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
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
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.
With several training options available, it’s important to choose wisely. A counselling course is about more than simply obtaining your certificate of attendance or recognition of hours— it’s an investment in your calling. To help you make an informed decision, here are some key questions to consider when exploring your options
"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."
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.
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.
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
My Grandmother died when I was a teen, and there was a family debate about whether us grandkids should or shouldn’t attend her funeral service. My aunt made strong points, urging our parents to consider that we had lost a family member too and needed space to grieve. She also pointed out
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