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.

From Couch to Clarity: Exercise as Intervention for Mental Health Disorders

From Couch to Clarity: Exercise as Intervention for Mental Health Disorders

Willem Pieters

Willem, a registered biokineticist currently completing his internship as a counselling psychologist at Life Hunterscraig Hospital in Gqeberha, is researching how exercise is being integrated by South African psychologists when working with clients experiencing mental illness and general distress. He is interested in exploring new approaches to incorporate physical activity and exercise prescription as part of treatment for mental health disorders.

From Couch to Clarity: Exercise as Intervention for Mental Health Disorders

 

The numerous physical and mental health benefits of exercise have been recognised for centuries. Plato (427-347 BCE) is quoted as saying, “lack of activity destroys the good condition of every human being, while movement and methodical physical exercise save and preserve it” (n.d., as cited in Cooper, 2015). Although pharmacotherapy and psychotherapy are the primary treatments for many mental disorders, there is growing interest in using exercise as both a complementary and stand-alone intervention.

A substantial body of evidence now supports the positive outcomes of physical activity and exercise interventions for people with mental illness. Furthermore, exercise has a wide range of health benefits outside of those related to mental health outcomes, so it should be considered an intervention that has general health-promoting benefits over and above any desired changes in mental health outcomes. While exercise regimes appear to be feasible and effective as therapeutic interventions that carry low risk in both inpatient and outpatient mental health settings, exercise is generally not included in treatment programs.

The recommendations for individuals with depressive and anxiety disorders are similar to those for healthy individuals, but with consideration for lower-intensity activities when moderate-intensity activities are too challenging. It is important to note that even small amounts of physical activity can still provide mental health benefits, especially since people with mental health disorders are more likely to be physically inactive (Teychenne et al., 2020). Therefore, sedentary individuals may have more to gain by increasing levels of physical activity compared to those who are already active.

It has also been suggested that the most benefits in terms of exercise and depression are realised when moving from no activity to at least some (Pearce et al., 2022). This is an encouraging finding, especially for those who may find it daunting to start an exercise program. Furthermore, while most benefits related to exercise are achieved through regular and sustained practice, research has shown improved executive function, enhanced mood states, and decreased stress levels arising from even a single bout of exercise (Basso & Suzuki, 2017).

The point is this – something is better than nothing, and don’t let great be the enemy of good. Aim to do physical activity that you enjoy, at a moderate intensity, on most days of the week, for about 30 minutes if you can, and if you can’t do 30 minutes – 10 minutes is ok too! It is not about pounding away on a treadmill at the gym with headphones on and wearing the latest active gear, but rather, it is about becoming more active, moving our bodies in the way they were made to and taking advantage of the benefits that a more active life has to offer.

References

Basso, J. C., & Suzuki, W. A. (2017). The Effects of Acute Exercise on Mood, Cognition, Neurophysiology, and Neurochemical Pathways: A Review. Brain Plasticity, 2(2), 127–152. https://doi.org/10.3233/BPL-160040

Cooper, J. M. (2015). Plato’s Theaetetus. Routledge. https://doi.org/10.4324/9781315694740

Pearce, M., Garcia, L., Abbas, A., Strain, T., Schuch, F. B., Golubic, R., Kelly, P., Khan, S., Utukuri, M., Laird, Y., Mok, A., Smith, A., Tainio, M., Brage, S., & Woodcock, J. (2022). Association Between Physical Activity and Risk of Depression. JAMA Psychiatry, 79(6), 550. https://doi.org/10.1001/jamapsychiatry.2022.0609

Teychenne, M., White, R. L., Richards, J., Schuch, F. B., Rosenbaum, S., & Bennie, J. A. (2020). Do we need physical activity guidelines for mental health: What does the evidence tell us? Mental Health and Physical Activity, 18, 100315. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.mhpa.2019.100315

From Couch to Clarity: Exercise as Intervention for Mental Health Disorders

Mental Health: A Journey, Not a Dichotomy

Dr Daniel Page

Dr. Daniel Page is a South African entrepreneur, researcher, and global mental health advocate. As the founder and CEO of Psyche Innovations, he develops digital tools to make mental health care accessible, affordable, and evidence-based globally, particularly for underserved communities. With a PhD in Psychology from the University of Queensland, Dr. Page’s research focuses on building resilience and promoting mental well-being in youth and adults. Driven by the personal loss of his brother to suicide, his mission is to transform how mental health is addressed globally. Dr. Page is a multi published researcher and grant recipient, and is recognised as a leader by the American Psychological Association​​​​​.

Mental Health: A Journey, Not a Dichotomy

by Dr Daniel Page

Many of us mistakenly think of mental health as something binary—you’re either mentally healthy or you’re not, right? But mental health isn’t just the absence of illness or the presence of happiness. It’s an essential part of overall well-being, just as vital as physical health. Like physical health, it exists on a continuum—ranging from thriving on one end to struggling on the other.

Unfortunately, many people still view mental health as a polarity: either you’re “fine” or you’re “in crisis.” In reality, it’s much more nuanced. Throughout life, we move up and down this continuum, shifting as we encounter stressors, challenges, and moments of joy. So, what does this mean for you?

Most of us approach mental well-being reactively, seeking help only after warning signs have turned into crises. It’s like going to the doctor only after ignoring symptoms for months—or being surprised by health issues after never exercising or eating well. Just as we don’t wait for a heart attack to start exercising, we shouldn’t wait for a mental breakdown to take care of our mental health.

Think about it: when you brush your teeth, eat a balanced diet, and stay active, you’re not just preventing illness—you’re investing in long-term health. The same principle applies to mental well-being. By managing stress, working on emotional regulation, and building resilience, you create a buffer that helps you navigate life’s inevitable storms. So why don’t we treat mental health with the same care?

The Shift Towards Proactive Mental Well-being

Thankfully, the world is waking up to the importance of proactive mental health. More people now see the benefits of improving their mental well-being before issues arise. So, when asked, “If your life could be healthier, happier, and more harmonious, wouldn’t you want to pursue it?” the response is always, “Yes, but where do I start?”

That’s where things get tricky. We live in a world that offers quick-fix solutions—whether it’s a trendy ice bath or a miracle pill—but the truth is, mental well-being is more like maintaining a balanced diet. There is no instant remedy. Real improvement takes time, effort, and consistency.

The Building Blocks of Mental Health

Understanding the building blocks of mental health is the first step. These elements can be strengthened through learning new skills, developing competencies, and making positive behaviour changes.

At Psyche Innovations, we emphasise evidence-based approaches to help individuals develop these skills and take control of their mental health journey.

Mental Skills Training

Developing mental health is about building a psychological toolkit—skills that apply in everyday life. These might include managing stress, practising mindfulness, or building confidence through self-talk. Like tools for physical tasks, these mental skills help you handle emotional challenges, foster focus, and build resilience.

Goal-Setting for Success

A key part of mental well-being is setting goals that feel achievable. Using SMART goal-setting, individuals break larger objectives into manageable steps, stacking smaller wins for visible progress.

Resources for Growth

For those looking to take the next step in their mental health journey, we offer a range of tools and resources to guide the way. Check out the Psyche: Mental Health app and see what we are up to on social media.

World Alzheimer’s Day – 21 September 2024

World Alzheimer’s Day – 21 September 2024

World Alzheimer’s Day 

There is no antidote for aging. As we are born, so we are guaranteed that until we reach the full stop of our lives, we are going to age. The question is how to prepare for it. We all hope to travel life’s journeys with as few stumbling blocks as possible. Inevitably and often unavoidably things happen along the way. The wisdom of knowledge is the invaluable tool that we can arm ourselves with in the event of various occurrences.

Due to various factors, life expectancy today is a lot longer than in previous decade. This can be attributed to better health care and a general awareness of living a better lifestyle, thus incorporating good nutrition, exercise and the management of stress.  We all know that our lives are composed of various aspects, namely, physical, emotional, financial, cognitive and mental health. We all yearn towards searching for the panacea to provide us with a holistic quality of health.

Without education and awareness we fail ourselves and society at large in believing the myth that failing memory and cognitive skills are a result of old age. There is little further from the truth! Dementia is by no means a normal part of the ageing process.

Age is certainly undeniably an important risk factor, but it is imperative that it be known that it is not the only one. There are a number of other medical conditions which are treatable and that can also result in memory impairment. It is thus essential to have memory difficulties carefully checked out especially if one’s daily life is being affected and resulting in anxiety.

Statistics show that Dementia affects one is 20 people over the age of 65 and one in 5 people over the age of 80. This means that 20% of people over the age of 80 develop Dementia which by implication means that 80% do not. There are however diagnosed and documented cases of early –onset dementia before the age of 65.

Because it has been reported that a new case of Dementia arises every seven seconds in the developed world it is estimated that by 2040 the amount of sufferers will have risen from 24, 3 million people who are currently affected to 81, 1 million. Are these not staggering statistics!

It is thus clearly evident that the need for community-based services, welfare and support for people with Dementia as well as their carers is exceedingly large. This will no doubt place pressure upon governments globally to dramatically increase such services.

The message is crystal clear that we need to be prepared. The climate for change needs to be hastily created in terms of awareness and education to policymakers, governments, medical aids, health care professionals, home based carers and society at large.  We need to encourage the change of social conscience by including the aged and more specifically, those with Dementia.

Well, what exactly is Dementia? Too often it is a term that is bandied about without a clear understanding and thus it has developed a stigma that needs to be repudiated.

Dementia is a disease that affects the brain. It affects memory, thinking and actions – sometimes simultaneously. It is a progressive disease which affects the person with dementia gradually and increasingly. There are many kinds of Dementia, the most common being Alzheimer’s disease (about 50-60%) as well as Vascular Dementia.

Alzheimer’s disease damages individual brain cells one by one so that the brain can no longer continue to function as it has been used to.

With Vascular Dementia, there are problems with blood supply to the brain cells. The most common type of Vascular Dementia is Multi-Infarct Dementia. Tiny strokes (infarcts) damage small areas of the brain resulting in a probable change as to how the person is coping and functioning. Sometimes the effect causes the sufferer to feel unwell and temporarily more confused. Sometimes the person does not notice the effect.

There is not a specific test that can show whether someone has a particular type of Dementia. A diagnosis is made by talking to the person and a close relative or friend to gain insight and a thorough understanding of the person’s history. All possible causes of the symptoms need to be carefully examined.

The Mini Mental State Examination (MMSE) or the MoCA (Montreal Cognitive Assessment) are the most commonly used tests to evaluate memory and cognitive loss. It is used when the diagnosis of Dementia is to be considered.

If you are worried about your memory or have reason to believe that someone you know may be struggling with daily activities (personal hygiene, confusion, misplacing of things etc.) it is thus important to be checked out by a doctor or a specialist (Neurologist, Psychiatrist or Geriatrician).

Every person is unique and affected differently by the disease.

The 10 most common early symptoms of Dementia include:

  1. Memory Loss
  2. Difficulty in performing familiar tasks
  3. Problems with language
  4. Disorientation of time and place
  5. Impaired Judgement
  6. Problems keeping track of things
  7. Misplacing things
  8. Changes in mood or behaviour
  9. Personality changes
  10. Loss of Initiative

How Dementia can impact upon family life

Upon confirmed diagnosis of Dementia, the challenge of coming to terms with the expected changes needs to be faced, dealt with and understood. Being prepared assists in being able to equip oneself with a plan in order to be able to cope. It is comforting to know that there is help and support at hand and that the changes will occur gradually. However one does need time to adjust one’s lifestyle with any difficult challenge at hand.

What the family and friends can expect 

There are various traits that may become apparent to people who spend time with the person who has been diagnosed. In order to know what to expect one needs to have the insight and understanding by being informed.

The natural progression of the disease follows the pattern of initially having trouble in remembering words, finishing thoughts, following directions or remembering names or information. Often irritability, frustration and confusion are noticeable. Changes in personality and behaviour become apparent. As time goes on problems will increasingly manifest with thinking and remembering, reading and writing will also become more difficult. It will also become harder for the person to make decisions and take in new information.

Later, everyday mundane activities will become really difficult, for example, remembering to keep appointments, shopping lists, coping with money, cooking and general caring for themselves.  This then leads to the person needing assistance with basic activities such as washing, dressing and eating.

These changes are very gradual and the person may stay the same for months or even years. Each person with Dementia is different and thus it is difficult to predict when changes will occur and at what pace. Although it may become difficult to continue some of their usual activities, people with Dementia may discover other activities to enjoy, for example, sorting out family photographs, gardening or listening to music.

The all important factor not to lose sight of, is to maintain respect and dignity for the person with the disease.

Karen Borochowitz: Dementia SA

WEBSITE : www.dementiasa.org

NATIONAL HELPLINE : 0860 636 679  /  0860 MEMORY

Or 021 21 0077/8

Email: info@dementiasa.org

Board Exam Preparation Workshop – 26 September 2024

Board Exam Preparation Workshop – 26 September 2024

Board Exam Preparation Workshop – 26 September 2024

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.

 

Adelene van Rooyen

Adelene van Rooyen

Presenter

Bio

Adelene is a registered Psychometrist (PMT 0101184) who specialises in career guidance and subject choice assessments. She qualified in October 2023 from Stellenbosch University with experience gained utilising corporate assessments. However, recently she pivoted by opening her own educationally focused practice, namely Cognisense, where she predominantly works with high school students, guiding them in making informed decisions about their future studies and careers. Her approach is rooted in a deep understanding of the unique challenges faced by young people today, and she takes pride in offering guidance that empowers students to discover their true potential and to kickstart their journey to achieving their career aspirations. Beyond her professional life, Adelene finds joy in the simple pleasures. She is an avid reader, often getting lost in the pages of her favourite fantasy books. Her home is a green sanctuary, filled with plants. Additionally, she cherishes the time spent with her two beloved Pomeranians.

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.