Dr. John-Randel Vermaak is a specialist psychiatrist based in Wynberg, practicing at Akeso Kenilworth. He earned his medical degree from Stellenbosch University, then served as a state doctor in internal medicine across rural KwaZulu-Natal and Kimberley. Subsequently, he returned to Cape Town to work at Groote Schuur Hospital, refining his clinical skills in acute psychiatric care. Thereafter, he completed an MSc at the University of Cape Town, investigating neurological and psychiatric conditions in people living with HIV. Finally, he specialised in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry through UCT’s Division of Psychiatry, blending rigorous evidence-based methods with compassionate support.
Since joining Akeso Kenilworth, Dr. Vermaak has focused on adolescent, adult, and geriatric psychiatry, treating mood disorders, anxiety disorders, psychotic disorders, and neuropsychiatric conditions such as dementia. Moreover, he leads multidisciplinary teams comprising psychologists, occupational therapists, and social workers. Consequently, patients receive cohesive, personalised treatment plans that address biological, psychological, and social dimensions of mental health. Furthermore, he champions early intervention to prevent the escalation of chronic conditions and to improve long-term outcomes.
Services
At Akeso Kenilworth, Dr. Vermaak provides a comprehensive suite of services:
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Comprehensive Psychiatric Assessments
Perform in-depth evaluations using structured clinical interviews, EEG, and neuroimaging-compatible consultations to pinpoint precise diagnoses. -
Medication Management
Optimize psychotropic regimens through personalised prescriptions and ongoing monitoring to balance efficacy and minimise side effects. -
Individual Psychotherapy
Offer one-on-one therapy employing cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and schema therapy tailored to each patient’s needs. -
Group Therapy
Facilitate peer-support workshops and skill-building groups that foster resilience, stress management, and social connection. -
Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT)
Deliver safe, evidence-based ECT for severe mood disorders under expert supervision. -
Crisis Intervention Services
Provide rapid-response support for acute psychiatric emergencies to stabilise patients safely. -
Child & Adolescent Psychiatry
Manage developmental and behavioural challenges in younger clients by leveraging specialist training. -
Geriatric Psychiatry
Address late-life depression, dementia, and cognitive disorders through interdisciplinary collaboration. -
Neuropsychiatric Evaluations
Assess conditions such as HIV-associated neurocognitive disorders and epilepsy-related disturbances with neurologist partnerships. -
Preventative Mental Health Workshops
Lead educational sessions on mindfulness, lifestyle modification, and early-warning sign recognition to reduce long-term risks. -
Telepsychiatry Consultations
Enable secure video follow-ups and remote monitoring via digital mood-tracking platforms, ensuring continuity of care. -
Occupational & Recreational Therapy
Coordinate therapeutic activities—such as art, music, and movement workshops—in dedicated communal lounges.
Additional Information
Akeso Kenilworth features state-of-the-art facilities, including private therapy suites, group treatment rooms, and specialised EEG labs. The clinic offers both inpatient and outpatient programmes, ensuring seamless transitions of care. Moreover, tranquil garden courtyards and comfortable communal lounges foster peer support and recovery.
The multidisciplinary staff conducts daily case reviews, integrating real-time digital mood-tracking data to refine treatment plans responsively. Additionally, family-inclusion sessions empower loved ones to contribute actively to the healing process. Consequently, patients leave equipped with practical coping strategies and a clear roadmap for sustained wellness.
Schedule a consultation today to embark on a personalised journey toward mental wellness under the expert guidance of Dr. John-Randel Vermaak – Specialist Psychiatrist, Wynberg at Akeso Kenilworth.
