Dr Wendy Jane Duncan – Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist

Dr Wendy Jane Duncan – Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist

Dr. Wendy Jane Duncan practices as a Consultant Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist at Netcare Akeso Parktown. She earned her MBChB from the University of Cape Town and completed specialist registrar training in psychiatry at the University of the Witwatersrand. Early in her career, she led a multidisciplinary child mental health team at Red Cross War Memorial Children’s Hospital, where she refined her skills in comprehensive developmental assessments. Later, she obtained an MMed in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry from UCT. Moreover, she earned a fellowship from the Royal College of Psychiatrists, focusing on developmental disorders and paediatric mental health. Consequently, she blends rigorous academic training with hands-on clinical expertise.

Her clinical focus includes trauma-informed care, risk management, and family-centred interventions. In addition, she mentors junior psychiatrists through workshops and continuing professional development programmes. Indeed, her evidence-based approach has led to several peer-reviewed publications and presentations at both national and international conferences.

Services

• Comprehensive Developmental Assessments
  She evaluates cognitive, emotional and behavioural development to inform accurate diagnoses and interventions.

• Autism Spectrum Disorder Evaluations
  In these sessions, she utilises play-based and structured assessments to identify autism and guide personalised therapy plans.

• ADHD Management
  Furthermore, she implements behavioural strategies and medication reviews to improve attention and reduce impulsivity in children.

• Anxiety Disorder Treatment
  She applies cognitive behavioural techniques to help young patients manage fears and develop coping skills.

• Mood Disorder Therapy
  Moreover, she delivers evidence-based interventions for depression and bipolar presentations in adolescents.

• Family Therapy
  She involves caregivers in sessions to strengthen family dynamics and support treatment progress.

• Group Therapy for Social Skills
  In these sessions, she fosters communication and social interaction skills among youth.

• Eating Disorder Support
  Additionally, she integrates nutritional counselling with psychotherapy to address underlying emotional issues.

• Trauma-Informed Care
  She provides safe, sensitive interventions for children who have experienced trauma or abuse.

• Telepsychiatry Consultations
  Next, she provides secure virtual appointments for remote patients, increasing access and convenience without compromising quality.

• School Liaison Services
  She collaborates with educators to implement strategies that support academic and emotional needs.

• Medication Management
  Additionally, she adjusts psychotropic regimens and monitors outcomes to balance efficacy and safety.

• Parent and Caregiver Education
  Finally, she offers tailored guidance sessions to equip families with practical strategies and communication techniques.

Additional Information

Netcare Akeso Parktown features child-friendly therapy suites equipped with interactive digital tools that track mood and behaviour. Moreover, the facility includes secure play therapy rooms and age-appropriate sensory integration equipment. Interdisciplinary teams of psychiatrists, psychologists and occupational therapists collaborate on each treatment plan. Indeed, regular case reviews ensure timely adjustments and high-quality care.

An on-site pharmacy streamlines medication access and allows close monitoring of side effects. Furthermore, the clinic partners with neuroimaging centres for advanced diagnostic referrals. Weekly psychoeducational workshops and support groups empower patients and families with strategies for home and school. Meanwhile, Dr. Wendy Jane Duncan leads community outreach programmes that raise awareness about youth mental health and resilience.

To begin tailored psychiatric care for your child or adolescent, ask your GP or medical aid for a referral to Dr. Wendy Jane Duncan at Netcare Akeso Parktown, and take the first step toward a brighter future.