Articles

Explore insightful articles on counselling, mental health, and professional growth authored by Humanitas experts and interns.

Articles

Open book with pages turning, representing knowledge and exploration of Humanitas articles.

Understanding Client Mistakes and the Difficulty or Reluctance to Change: A Letter and Guideline for Fellow Counsellors

2025-07-03T15:59:55+02:00July 3rd, 2025|Client Dynamics, Counselling Skills, Counsellors, Intervention Strategies, Personal Growth and Motivation, Psychological Foundations, Self-Reflection, Training and Development, Uncategorised|

Dear Fellow Counsellors, In our counselling rooms, we often meet clients who desire to change but remain stuck in old habits. These aren’t signs of laziness or failure—they’re reflections of how the brain clings to what is known, even when it hurts. Over time, I’ve come to see resistance not as an obstacle but

The Importance of Empathy and Containment When Working with Families in Crisis

2025-06-24T13:01:25+02:00June 24th, 2025|Containment, Counselling Skills, Crisis, Cultural Sensitivity, Empathy, Families, Interns|

Introduction Working in a paediatric hospital setting has exposed me to the immense emotional toll that hospitalisation can have on families, particularly parents of critically ill children. In such high-stress environments, core counselling skills such as empathy and containment are not just helpful – they are essential. This article examines the significance of these

Understanding Involuntary Psychiatric Admission in South Africa: A Guide for Counsellors

2025-06-09T08:04:21+02:00June 9th, 2025|Counsellors, Ethical Considerations, Involuntary Admission, Legal Framework|

As counsellors, we are often on the frontlines of mental health support, building trust, offering guidance, and sometimes witnessing clients in deep psychological distress. When someone is no longer able to access care voluntarily due to their mental state, it becomes essential to understand how the involuntary psychiatric admission process works in South Africa.

The Effects Of Trauma On The Body

2025-02-17T13:47:27+02:00February 17th, 2025|Emotional Intelligence (EQ), Interns, Mindfulness and Resilience, Personal Growth and Motivation|

"Trauma is often perceived as a short-term physical experience with lasting psychological effects. However, our bodies remember trauma long after the initial event. Understanding how trauma is stored and manifests physically helps us recognize symptoms like chronic pain, muscle tension, and digestive issues – all signs of unprocessed trauma."

The Role of Mindfulness in Healthcare and Counselling

2025-02-13T16:02:52+02:00February 13th, 2025|Emotional Intelligence (EQ), Interns, Mindfulness and Resilience, Personal Growth and Motivation|

Mindfulness has gained significant recognition in healthcare and counselling for its ability to enhance emotional regulation, reduce stress, and improve overall well-being. While often mistaken for meditation alone, mindfulness extends beyond structured practice, integrating into daily life to foster awareness and resilience. This article explores its benefits, limitations, and practical applications in therapeutic settings.

A Letter To Our Interns

2025-02-13T13:16:07+02:00February 13th, 2025|Coaching and Mentorship, Emotional Intelligence (EQ), Learning and Education, Lecturers, Mindfulness and Resilience|

It’s easy to feel like we’re falling behind, especially when comparison sneaks into our daily lives. Social media, conversations, and even our own thoughts can make us believe we’re not doing enough. But life isn’t a race—each of us is on a unique path. By shifting our focus inward and embracing our own journey, we can find joy and fulfillment. Here are ten powerful tips to help you stay on track, celebrate progress, and achieve your goals at your own pace.

Why Emotions Matter: The Brain’s Limbic System in Counselling

2025-02-11T15:09:31+02:00February 11th, 2025|Emotional Intelligence (EQ), Interns, Mindfulness and Resilience, Personal Growth and Motivation|

Our emotions play a fundamental role in how we experience the world. They guide our reactions, decisions, and relationships, often influencing our behaviour in ways we do not even fully understand. Central to this emotional world is the limbic system, a group of structures deep in the brain that governs our emotional

Breaking the Silence: Addressing Mental Health Stigma in South Africa

2025-02-10T15:43:44+02:00January 31st, 2025|Emotional Intelligence (EQ), Interns, Mindfulness and Resilience, Personal Growth and Motivation|

Introduction Mental health stigma is deeply rooted in societal attitudes, cultural beliefs, and institutional systems in South Africa. While millions of people across the country struggle with mental health challenges, stigma often exacerbates their challenges by creating barriers to access and leading to judgement and discrimination in their everyday lives. This article explores how

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