The Humanitas Counselling Interns are volunteering their time to offer free online counselling services.

The Humanitas Counselling Interns are an amazing group of people. They have either a degree or an honours degree in Psychology or Social Work and each one of them is passionate about working with people. They have recently completed their theoretical component of our Humanitas Counselling Course and are now ready to start with their practical component or internship. During this second component of their training, our interns will offer over 200 hours of counselling, free of charge to the general public, via an online platform. They also offer face to face counselling sessions, and volunteer their time, at the amazing organisations and institutions who we have partnered with.

Our Humanitas Counselling Interns are eager to connect, listen and talk with you. If you would like to book a free ONLINE counselling session – please have a look at the different people who are able to help. Choose the person you would like to book your session with and fill in the form at the bottom of this page. They will get back to you as soon as possible.

PLEASE NOTE: The need for free counselling is extraordinarily high. Our Interns make themselves available as and when they have capacity to take on new clients. If no intern-profiles are reflecting on this page, it means that none of our interns currently have capacity to start any new processes. 
Please check in regularly, as we have several intakes throughout the year and therefore new interns join us on a regular basis, or in case of an emergency, please make use of the emergency numbers provided on this site.

You are not alone. Reach out and chat to one of our counselling interns today.

MEET THE HUMANITAS COUNSELLING INTERNS

In case of emergency, please contact the following free platforms:

Life Line: 0861 322 322

SADAG: 0800 456 789 (24 hour helpline)

Suicide Emergency: 0800 567 567

Or alternatively you can make use of the following online paid for services:

Vita Nova: www.vitanova.co.za

Vita Nova Counselling
  • Shenay

    Humanitas Counselling Intern

    Shenay Saroop-Golding

    "Listening is sometimes the only thing that's needed to help someone" 

    Hi, my name is Shenay and these are the things that you can expect from me: 

    • a safe and kind space. 
    • a place where I won't just listen, but where you will be heard. 
    • and lastly, I want to be the person who understands you, and will sit with you through all that you are, all that you are going through, and all that you hope to be.

    In return, the only thing I ask of you, is for you to come as you are. And together, we can create an even better space where there are no judgments or fears. A space where it's just two human beings, doing the best they can, together. 

  • Ayesha

    Humanitas Counselling Intern

    Ayesha Kaskar

    My passion is to uplift and empower people,  to help everyone I engage with to find happiness and peace. 

    I am a dedicated professional with a Commerce degree and Honours in Psychology, blending corporate, entrepreneurial, and counselling expertise to empower individuals and communities.

    Beyond my professional experience, I  find fulfilment in serving others. As a wife of 25 years and a mother to two children over the age of 21, I understand the importance of patience, empathy, and active listening. I am the go-to person, friend, or acquaintance in my home and extended circle of friends and family —always ready to lend an ear and offer guidance with understanding and compassion.

    I adopt a person centred approach and offer counselling in a broad range of areas and to all ages.

  • Melisa

    Humanitas Counselling Intern

    Melisa Mbero

    "People are just as wonderful as sunsets if I can let them be.  When I look at a sunset, I don't find myself saying, "Soften the orange a little on the right-hand corner, and put a bit more purple along the base, and use a little more pink in the cloud colour." I don't do that.  I don’t try to control a sunset.  I watch it with awe as it unfolds." - Carl Rogers

     

    Hi there, my name is Melisa Mbero and I am so excited to meet you 

    I'm committed to providing a safe, non-judgmental space for my clients.  Whatever you bring to the table—your thoughts, feelings, fears, and hopes—will be valued with empathy, respect, and compassion.

    If you're seeking support, I'm here to listen and support you every step of the way.

     

  • Caroline Valerie

    Humanitas Counselling Intern

    Caroline Valerie Coolbear

    Hello! My name is Caroline Coolbear. Personal growth is a lifelong journey, and sometimes we need support along the way. I believe everyone needs someone to listen, a helping hand, or a shoulder to lean on at some point. My goal is to walk alongside you on your journey and to create a safe space for you, where you feel truly heard and understood. I believe that by embracing all of our experiences, we can grow and reach our full potential. I'm here to support you on your journey. 

  • Kianne

    Humanitas Counselling Intern

    Kianne Coltman

    I am a passionate and dedicated counsellor with an honours degree in psychology from the university of the Witwatersrand. Through the person-centred approach I aim to provide space in which my clients can be their authentic selves. I believe counselling is about a journey of self-discovery, healing and improvement and I am excited to be part of that journey. 

  • Vanessa

    Humanitas Counselling Intern

    Vanessa van der Merwe

    Hi, I’m Vanessa, an intern at Humanitas. 

    I’ve always been passionate about understanding people and creating a space where they feel truly heard. With an Honours degree in Psychology, I am dedicated to walking alongside my clients as they navigate life’s challenges, offering support that is both compassionate and practical.

    I believe that growth and self-discovery happen in a space where you feel safe enough to share your story without fear of judgment. My goal is to provide that space—where you can unpack your thoughts, explore your emotions, and move forward at a pace that feels right for you.

    No journey is the same, and I am here to meet you where you are, offering guidance, encouragement, and a listening ear as you take the next steps toward the life you want to build.

    I look forward to walking on this journey with you.

  • Claudia

    Humanitas Counselling Intern

    Claudia Smit

    I am passionate about people and enjoy interacting with individuals from all walks of life.  As a teacher, I have had plenty of experience in dealing with many different age groups.  I am passionate about holistic wellbeing and personal development.  My goal as a counsellor is to provide a platform for navigating through all of life's challenges in a meaningful way.

  • Hentie

    Humanitas Counselling Intern

    Hentie Visagie

    About Me

    I am a Humanitas counselling intern with a BEd in Senior and FET Phase Education and a BEd Honours in Educational Psychology. I provide a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental space for clients to explore their thoughts and emotions. While I work with clients across various challenges, I have a particular passion for supporting children. I can offer assistance in both Afrikaans and English. 

    My Approach

    I use an empathetic, client-centered, and goal-oriented approach, integrating:
    ✔ Person-Centered Counselling – fostering a safe, supportive environment.
    ✔ Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) – identifying and reframing negative thought patterns.
    ✔ Mindfulness & Breathwork – promoting emotional regulation and stress reduction.
    ✔ Psychoeducation & Grounding Exercises – providing practical coping tools.

    I take a holistic view of each client, considering all factors that influence well-being. My role is to guide you toward clarity, self-worth, and personal growth.

    What to Expect

    Our first session will focus on understanding your needs and setting goals. Confidentiality is a priority, except in cases where safety is a concern. Sessions aim to provide insight, empowerment, and practical strategies for progress.

    Why Choose Me?

    🔹 I have personal experience with the power of counselling, which drives my passion for helping others.
    🔹 I offer a holistic perspective, recognizing the many factors influencing mental well-being.
    🔹 I am open-minded, compassionate, and committed to understanding your unique perspective.

    If you're looking for a compassionate, understanding, and professional counsellor, I would be honoured to support you on your journey.

  • Indiphile Salizwa

    Humanitas Counselling Intern

    Indiphile Salizwa Ludidi

     

    My name is Indiphile Salizwa Ludidi and I hold an Honours degree in Psychology. I look forward to being your counsellor and embarking on this journey together.

  • Robyn

    Humanitas Counselling Intern

    Robyn Williams-van Dyk

    Hi, I’m Robyn.

    I see counselling as a partnership—walking alongside you as you explore, grow, and rediscover your strengths. Whether you're facing challenges, seeking clarity, or embracing personal growth, I’m here to support and guide you at your own pace to help you feel empowered.

    Life can be overwhelming at times, and you don’t have to navigate it alone. My approach is warm, empathetic, and down-to-earth, creating a space where you feel heard, understood, and supported every step of the way. Your journey is at the centre of our time together.

    If you’re ready to take that step, I’d be honoured to walk with you.

  • Geo

    Humanitas Counselling Intern

    Geo Carstens

    I'm committed to supporting and guiding you throughout this process!

     

  • Leeze

    Humanitas Counselling Intern

    Leeze Myburgh

    Need someone to talk to? I am here to support individuals, couples, and teens facing anxiety, relationship challenges, or any tough emotions. 

    A safe, judgment-free space where you can share, heal, and grow. Let’s take the first step together.  

  • Theona

    Humanitas Counselling Intern

    Theona Odayar

    Hello! My name is Theona Odayar and I am a Specialist Wellness Counsellor intern, with a Bachelor’s and Honours degree in Psychology from Rhodes University.

    I’m passionate about offering a nurturing and safe space where clients can feel comfortable and supported. With a gentle and compassionate approach, I strive to bring a sense of lightness and warmth to each session, ensuring that every individual feels truly valued and understood on their unique journey. 

    I look forward to meeting you and hearing all about your journey. 

  • Ghee-Ann

    Humanitas Counselling Intern

    Ghee-Ann Rademan

    Welcome, 

    My name is Ghee-Ann, and I cannot wait to meet you. To me, the counseling journey is about honoring the the human experience and embracing the beautiful truth that we were never meant to navigate life alone.

    My counselling approach centers on creating a space where you can fully embrace your most authentic self and feel safe in sharing all the parts of your story—those you've carried in silence and those that have yet to be told.

    Looking forward to our time together. 

     

     

     

     

  • Lushenne

    Humanitas Counselling Intern

    Lushenne Badenhorst

    I'm a Specialist Wellness Counsellor intern with an Honours Degree in Psychology. I’m here to provide a safe, confidential space where you can openly share your concerns and the challenges life has brought your way. YOU are in control of what we discuss, and I’m here to listen, support, and guide you toward well-being. Let's take this journey together. 

  • Leevania

    Humanitas Counselling Intern

    Leevania Maphai

    Every adversity holds the potential for growth. As a counsellor, I provide a safe and supportive space for you to navigate life's challenges and explore the path that feels right for you. After many years in the corporate world, I chose to follow my passion, transitioning into counselling to support individuals on their journey of self-discovery and healing. I believe in the power of acceptance and self-compassion, as Carl R. Rogers so beautifully expressed: 'The curious paradox is that when I accept myself just as I am, then I can change.'  Together, we will work toward insight, hope, and meaningful change.

  • Cameron Williams

    Humanitas Counselling Intern

    Cameron Williams Williams

    I understand that life can be unpredictable, overwhelming, and at times, deeply challenging. If you’re feeling lost, burdened, or simply in need of a listening ear, I want you to know—you don’t have to go through it alone.

    My role is to provide a compassionate, non-judgmental space where you feel truly seen and heard. Whatever you’re facing, I am here to support you as you navigate life’s ups and downs, helping you find clarity, strength, and a path forward that feels right for you.

    Let’s take this journey together, one step at a time.

  • Sumoné

    Humanitas Counselling Intern

    Sumoné Gravett

    I am Sumoné R Gravett, with a deep passion to be empathetic, fostering support, assist with growth and a positive change. Through a person-centered approach a safe environment will be created to work collaborately towards being heard, emotional processing, self-improvement, and understanding your deepest feelings and emotional well being.

    Language: Fluent in Afrikaans and English

    I am excited to walk this journey with you.

     

  • Elizabeth

    Humanitas Counselling Intern

    Elizabeth Whitford

    Qualified, confident and competent Counsellor at your service.I am interested in how people can live their lives optimally. To enhance the Human experience.

  • Michaela

    Humanitas Counselling Intern

    Michaela Van Wyk

    Welcome to my profile page

    Having undergone counselling training and personal counselling myself I appreciate the importance of finding a suitable counsellor who provides a safe, friendly and competent environment to support the exploration of your story.

    My counselling approach is integrative and holistic, which means I combine and apply various theories and practices of Psychology tailored to the specific needs of my clients. I believe that everyone is unique and support individuals who have accessed counselling for varying reasons that they feel are inhibiting them from living an authentic and fulfilling life.

    I encourage self-exploration through open communication and genuine interest in my clients’ unique experiences, perspectives and sets of circumstances. I support the view, that the process of personal growth, change and re-balance is not stagnant, it is continuous and ever changing. We do not live in isolation but are parts of a bigger integrated whole. In other words, everything is interconnected and relational. I also believe a pursuit of knowledge, or a transfer of knowledge is often the beginning of self-exploration, positive change and growth. I am a firm proponent of Psycho-education in counselling to empower clients and to ease their difficulties, emotional struggles and pains. 

    I grew up and was educated in communist Czechoslovakia, emigrated and lived for two years in Austria before I came to South Africa. I am a Czech and SA citizen. My childhood in East Bloc zone, which is a piece of history today was experience rich. I came to South Africa in early 90’ and continued my academic and ‘life skills’ education, experienced the political transition from apartheid to democracy, thus lived through another piece of history. I worked in a chemical industry environment since my educational background is in sciences. I left scientific research environment number of years ago to pursue a different career in Psychology, Behavioral Sciences and Education and it remains to be my work and passion still today.

    Reaching out for help is an important and beneficial first step, if only to share our story with another human being ....... 

  • Mishka

    Humanitas Counselling Intern

    Mishka Kursen

    Hi, I’m Mishka, a counselling intern at Humanitas with a Bachelor of Arts Honours Degree in Psychology.

     

    My passion lies in understanding the human brain and how our thoughts, emotions, and experiences shape our lives. I believe that growth begins in a space where you feel truly seen, heard, and supported. Whether you're facing life's challenges, navigating change, seeking personal growth, or simply needing a supportive presence, I am here to walk alongside you on your journey. Together, we can explore your thoughts, emotions, and experiences in a safe, compassionate, and non-judgemental space.

     

    You do not have to go through this alone. Let’s take the next step together.

  • Hannah

    Humanitas Counselling Intern

    Hannah von Benecke

    Hi, I’m Hannah von Benecke.

    I am a compassionate and dedicated counselling intern currently completing the Humanitas Counselling Course, which will register me with the ASCHP as a Specialist Wellness Counsellor.

    I hold an Honours degree in psychology and am deeply passionate about mental health and well-being.

    My counselling approach is warm, client-centered, and supportive. I strive to create a safe, non-judgmental space where you feel heard, understood, and empowered. I believe in walking alongside my clients with empathy and care, exploring challenges together in a collaborative way to foster growth and develop meaningful coping strategies.

    I believe counselling has the power to inspire positive change, and I am excited to walk this journey with you toward greater mental and emotional well-being.

    I look forward to meeting you soon!

  • Camryn

    Humanitas Counselling Intern

    Camryn Morris

    Dedicated to offering a client-centred, non-judgmental space for people to holistically explore themselves. 

  • Lenka

    Humanitas Counselling Intern

    Lenka Labuschagne

    Hello

    I am Lenka Labuscahgne.

    Welcome to my office. Here you will find a listening ear and a safe space where your story matters.

  • Raeesah

    Humanitas Counselling Intern

    Raeesah Williams

    Hi there! I’m Raeesah, but you can call me Rae! ☀️

    I’m here to help you discover your true potential and guide you on a journey of personal growth. Life can get tough, but with the right mindset and tools, you’ve got this! Together, we’ll tackle everyday struggles, build your confidence, and unlock the very best version of YOU. I believe that small, intentional changes can lead to powerful transformations.

    Let’s make this journey fun and transformative. 🪴

    I’m so excited to work with you!

  • Julia

    Humanitas Counselling Intern

    Julia Wright

    Hi, I'm Julia! 

    I'm excited to work with you, wherever you find yourself in life right now. I am passionate about counselling and creating a warm and accepting environment where you can be your true self.

    I'm looking forward to getting to know you!

  • Jessica Roseanne

    Humanitas Counselling Intern

    Jessica Roseanne McNally

    Hello, my name is Jessica. I aim to provide you with a non-judgemnetal and safe space, within which you are heard and understood. I hope to be able to support you as we explore and go through your journey together.

    I'm looking forward to being part of this journey with you. 

  • Shaylin

    Humanitas Counselling Intern

    Shaylin Steyn

    Hi, l'm Shaylin, and I'm an intern counselor at Humanitas. 
    I take a compassionate, client-centered approach to counseling, and l am committed to helping you create meaningful changes in your life. 
    My goal is to provide a safe, non-judgmental space for you to explore your thoughts and feelings. 
    In our sessions together, you can expect a warm, empathetic, and non-judgmental environment where you can express yourself freely. 
    I view therapy as a partnership, where we work together to explore solutions, gain insights, and develop healthy coping strategies.
    I believe that the therapeutic relationship is the foundation of meaningful change, and 1 am here to listen, support, and empower you.
    My goal is to help you feel heard and understood, while equipping you with tools to create positive changes in your life or better navigate life's hardships.
    If you're ready to begin your journey toward healing and self-discovery, I invite you to contact me to schedule a session. 
  • Kayla Leandra

    Humanitas Counselling Intern

    Kayla Leandra Pequenino

    Creating a compassionate and supportive space where clients feel heard, understood, and empowered is at the heart of this counseling journey. With a deep commitment to empathy, ethical integrity, and personal growth, every session is a chance to foster meaningful conversations in a safe and confidential environment. 

  • Lelanie Helena

    Humanitas Counselling Intern

    Lelanie Helena Pienaar

    Hello, my name is Lelanie Pienaar.

    I would like to take a moment to acknowledge and recognize the bravery and courage that you have shown in seeking support. I believe in creating a safe space and working collaboratively with you in your journey. I have always been fascinated in the way people think. I believe the manner in which you perceive and think about the world around you is completely unique to you as a person.

    I am fluent in Afrikaans and English. I completed a BA in Ancient Languages with Classical Studies at NWU and Bachelors of Social Science (Honours) in Psychology at SACAP.

  • Hannah

    Humanitas Counselling Intern

    Hannah Lagarde

    Here to listen, support and help you figure things out :-)

  • Andrea

    Humanitas Counselling Intern

    Andrea Theunissen

    It takes great courage to be vulnerable. So, I'm offering a safe space for you to talk and just be yourself. Let's go on a journey of self-compassion. ✨

  • Daniel

    Humanitas Counselling Intern

    Daniel Appelman

    Hi there, my name is Daniel Appelman! I would like to commend you for taking the brave first step towards improving and prioritising your well-being. I am a kind-hearted and friendly individual, with a passion for creating authentic connections with others, learning about their life stories, and walking the path towards self-improvement with them. I work from a Person-Centered Approach, and I aim to create a safe, warm and growth-promoting atmosphere in which my clients may feel confident to share their life stories and experiences in a completely non-judgemental space.

    I am an aspiring Specialist Wellness Counsellor, currently completing my counselling internship at Humanitas. I have completed an undergraduate and honours degree in psychology at The University of Pretoria, gaining a vast amount of knowledge regarding the human experience. Some areas I can assist you with include counselling for anxiety and low mood, trauma counselling, support for survivors of sexual abuse and domestic violence, familial and parental support and counselling for loss and grief to name a few. 

    We live in a society plagued with hardship and challenges, and my ultimate goal in life is to assist in fostering positive change in the lives of as many people as I possibly can. I look forward to walking alongside you as we work together in navigating the challenges you may be facing. 

     

  • Dirike Jacobi

    Humanitas Counselling Intern

    Dirike Jacobi van Niekerk

    Welcome! My main goal is to create a safe and nurturing space where every voice is cherished and valued. I believe that each person's story is unique and important, and I am here to listen and support everyone in uncovering their inner hope and empowerment. With a special interest in trauma and its far-reaching impacts, I am dedicated to helping you uncover your best self. Looking forward to our journey together!

  • MéniQue

    Humanitas Counselling Intern

    MéniQue Haasbroek

    Hello :) 

    Showing up is the hardest part. I acknowledge the challenges of taking that first step and the courage it takes to overcome fears and uncertainties.

    Come as you are, I cannot wait to meet you.

  • Sabeeha

    Humanitas Counselling Intern

    Sabeeha Mulla

    Hello! 

    My name is Sabeeha and I want you to know that you are not alone in facing life's challenges —I’m here to support you on your journey to growth and self-discovery. 🌿

    I have witnessed the stigma around expressing one's emotions and the difficulty many face in feeling truly heard. This inspired my passion for creating a safe and respectful space where you can unpack and explore, without fear or judgment. 

    Thank you for taking this step. I look forward to working with you to honour your well-being ! 

  • James

    Humanitas Counselling Intern

    James Jonk

    Hi, I'm James! I have a deep passion for family and believe true happiness is rooted in these key relationships, as families are the foundation of a thriving society. My mission is to help individuals, couples, and families strengthen their connections and build lasting, meaningful bonds.

    In today’s fast-paced world, maintaining strong family ties can be challenging, yet the quality of your relationships profoundly shapes the quality of your life.

    I have a special interest in working with teens, couples, and families, providing divorce support, navigating blended family dynamics, trauma and grief, and parental counselling.

    While I come from a Pastoral background, I warmly welcome adults, teenagers (ages 12 and up), and families from all backgrounds and beliefs. I offer a safe, non-judgmental space where you can openly share your story, be heard, and find the support you need.

    If you're ready to take the next step toward healing and growth, I’d be honored to walk this journey with you.

  • Skye

    Humanitas Counselling Intern

    Skye Searle

    Hey there! My name is Skye. I am here to offer a warm, welcoming space where you can feel truly heard and supported. I believe in working together at your pace on anything that might be on your mind - without pressure or judgement. I look forward to meeting you!

  • Deané

    Humanitas Counselling Intern

    Deané Booysen

    Hi ! My name is Deané Booysen.

    I want to start by acknowledging the strength and courage it takes to prioritise yourself and your mental well-being. Choosing to embark on this journey is no small step, and I deeply honour the trust you place in this process. Whatever you bring to the table—your thoughts, feelings, fears, and hopes—will be valued with empathy, respect, and compassion. You are not alone in this; I am here to walk alongside you every step of the way. 

     

     

  • Kiara

    Humanitas Counselling Intern

    Kiara De Abreu

    Hello! I am Kiara De Abreu, and I truly believe in the power of counselling to transform lives. Think of me as your guide on this journey of personal growth - someone who is here to listen, support, and help you navigate life’s ups and downs. Most importantly, I am passionate about creating a space where you feel safe, heard, and understood. 

    My approach? Person-centred counselling - which means YOU are at the heart of it all. Together, we will build self-awareness, emotional resilience, and the confidence to take on whatever life throws your way. 

    As Confucius wisely said: "Our greatest glory is not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall." So, let’s rise together! If you are ready to take this journey, I am here to walk beside you every step of the way.

  • Anabel

    Humanitas Counselling Intern

    Anabel Groenewald

    Welcome!

    I’m Anabel, and I’m so glad you’re here. This is a space where you can explore whatever life has brought your way, with someone walking beside you. You don’t have to figure it all out alone—you’re supported here.

  • Nicola

    Humanitas Counselling Intern

    Nicola Frew

    I am a person-centred intern wellness counsellor committed to facilitating a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental space for clients. My approach is grounded in genuine connection, empathy, and respect, allowing individuals to explore what they wish at their own pace.

    I hold a Bachelor of Social Science degree, majoring in Psychology, from the University of Cape Town, a Bachelor of Social Science Honours degree in Psychology from the South African College of Applied Psychology (SACAP), and a Master’s degree in Applied Psychology from Trinity College Dublin. My training has equipped me with a strong foundation in psychological theory and practical counselling skills, helping me to support individuals through their challenges. 

  • Jamie

    Humanitas Counselling Intern

    Jamie Bhana

    Hi! I'm Jamie!

    I believe that when we practice compassion, we can support the people around us. 

    I approach others with an open heart and mind. This allows for the exploration of their personal experiences and the creation of a non-judgemental environment, filled with acceptance and empathy.This is the space I will create for you because you deserve to be seen, heard and cared for within a safe space. 

    I have a BSocSci (Honours) in Psychology and a Masters in Community Mental Health Promotion 

Request a counselling session

Thank you for wanting to make use of our free counselling platform. Please note that in order for this process to continue, we require the following information from you as well as your consent that counselling can take place. Once everything is filled out, your request will be sent to the relevant intern and they will respond within 24-48 business hours.

Disclaimer: Please be advised that the counseling interns are not psychologists, psychiatrists, or registered counselors with the HPCSA. They are counseling interns planning to register as Specialist Wellness Counselors with the Association for Supportive Counsellors and Holistic Practitioners (ASCHP) at the end of their internship. Additionally, they provide counseling only within the ASCHP’s scope of practice and adhere to its code of ethics, standards, and rules and regulations.

Your counselor will be in contact with you via email and/or WhatsApp.

Please ensure that:

  1. The contact details you provided are correct.
  2. You check your spam/junk mail, as some emails may be redirected there.

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