When choosing a psychologist, it can be confusing to know which “type” of psychologist to approach. Do I need a Clinical Psychologist? A Counselling Psychologist? Or an Educational Psychologist? What is the difference? In South Africa, psychologists register with the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA) under different categories, the three most common being […]
Jenna Fernandes
The Benefits of Mindfulness: Why Slowing Down Can Change Everything
In the busyness of everyday life, it’s easy to find yourself moving from one task to the next without pausing to breathe, let alone reflect. Mindfulness is the practice of gently bringing your attention to the present moment, which includes your thoughts, your body, and your surroundings, without judgment. Though it may sound simple, research […]
The Myth of the Perfect Parent and the Power of ‘Good Enough’
Parenting can feel like a constant performance review. Social media, parenting books, school newsletters, and even casual chats by the school parking lot can leave you wondering if you’re doing enough, being enough, or getting it “right.” The idea of the perfect parent is seductive. It’s a comforting fantasy that, if we could just figure out the […]
Who Am I Without the Roles I Play?
It’s easy to define ourselves by what we do. We become the reliable one, the caregiver, the achiever, the good parent, the helpful friend. These roles are often how we relate to others and how they relate to us, and many of them come with meaning, love, and pride. But they can also come with pressure, routine, and exhaustion. Over […]
Are My Struggles Serious Enough for Therapy?
Many people hesitate before reaching out for therapy, not because they’re unwilling, but because they’re unsure: “Is what I’m going through serious enough?”They look around and see others who’ve faced devastating losses, traumatic events, or childhoods filled with chaos, and start to wonder whether they have the right to seek help at all. But here’s the […]
Different, Not Defiant: Understanding Challenging Behaviour in Neurodiverse Children
IntroductionMany parents, teachers, and caregivers find themselves frustrated or overwhelmed by behaviours that seem oppositional, reactive, or when a child appears to be deliberately difficult. When a child refuses to follow instructions, explodes with anger, or resists change, it can be easy to label them as “defiant” or “naughty.” But what if there’s more going […]
Why Can’t I Just Relax?
A gentle look at why rest can feel hard (even when you want it). You finally have some space to rest.There is nothing urgent on your plate, no one asking for anything, and part of you is telling yourself, “Just enjoy the quiet.”And yet… your chest feels tight, your thoughts are racing, or your body […]
I Know What I Should Be Doing… So Why Can’t I Do It?
A compassionate look at why insight does not always lead to action. You know what you want to do. You know what would be good for you.And still…you do not do it. “I know I should leave the relationship.”“I know I need to rest. I am exhausted.”“I know this dynamic is not fair, but I […]
When Behaviour Is Communication: Seeing the Message Behind the Meltdown
Reframing your child’s reactions through a lens of meaning and connection Your child is crying because they wanted their lunch in the green lunchbox, and not the yellow one. You are already running late, trying to pack bags, find the missing school shoe, and brush your teeth all the while someone tugs at your sleeve. […]
Why Therapy Isn’t About ‘Fixing’ You – It’s About Understanding Yourself
Many people feel hesitation when considering therapy and you’re not alone in that. Many people carry the fear that therapy means something is “wrong” with them that they need to be “fixed.” This misconception can feel heavy and stigmatising, making the vulnerable step of reaching out for help feel even harder. But therapy is far […]