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My South African Roots

“Where are you from?” is a question I am often asked.

I was born and raised in South Africa and spent my first two years in Potchefstroom. Although I have no memories of that time, it is where my story began. When I was two, my family moved to Johannesburg, where I grew up in Mondeor, a suburb set among the rolling hills south of the city.

I am grateful to have grown up surrounded by South Africa’s rich cultural diversity, breathtaking landscapes, and wildlife. Long, warm summers and opportunities to experience the beauty of Africa remain a cherished part of my childhood. South Africa will always be part of my story, even though Canada has become my home.

Two Backpacks, Two Plane Tickets, and a New Beginning

In 1991, my husband and I left South Africa for England with two backpacks and two plane tickets. Our plan was simple: work, travel for two years, and then return home.

That two-year adventure became a new life overseas.

During our time in England, we enjoyed exploring the history and culture of the United Kingdom and Europe. Our years abroad also included a year in Labrador, an experience that helped us see Canada as a place where we could build our future.

In 1995, we decided to make Canada our permanent home. We spent nearly eight years in rural Saskatchewan, embracing Canadian life through skiing, sailing, and new traditions such as Thanksgiving.

In 2003, we moved to Calgary and became Canadian citizens.

My Education and Path into Psychology

My academic journey began with a business degree from the University of Johannesburg, where I majored in Economics, Business Economics, and Industrial Psychology. My fascination with human behaviour led me to complete a Bachelor of Commerce Honours degree in Industrial Psychology, focusing on people, organizations, and working life.

During that time, I also trained as a psychometrist, developing skills in administering and scoring psychological, neuropsychological, personality, and academic tests. I was registered as a psychometrist with the Health Professions Council of South Africa.

After spending several years in the workforce, I continued my studies through the University of South Africa, known as UNISA. While living overseas, I completed a Bachelor of Arts degree with a major in Psychology, followed by an Honours degree in Psychology.

Studying at a distance before email and the internet became part of everyday life brought some memorable challenges. I wrote examinations in London and Montreal, at the University of Victoria, and even at the RCMP office in Melfort, Saskatchewan.

I later earned my Master of Arts in Psychology from Vermont College of Norwich University. The program’s student-centred approach allowed me to explore an area that had become particularly meaningful to me: understanding domestic violence and its prevention.

While living in Melfort, I volunteered with domestic violence programs in Melfort and Prince Albert. Working with men in these groups deepened my understanding of the complexity of domestic violence and informed the focus of my master’s thesis. I completed the residency component of my degree with Mental Health and Addiction Services in the Prince Albert Parkland Health Region.

Experience Across Different Settings

My early career included work in human resources with South Africa’s Department of National Education and a role with the South African Tourism Board.

In England, I volunteered in the mental health department at Richmond Royal Hospital. There, I had the opportunity to work alongside a psychologist whose work included supporting people with eating disorders and people who had undergone amputations.

In rural Saskatchewan, I worked with clients facing a wide range of mental health concerns and complex life circumstances. I collaborated closely with family physicians and the regional psychiatrist, providing consultation, suicide risk assessments, psychometric testing, and individual evaluations.

I have worked in Calgary since 2004, primarily in private practice, with additional experience in employee assistance programs and trauma counselling.

These varied settings have shaped my appreciation for the many factors that influence a person’s well-being, including relationships, work, family life, and access to support.

Why ADHD and Learning Disabilities Matter to Me

My interest in ADHD and learning disabilities became deeply personal when I began looking for strategies to support my own child.

That experience helped me understand the everyday challenges families can face and the importance of finding support that fits the individual. It also strengthened my appreciation for the questions, concerns, and hopes that parents bring to an assessment.

My perspective draws on both professional training and personal family experience. I place a strong emphasis on careful, individualized evaluation, taking time to understand a person’s strengths, difficulties, history, and daily life.

My aim is to help people make sense of their experiences and identify practical ways forward.

How I Work with Clients

My approach is client-centred. We work together to understand what is happening in your life, what matters to you, and what you would like help with.

I draw on my broad training and experience to adapt my approach to your circumstances. A thorough assessment helps guide recommendations and a plan that reflects your needs and goals. Depending on your situation, recommendations may include individual, couples, or group therapy, as well as practical strategies for everyday life.

I want you to feel heard, respected, and involved in decisions about your care. Whether you are seeking a clearer understanding of yourself, support for your child, or help navigating a difficult period, my goal is to offer thoughtful guidance and a compassionate place to begin.