Student Division Webinar: African Spirituality and Mental Health

Student Division Webinar: African Spirituality and Mental Health

About The Webinar

The PsySSA SD Multidisciplinary subcommittee presents a webinar on African Spirituality and Mental Health.

The psychology curriculum in South Africa tends to focus on  Western approaches while neglecting an African epistemological paradigm (Baloyi, 2021). Research shows that almost 80% of South Africans seek health care from traditional healers (Boum et al., 2021). These figures suggest the need for psychological services to be mindful of Indigenous knowledge systems and the often overlooked spiritual dimensions of mental illness.

Nompumelelo Prudence Kubheka, clinical psychologist & traditional healer, and Gogo Xolly, a traditional healer share with us their journey, insights, and knowledge on working with mental illness, incorporating holistic intervention, and how psychology students can gain cultural competency.

Student Division Podcast: The Counsellor, The Person and The Professional

Student Division Podcast: The Counsellor, The Person and The Professional

About The Podcast

Join us for an engaging and insightful episode of the PsySSA Student Division podcast, *”The Counselor: The Person and the Professional.”* This thought-provoking conversation delves into the personal and professional journeys of two distinguished psychology professionals.  

In this episode, our guests share:  

  • The challenges they’ve faced and how they overcame them.  
  • Lessons learned from their personal and professional experiences.  
  • How their personal identity has shaped their approach to clinical practice.  

This discussion explores the intersection of personal growth and professional development, addressing important topics such as self-awareness, managing bias, and the emotional impact of working in the mental health field.  

Whether you’re a psychology student, a budding professional, or an experienced clinician, this episode offers valuable insights into the balance between being a person and a professional in the world of counseling. Tune in to hear inspiring stories, practical advice, and conversations that matter in the field of psychology. Don’t miss out—subscribe to our channel and join the conversation!

Our guests share valuable lessons from their journey to becoming clinicians, offering insights into the personal and professional growth required in the field. They reflect on the pivotal moments that shaped their careers and the resilience needed to navigate challenges. Their stories highlight the importance of self-awareness, adaptability, and staying true to one’s values while evolving as a mental health professional.

About The Speakers

Nhlanhlenhle Sanelisiwe Mavundla

Born and bred in Ladysmith kwazulu Natal. Intern clinical psychologist employed at Fort Napier Hospital. Currently placed at Townhill psychiatric hospital in Pietermaritzburg. 

I have 10years working experience in the employee health and wellness sector, employed by KZN department of health as an employee health and wellness practitioner. Co Founder of NGO, Women of Destiny, that focuses on providing women with a platform to network and share experiences and resources. Proud Mental health advocate, working with various radio stations and organizations to promote mental health in rural communities in and around KZN. 

Biggest passion currently is advocacy for mental health care uses within the public health care sector. 

Research interest include mental health literacy, African psychology and the intersection of psychology with spiritual and cultural perspectives. 

Qualifications include: 

  • B.A Degree in Psychology 
  • Postgraduate diploma in psychological counseling 
  • Postgraduate Diploma in Public health
  • Masters in Public Health

Ntsako Mogatosi

Mrs Ntsako Mogatosi is a qualified Clinical Psychologist in community service. 

She holds a:

  • Master of Science in Clinical Psychology,
  • Master of Arts in Research Psychology, and
  • Bachelor of Arts in Counselling Psychology and is reading towards her PhD in Psychology.

She was named among the top 10 best students in South Africa by the Gradstar organisation that recognises the potential of employable youth in the country. She is a wife and a mother to a beautiful girl.

Speaking engagements:

  • She has spoken at Nelson Mandela University as a guest speaker at the awards ceremony for best-performing students.
  • Hadithi ya Africa Non-profit Organisation.
  • Motivational speaker at Nelson Mandela University for exam preparation for students.
  • Conducted mental health workshops at Port Elizabeth TVET College (Russel Road campus) on mental health.
  • Guest speaker at Fort Hare Autumn School on social democracy and political economy.
  • Night Vigil mass meeting at Nelson Mandela University addressing Gender-Based Violence.

Work experience:

  • Worked at the Phelophepha health train in Mthatha.
  • Worked at the Zanompilo truck at Nelson Mandela University as a Registered Counsellor.
  • Worked at Nelson Mandela University Campus Health as a Registered Counsellor.
  • Worked at Sterkfontein Psychiatric Hospital (Gauteng) as a Clinical Psychologist.

She is passionate about mental health and psychopathology. She studied psychology for 10 years and endeavours to open her private practice one day.

Board Exam Preparation Workshop – 23 January 2025

Board Exam Preparation Workshop – 23 January 2025

Board Exam Preparation Workshop – 23 January 2025

About this workshop

Join us on Zoom as we unpack the Board Exam!

The journey to becoming an HPCSA-registered psychologist entails navigating through rigorous academic training and practical experiences. However, one pivotal milestone stands between aspiring professionals and their goals: the HPCSA board exam. This exam serves as a comprehensive evaluation of theoretical knowledge, clinical skills, and ethical understanding essential for competent practice in the field. For those on the brink of undertaking this examination, the stakes are high, and the need for thorough preparation is paramount.

This underscores the necessity of a specialized board exam workshop tailored to the unique needs of prospective exam takers. Recognizing the complexities and challenges inherent in preparing for such a pivotal assessment, this workshop aims to provide invaluable clarity and guidance to participants.

The workshop will encompass multifaceted approaches to bolstering exam readiness for students in psychometry, counselling, research, educational and clinical psychology. Through interactive sessions, participants will delve into the intricacies of the exam format, content domains, and requisite competencies.

In essence, this workshop serves as a pivotal resource in equipping student and exam candidates with the tools, knowledge, and support necessary to navigate the challenges of the board exam successfully. By fostering clarity, confidence, and competence, the workshop endeavours to empower individuals to embark on their professional journeys with assurance and readiness to make meaningful contributions to the field of psychology.

Join the workshop at no cost!

Meet The Facilitators
Dr Pakeezah Rajab

Dr Pakeezah Rajab

Presenter

Bio

Dr Pakeezah Rajab is the Senior Researcher at JVR Psychometrics and a PsySSA 2024-25 Additional Executive Member. Her PhD topic was “Non-intellectual factors that influence mathematics performance in South Africa.” She has experience applying psychometric results to a variety of contexts, including schools, private practice, higher education, and corporate environments. Pakeezah has worked on numerous projects that developed, validated and/or standardised assessments for use by the South African population – including aptitude, personality, values, career guidance and emotional intelligence. Her research interests include cognitive functioning, student performance and assessment development.

Ms Genevieve Burrow

Ms Genevieve Burrow

Presenter

Bio

Genevieve Burrow is a registered counsellor and chairperson of the PsySSA Division of Registered Counsellors and Psychometrists. Genevieve is the manager of The Youth Hub, based at Groote Schuur Hospital Adolescent Centre of Excellence, where she counsels, and manages students and the counselling centre. She has hosted several board exam workshops previously, and enjoys working with students to enlighten them about the upcoming HPCSA board exam. Genevieve Burrow is committed to driving excellence and innovation in the practice of counselling, and promoting the visibility and importance of this field. Genevieve is passionate about youth upliftment and collaborates with a medically-informed multidisciplinary team to provide comprehensive and holistic care to adolescents facing diverse challenges in under-provided areas.

Dr Kemoneilwe Momi Metsing

Dr Kemoneilwe Momi Metsing

Presenter

Bio

Dr. Kemoneilwe Momi Metsing is a registered Educational Psychologist with a PhD in Psychology. She is a Senior Lecturer in the Department of Psychology of Education at the University of South Africa (UNISA) and Chairperson of the Society for Educational Psychology of South Africa (SEPSA). Dr. Metsing has a private practice and consults for government and private companies on relational and organizational transformation. She is an expert witness and member of the South African Medico-Legal Association (SAMLA). Dr. Metsing has held various leadership positions, including Chief Education Specialist in the Department of Education and board member of the South African Professional Society on the Abuse of Children (SAPSAC). She is an External examiner and clinical supervisor for MEd Educational Psychology at UJ. She serves on the Executive Committee of Decolonising Psychology at the Psychological Society of South Africa (PsySSA) and is a Critical Reader for UNISA’s Department of Adult Community and Continuing Education. With expertise in developing community-based programs, Dr. Metsing has successfully brought together individuals and organizations to address social issues, fostering partnerships and sustainable solutions. She is committed to inspiring and educating the next generation of leaders and change-makers, and her appointment at UNISA marks an exciting new chapter in her journey.

Dr Matome Jack Mashiapata

Dr Matome Jack Mashiapata

Presenter

Bio

Dr Mashiapata is a registered Educational Psychologist with the Health Professions Council of SA with over three decades of experience as a lecturer college for teacher training, high school teacher, a school psychologist in the department of basic education, manager of services for students with disabilities as well as student counselling. Currently working as the Director for Counselling and Career Development at UNISA, he has presented papers and workshops locally and internationally in the areas of career counselling, pastoral counselling, mentorship, career development, ethics, students with disabilities, etc. He holds active membership and leadership roles the Psychological Society of SA (PSYSSA), Society for Education Psychology of SA (SEPSA), South African Federation of Student Affairs (SAFSAS), International Association of Student Affairs and Services (IASAS) serving as the Africa regional director, deputy chairperson of Council for Pastoral and Spiritual Counsellors (CPSC), and Higher and Further Education Disability Services Association (HEDSA). He is the past president of the Southern African Association of Counselling and Development in Higher Education (SAACDHE). Dr Mashiapata has authored a chapter on Trauma Debriefing in a book titled “Life skills – my journey, my destiny”. He presents accredited CPD workshops on ethics in counselling services.

 

Deneo Sekese

Deneo Sekese

Presenter

Bio

Deneo Sekese started her career in Human Resources specifically training and development and organisational development. Her passion for people and therapy led to a midlife career change into psychology. Deneo completed her masters in Counselling Psychology at Rhodes University and internship at the student counselling centre at the Durban University of Technology. She has had the privilege of presenting her masters research at the 27th Annual South African Psychology Congress. Deneo’s areas of interest are African Psychology, Wellbeing and Salutogenesis and Community psychology. She recently registered with the Board of Psychology HPCSA and is in the process of setting up a private practice.

Arianna Fadda

Arianna Fadda

Presenter

Bio

My name is Arianna Fadda. I hold a Bachelor of Arts and a Bachelor of Social Science Honours in Psychology both from the University of Pretoria as well as a professional master’s degree (by coursework and research report) in Social and Psychological Research from the University of the Witwatersrand. My research report focused on the perceptions of health professionals regarding an online depression screening tool adapted for South Africans. Following my master’s, I completed a year-long Research Psychology internship at the Africa Unit for Transdisciplinary Health Research (AUTHeR) at the North-West University, during which I worked on various qualitative and quantitative research projects. I subsequently wrote and passed the Research Psychology Board Examination with the Health Professions Council of South Africa earlier this year and I am now a registered Research Psychologist. I am currently working as a research assistant for AUTHeR and planning further studies towards a PhD.

 

Shaazia Patel

Shaazia Patel

Presenter

Bio

Shaazia is a registered Psychometrist with extensive experience and knowledge in the Assessment related field. She is actively involved in various community volunteer projects and is currently in the process of creating a project for probono career assessments for those who are from disadvantaged backgrounds. She is currently completing her Masters Thesis through UWC. She is a Mentor for the PsySSASD National mentorship programme and serves as an additional member on PsySSAs RCP division. Her love for animals and helping people is leading her towards attaining her Masters qualification to research and work within the Animal Assisted Psychotherapy field.

Zakiyah Hoosen

Zakiyah Hoosen

Presenter

Bio

Zakiyah Hoosen is a dynamic individual with a deep love for Psychology. She completed her undergraduate degree at the University of Pretoria majoring in Psychology and Languages; later obtaining her Honor’s degree from SACAP and went on to become a qualified registered counsellor. She is active in the field and works across multiple organizations, working within a trauma-informed focus to facilitate counselling and psychoeducation to children, adolescents, and adults. Zakiyah is currently advancing her knowledge and training on her journey of master’s in Clinical Psychology, and she aspires to foster psychosocial wellbeing across all spheres of life through meaningful and efficient psychological services for all.

Rekha Kangokar

Rekha Kangokar

Presenter

Bio

Mrs Rekha Kangokar Rama Rao is a Registered Counsellor and has completed Masters in Community-Based Counselling Psychology. Working with a person centered approach she is passionate about fostering mental well-being. She integrates evidence-based practices with a holistic approach to nurture growth and healing within both individuals and communities. She has been associated with various NGOs and has supported them closely, Rekha has served a Secretary and Treasurer before and currently serves as an additional member in the RCP division.

2025 Board Exam Preparation Workshops – Save The Dates!

2025 Board Exam Preparation Workshops – Save The Dates!

SAVE THE DATE

2025 BOARD EXAM PREPARATION WORKSHOPS 

PsySSA is excited to announce the 2025 Board Exam Preparation Workshops to help you excel in your professional journey! Mark your calendars for these key dates:

  • 23 January 2025
  • 21 May 2025
  • 17 September 2025

These workshops are designed to support, empower, and prepare psychology professionals and aspiring candidates for success.

Details to follow soon! Stay tuned for updates.

PsySSA SD National Mentorship Programme 2025 Mentor Applications are OPEN!

PsySSA SD National Mentorship Programme 2025 Mentor Applications are OPEN!

National Mentorship Programme 2025 Mentor Applications are OPEN!

Calling all psychology postgraduates and professionals! The Psychological Society of South Africa (PsySSA) Student Division has opened mentor applications for its National Mentorship Programme 2025.

The National Mentorship Programme is transformative, imparting practical and academic knowledge and skills to mentees with a passion for Psychology. It’s the opportunity of a lifetime, so send your applications today as we have a limited number of positions.

The National Mentorship Programme is a highly regarded year-long, PsySSA-endorsed initiative that prides itself on consistent excellence. The Programme strives to promote personal and academic growth in mentees with the organic transfer of knowledge. Each mentee is paired with a mentor for the duration of the Programme. The assignments are relevant to psychology’s current field and science landscape. Mentors share their experiences and knowledge, and the assignments encourage and expand critical thinking, the application of knowledge in theory and practice, and topics that pertain to the current milieu of psychology.

This is a remarkable opportunity to join a well-respected, prestigious programme.

Mentor positions pertain to individuals who have completed Psychology Honours, are currently studying Master’s, post-Master’s, or Psychology practitioners.

Applications close on 15 February 2025.

PsySSA SD National Mentorship Programme 2025 Mentee Applications are OPEN!

PsySSA SD National Mentorship Programme 2025 Mentee Applications are OPEN!

PsySSA SD National Mentorship Programme 2025 Applications are OPEN!

Calling all psychology postgraduates and professionals! The Psychological Society of South Africa (PsySSA) Student Division has opened mentee and mentor applications for its National Mentorship Programme 2025.

The National Mentorship Programme is transformative, imparting practical and academic knowledge and skills to mentees with a passion for Psychology. It’s the opportunity of a lifetime, so send your applications today as we have a limited number of positions.

The National Mentorship Programme is a highly regarded year-long, PsySSA-endorsed initiative that prides itself on consistent excellence. The Programme strives to promote personal and academic growth in mentees with the organic transfer of knowledge. Each mentee is paired with a mentor for the duration of the Programme. The assignments are relevant to psychology’s current field and science landscape. Mentors share their experiences and knowledge, and the assignments encourage and expand critical thinking, the application of knowledge in theory and practice, and topics that pertain to the current milieu of psychology.

This is a remarkable opportunity to join a well-respected, prestigious programme.

Mentor positions pertain to individuals who have completed Psychology Honours, are currently studying Master’s, post-Master’s, or Psychology practitioners.

Applications close on 15 February 2025.