James Sturdee Registered Psychological Counsellor Private Practice Berea

James Sturdee – Registered Psychological Counsellor

Professional Background

I am a registered psychological counsellor with over 14 years of experience, providing support to individuals facing a variety of mental health challenges. My academic journey began at the University of KwaZulu-Natal, where I completed a Bachelor of Social Sciences Honours in Psychology (2007). In 2009, I specialised in trauma counselling during my internship at McCord Hospital, Durban, before passing my board exam in 2010.

My passion for understanding human resilience led me to complete a Master’s degree in Psychology at the University of Pretoria, focusing on the impact of childhood emotional neglect on self-compassion in adulthood.

I am committed to creating a safe, non-judgemental space where individuals can explore their thoughts and emotions, gain insight, and work towards personal growth.

Areas of Expertise

I offer individual and group therapy for a range of concerns, including:

• Anxiety & Depression – Managing emotional struggles with effective coping strategies
• Trauma Counselling – Addressing past experiences and fostering resilience
• Anger Management – Understanding triggers and developing emotional regulation skills
• Grief & Loss – Providing support through bereavement and life transitions
• Self-Esteem & Identity Development – Helping individuals build confidence and self-awareness
• Personal Development & Life Skills – Equipping clients with the tools to navigate life’s challenges
• Relationship Counselling – Assisting with communication and conflict resolution
• Career Assessment & Guidance – Helping individuals align their skills and aspirations with career choices

Workplace Mental Health & Employee Wellness

I also provide corporate and academic institution support through:

• Critical Incident Debriefing – Immediate psychological support following workplace crises
• Soft Skills Training – Enhancing communication, leadership, and problem-solving abilities
• Employee Wellness Programmes – Fostering mental well-being in professional settings
• Staff Development Workshops – Training sessions tailored to workplace challenges