EXPERIENCE

I began my career as an occupational therapist in mental health at Witrand Psychiatric Hospital, where I gained broad clinical exposure to mood disorders, substance use disorders, psychotic disorders, and intellectual disability. In 2018, I transitioned into private psychiatry at Life Poortview Hospital and in 2020, I joined Optima Rust-en-Vrede Psychiatric Hospital, a setting whose values and vision strongly align with my own.

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EDUCATION AND PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT

I hold a Bachelor of Occupational Therapy from the University of the Free State (2012). My ongoing professional development has focused strongly on experiential therapeutic work. Training that informs my clinical practice includes Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Experiential Group Therapy, Projective Techniques for Groups, Psychodrama Principles and Techniques, Psycho-spiritual Approaches in Therapy, Working with Shame, Sensory Intelligence, Attachment in Adults, Drumming in Therapy, The Alert Program, and Bully Busters. These approaches collectively support my therapy in emotional regulation, group process facilitation, and creative, insight-oriented intervention in mental health settings.

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APPROACH TO THERAPY

I am deeply passionate about helping people live wholehearted, meaningful, and fulfilling lives. While life will always present challenges, I believe individuals can develop the skills, routines, and self-awareness needed to navigate these challenges with resilience and intention.

My therapeutic approach integrates bottom-up strategies, such as nervous system regulation through sensory modulation, with top-down approaches, including CBT and DBT. I place strong emphasis on consistency and accountability, supporting patients to build sustainable routines and habits that foster emotional regulation, self-trust, and long-term functioning. Self-compassion is woven throughout my work, with progress over perfection.

I have a particular interest in working with adults with ADHD and anxiety, supporting them to understand how their nervous system functions and how sensory strategies, structure, and meaningful activity can support daily life. My aim is to help individuals move from feeling overwhelmed or stuck to feeling more regulated, capable, and connected to themselves.

Meaningful activity sits at the heart of my therapy. Through occupation, we heal, create, express, and reconnect with who we are. I regularly use creative modalities such as drawing, painting, movement, and nature-based activities to support emotional expression, insight, and integration.

At the core of my therapy is the belief that people grow best when they feel seen, supported, and empowered to take small, consistent steps toward change.

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PERSONAL INFORMATION

Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my husband and two children, journaling, reading, running, spending time in nature, and attending theatre productions.​

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CONTACT INFORMATION:

annette@nelot.co.za

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