What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist? A psychiatrist is a medical doctor who has completed medical school and specialized training in psychiatry. They can diagnose mental health conditions, prescribe medication, and provide medical treatments for managing symptoms. Psychiatrists often work with more severe mental health conditions, and their approach tends to focus on the biological and medical aspects of mental health. ​A clinical psychologist has a masters degree in clinical psychology and is trained in psychotherapy, psychological testing, and behavioural interventions. They specialise in understanding thoughts, emotions, and behaviors, and they use evidence-based therapeutic approaches to help clients work through challenges, improve mental health, and achieve personal goals. Psychologists cannot prescribe medication.
What are your rates? We charge medical aid tariffs for claims we submit directly to your fund. Cash accounts are charged at R 1 250 per session. Please note that sessions must be cancelled or reschedule within 24 hours. Sessions not cancelled timeously are charged.
how can we help?
How do I know if I should see a psychologist? A common misconception is that psychologists are only for serious problems or mental health issues. While clinical psychologists are trained to handle severe cases in psychiatric settings, we are also equipped to help with a wide range of everyday life stressors. Therapy can benefit anyone who needs support in any area of life. It provides a confidential space where you can discuss anything that’s on your mind, whether it’s a concern, worry, or simply something you need to think through. Unlike talking to a friend, therapy offers the expertise to help you build psychological resilience and develop positive coping mechanisms during challenging times.
How does confidentiality work? We are ethically required to provide absolute confidentiality to every individual. It is your right to have your information protected and to maintain control. We will only disclose confidential information with your written informed consent following a discussion with you in session. We share the necessary information within a limited context and only when it serves your best interests. Confidentiality is regulated by the HPCSA (Ethical Rules of Conduct for Practitioners Registered under the Health Professions Act, 1974) and the Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA) 2013, Mental Health Care Act, 2002 (Act No. 17 of 2002) and the National Health Act, 2003 (Act No. 61 of 2003)
Do you claim from medical aid? Yes! We are contracted to most medical schemes and can claim directly from the practice on your behalf. Claims are conveniently tracked and managed on our system for you. We also do PMB applications. Please see the PMB question below for more information.
How do PMBs work? PMB refers to Prescribed Minimum Benefits. PMBs are a set of defined benefits to ensure that all medical scheme members have access to certain minimum health services, regardless of the benefit option they have selected. However, we are required by each scheme to first assess each individual to determine whether they meet the criteria for an application. This is done during your initial assessment. We cannot apply prior to your first assessment and certain funds prohibit us from claiming that first session under PMB benefits. There is a useful link with more information in the resources section below for those interested. You are also welcome to contact the practice directly for more information.
What if I need urgent help? Some situations require urgent attention or may be a crisis. While we aim to support you as quickly as possible, please note that we operate on an outpatient basis and only during business hours. If you need immediate assistance, please refer to the crisis contact numbers resource page above. We're available to chat during business hours, but if you need urgent care, it's best to contact your GP, psychiatrist, or visit your local hospital's emergency room. While we can't prescribe medication, we can refer you to an inpatient clinic if necessary. Monday to Friday from 8 AM to 4 PM.
Do you write reports or letters for work, university or court? No. We do not specialise in any legal work and our services are specifically for personal growth purposes. We do not get involved in any court cases or RAF claims. Infrequently clients require supporting letters or reports. Please note that we only offer this service for clients engaged in a regular therapy process. We will discuss the request with you first in session and we require your informed written consent to disclose any confidential information to a third party. Reports are only written when deemed appropriate and this is decided by the clinical on a case-by-case basis.