Mark Barends – Counselling Psychologist – Kimberley

Mark Barends – Counselling Psychologist - Kimberley

Mark Barends is a seasoned Counselling Psychologist based in Kimberley, Northern Cape. He holds a Master’s degree in Psychology from the University of the Western Cape and maintains active registration with the Health Professions Council of South Africa. Over more than two decades, Mark has dedicated his career to promoting mental and emotional well-being across diverse communities.

His professional journey includes leading the Employee Health and Wellness Programme for the Northern Cape Department of Health and serving as Therapeutic Head of Institutions for the Northern Cape Department of Social Services and Population Development. Consequently, he gained extensive experience in organisational wellness, crisis intervention, and program development. Moreover, he founded MSBOR Consultants and Technologies, where he now designs wellness platforms and assessment tools tailored for youth and employee development.

Throughout his practice, Mark emphasizes a strengths-based, integrative approach. He combines cognitive-behavioural techniques, motivational interviewing, and mindfulness exercises to meet each client’s unique needs. Furthermore, he fosters a supportive environment in which individuals feel heard and empowered. As a result, clients build resilience and achieve lasting personal growth.

Services

At his Kimberley practice, Mark Barends delivers a comprehensive suite of services, each crafted to support mental health and organisational wellness:

• Individual Therapy
  Personalized counselling sessions that address anxiety, depression, stress management, and life transitions. Clients receive measurable goals and practical coping strategies.

• Group Therapy
  Facilitated small-group sessions that encourage peer support, communication skills, and shared learning. Groups cover topics like stress reduction and emotional regulation.

• Employee Wellness Programs
  Customised initiatives for organisations to enhance staff well-being and productivity. Programs integrate digital wellness platforms, on-site workshops, and follow-up assessments.

• Youth Development Programs
  Targeted interventions for adolescents focusing on self-esteem, academic motivation, and social skills. Workshops include interactive modules and take-home exercises.

• Psychological Assessments
  Comprehensive evaluations using standardised test batteries and computerised assessment tools. Reports inform treatment plans and track progress over time.

Each service features a personalized care plan. Therefore, clients remain actively engaged in their therapeutic journey.

Additional Information

Mark’s practice features private consultation rooms, a dedicated group workshop space, and advanced biofeedback equipment that monitors physiological responses during stress-management sessions. In addition, he employs secure telehealth technology to ensure continuity of care for remote clients.

He regularly collaborates with psychiatrists, occupational therapists, and educational specialists to offer multidisciplinary support. This network guarantees comprehensive solutions for individuals, families, and organisations. Meanwhile, Mark remains committed to continuous professional development, attending conferences and participating in peer-reviewed research to stay at the forefront of counselling psychology.

Engaging with Mark’s services offers clients a clear path to enhanced self-awareness, resilience, and emotional balance. Schedule a consultation today to experience expert, compassionate care tailored to your unique goals.