Natasha Merlo – Social Worker & Psychotherapist – Somerset West

Natasha Merlo - Social Worker & Psychotherapist - Somerset West

Natasha Merlo is a registered Social Worker and Psychotherapist based in Somerset West, Western Cape. She holds a Bachelor of Social Work from UNISA and an Honours degree in Psychology from Stellenbosch University. Moreover, she is pursuing her Master’s in Clinical Social Work at the University of Cape Town. Consequently, Natasha combines academic rigor with over a decade of hands-on experience in both private practice and the non-profit sector.

Her therapeutic philosophy embraces an integrative and holistic approach, acknowledging the interconnectedness of emotional, psychological, and physical well-being. Therefore, she blends person-centred and psychodynamic modalities with cognitive behavioural techniques, mindfulness interventions, and motivational interviewing. By creating a safe, non-judgmental space, she empowers clients to explore challenges and craft personalized paths to healing.

Furthermore, Natasha’s practice is LGBTQ+ affirming, grounded in respect, curiosity, and care. She believes that every individual possesses innate strengths and the capacity for meaningful change. Consequently, she supports clients in rewriting unhelpful narratives and discovering their own sense of agency.

Services

• Individual Therapy
  Natasha offers tailored one-on-one sessions that address anxiety disorders, mood disturbances, and stress-related issues.

• Family Therapy
  She facilitates collaborative sessions to improve communication, resolve conflicts, and strengthen family bonds.

• Group Therapy
  Through small-group formats, clients gain peer support and share coping strategies under professional guidance.

• Psychotherapy for Substance-Related Disorders
  She applies evidence-based relapse prevention techniques and motivational enhancement strategies.

• Trauma-Informed Therapy
  Natasha utilizes stabilization exercises, narrative exposure, and grounding practices for trauma survivors.

• Mindfulness-Based Interventions
  Clients learn present-moment awareness techniques to reduce stress and improve emotional regulation.

• Workshops & Corporate Training
  She designs and delivers mental health and mindfulness workshops for organizations, promoting resilience and well-being at work.

Additional Information

Natasha’s Somerset West practice integrates modern therapeutic tools, including secure teletherapy platforms and digital mood-tracking apps. Consequently, clients access flexible support between sessions. Furthermore, the consultation space offers soundproofing, natural light, and comfortable seating, which enhances confidentiality and ease.

Her approach remains highly personalized. Initially, she collaborates with each client to set clear, achievable goals. Then, she monitors progress via regular check-ins and adjusts interventions as needed. Meanwhile, she integrates guided imagery and short biofeedback exercises to deepen clients’ self-awareness.

Moreover, Natasha accommodates busy lifestyles by offering early-morning, evening, and weekend appointments. She also hosts intensive weekend retreats that combine interactive workshops with reflective practices. These retreats employ group dynamics and individualized feedback to foster rapid, sustainable change.

Finally, Natasha commits to her own professional growth through continuous training in trauma-informed care, attachment theory, and multicultural practice. As a result, her clients benefit from methods that reflect the latest psychological research while preserving warmth and empathy. Schedule a consultation today to begin your journey toward self-understanding, resilience, and lasting well-being.