Psychologists and Therapists for Elderly in Woodstock

Photo of Jandré van der Merwe, Psychologist, MA, HPCSA - Couns. Psych.
Jandré van der Merwe
Psychologist, MA, HPCSA - Couns. Psych.
Woodstock 7915
My psychotherapeutic stance is accepting and judgment-free. The therapeutic relationship is essential in effective therapy. Based on this, it is crucially important to get to know my clients on a personal level, and for my clients to get to know me. I position myself alongside my clients to collaboratively formulate a focused treatment plan.
My psychotherapeutic stance is accepting and judgment-free. The therapeutic relationship is essential in effective therapy. Based on this, it is crucially important to get to know my clients on a personal level, and for my clients to get to know me. I position myself alongside my clients to collaboratively formulate a focused treatment plan.
064 558 3348 View 064 558 3348
Photo of Marlize Swanepoel, Art Therapist, MA
Marlize Swanepoel
Art Therapist, MA
1 Endorsed
Woodstock 7925
Waitlist for new clients
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!
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!
087 250 0162 x10 View 087 250 0162 x10
Photo of Margie Pankhurst, Art Therapist, MA
Margie Pankhurst
Art Therapist, MA
3 Endorsed
Woodstock 7925
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
087 250 2962 x40 View 087 250 2962 x40
Photo of Luzelle Fish, Registered Counsellor, HPCSA - Counsellor
Luzelle Fish
Registered Counsellor, HPCSA - Counsellor
Serves Area
My approach is down-to-earth and collaborative and I value the therapeutic relationship as a tool for meaningful change.
My approach is down-to-earth and collaborative and I value the therapeutic relationship as a tool for meaningful change.
087 250 2042 x71 View 087 250 2042 x71
Photo of David Arnot, General Counsellor, BSocSci Hons
David Arnot
General Counsellor, BSocSci Hons
Serves Area
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.
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.
087 250 0536 x45 View 087 250 0536 x45
Photo of Tara du Plessis, Registered Counsellor, HPCSA - Counsellor
Tara du Plessis
Registered Counsellor, HPCSA - Counsellor
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Hello! I'm Tara, a Registered Counsellor practicing in Newlands, CT. Many of the people I work with are capable adults or teens who look like they’re coping, but internally feel anxious, stuck, or worn down. My services may be a good fit if you are struggling to manage stress, anxiety, trauma responses, chronic pain, or life difficulty and could do with some support to live fully and feel like yourself again. Counselling with me is warm, down to earth and collaborative. We don’t only talk about what’s difficult - we explore how your nervous system has learned to respond, why some patterns persist, and what you can do to shift them.
Hello! I'm Tara, a Registered Counsellor practicing in Newlands, CT. Many of the people I work with are capable adults or teens who look like they’re coping, but internally feel anxious, stuck, or worn down. My services may be a good fit if you are struggling to manage stress, anxiety, trauma responses, chronic pain, or life difficulty and could do with some support to live fully and feel like yourself again. Counselling with me is warm, down to earth and collaborative. We don’t only talk about what’s difficult - we explore how your nervous system has learned to respond, why some patterns persist, and what you can do to shift them.
087 250 2748 x44 View 087 250 2748 x44
Photo of Samukelisiwe Charity Mbambo - Samke Okonkwo_Clinical Psychologist, Psychologist, MA, HPCSA - Clin. Psych.
Samke Okonkwo_Clinical Psychologist
Psychologist, MA, HPCSA - Clin. Psych.
Serves Area
If you’re going through a difficult time, therapy can be a place to pause and feel supported. You don’t need to have everything figured out or know where to start. This is a neurodiversity-affirming space for children, adolescents and adults, offering a calm, respectful environment where you can unmask and be yourself. Therapy is shaped around your needs and how your mind works, with a strengths-based approach to managing ongoing challenges. Whether you’re struggling with anxiety, low mood, emotional overwhelm, or changes in how you see yourself, you don’t have to navigate it alone. We can take things one step at a time.
If you’re going through a difficult time, therapy can be a place to pause and feel supported. You don’t need to have everything figured out or know where to start. This is a neurodiversity-affirming space for children, adolescents and adults, offering a calm, respectful environment where you can unmask and be yourself. Therapy is shaped around your needs and how your mind works, with a strengths-based approach to managing ongoing challenges. Whether you’re struggling with anxiety, low mood, emotional overwhelm, or changes in how you see yourself, you don’t have to navigate it alone. We can take things one step at a time.
087 250 2161 x45 View 087 250 2161 x45
Photo of Tessa Whyatt, General Counsellor, MA
Tessa Whyatt
General Counsellor, MA
5 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am an experienced therapist and coach, with multiple trainings to support your needs. I started as an art therapist 20 years ago and have actively added to my qualifications and experience. I specialize in grief and loss work, including infertility; as well as working with people struggling with anxiety, trauma and depression. I focus on helping you navigate difficult times, and address problem areas with a focus on wellbeing, using resilience coaching and other tools. I work in a Humanistic, Positive Psychology framework, a whole person, strengths-based approach looking at your mental, physical and emotional health needs.
I am an experienced therapist and coach, with multiple trainings to support your needs. I started as an art therapist 20 years ago and have actively added to my qualifications and experience. I specialize in grief and loss work, including infertility; as well as working with people struggling with anxiety, trauma and depression. I focus on helping you navigate difficult times, and address problem areas with a focus on wellbeing, using resilience coaching and other tools. I work in a Humanistic, Positive Psychology framework, a whole person, strengths-based approach looking at your mental, physical and emotional health needs.
087 250 0592 x68 View 087 250 0592 x68
Photo of Courtenay Pottow, Registered Counsellor, HPCSA - Counsellor
Courtenay Pottow
Registered Counsellor, HPCSA - Counsellor
Serves Area
I strongly believe that everyone deserves quality access to mental healthcare, & I fiercely advocate for my clients. Clients usually come to my practice because something in their inner or outer world isn't working for them, & they are looking for relief, clarity or change. I help them by delivering ethical & evidence-backed counselling techniques to ensure that my clients receive professional & effective counselling. My friendly, outgoing & welcoming nature ensures that clients feel seen, heard, & supported.
I strongly believe that everyone deserves quality access to mental healthcare, & I fiercely advocate for my clients. Clients usually come to my practice because something in their inner or outer world isn't working for them, & they are looking for relief, clarity or change. I help them by delivering ethical & evidence-backed counselling techniques to ensure that my clients receive professional & effective counselling. My friendly, outgoing & welcoming nature ensures that clients feel seen, heard, & supported.
087 250 0513 x62 View 087 250 0513 x62
Photo of Slindile Mbatha, Psychologist, MA, HPCSA - Clin. Psych.
Slindile Mbatha
Psychologist, MA, HPCSA - Clin. Psych.
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Not accepting new clients
Taking the step to get therapy can be quite daunting for anyone. It can mean that at times, you may have to work through difficult challenges and painful experiences. My goal is to provide a safe, warm, non-judgmental therapeutic space where every client can safely navigate through key life experiences while also feeling empowered to grow. I’ve worked with clients from many different backgrounds & I aspire for clients know that they are seen no matter the age, race, gender or ability or sexual orientation.
Taking the step to get therapy can be quite daunting for anyone. It can mean that at times, you may have to work through difficult challenges and painful experiences. My goal is to provide a safe, warm, non-judgmental therapeutic space where every client can safely navigate through key life experiences while also feeling empowered to grow. I’ve worked with clients from many different backgrounds & I aspire for clients know that they are seen no matter the age, race, gender or ability or sexual orientation.
087 250 0914 x22 View 087 250 0914 x22

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Dr. Melanie Marx, Registered Counsellor, PhD, HPCSA - Counsellor
Dr. Melanie Marx
Registered Counsellor, PhD, HPCSA - Counsellor
Serves Area
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).
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 Nomandla Mdleleni, Registered Counsellor, HPCSA - Counsellor
Nomandla Mdleleni
Registered Counsellor, HPCSA - Counsellor
1 Endorsed
Claremont 7735
My ideal client is someone who feels overwhelmed, emotionally exhausted, or stuck, yet deeply desires healing and growth. They want a safe space to be heard and supported so they can build confidence, healthier relationships, and a more balanced, fulfilling life.
My ideal client is someone who feels overwhelmed, emotionally exhausted, or stuck, yet deeply desires healing and growth. They want a safe space to be heard and supported so they can build confidence, healthier relationships, and a more balanced, fulfilling life.
087 813 4099 x12 View 087 813 4099 x12
Photo of Shantal Pillay - For Freedom Wellness Counselling, General Counsellor
Our trauma and abuse counselling service offers expert care and compassion to anyone who has suffered trauma or abuse and for victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, and other types of gender-based violence, our counselling service provides a secure and private setting. Our skilled counsellors provide a secure and encouraging environment to aid clients in their healing and recovery from their traumas. Relational Counselling our relational counselling service offers a safe and supportive space for individuals and couples to navigate relationship issues and strengthen their connections.
Our trauma and abuse counselling service offers expert care and compassion to anyone who has suffered trauma or abuse and for victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, and other types of gender-based violence, our counselling service provides a secure and private setting. Our skilled counsellors provide a secure and encouraging environment to aid clients in their healing and recovery from their traumas. Relational Counselling our relational counselling service offers a safe and supportive space for individuals and couples to navigate relationship issues and strengthen their connections.
087 250 2293 x71 View 087 250 2293 x71
Photo of Susan Joubert, Psychologist, MA, HPCSA - Clin. Psych.
Susan Joubert
Psychologist, MA, HPCSA - Clin. Psych.
Mowbray 7700
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 Friederike Koep - Sh-ift Happens head Coach& Professional Counsellor, General Counsellor
As a Performance & Burnout Prevention Coach, I specialize in helping high achievers overcome exhaustion, stress& lack of motivation (anger, sadness, depression, anxiety, grief, feeling stuck, wanting to improve communication, relationships) to enhance and sustain their performance. I work with professionals to regain their energy, passion, and purpose, ensuring they can maintain peak performance without sacrificing their well- Dramatic shifts are possible. Together we will show you and teach you tools to step out, forward and into a future of your choosing.
As a Performance & Burnout Prevention Coach, I specialize in helping high achievers overcome exhaustion, stress& lack of motivation (anger, sadness, depression, anxiety, grief, feeling stuck, wanting to improve communication, relationships) to enhance and sustain their performance. I work with professionals to regain their energy, passion, and purpose, ensuring they can maintain peak performance without sacrificing their well- Dramatic shifts are possible. Together we will show you and teach you tools to step out, forward and into a future of your choosing.
087 250 0902 x55 View 087 250 0902 x55
Photo of Claire Haggard, Psychologist, MA, HPCSA - Clin. Psych.
Claire Haggard
Psychologist, MA, HPCSA - Clin. Psych.
I am a registered Clinical Psychologist (PS 0098035), with over 15 years experience offering brief and long term psychotherapeutic intervention, clinical assessment, case management, group psychotherapy and clinical supervision (individual and group therapy). I have practiced in a variety of settings, including the higher education context (including student wellness services at both the University of Cape Town and Stellenbosch University from 2008-2017), the primary health care setting, the private sector and, more recently, within the context of addiction (Bloemendal Addiction Treatment) and neurodiversity.
I am a registered Clinical Psychologist (PS 0098035), with over 15 years experience offering brief and long term psychotherapeutic intervention, clinical assessment, case management, group psychotherapy and clinical supervision (individual and group therapy). I have practiced in a variety of settings, including the higher education context (including student wellness services at both the University of Cape Town and Stellenbosch University from 2008-2017), the primary health care setting, the private sector and, more recently, within the context of addiction (Bloemendal Addiction Treatment) and neurodiversity.
087 250 2042 x70 View 087 250 2042 x70
Photo of Seleme Revelation Melato - Dr Seleme Melato PhD (Clincal Psychologist, Psychologist, PhD, HPCSA - Clin. Psych.
Dr Seleme Melato PhD (Clincal Psychologist
Psychologist, PhD, HPCSA - Clin. Psych.
Serves Area
Are you in need of professional help or clarity with regards to your personal life, relationships, or your mental health? Do you have any life goals, needs or challenges, wherein you need guidance, support, towards understanding yourself and others? Your holistic mental health is my passion. I will help you navigate your journey towards self-discovery and understanding, as well as improving your relationships on a personal or professional level. Sessions are tailor made for the youth, adults, couples and families striving for psychosocial wellbeing.
Are you in need of professional help or clarity with regards to your personal life, relationships, or your mental health? Do you have any life goals, needs or challenges, wherein you need guidance, support, towards understanding yourself and others? Your holistic mental health is my passion. I will help you navigate your journey towards self-discovery and understanding, as well as improving your relationships on a personal or professional level. Sessions are tailor made for the youth, adults, couples and families striving for psychosocial wellbeing.
087 250 2042 x17 View 087 250 2042 x17
Photo of Janine Liedeman - Build to Strength, Registered Counsellor, HPCSA - Counsellor
Build to Strength
Registered Counsellor, HPCSA - Counsellor
1 Endorsed
Belhar 7493
Build to Strength was birthed in a very sensitive time in Cape Town, South Africa; where its citizens didn’t only face a physical health challenge, but in its enormity it was apparent to Janine Liedeman, the head counsellor and founder that her academic foundation had to marry her passion to help many battling with emotional wellbeing. It was then that her practice was opened, in 2020 to help individuals, couples, and families alike to manage the ever-demanding changes and effects of a balanced life by journeying with people and companies equipping them with tools to function in what otherwise be overwhelming stress and dysfunction
Build to Strength was birthed in a very sensitive time in Cape Town, South Africa; where its citizens didn’t only face a physical health challenge, but in its enormity it was apparent to Janine Liedeman, the head counsellor and founder that her academic foundation had to marry her passion to help many battling with emotional wellbeing. It was then that her practice was opened, in 2020 to help individuals, couples, and families alike to manage the ever-demanding changes and effects of a balanced life by journeying with people and companies equipping them with tools to function in what otherwise be overwhelming stress and dysfunction
087 250 0914 x70 View 087 250 0914 x70
Photo of Philip Slabbert, Psychologist, MA, HPCSA - Clin. Psych.
Philip Slabbert
Psychologist, MA, HPCSA - Clin. Psych.
As a compassionate Clinical Psychologist, I offer psychotherapy to adults, navigating life's complexities. I aim to hold a safe, empathetic, non-judgmental space in which we can collaborate in understanding the unconscious patterns playing out in your life that may no longer be serving you. Together we can increase your self-awareness and support meaningful change.
As a compassionate Clinical Psychologist, I offer psychotherapy to adults, navigating life's complexities. I aim to hold a safe, empathetic, non-judgmental space in which we can collaborate in understanding the unconscious patterns playing out in your life that may no longer be serving you. Together we can increase your self-awareness and support meaningful change.
087 250 2748 x28 View 087 250 2748 x28
Photo of Valerie Shayne, Registered Counsellor, HPCSA - Counsellor
Valerie Shayne
Registered Counsellor, HPCSA - Counsellor
2 Endorsed
Many of my clients come to counselling during times of significant change. They may be navigating relationship difficulties, divorce or separation, family conflict, grief and loss, stress and burnout, anxiety, depression, or a growing sense that life is no longer working in the way it once did. Some feel overwhelmed and emotionally exhausted, while others feel stuck or uncertain about the future. I provide a warm, supportive space where clients can explore their experiences, gain insight into themselves and their relationships, and find their way forward with greater clarity, self-understanding and resilience.
Many of my clients come to counselling during times of significant change. They may be navigating relationship difficulties, divorce or separation, family conflict, grief and loss, stress and burnout, anxiety, depression, or a growing sense that life is no longer working in the way it once did. Some feel overwhelmed and emotionally exhausted, while others feel stuck or uncertain about the future. I provide a warm, supportive space where clients can explore their experiences, gain insight into themselves and their relationships, and find their way forward with greater clarity, self-understanding and resilience.
087 250 0049 x50 View 087 250 0049 x50
FAQ - About Therapy for Elders
Is one ever too old for mental health therapy?
Individuals of all ages can benefit from mental health therapy. Indeed, older adults in particular may benefit from the social and psychological support a therapist can provide; the topics that older adults address in therapy may simply differ from those of younger clients. Seniors should seek out a therapist who has experience working with older individuals and who is well-versed in addressing common concerns among elderly individuals, such as depression, anxiety, loneliness, and physical mobility challenges.

How is counselling for elderly different from counselling for other age groups?
In general, counselling offers an opportunity for clients to process difficult life events and develop coping skills they can use outside of the therapy session. Therapists who specialise in working with elderly clients generally have the same framework but may place a special emphasis on specific topics, such as caregiver relationships and reducing loneliness. They may be specially equipped to deal with certain physical conditions or facilitate discussion surrounding end-of-life topics. Counselling for the elderly may also place a greater emphasis on social work-type topics to ensure that geriatric clients have access to necessary resources, such as food, a safe home environment, and healthcare.

How can therapy improve the quality of life of aging individuals?
Therapy for aging adults can greatly improve quality of life by providing an opportunity for them to process difficult emotions related to end-of-life, navigate relational or caregiver challenges, and develop coping skills for common mental health conditions, like anxiety or depression. Subsequent reductions in negative emotions and mental health disorder symptoms can make day-to-day living much more manageable for aging adults and those that care for them. The ongoing relationship with a trusted therapist can also help seniors combat loneliness and provide a sense of structure for their routine.

What are the qualities to look for in therapists who see seniors?
Seniors counsellors, like mental health counselors in general, should be kind, empathetic, skilled at listening, and knowledgeable about their particular area of expertise. Counsellors specialising in working with the senior population should be very familiar with the aging process in general and the common conditions that the elderly can face, such as dementia, depression, loneliness, and/or physical illness. Many senior counsellors are also well-equipped to help caregivers and families navigate the aging process of their loved ones, and they may draw on Interpersonal Therapy to help facilitate improved interactions between seniors and those that care for them.