Welcome to my Practice

As an educational psychologist in private practice, I have worked with a variety of people and understand the intricacies of various psychological issues that people face. I'm working with both adults and children as well as in family setups and groups.

The approach of my therapy is holistic as a person is seen as a whole, which includes his physical, cognitive, emotional, social and moral aspects. Human experiences do not happen as isolated experiences to isolated aspects of a person’s life, but it can have negative effects on people’s relationships, self-esteem, self-image, work related issues, mental and physical health.

I use play therapy as an effective tool with both adults and children. Cognitive behaviour therapy as well as positive psychology play an important role in my therapy sessions.

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Buy high quality educational and developmental toys recommended by Dr. Marisa van Niekerk Educational Psychologist

Marisa featured in Vrouekeur of 14 December 2018

Marisa featured in SARIE magazine

Dr. Marisa van Niekerk Educational Psychologist from Midstream featured in SARIE magazine

Marisa featured in Huisgenoot

Dr. Marisa van Niekerk featured in Huisgenoot (Netwerk 24)

Marisa featured in Maroela Media

Dr. Marisa van Niekerk articles in Maroela Media

Couples Therapy

A relationship goes through numerous phases during its life cycle, and it is obvious for it to have a few rough patches. However, the strength of a relationship is reflected in how the couples deal with those …

READ MORECouples therapy Educational Psychologist Midstream , Centurion, Pretoria

Post-divorce family recovery

Many children as well as adults who came from divorced families, remember the “atmosphere” between their divorced parents (after the divorce and onwards) as one of the most emotional draining things they have faced and are still facing.

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Exam stress tips for parents - reduce overall stress levels in the home

 

Therapy for children

As a child psychologist, therapy for children and teenagers forms a big part of my private practice. Growing up in the 21th century is tough. The emotional pressure of dealing with everyday challenges can be overwhelming.

READ MORETherapy for children and teenagers Dr. Marisa van Niekerk Educational Psychologist Midstream Centurion Pretoria

Frequently Asked Questions

What does an Educational Psychologist do?

Educational Psychologists are involved in all psychological aspects such as assessment and therapy that may affect children in their learning and development.  In other words Educational Psychologists support children and their families to be able to reach their full potential and become well balanced, happy people. In order to accomplish their purpose, Educational Psychologists provide play therapy, individual counselling, family counselling and marriage counselling. Educational psychologists are sometimes referred to as “child psychologists”, or “school psychologists”.

How do I make an appointment to schedule an interview for a psychological evaluation?

To make an appointment with me, please give me a call at 074 041 0081.  I would like to find out a little more about your requirements, in order for me to schedule an appropriate amount of time for our first session, and this is best done (in my view) via telephone, not e-mail.

Educational Psychologist, Clinical Psychologist, Counselling Psychologist: Who do I need?

Many people do not know exactly what an Educational Psychologist does?  They wonder about the role of an Educational Psychologist?  Or they wonder what the difference is between an Educational Psychologist, or a Clinical Psychologist, or even a Counselling Psychologist.

In the sections below, I will try to give a short overview about each of these fields in psychology. (Under construction)

Parents and teachers are puzzle pieces in child development - Dr. Marisa van Niekerk Val de Vie and Franschhoek

Emotionally ready for pre-primary school – how parents can help

Supporting your child to become emotionally ready for pre-primary school  Mixed emotions, difficult choices, coping at work, …

Dr. Marisa van Niekerk Educational Psychologist Health, books, writing are all part of the essential school readiness tips for parents

School readiness tips for parents

School readiness tips for parents School readiness tips for parents At this time of the year “school readiness” is one …

Sensory awareness activities for children as discussed by Dr. Marisa van Niekerk Educational Psychologist

Sensory awareness activities for children

Sensory awareness activities for children Our senses help us to make contact with our environment. In the article below I …