Steven Levitas
CLINICAL Psychologist
My name is Steven, I am a clinical psychologist. I believe all people have an extraordinary innate ability to grow, heal and change. We all have different stories, experiences, and struggles. Through therapy, we are able to change these stories and struggles. My approach to therapy is deeply humanistic and systemic at its core. However, I believe in integrating techniques such as CBT, DBT and IPA where appropriate. I see people as more than their struggles or diagnoses. I endeavour to create a safe, empathetic and non-judgmental space.
Prior to psychology, I worked as a basic life support practitioner for a number of years, as well as volunteered at Lifeline and SADAG. My dissertation was fuelled by an interest in psychological aspects of medical/chronic illness and chronic pain. Following my masters, I gained experience at various primary and tertiary public hospitals. I have worked with a wide variety of individuals and couples with a broad range of difficulties.
I understand therapy can be scary at first. Give therapy a chance, and things can improve. I look forward to working with you and your story.
“It takes two to know one.” -Gregory Bateson
How I Can Help You
Individual Psychotherapy
I like to describe psychotherapy as a journey one takes with a psychologist. In this journey we collaborate to improve one’s mental health, work on specific challenges or disorders, and find better ways to cope. This journey can look different for different individuals and different struggles. In this journey, we may focus on specific events, behaviours or challenges depending on your needs. One constant is the safe, empathetic and non-judgmental environment I endeavour to create for my clients. My core approach is from a humanistic and systemic perspective with techniques from CBT/DBT. This, this depends on you as I do not believe in a “one-size fits all” for psychotherapy.
COUPLES THERAPY
Couples Therapy, also known as relationship or marriage therapy, aims to improve the relationship between a couple. Couples can face significant stress from a wide range of circumstances, such as infidelity, family, pressures from parenting and changes in the relationship. Couples can face these issues after years of marriage, or even in new relationships. Through couple’s therapy, new ways of communicating and new ways of behaviour can be found to improve the quality and depth of a relationship. Couples therapy is not about blaming one partner, but rather creating a safe and non-judgmental space to address issues and find new ways forward.