Grief Therapists in Cape Town City

Photo of Dr. Melanie Marx, Registered Counsellor, PhD, HPCSA - Counsellor
Dr. Melanie Marx
Registered Counsellor, PhD, HPCSA - Counsellor
Serves Area
Services offered: - Teen counselling - Adult Counselling - Grief & Trauma Counselling - Parent Guidance - Career Guidance and Assessment - Subject choice assessment
I am registered as a counsellor with the HPCSA and is registered with the Board of Healthcare Funders (BHF). I offer individual counselling for adults and teenagers, including but not limited to trauma counselling, bereavement, personal development, self-esteem, resilience, anger and stress management. Furthermore, I provide parent guidance and work with children. I also offer career guidance and subject choice assessments (online assessments available).
Services offered: - Teen counselling - Adult Counselling - Grief & Trauma Counselling - Parent Guidance - Career Guidance and Assessment - Subject choice assessment
I am registered as a counsellor with the HPCSA and is registered with the Board of Healthcare Funders (BHF). I offer individual counselling for adults and teenagers, including but not limited to trauma counselling, bereavement, personal development, self-esteem, resilience, anger and stress management. Furthermore, I provide parent guidance and work with children. I also offer career guidance and subject choice assessments (online assessments available).
065 979 6686 View 065 979 6686
Photo of Chanelle Bunting, General Counsellor
Chanelle Bunting
General Counsellor
Serves Area
If you are seeking a Counsellor, then you may be feeling anxious and overwhelmed by your life circumstances. A crisis can threaten your emotional or physical well-being and can interfere with the functioning of your daily living. Events such as unplanned pregnancies, relationship breakdowns, terminal illnesses, mental health challenges and other traumatic and life-threatening experiences can all be navigated and strategic interventions implemented. Putting a voice to your feelings often puts thoughts and emotions into perspective and is the start of healing an overwhelmed spirit.
If you are seeking a Counsellor, then you may be feeling anxious and overwhelmed by your life circumstances. A crisis can threaten your emotional or physical well-being and can interfere with the functioning of your daily living. Events such as unplanned pregnancies, relationship breakdowns, terminal illnesses, mental health challenges and other traumatic and life-threatening experiences can all be navigated and strategic interventions implemented. Putting a voice to your feelings often puts thoughts and emotions into perspective and is the start of healing an overwhelmed spirit.
087 250 0914 x82 View 087 250 0914 x82
Photo of Helene Joan Bestbier, General Counsellor, MA
Helene Joan Bestbier
General Counsellor, MA
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Hi There! Many of my clients experience deep spiritual questions and struggle to express it, thus carry it in silence. Sometimes they feel confused, ashamed, or disconnected from their faith. Some are unsure if it's even safe to ask some faith related questions or speak openly about their doubts. They often have guilt or spiritual pain from past events. People are searching for clarity, and reconnection—with themselves, with others, and God. I offer a safe, respectful space for them to talk without being judged and help them to rediscover a sense of spiritual grounding. Contact me if you need to reconnect.
Hi There! Many of my clients experience deep spiritual questions and struggle to express it, thus carry it in silence. Sometimes they feel confused, ashamed, or disconnected from their faith. Some are unsure if it's even safe to ask some faith related questions or speak openly about their doubts. They often have guilt or spiritual pain from past events. People are searching for clarity, and reconnection—with themselves, with others, and God. I offer a safe, respectful space for them to talk without being judged and help them to rediscover a sense of spiritual grounding. Contact me if you need to reconnect.
087 250 0062 x72 View 087 250 0062 x72
Photo of Gené van der Merwe, General Counsellor
Gené van der Merwe
General Counsellor
Online Only
You feel physically and emotionally exhausted by the weight of grief, relationship distance, or a persistent sense of "survival mode
I provide a specialized online space where client-centred healing meets the science of the brain. By integrating Neuroscience with holistic wellness, I help adults across South Africa understand the "why" behind their stress and grief. My approach nurtures the body, mind, & soul, building resilience through evidence-based insights and compassionate support.
You feel physically and emotionally exhausted by the weight of grief, relationship distance, or a persistent sense of "survival mode
I provide a specialized online space where client-centred healing meets the science of the brain. By integrating Neuroscience with holistic wellness, I help adults across South Africa understand the "why" behind their stress and grief. My approach nurtures the body, mind, & soul, building resilience through evidence-based insights and compassionate support.
087 250 0513 x69 View 087 250 0513 x69
Photo of Bryony McCormick, Registered Counsellor, BSocSci Hons
Bryony McCormick
Registered Counsellor, BSocSci Hons
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
I'm Bryony and I'm a Registered Counsellor (RC). As an RC I am here to extend psychological services and make them accessible to you. I tend to base my interventions on the emotionally focussed therapy modality and have a passion for working with couples, although I don't specialise in it (just yet) and offer individual counselling too. As a mother myself, I have a deep connection to working with new or expecting parents as they navigate the transition into parenthood. My door is always open and I am available over email to answer any pre-booking questions you might have about the counselling process.
I'm Bryony and I'm a Registered Counsellor (RC). As an RC I am here to extend psychological services and make them accessible to you. I tend to base my interventions on the emotionally focussed therapy modality and have a passion for working with couples, although I don't specialise in it (just yet) and offer individual counselling too. As a mother myself, I have a deep connection to working with new or expecting parents as they navigate the transition into parenthood. My door is always open and I am available over email to answer any pre-booking questions you might have about the counselling process.
087 250 0719 x75 View 087 250 0719 x75
Photo of Jessica Mayson, Art Therapist, MA
Jessica Mayson
Art Therapist, MA
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am passionate about working with women and those who are navigating life transitions, loss and shifting intergenerational patterns.
I am an Arts Therapist (drama therapy): a creative, expressive psychotherapy. Words are not the only language we can use; depending on your need we can use story, symbol, artmaking, movement, ritual and creative mapping to access that which often lies beyond words. These can support self-curiosity, and help find new perspectives on things that feel 'stuck'.
I am passionate about working with women and those who are navigating life transitions, loss and shifting intergenerational patterns.
I am an Arts Therapist (drama therapy): a creative, expressive psychotherapy. Words are not the only language we can use; depending on your need we can use story, symbol, artmaking, movement, ritual and creative mapping to access that which often lies beyond words. These can support self-curiosity, and help find new perspectives on things that feel 'stuck'.
087 250 2293 x88 View 087 250 2293 x88
Photo of Tana Silver, Registered Counsellor, MPsych, HPCSA - Counsellor
Tana Silver
Registered Counsellor, MPsych, HPCSA - Counsellor
Serves Area
My areas of specialty are trauma, emotional disorders, grief and psychosomatics.
My philosophy is that all of us have the necessary abilities to overcome any challenges in life with the right support. I offer an integrative approach to counselling that draws on Gestalt, existential and cognitive theories. I view counselling as a creative process of discovering the masterpiece in each client. I work within an interpersonal framework that places the relationship between the client and the therapist at the heart of the process.
My areas of specialty are trauma, emotional disorders, grief and psychosomatics.
My philosophy is that all of us have the necessary abilities to overcome any challenges in life with the right support. I offer an integrative approach to counselling that draws on Gestalt, existential and cognitive theories. I view counselling as a creative process of discovering the masterpiece in each client. I work within an interpersonal framework that places the relationship between the client and the therapist at the heart of the process.
087 250 2962 x79 View 087 250 2962 x79
Photo of Danieyella Rodin - Danieyella Rodin Drama Therapy, Art Therapist, MA
Danieyella Rodin Drama Therapy
Art Therapist, MA
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I’m a trauma-informed drama therapist working with couples, adults, and adolescents navigating relationship conflicts, anxiety, grief, chronic health conditions (including scoliosis and autoimmune conditions), as well as life transitions such as relocating abroad, becoming a parent, or changing careers.
Drama therapy is a creative, somatic approach that integrates with other therapeutic frameworks. My work focuses on bodily experience and draws on modern neuroscience to understand the impacts of trauma and adverse experiences, alongside psychodynamic developmental perspectives—exploring how the past impacts the present and how to transform these patterns.
I’m a trauma-informed drama therapist working with couples, adults, and adolescents navigating relationship conflicts, anxiety, grief, chronic health conditions (including scoliosis and autoimmune conditions), as well as life transitions such as relocating abroad, becoming a parent, or changing careers.
Drama therapy is a creative, somatic approach that integrates with other therapeutic frameworks. My work focuses on bodily experience and draws on modern neuroscience to understand the impacts of trauma and adverse experiences, alongside psychodynamic developmental perspectives—exploring how the past impacts the present and how to transform these patterns.
087 250 2748 x94 View 087 250 2748 x94
Photo of Donna Fischer, Social Worker, SACSSP
Donna Fischer
Social Worker, SACSSP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Life has a way of throwing us off balance, whether through the challenges of childhood, the weight of a loss, or the quiet exhaustion of professional burnout.
With extensive experience as a Social Worker specialising in play therapy and counselling, I can support children and adolescents facing bullying, behavioral hurdles, and difficulties expressing their emotions. But also supporting the individual professional, navigating the burnout, stress and grief that we encounter throughout life.
Life has a way of throwing us off balance, whether through the challenges of childhood, the weight of a loss, or the quiet exhaustion of professional burnout.
With extensive experience as a Social Worker specialising in play therapy and counselling, I can support children and adolescents facing bullying, behavioral hurdles, and difficulties expressing their emotions. But also supporting the individual professional, navigating the burnout, stress and grief that we encounter throughout life.
087 250 2161 x93 View 087 250 2161 x93
Photo of Lara Rust, Registered Counsellor, HPCSA - Counsellor
Lara Rust
Registered Counsellor, HPCSA - Counsellor
Serves Area
Areas of interest include personal growth and identity development, family relationship struggles, adjustments difficulties, loss and bereavement, trauma, self-esteem, bullying, stress, burnout and lifestyle management, self-development, dealing with divorce, and step-family integration.
I have a special interest in working with individuals that are navigating life with life-limiting illnesses such as Cystic Fibrosis or those affected by the death of a loved one or those living with illnesses such as cancer. I work with individuals and their families, helping them cope with and manage the associated psycho-social challenges.
Areas of interest include personal growth and identity development, family relationship struggles, adjustments difficulties, loss and bereavement, trauma, self-esteem, bullying, stress, burnout and lifestyle management, self-development, dealing with divorce, and step-family integration.
I have a special interest in working with individuals that are navigating life with life-limiting illnesses such as Cystic Fibrosis or those affected by the death of a loved one or those living with illnesses such as cancer. I work with individuals and their families, helping them cope with and manage the associated psycho-social challenges.
087 250 2042 x82 View 087 250 2042 x82
Photo of Monica Hurn, General Counsellor, BSocSci Hons
Monica Hurn
General Counsellor, BSocSci Hons
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Are you experiencing anxiety or panic attacks, ranging from general anxiety which you can't pinpoint, to full on attacks that make you feel as though you are dying? Do you have relationship issues with a family member or loved one, so you feel unappreciated or disrespected? Are you feeling overwhelmed and confused, or perhaps you question decisions you made? Does an incident in your past prevent you from moving forward? Do you feel intimidated by life in general, or by the people around you? Are you experiencing burnout and you don't know where to turn? I can help you!
Are you experiencing anxiety or panic attacks, ranging from general anxiety which you can't pinpoint, to full on attacks that make you feel as though you are dying? Do you have relationship issues with a family member or loved one, so you feel unappreciated or disrespected? Are you feeling overwhelmed and confused, or perhaps you question decisions you made? Does an incident in your past prevent you from moving forward? Do you feel intimidated by life in general, or by the people around you? Are you experiencing burnout and you don't know where to turn? I can help you!
087 250 0914 x24 View 087 250 0914 x24
Photo of Thalia Pretorius, Registered Counsellor
Thalia Pretorius
Registered Counsellor
Online Only
In Support Counselling honours your journey, providing a safe, non-judgmental space to explore and overcome your personal challenges. With the emphasis on collaboration and mutual respect, we work together to develop personalized strategies that align with your goals and core values. We explore new perspectives, challenge limiting beliefs, and cultivate a deeper understanding of the self. My role is to help you recognize and leverage your personal expertise and strengths to empower you to become the architect of your own well-being.
In Support Counselling honours your journey, providing a safe, non-judgmental space to explore and overcome your personal challenges. With the emphasis on collaboration and mutual respect, we work together to develop personalized strategies that align with your goals and core values. We explore new perspectives, challenge limiting beliefs, and cultivate a deeper understanding of the self. My role is to help you recognize and leverage your personal expertise and strengths to empower you to become the architect of your own well-being.
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Photo of Keera Louise Norton, General Counsellor, ASCHP Specialist Wellness Counsellor
Keera Louise Norton
General Counsellor, ASCHP Specialist Wellness Counsellor
4 Endorsed
Online Only
I offer a variety of support services: individual wellness counselling, relationship & couples support, trauma-informed support, loss & grief support, self-esteem & confidence building, stress and anger management, and substance abuse and addiction support.
I don’t define an “ideal client” by a specific issue or background. I work within clear professional boundaries and my scope of practice as a Wellness Counsellor, supporting individuals who are respectful of this space and seeking guidance. Life can feel overwhelming at times, and learning how to cope with challenges isn’t always easy. Anyone willing to reflect, gain insight, and take steps towards personal growth deserves support. Wellness Counselling is goal-oriented and collaborative, offering a supportive starting point for those ready to explore patterns, build resilience, and develop practical coping skills.
I offer a variety of support services: individual wellness counselling, relationship & couples support, trauma-informed support, loss & grief support, self-esteem & confidence building, stress and anger management, and substance abuse and addiction support.
I don’t define an “ideal client” by a specific issue or background. I work within clear professional boundaries and my scope of practice as a Wellness Counsellor, supporting individuals who are respectful of this space and seeking guidance. Life can feel overwhelming at times, and learning how to cope with challenges isn’t always easy. Anyone willing to reflect, gain insight, and take steps towards personal growth deserves support. Wellness Counselling is goal-oriented and collaborative, offering a supportive starting point for those ready to explore patterns, build resilience, and develop practical coping skills.
087 250 2161 x51 View 087 250 2161 x51
Photo of Henning Gericke, Registered Counsellor, HPCSA - Counsellor
Henning Gericke
Registered Counsellor, HPCSA - Counsellor
Serves Area
My ideal clients are individuals and families navigating chronic illness, serious medical diagnoses, or palliative care journeys. They may feel overwhelmed, anxious, or uncertain about the future, and need a supportive space to process emotions, make sense of difficult decisions, and regain stability. Many are also caregivers carrying heavy responsibilities. They want compassionate guidance and meaningful conversations that help them find clarity, resilience, and a sense of purpose during challenging times.
My ideal clients are individuals and families navigating chronic illness, serious medical diagnoses, or palliative care journeys. They may feel overwhelmed, anxious, or uncertain about the future, and need a supportive space to process emotions, make sense of difficult decisions, and regain stability. Many are also caregivers carrying heavy responsibilities. They want compassionate guidance and meaningful conversations that help them find clarity, resilience, and a sense of purpose during challenging times.
084 209 5930 View 084 209 5930
Photo of Clarina Du Plessis - Clarina Du Plessis Integrative Counselor, General Counsellor, MA
Clarina Du Plessis Integrative Counselor
General Counsellor, MA
Serves Area
Maybe you suffered a loss; you're unsure about the future of a relationship; or just feel that you not living the life you were meant to.
I provide counselling, coaching and wellness support to clients in person in Bloemfontein and online. My mission is to guide clients towards personal wellness. Please Note: We do not assess, diagnose or treat Mental Illness.
Maybe you suffered a loss; you're unsure about the future of a relationship; or just feel that you not living the life you were meant to.
I provide counselling, coaching and wellness support to clients in person in Bloemfontein and online. My mission is to guide clients towards personal wellness. Please Note: We do not assess, diagnose or treat Mental Illness.
087 250 0914 x55 View 087 250 0914 x55
Photo of Susan Joubert, Psychologist, MA, HPCSA - Clin. Psych.
Susan Joubert
Psychologist, MA, HPCSA - Clin. Psych.
Serves Area
At times we may feel stuck or overwhelmed. We may know what is causing unease or pain, but often we struggle to understand the cause. A therapy relationship at these times, can bring better understanding and help you think in new ways about yourself, your relationships and your journey forward.
At times we may feel stuck or overwhelmed. We may know what is causing unease or pain, but often we struggle to understand the cause. A therapy relationship at these times, can bring better understanding and help you think in new ways about yourself, your relationships and your journey forward.
087 250 0162 x33 View 087 250 0162 x33
Photo of Victoria Schwulst, Registered Counsellor, BSocSci Hons
Victoria Schwulst
Registered Counsellor, BSocSci Hons
4 Endorsed
Maybe you're carrying grief, anxiety, stress, heartbreak, a big life transition, or a relationship that isn't working the way you'd hoped.
I am a registered counsellor with the HPCSA and BACP, working with teenagers and young adults through grief, loss, anxiety, relationships and life transitions. My approach is integrative and completely tailored to you, drawing on CBT, DBT, Schema Therapy, Attachment and Solution-Focused techniques to help you understand yourself & develop ways to cope.
Maybe you're carrying grief, anxiety, stress, heartbreak, a big life transition, or a relationship that isn't working the way you'd hoped.
I am a registered counsellor with the HPCSA and BACP, working with teenagers and young adults through grief, loss, anxiety, relationships and life transitions. My approach is integrative and completely tailored to you, drawing on CBT, DBT, Schema Therapy, Attachment and Solution-Focused techniques to help you understand yourself & develop ways to cope.
087 250 0513 x82 View 087 250 0513 x82
Photo of Dr. Siyajabula Siya Mjwara - Dr Siya Mjwara, Social Worker, PhD
Dr Siya Mjwara
Social Worker, PhD
2 Endorsed
MA Research Focus: Alcohol abuse and parent-child relationships DPhil Research Focus: Psychosocial issues of grief and loss & HIV
I offer counselling and coaching mostly in the areas of trauma, depression, anxiety, relationship and family matters. I work with individuals, couples and families. Having been in the field for over 15 years; I have a passion for assisting clients to overcome challenges; seeing them become the best version of themselves and living within their purpose.
MA Research Focus: Alcohol abuse and parent-child relationships DPhil Research Focus: Psychosocial issues of grief and loss & HIV
I offer counselling and coaching mostly in the areas of trauma, depression, anxiety, relationship and family matters. I work with individuals, couples and families. Having been in the field for over 15 years; I have a passion for assisting clients to overcome challenges; seeing them become the best version of themselves and living within their purpose.
087 250 0782 x23 View 087 250 0782 x23
Photo of Fezeka Ellen Ziswana - Bongisa Wellness Consultant Pty Ltd, Social Worker, BSocSci Hons, SACSSP
Bongisa Wellness Consultant Pty Ltd
Social Worker, BSocSci Hons, SACSSP
I work with people who are struggling with Mental health issue ,trauma, Anxiety, Grief, EAP and relationships related to their relationships or family.
I'm a social worker in Private Practice offering individual counseling services, Family counseling services, Bereavement counseling services, Debriefings and Skills development Trainings, Team buildings,Trauma, Anxiety, Domestic Violence and Mental health matters.
I work with people who are struggling with Mental health issue ,trauma, Anxiety, Grief, EAP and relationships related to their relationships or family.
I'm a social worker in Private Practice offering individual counseling services, Family counseling services, Bereavement counseling services, Debriefings and Skills development Trainings, Team buildings,Trauma, Anxiety, Domestic Violence and Mental health matters.
087 250 0536 x10 View 087 250 0536 x10
Photo of Kirsten Barnardt, Psychologist, MA, HPCSA - Clin. Psych.
Kirsten Barnardt
Psychologist, MA, HPCSA - Clin. Psych.
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I’m a Cape Town based clinical psychologist offering online therapy for individuals across South Africa. My approach is grounded in evidence-based practices and guided by current psychological research. I draw on a range of effective therapeutic methods, tailoring each process to suit the unique needs and goals of the individual. People come to therapy for many different reasons, and because of this, I believe in a flexible approach. I aim to work in a focused, time-sensitive way when possible, but also offer longer-term therapy when deeper or ongoing support is needed.
I’m a Cape Town based clinical psychologist offering online therapy for individuals across South Africa. My approach is grounded in evidence-based practices and guided by current psychological research. I draw on a range of effective therapeutic methods, tailoring each process to suit the unique needs and goals of the individual. People come to therapy for many different reasons, and because of this, I believe in a flexible approach. I aim to work in a focused, time-sensitive way when possible, but also offer longer-term therapy when deeper or ongoing support is needed.
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Grief Counsellors
How long does therapy take for grief?
There is no exact timeline for grief counseling. Some people may start to feel better after just a few sessions, while others may take months or longer to feel relief. Some specific approaches, including some types of CBT, may involve a set number of sessions, or therapy may be open-ended until the patient determines they are ready to wrap up. Just as there is no right or wrong way to grieve, there is no right or wrong way to seek therapy for grief.

When should you seek therapy for grief?
Many people mistakenly believe that their grief needs to be debilitating or all-encompassing to warrant therapy. This is not the case. While people who experience severe, prolonged grief—particularly those who are considering self-harm or engaging in unhealthy substance use—are especially likely to benefit from therapy, so too are people whose grief is less intense but still interfering with well-being or daily functioning. In practice, almost anyone struggling to process a loss could benefit from grief counseling.

Can grief be managed without therapy?
Oftentimes, yes. Grief is a near-universal part of being human, and many find that their grief, while profound, does not stop them from participating in day-to-day life and steadily eases over time without outside help. For others, however, the harsh pain of early grief persists for months or years or leaves them unable to function. This group is especially likely to benefit from seeing a therapist, who can guide them through their grief and help them reconnect with the world.

What happens if grief is left untreated?
Because grief does not in itself necessitate therapy, untreated grief will often resolve on its own. However, for some people—particularly those who would qualify for a diagnosis of prolonged grief disorder—untreated grief can be a source of seemingly endless pain or lead them to withdraw from the world. In such cases, treatment can be indispensable, as it can help an individual adapt to the loss and start living again.