Bêne Otto Counselling Psychologist Johannesburg

Bêne Otto Counselling Psychologist Johannesburg

About Bene Otto

Bene Otto Counselling Psychologist Johannesburg works with individuals and couples who want to overcome challenges and build emotional resilience. Registered with the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA) and the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) in the UK, Bene offers professional therapy services both locally and abroad. Her approach is warm, down-to-earth, and centred on genuine connection.

Professional Background and Experience

After completing a Master’s degree in War and Psychiatry at King’s College London, Bene Otto gained hands-on experience at the Priory Hospital in Woking. Working in the Acute Male Ward, she was part of the psychiatric nursing team, supporting individuals facing complex emotional difficulties. Returning to South Africa, she completed her Counselling Psychology training at the University of Johannesburg, interning at the University of Witwatersrand’s Counselling and Careers Development Unit (CCDU). She later earned her PhD focusing on Disenfranchised Grief, while also working as a lecturer and locum psychologist at the Mayo Clinic and Akeso Arcadia.

Areas of Focus

Bene Otto Counselling Psychologist Johannesburg offers therapy for adults and adolescents dealing with trauma, depression, anxiety, burnout, relationship difficulties, and grief. She has a particular interest in thanatology, which explores topics such as loss, terminal illness, and end-of-life care. Bene also specialises in Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT) for couples, helping partners rebuild communication and emotional trust.

Approach to Therapy

Bene’s therapeutic style combines empathy, openness, and authenticity. She believes that therapy is a collaborative process built on trust and understanding. Her integrative approach includes psychodynamic therapy, cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT), solution-focused brief therapy (SFBT), and Eye-Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR). Each session is personalised to suit the client’s needs and goals.

Creating a Safe and Supportive Space

Therapy is more than a treatment — it is a personal journey of discovery. Bene provides a nurturing environment where clients can explore emotions safely. This space allows individuals to express themselves freely, understand their experiences, and move toward healing and growth. Every client is treated with compassion and respect, ensuring they feel seen, heard, and valued throughout the process.

Therapy Services Offered

Bene Otto Counselling Psychologist Johannesburg provides individual psychotherapy sessions, grief support groups, and couples therapy. She also offers corporate workshops and speaking engagements focused on grief literacy, bereavement, and emotional well-being. Her therapy sessions are available both in person and online, ensuring accessibility for clients across South Africa and the United Kingdom.

Fees and Medical Aid Options

Sessions are charged in line with Medical Aid rates, and clients can claim back from their providers. For private clients, fees are charged per 60-minute session, with discounts available for advance payments. Bene also accepts several UK-based insurance providers including BUPA, Aviva, WPA, AXA PPP, and Vitality.

Committed to Growth and Healing

Bene’s goal is to help clients navigate life’s challenges with courage and clarity. Through therapy, she empowers individuals to strengthen their emotional awareness and resilience. Her mission is to create lasting change that supports mental wellness and personal fulfilment.

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