Marelé Venter Occupational Therapist Gardenia Park

Marelé Venter Occupational Therapist Gardenia Park, Bloemfontein

About

Marelé is an experienced occupational therapist with 21 years of practice. She graduated with honours in 2000 and has since specialised in play therapy. Marelé’s passion for emotional support led her to further studies, earning a post-graduate diploma in play therapy in 2002. She has advocated for play as a therapeutic tool throughout her career.

Marelé has worked in various settings, including the Departments of Health and Education, and private practice. She also lectured at the University of the Free State on the role of play in occupational therapy. Marelé has facilitated group therapy in a private psychiatric clinic and currently co-directs i2we, offering professional development training in mental health.

Services

Group Therapy

Marelé provides group therapy for children, focusing on emotional and behavioural issues. Group therapy helps children connect with peers, develop interpersonal skills, and gain a sense of belonging. It is effective in addressing feelings of isolation, building self-concept, and fostering responsibility.

One-on-One Therapy

Individual therapy is available for children and adolescents (ages 2 ½ to 18) facing emotional and behavioural challenges. Issues addressed include attachment difficulties, psychosomatic problems, eating and sleeping disorders, self-harm, and learning difficulties.

Play Therapy

Marelé uses play therapy to help children express and process emotions through play. This method supports healthy development, emotional understanding, and self-therapy. Play therapy provides a safe space for children to work through anxieties, conflicts, and traumas.

Additional Information

Marelé is a member of the International Association for Group Psychotherapy and Group Processes (IAGP) and is pursuing a post-graduate diploma in classical psychodrama. She co-founded i2we, which offers training and development for mental health professionals, and co-authored the BullyBusters programme, used by professionals across South Africa. Marelé’s inner child remains active, and she finds joy in engaging in meaningful play with children.