What does a psychologist do?
Contrary to popular belief, psychologists are not people who give advice. I see myself as a navigating system that helps a patient reach their destination, by exploring the most suitable route, plotting landmarks and eventually reaching their goals. Psychologists use different types of therapy that are suited to the problem and the client. We choose the methods with most evidence of success for particular problems. Therapy is an empowering process. We don’t tell you what to do, but rather guide you to discover the best choices for your life.

What sort of people come to you for therapy?
There is a misconception that people who go to therapy are ‘crazy’. This is far from the truth - many people who struggle with life’s challenges (e.g. relationship difficulties, grief, trauma, stress, etc.) benefit from therapy. While we usually have the individual capacity to deal with some of life’s challenges, some problems can become overwhelming and impact on our day to day functioning.

Tell us about your special interest in couple’s therapy.
I believe that if we can strengthen the bond between husband and wife, then the spin-offs extend to children, work and health. I enjoy premarital counselling to prepare young couples for the reality of marriage, helping couples work through infidelity, cope with infertility, improve parenting skills and deal with life transitions.

What do you love most about your job?
I get to work with people who touch my heart and teach me about different aspects of life. My work is meaningful and congruent with my personal beliefs. Because of the variety of patients I get to interact with, I’ve expanded my practice to focus on HIV counselling, psycho-oncology, behavioural cardiology, renal failure, burnout and other chronic illnesses. Because I love writing, I have several opportunities to express myself and share my views in print and on social media.

What is your personal motto.
You are the author of your life story…so be your own hero, write your own lifescript, decide who is worthy of being in your story…and continue to learn along the way.