Lizl Retief – Neurological and Cognitive Occupational Therapist

Lizl Retief – Neurological and Cognitive Occupational Therapist

Dr Lizl Retief – Neurological and Cognitive Occupational Therapist – Die Wilgers founded Balance Therapy Centre after honing her expertise in England, where the idea first emerged in 1999. The centre now thrives in The Willows (Die Wilgers), Pretoria, serving as an outpatient neurorehabilitation hub Balance Therapy Centre.

Moreover, Dr Retief leads a multidisciplinary team that strives to restore and maintain independence for clients living with neurological and cognitive impairments. Consequently, her practice emphasizes personalized, evidence-based interventions that promote both functional gains and quality of life. Furthermore, she mentors junior therapists, ensuring that the next generation adopts her patient-centered philosophy.

Ultimately, Dr Retief’s mission remains to empower every individual through compassionate guidance, clear communication, and innovative therapy strategies that address the whole person rather than isolated symptoms.

Services

• Neurological Assessment using standardized tools to evaluate motor, sensory, and cognitive function

• Cognitive Rehabilitation with computer-based training and real-world task simulations to improve memory, attention, and executive skills

• Activities of Daily Living (ADL) Retraining, focusing on self-care, meal preparation, and home management skills

• Sensory Integration Therapy to recalibrate responses to sensory input, including proprioceptive and vestibular challenges

• Fatigue Management Programs, teaching energy conservation techniques and pacing strategies for chronic neurological conditions

• Adaptive Equipment Prescription and training, such as mobility aids, orthoses, and assistive technology for enhanced independence

• Ergonomic and Environmental Assessments to optimize home and workplace setups for safety and accessibility

• Caregiver Training and Education, offering strategies to support family members in ongoing rehabilitation activities

• Group Workshops on brain health, stroke recovery, and mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) management

• Teletherapy Consultations via secure video platform to follow up on progress and adapt home-based programs

Schedule a consultation today.

Additional Information

Balance Therapy Centre features a dedicated therapy gym equipped with adaptive equipment, balance platforms, and virtual-reality cognitive training systems. In addition, the centre includes a sensory room designed to support gradual exposure and sensory modulation, which enhances treatment outcomes for clients with traumatic brain injury and stroke.

Furthermore, the practice utilizes a secure electronic medical record system to streamline documentation and ensure continuity of care across the multidisciplinary team that includes physiotherapists, speech therapists, and clinical psychologists. Consequently, clients experience cohesive treatment plans and timely adjustments based on collaborative discussions.

Moreover, the centre adheres to rigorous infection-control protocols, maintaining high-level sanitization of therapy tools and private treatment areas. Patients and caregivers alike appreciate the welcoming environment and professional support staff, who facilitate appointments and guide families through each step of the rehabilitation journey.

Overall, this modern, outpatient setting fosters a welcoming atmosphere where every individual receives undivided attention and customized care. Finally, take the next step toward regaining independence by scheduling your personalized assessment today.