David van der Want Clinical Psychologist Rondebosch

About

David van der Want is a highly qualified clinical psychologist with a rich educational background and extensive professional experience. He completed his Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology (with distinction) at Rand Afrikaans University (now the University of Johannesburg). He also holds a BA Hons degree in Applied Psychology from the same university, and his undergraduate studies in Psychology and English were completed at the University of the Witwatersrand. David’s secondary education was at St Martin’s School in Rosettenville, Johannesburg.

After his academic qualifications, David spent time lecturing at Rhodes University (East London campus) and the University of Pretoria, where he taught Abnormal Psychology, Developmental Psychology, and Critical Thinking. He also supervised MA (Clin Psych) students during this period. Since 2001, David has been in full-time private practice in Cape Town, where he creates a therapeutic environment characterised by warmth, understanding, and non-judgemental communication. He blends solid theory and research with creativity and intuition, viewing psychotherapy as both an art and a science.

Services

• Interpersonal Psychotherapy and Systemic Thinking: David focuses on understanding behaviour, self-concept, and worldviews as relationally embedded. This therapeutic approach explores the relational patterns from early life and current circumstances, using the therapeutic relationship as a space for creative exploration and potential re-patterning of responses.

• Cognitive Behavioural Psychotherapy (CBT): David helps clients identify and challenge automatic thoughts and biases that influence their perception of the world, leading to significant therapeutic gains.

• Neurobiology and Evolutionary Psychology: By integrating an understanding of the physiological and neurochemical foundations of emotion, David offers insights into how evolutionary demands have shaped our nervous systems. This approach is particularly helpful in managing the physical aspects of psychological distress, such as anxiety.

• Mindfulness and Breathing Techniques: David introduces clients to mindfulness-based meditation practices to help regulate emotional arousal, especially beneficial for those experiencing anxiety. He also provides resources to support this practice.

Additional Information

David van der Want is passionate about photography, reading, writing, and classical music. A committed cyclist, David enjoys exploring the world on two wheels. He also maintains a small webpage at mamil.co.za, where he shares his interests and experiences.