Dr Philippa Skowno Counselling Psychologist Newlands

Dr Philippa Skowno – Counselling Psychologist in Newlands

Dr Philippa Skowno is an experienced counselling psychologist in Newlands, Cape Town, based at the Oakdale Practice. She offers a steady, respectful, and practical space where clients can slow down, make sense of challenges, and plan meaningful changes.

Her approach is integrative, combining your personal story with evidence-based tools. Depending on your needs, this may include cognitive-behavioural strategies for anxiety, structured problem-solving for stress, or depth-focused work to explore long-standing patterns.

Areas of Support

Dr Skowno works with adults, students, and young adults facing life transitions, identity concerns, perfectionism, and performance pressure. She also supports parents who are guiding children or teens, offering clear guidance, realistic plans, and compassionate accountability.

Common reasons for seeking therapy include:

• Low mood and depression

• Anxiety and panic

• Burnout and stress

• Grief and loss

• Relationship strain

• Adjustments after major life events

Therapy Process

Your first session focuses on understanding your priorities and creating a tailored plan. Together, you will agree on session frequency, focus areas, and practical goals. Dr Skowno checks in regularly to ensure therapy remains relevant and effective.

Between sessions, you may use grounding techniques, journaling exercises, or boundary-setting experiments. These tools are designed to create gradual, sustainable progress.

If needed, she can provide assessments, liaise with schools, or coordinate with other healthcare providers—with your consent—to ensure comprehensive care.

Location and Booking

The practice is conveniently located in Newlands, easily accessible from the Southern Suburbs. Warm, welcoming rooms and friendly reception make visits comfortable.

If you’re unsure about starting therapy, you can arrange an initial consultation to ask questions and get a feel for the process. Confidentiality and cultural sensitivity are always prioritised, creating a safe and transparent space for growth.