you can be. Our Team consists of a clinical psychologists, counselling psychologists, neuropsychologists, and a social worker. We offer a diverse range of services including individual and group therapy and psychometric assessments.
At Cape Town Psychologists, we strive to provide world-class psychological support and care. Are you having difficulty surviving a crisis? Are you riding an emotional roller-coaster? Are you struggling with intense or erratic emotions? Phobias? Hopelessness? Addictions? We are a team of responsible practitioners who want to help you be the best person you can be. Our Team consists of a clinical psychologists, counselling psychologists, neuropsychologists, and a social worker. We offer a diverse range of services including individual and group therapy and psychometric assessments.
More Therapists Nearby
I am also a BWRT practitioner, assisting clients with psychological trauma.
Hi, My name is Maryam Khan Waglay, Psychologist, specializing in various forms of Counselling with individuals and groups. My client issues stem from personal and work related problems. My interest is Employee wellness, Organizational challenges, Career Coaching and Trauma therapy using specialist knowledge in Counselling and coaching, rooted in psychological principles; organizational development, HR consulting, career development & assessments. I offer counselling for anxiety, depression, stress, self esteem and confidence building utilizing various assessments and psychometric evaluations.
I am also a BWRT practitioner, assisting clients with psychological trauma.
Hi, My name is Maryam Khan Waglay, Psychologist, specializing in various forms of Counselling with individuals and groups. My client issues stem from personal and work related problems. My interest is Employee wellness, Organizational challenges, Career Coaching and Trauma therapy using specialist knowledge in Counselling and coaching, rooted in psychological principles; organizational development, HR consulting, career development & assessments. I offer counselling for anxiety, depression, stress, self esteem and confidence building utilizing various assessments and psychometric evaluations.
Candice Stafford
General Counsellor, MPsych
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cape Town City 8001 (Online Only)
I have experience in many areas including trauma, anxiety disorders, stress, abuse and personal growth.
As a psychologist my aim is to create a safe and welcoming environment for my clients. I am a passionate and committed professional who understands mental and emotional health and its importance to each individual and their community. I celebrate my clients for their uniqueness, and so believe in customising my sessions to build around their specific issues. My main aim is to ensure that they feel heard and supported, leaving them more able to share freely. Together we can address any problems and issues and apply suitable resources and techniques to help improve their sense of wellbeing.
I have experience in many areas including trauma, anxiety disorders, stress, abuse and personal growth.
As a psychologist my aim is to create a safe and welcoming environment for my clients. I am a passionate and committed professional who understands mental and emotional health and its importance to each individual and their community. I celebrate my clients for their uniqueness, and so believe in customising my sessions to build around their specific issues. My main aim is to ensure that they feel heard and supported, leaving them more able to share freely. Together we can address any problems and issues and apply suitable resources and techniques to help improve their sense of wellbeing.
Hannelie L Spies
Psychologist, MPsych, HPCSA - Ed. Psych.
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cape Town City 8000
There are times in life when we feel stuck and there seems to be no way forward. You might struggle to concentrate, feel anxious and stressed all the time, lie awake at night, and get angry for no apparent reason. You might also experiences more severe symptoms like phobias, panic attacks, social anxiety, depression, PTSD, substance abuse, self harm, eating disorders etc. The reason might not be apparent, but sometimes it might relate back to unresolved traumatic experiences you've had growing up like bullying, sexual abuse or rape, family violence, sibling rivalry, parents divorce, death of a loved one.
There are times in life when we feel stuck and there seems to be no way forward. You might struggle to concentrate, feel anxious and stressed all the time, lie awake at night, and get angry for no apparent reason. You might also experiences more severe symptoms like phobias, panic attacks, social anxiety, depression, PTSD, substance abuse, self harm, eating disorders etc. The reason might not be apparent, but sometimes it might relate back to unresolved traumatic experiences you've had growing up like bullying, sexual abuse or rape, family violence, sibling rivalry, parents divorce, death of a loved one.
I have experience in helping clients with challenges relating to depression, anxiety, trauma and grief - as symptoms of existing conditions, and/or as responses to circumstantial stress. I am also experienced in helping clients with the management of neurodivergent disorders (ADHD and Autism Spectrum Disorder). My approach pulls away from over analysis and rumination, towards figuring out how to sustainably feel and be better. This is accomplished by emphasising healthy thinking, health feeling and healthy behaving.
I have experience in helping clients with challenges relating to depression, anxiety, trauma and grief - as symptoms of existing conditions, and/or as responses to circumstantial stress. I am also experienced in helping clients with the management of neurodivergent disorders (ADHD and Autism Spectrum Disorder). My approach pulls away from over analysis and rumination, towards figuring out how to sustainably feel and be better. This is accomplished by emphasising healthy thinking, health feeling and healthy behaving.
I offer holistic intervention, grounded within a trauma-informed framework/lens.
Is your child struggling to regulate his/her emotions? Does your child get into trouble at school, get called lazy, inattentive, disruptive? Is your child not fulfilling his or her fullest potential -- academically, socially, emotionally?
I offer holistic intervention, grounded within a trauma-informed framework/lens.
Is your child struggling to regulate his/her emotions? Does your child get into trouble at school, get called lazy, inattentive, disruptive? Is your child not fulfilling his or her fullest potential -- academically, socially, emotionally?
See more therapy options for Woodstock
Nearby Trauma and PTSD Counsellors Searches for Woodstock
- Camps Bay
- Cape Town City
- Gardens
- Green Point
- Mowbray
- Newlands
- Observatory
- Pinelands
- Rondebosch
- Rosebank
- Tamboerskloof
- Vredehoek
Trauma and PTSD Counsellors
When should I seek treatment for trauma?
Not everyone who undergoes trauma needs therapy to heal, but many do. If, after experiencing a traumatic event, you find yourself struggling with symptoms such as nightmares, dissociation, irritability, or emotional numbness—especially if these symptoms last more than a month and are severe enough to interfere with your daily functioning—you may benefit from seeking out therapy with a trauma-informed provider.
How long does trauma therapy take?
Different types of therapy for trauma unfold on different timelines. Prolonged exposure therapy and cognitive processing therapy, for example, each take about three months, while trauma-informed CBT may last anywhere from 8 to 25 sessions. Other approaches, especially those that are less structured or that incorporate elements from multiple modalities, may be more open-ended, though many patients report feeling better within the first few months of treatment.
What happens if trauma is left untreated?
Unaddressed trauma can have serious—even devastating—effects on relationships, career, and day-to-day functioning. Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) can lead people to distrust or lash out at others, making it difficult to maintain intimate relationships; it can also trigger symptoms such as flashbacks or hyperreactivity that can interfere with a person’s ability to function effectively, personally and/or professionally. Some sufferers turn to drugs to find relief. Symptoms may lessen on their own with time, but there is no guarantee that PTSD will resolve on its own.
Can PTSD come back after treatment?
It is possible for PTSD symptoms to recur months or years after successful treatment. This is because, like most mental health disorders, it is not possible to “cure” PTSD, and stressful life events may cause symptoms to recur in even the most resilient individuals. There is no shame in re-experiencing PTSD symptoms nor in returning to therapy when such relapses occur; indeed, many forms of trauma therapy explicitly encourage periodic “maintenance sessions” to reinforce coping skills and ensure that symptoms stay manageable.