Babies in Mind – Clinical Psychologist

Babies in Mind - Clinical Psychologist

Babies in Mind is a psychological support initiative founded in 2012 by Jenny Perkel, a Clinical Psychologist based in Cape Town. Moreover, Jenny brings over 25 years of experience in infant, child, and adolescent mental health. She holds a Master’s Degree in Clinical Psychology from the University of Cape Town. Furthermore, she registers with both the Health Professions Council of South Africa and the Health and Care Professions Council in the UK.

Jenny’s signature book, Babies in Mind: Understanding Your Baby’s Psychological Needs, laid the groundwork for this program. Consequently, parents receive guidance that addresses stress, postnatal depression, and early behavioural challenges. She employs an integrative approach that blends psychodynamic psychotherapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and mindfulness-based techniques. Additionally, she customizes every plan to meet each family’s unique circumstances. Meanwhile, her extensive research and clinical work ensure that all interventions remain evidence-based.

Services

• Parent Guidance and Therapy
  She empowers caregivers to address feeding issues, sleep disturbances, and bonding difficulties with clear, practical strategies.

• Perinatal Counseling
  She supports expectant and new parents through pregnancy anxiety, postnatal adjustment, and maternal mental health concerns.

• Psychotherapy for Adolescents and Adults (15+)
  She treats anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship challenges with personalized, evidence-based methods.

• Play Therapy
  She guides young children in expressing emotions and resolving behavioural issues using structured, age-appropriate play.

• Workshops for Parents and Caregivers
  She leads interactive sessions—both online and in-person—on bonding techniques, stress management, and responsive caregiving.

• Online Resources and Training
  She offers a free training manual, educational articles, and a regional directory of certified practitioners.

Additional Information

Babies in Mind operates on modern digital platforms, including secure teletherapy portals and interactive webinars. Additionally, the program uses biofeedback tools and digital mood-tracking apps so that parents can monitor stress levels in real time. Therefore, families stay engaged and informed between sessions.

Each environment—whether virtual or in-person—is confidential, welcoming, and designed for open dialogue. Meanwhile, the training manual equips professionals to run local Babies in Mind workshops. Consequently, communities in the Western Cape, Gauteng, and KwaZulu-Natal build stronger networks of infant mental health specialists.

Jenny continually updates the program’s content. She integrates the latest findings in neurobiology, attachment theory, and trauma-informed care. Moreover, she applies practical narrative reframing and guided imagery exercises to translate research into everyday parenting skills.

To fit busy schedules, Babies in Mind offers early-morning, evening, and weekend sessions. Furthermore, the program hosts intensive weekend retreats that combine hands-on activities with reflective group discussions. These retreats foster rapid skill-building and peer support in a concentrated timeframe.

If you seek expert, compassionate guidance for your family, schedule a consultation today. This step begins your journey toward stronger bonds, resilient coping strategies, and lasting well-being.