CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGIST – LOUISE BOLTON 

I treat a variety of different disorders and challenges. These may range from depression to bipolar, generalized anxiety disorder, phobias, OCD, social anxiety, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), substance abuse, eating disorders, and self-esteem issues. I mainly rely on behaviour-centered methods, including CBT, REBT, and DBT. However, I also utilize techniques from a variety of therapeutic modalities based on your needs. Together, we will clarify your goals and determine which is the best path to reach them for you as an individual.

Additionally, I offer compassionate services for couples, which may involve restoring friendship or intimacy, improving communication, and healing from infidelity or other forms of betrayal. In my practice, I find that, for many couples, discernment therapy is the best approach for deciding whether or not to end the relationship. If an end is inevitable, I can also teach you healthy coping mechanisms to smooth the transition.

  • Depression, Bipolar and Postnatal Depression
  • Loss, Grief and Bereavement
  • Posttraumatic Trauma and Complex Trauma
  • Life Changes, Transition and Adjustment Problems
  • Stress and Burnout
  • Dealing with Chronic Illness
  • Generalized Anxiety Disorder
  • Social Phobia
  • Specific Phobias
  • Panic Disorder
  • Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder
  • Relationship, Conflict and Intimate Relationship Counselling
  • Discernment Therapy (whether to remain in a partnership or leave).
  • Low Self-Esteem, Assertiveness Training and Boundary Issues
  • Anger, Dispuptive Behaviours and Anger Management
  • Eating Disorders
  • Self-Harm/Mutilation
  • Body Image as well as Body Dysmorphic Disorders
  • Study, Work Difficulties and Performance Anxiety
  • Substance Abuse
  • Other Psychiatric Disorders

Psychotherapy can also be undertaken for the purpose of self-optimisation and growth and is not necessarily only initiated in times of distress.

Ryan Bateman – Clinical Psychologist

Hi, my name is Ryan Bateman. For as long as I can remember, I have always had a strong desire to help others in whatever capacity I could. This coupled with my fascination of human behaviour led me to pursue a professional career in clinical psychology. My belief is that every person is strong, resilient, and can make meaning out of their circumstances. However, we all need support and guidance along the way. I value accompanying my clients on their therapeutic journeys by building genuine and trusting relationships that foster growth, self-exploration, and healing.

My journey to becoming a clinical psychologist began at the University of Witwatersrand, where I completed my undergraduate and honours degree in psychology, graduating Cum Laude. Thereafter, I expanded my practical skills and passion for helping others by working at a psycho-social rehabilitation centre. Here, I conducted individual and group facilitations to assist residents in coping with a variety of psychiatric diagnoses. With my passion for the field psychology only fortifying and expanding during this time, I returned to university to continue my studies.

I obtained my Master’s degree in clinical psychology at the University of Pretoria, where I similarly graduated Cum Laude. My experience included primary hospital settings as well as conducting outpatient therapy with community clinics, where I worked with children, adolescents and adults from diverse backgrounds.

Furthering my interest in the psychological field, I went on to  work at Weskoppies Psychiatric Hospital in Pretoria. During this time, my focus was to provide individual psychotherapy to children, adolescents and adults who were diagnosed with a variety of mental disorders. It was here that I learned to hone and refine my skills as a therapist. I was also involved in family and couples therapy, a substance abuse rehabilitation group as well as conducting psychometric and neuropsychological assessments.

Subsequent to working at Weskoppies,  I worked for  the Department of Correctional Services. I facilitated psychological group programmes as well as conducted individual psychotherapy for adolescent and adult male offenders.

About My Service

Within therapy, I predominately work from behaviour-centred modalities, such as CBT, REBT, and DBT. However, I do have training in a variety of different therapeutic techniques, allowing me to tailor therapy to your individual needs. Utilizing a collaborative approach, my goal is to help you to develop from struggles, grow your self-awareness, facilitate improved coping in order to manage life’s difficulties and assist you to reach your optimal mental health. I aim to provide a comfortable, non-judgmental and caring environment where we can begin to explore and work through the challenges you face.

Therapy can be seen as embarking on a journey of self-discovery, personal growth and transformation. I would love to be a part of that journey with you!

My interests include

Anxiety disorders, mood disorders, personality disorders, disorders related to trauma, substance abuse, eating disorders, adjustment disorders, relationship issues, and self-esteem, to name a few.

Bettina Messerli – Clinical Psycologist ​

My Story

From an early age, I have been deeply fascinated by the intricacies of the human condition. My formal path to becoming a psychologist began in the United States, where I pursued  undergraduate studies in Business (major) and Psychology (minor) at Loyola Marymount University. After earning my degree, I returned to South Africa and spent several years in the corporate sector, gaining valuable experience in Human Resources. Although this work was fulfilling, my increasing desire to make a more profound and meaningful impact ultimately inspired me to return to the field of psychology.

I was fortunate to be given the opportunity to pursue advanced studies at the University of Johannesburg (UJ), where I completed both my Honours in Psychology and my Master’s degree in Counselling Psychology, graduating both with distinction. The subsequent year, I undertook an internship at the Centre for Psychological Services and Career Development (PsyCaD) at UJ. This opportunity allowed me to gain extensive practical experience in areas such as trauma and PTSD, anxiety, depression, relational difficulties, grief and loss, as well self-esteem issues. Additionally, I gained proficiency in conducting career and educational assessment, and report writing. At PsyCaD, I engaged deeply with various therapeutic modalities, allowing me to refine my techniques and enhance my understanding of effective interventions. Following this, I completed an internship at the Counselling and Careers Development Unit (CCDU) at the University of the Witwatersrand. This opportunity further honed my therapeutic skills and enabled me to continue applying my knowledge in practice, thereby improving my ability to offer empathetic and effective support.

About My Services

In private practice, I am committed to fostering the well-being of others through a holistic approach grounded in existential phenomenology. This philosophical framework emphasizes understanding and addressing the fundamental aspects of human existence, such as meaning, purpose, and self-awareness. To achieve these goals, I integrate techniques from various psychotherapeutic modalities, including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT), and Solution-Focused Therapy (SFT).

Embarking on a therapeutic journey can be both challenging and transformative. Despite the initial difficulties, it offers the potential for significant personal growth. I strive to create a warm, safe, and non-judgmental space where we can explore your inner self together. In this supportive environment, we will work collaboratively to equip you with the skills needed to pursue a more fulfilling and optimal life.