Dr Helena Glaudina Claudia De Clercq – Forensic Psychiatrist

Dr Helena Glaudina Claudia De Clercq – Forensic Psychiatrist

Dr Helena Glaudina Claudia De Clercq – Forensic Psychiatrist is a specialist psychiatrist at Akeso Kenilworth Clinic in Kenilworth, Cape Town. She earned her MBChB from the University of Pretoria in 2002. Moreover, she completed a Diploma in Mental Health (DMH SA) in 2005. Subsequently, she obtained her MMed in Psychiatry and Fellowship in Psychiatry (FC Psych SA) from Stellenbosch University in 2014. Additionally, she holds a Certificate in Forensic Psychiatry, underscoring her medico-legal expertise.

During her specialist training, she gained valuable experience at Stikland, Lentegeur, Alexandra, and Valkenberg Hospitals. Consequently, she blends clinical and forensic insights in patient assessments. At Akeso Kenilworth Clinic, she leads a multidisciplinary team to deliver personalised psychiatric care.

The clinic features state-of-the-art EEG diagnostics, secure telepsychiatry platforms, and a 24-hour nursing care system. Furthermore, structured programs include individual therapy, group sessions, and therapeutic workshops. This environment ensures a supportive, confidential setting for recovery. She leads departmental case reviews and oversees quality assurance processes within the clinic. Furthermore, she leverages digital tools to monitor patient progress remotely.

Services

Additionally, Dr De Clercq specialises in treating a wide range of conditions at Akeso Kenilworth Clinic:

• Neurodevelopmental Disorders: ADHD

• Schizophrenia Spectrum & Other Psychotic Disorders: Delusional Disorder; Schizophrenia; Schizoaffective Disorder; Substance-Induced Psychotic Disorder

• Depressive Disorders: Major Depressive Disorder; Persistent Depressive Disorder (Dysthymia); Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder

• Bipolar & Related Disorders: Bipolar I; Bipolar II; Cyclothymic Disorder

• Anxiety Disorders: Separation Anxiety Disorder; Specific Phobias; Social Anxiety Disorder; Panic Disorder; Agoraphobia; Generalised Anxiety Disorder

• Trauma- & Stressor-Related Disorders: Acute Stress Disorder; Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder; Adjustment Disorders

• Obsessive-Compulsive & Related Disorders: Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder; Body Dysmorphic Disorder; Hoarding Disorder; Trichotillomania; Excoriation (Skin-Picking) Disorder

• Somatic Symptom & Related Disorders: Somatic Symptom Disorder; Illness Anxiety Disorder; Conversion Disorder (Functional Neurological Disorder)

• Eating Disorders: Anorexia Nervosa; Bulimia Nervosa; Binge-Eating Disorder

• Sleep-Wake Disorders: Insomnia Disorder; Hypersomnolence Disorder; Narcolepsy; Circadian Rhythm Sleep-Wake Disorder; Parasomnias

• Gender Dysphoria / Gender Incongruence

• Substance-Related Disorders

• Neurocognitive Disorders / Dementia

Additional Information

Dr De Clercq utilises secure telehealth consultations and maintains electronic medical records for seamless care coordination. Additionally, she collaborates with primary care physicians and allied health professionals to ensure integrated treatment approaches.

Her ongoing professional development involves regular attendance at national conferences and specialist workshops. Furthermore, she mentors junior clinicians and contributes to clinical guidelines that shape best practices.

Patients commend her compassionate communication style and straightforward explanations. Moreover, she hosts relapse-prevention workshops and provides resource guides for families to support long-term recovery. These initiatives empower patients and their support networks to manage mental health challenges effectively.

Furthermore, her affiliation with the South African Society of Psychiatrists ensures she remains connected to emerging research. She also oversees the preparation of detailed medico-legal reports and court testimony. Consequently, patients receive timely reports that support legal proceedings when necessary. Finally, she welcomes both new and returning patients for comprehensive assessments that prioritise safety and comfort.

Schedule a consultation today to begin your journey toward improved mental well-being.