Benita Southgate – Counselling Psychologist in Claremont

Professional Support for Personal Growth and Well-Being

Benita Southgate is a registered Counselling Psychologist with over 18 years of experience in higher education, corporate settings, and private practice. She is passionate about helping individuals, couples, and families navigate life’s challenges with compassion and professionalism.

Her journey in psychology began at the University of the Western Cape, where she first trained as an educator before completing her Master’s in Psychology. She gained valuable experience working with at-risk youth at the Western Cape Education Department, later advancing to the role of Principal Psychologist at the University of Cape Town’s Student Counselling Service. Here, she managed counselling services, handled psychiatric emergencies, and provided clinical oversight for a team of psychologists.

Benita adopts an integrative approach to therapy, combining psychodynamic theories, cognitive-behavioural techniques, and solution-focused strategies. This ensures that each client receives an individualised therapeutic experience tailored to their unique needs. She works with adolescents, adults, and couples, supporting them in achieving greater self-awareness, emotional resilience, and well-being.

Services Offered

Support for Adolescents

The teenage years bring emotional, social, and academic pressures that can be challenging. Benita provides therapy to help adolescents manage:

• Emotional regulation and self-awareness
• Identity development and self-esteem issues
• Sexuality concerns
• Separation anxiety and individuation struggles
• Anger management
• Examination stress and performance anxiety
• Anxiety, fears, and phobias
• Depression and mood disorders
• Suicidal thoughts and behaviours
• Grief and loss
• Career assessments for future planning

Therapy for Adults

Benita works with adults facing a range of emotional, psychological, and interpersonal challenges, including:

• Relationship difficulties (personal and professional)
• Depression and other mood disorders, including Bipolar Disorder
• Anxiety, fears, and phobias
• Trauma and post-traumatic stress management
• Bereavement and loss
• Stress and performance anxiety
• Personality disorders
• Adjusting to major life transitions
• Retirement planning and adjustment
• Chronic illness and recovery support
• Neuropsychological assessments

Family & Couples Counselling

Benita offers therapy for families, couples, and marital relationships, providing support in:

• Conflict resolution and communication improvement
• Managing relationship stress and change
• Strengthening family bonds
• Adjusting to life transitions together

Why Choose Benita Southgate?

• Highly Experienced – With nearly two decades in practice, Benita brings a wealth of expertise to her therapy sessions.
• Individualised Therapy – Her integrative approach ensures that treatment is tailored to each client’s needs.
• Safe & Supportive Environment – Clients are provided with a confidential, non-judgemental space for healing and self-exploration.
• Comprehensive Psychological Support – From adolescents to adults, couples, and families, Benita helps clients navigate life’s difficulties with professional guidance.
• Proven Track Record – She has successfully helped individuals in education, corporate, and private settings achieve personal growth and emotional well-being.