Claire Gregorowski – Clinical Psychologist Observatory

Claire Gregorowski | Clinical Psychologist – Observatory

About Claire Gregorowski

Claire Gregorowski is a dedicated Clinical Psychologist based in Observatory, Cape Town. She completed her Master’s Degree in Clinical Psychology at the University of Cape Town in 2010 and has been practising privately since 2011. Before qualifying as a psychologist, Claire spent several years abroad, working with children and families in crisis. Her professional journey also includes research work, particularly in Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), for the Department of Psychiatry at Stellenbosch University.

Claire approaches therapy with a psychodynamic theoretical stance, focusing on understanding each client’s unique needs and experiences. She integrates elements of other therapeutic modalities, such as cognitive-behavioural strategies, when necessary. Her special interests lie in Self Psychology and Relational Psychoanalysis, which emphasise empathy and an experience-near perspective.

Services Offered

Individual Therapy
Claire offers individual psychotherapy for adults and adolescents facing a range of emotional and psychological challenges. She provides a safe and confidential space where clients can explore personal struggles, gain insight, and develop healthier coping strategies. Her approach is tailored to meet the specific needs of each client, allowing for genuine healing and growth.

Trauma Therapy
With her background in PTSD research, Claire is skilled in working with trauma survivors. She helps clients process traumatic experiences, reduce distressing symptoms, and build resilience. Her empathetic approach ensures that clients feel supported and understood throughout the therapeutic process.

Parenting Support
Parenting can be challenging, especially when facing stress, relationship difficulties, or a child’s emotional needs. Claire offers support and guidance to parents, helping them develop effective strategies to manage parenting challenges and build stronger family relationships.

Support for Emotional Distress
Claire assists individuals experiencing overwhelming emotions, such as sadness, anxiety, or anger. She provides tools to manage these feelings and helps clients understand the underlying issues contributing to their distress.

Therapeutic Approaches

• Psychodynamic Therapy: Explores unconscious processes and past experiences to understand current behaviour and emotions.
• Cognitive-Behavioural Strategies: Offers practical techniques to manage symptoms and improve coping skills.
• Relational Psychoanalysis: Focuses on the therapeutic relationship as a tool for healing and personal growth.
• Self Psychology: Emphasises empathy and understanding to support self-development and emotional well-being.

What to Expect from Therapy

The Initial Phase
The first few sessions are an important assessment phase. During this time, Claire will gather information to understand what you are struggling with and assess which therapeutic approach will be most beneficial. This phase also gives you the opportunity to see if you feel comfortable with Claire’s style and ask any questions about therapy.

Therapeutic Relationship
A strong, trusting therapeutic relationship is essential to effective therapy. Claire believes that the fit between client and therapist plays a significant role in the success of therapy. She prioritises creating a safe and welcoming environment where clients feel heard and respected.

Developing a Therapy Plan
If you and Claire decide to proceed with therapy, she will collaborate with you to create a therapy plan tailored to your needs. This plan will outline the goals of therapy, the expected approach, and how progress will be measured.

Areas of Expertise

• Personal exploration and growth
• Managing emotional distress and adjustment difficulties
• Parenting support and guidance
• Trauma and PTSD recovery
• Treatment of psychological disorders such as anxiety and mood disorders

Additional Information

Approach to Therapy
Claire’s approach is both empathetic and adaptable. While she uses psychodynamic principles as her foundation, she remains flexible, integrating other therapeutic methods when needed. This adaptability ensures that therapy aligns with each client’s unique situation and therapeutic goals.

Commitment and Expectations
Therapy requires energy, time, and commitment. Claire encourages open communication to ensure that therapy remains focused and effective. She supports clients in every step of their journey, promoting a collaborative and dynamic therapeutic process.