Catch Up on Your 2024 CPD Points with PsyCPD!

Catch Up on Your 2024 CPD Points with PsyCPD!

PsySSA offers members exclusive access to an online PsySSA CPD hub, PsyCPD. PsyCPD is a PsySSA CPD platform that aims to assist psychology professionals manage their continuing professional development points and ensure HPCSA compliance. PsyCPD is a gateway to continuing professional development, featuring a CPD Accredited Articles Library. Here, you’ll find a selection of articles each paired with a questionnaire, providing an opportunity to earn CPD points.

Whether you’re looking to catch up on points from last year or advance your expertise, the PsyCPD portal has you covered. With up to 25 CPD points currently available, PsyCPD offers a valuable resource for fulfilling your professional development requirements.

PsySSA’s Annual Psychology Congress 2025 – Abstract Submissions Now Open!

PsySSA’s Annual Psychology Congress 2025 – Abstract Submissions Now Open!

PsySSA is excited to announce that abstract submissions for the Annual Psychology Congress 2025: ‘Psychology in Society & Society in Psychology” is officially open!

The Scientific Committee welcomes abstracts and proposals for symposia, oral papers, posters round-tables, and creative work. Abstracts addressing all fields of psychology and related areas will be considered.

Abstract submission opens on 15 January 2025 and closes on 24 March 2025.

PsySSA encourages you to be a part of this exciting event from 14-16 October 2025 at the Durban International Convention Centre (ICC), Durban, South Africa, and play an active role by contributing to the scientific programme, which promises stimulating presentations, robust debate and innovative ideas.

We look to your abstract submission for the #PsySSACongress2025

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.

A Warm Welcome Back from PsySSA!

A Warm Welcome Back from PsySSA!

As we settle into 2025, we extend our warmest wishes for a happy and prosperous new year. We are excited for the opportunities and possibilities this new year holds for the psychology profession and our PsySSA community. Thank you for your continued commitment to PsySSA, Africa’s largest psychology professional society. Your dedication strengthens our community and drives our collective mission forward. This year promises to be an exciting one with a wide range of membership benefits, impactful  events, announcements and initiatives on the horizon. Stay tuned – there’s much to look forward to in 2025!

Here’s to a year of growth, collaboration, and success!

Warm regards,
The Psychological Society of South Africa

Happy Holidays from PsySSA!

Happy Holidays from PsySSA!

As we bring 2024 to a close, we reflect on an extraordinary year that marked PsySSA’s 30th anniversary – a milestone that highlighted our legacy and the community we have built together. We thank you for your unwavering commitment and continued membership. As we reflect on our legacy and look toward the future, we wish you health, happiness, and rejuvenation this holiday season!


A Message From the PsySSA President

Dear Colleagues and Friends

As we rapidly race towards the end of 2024, I would like us to reflect on the year in our professional society. The challenges and triumphs of the last year have cemented the value of psychological work in our roles as mental health professionals. Together, we have continued to support individuals, families, and communities in uncertain times, often laced with deep trauma and loss. Like this past year, 2025 no doubt promises both challenges and opportunities. Mental health awareness is fortunately growing but the stresses and stressors that individuals face in their personal and professional lives, are similarly growing.  Psychology has never been more crucial in fostering research and intervention to offer therapeutic support and improving the well-being of individuals and communities. We should therefore wholeheartedly recommit ourselves to compassionate care and advocacy to minimise suffering.

I encourage each of you to continue to endeavour to become knowledge creators, to collaborate across disciplines, and to engage with those who can benefit most from our expertise. We should intensify our efforts to support one another  as professionals, by sharing knowledge and resources to work towards our collective growth. 

On behalf of the entire PsySSA team, I wish you all a meaningful and fulfilling New Year. May 2025 bring you health, success, and deep meaning in the work that you do and the connections that you share with family, friends and the broader community.

With gratitude and best wishes,

Prof Ronelle Carolissen

PsySSA President

PsySSA Annual Psychology Congress 2025 – Congress Call

PsySSA Annual Psychology Congress 2025 – Congress Call

2025 CONGRESS CALL

“Psychology in Society and Society in Psychology”

Considering psychology’s focus on human behaviour, cognition and emotion, it has a fundamental duty to enhance the mental wellbeing of individuals, families, and communities. This encompasses assessments, diagnosis and treatment of psychological problems that impact on the emotions, behaviours and cognitions of individuals as they function and relate to others in society. At the heart of psychology is the promotion of psychological wellbeing, social responsibility, social justice, and community empowerment. Inevitably, this means that psychology must make a positive impact on society since what happens in society must be relevant for teaching, practice and research in psychology. The Psychological Society of South Africa (PsySSA) is committed to the societal impact of psychology and titled the Annual South African Psychology Congress 2025: “Psychology in Society and Society in Psychology”.

Psychology in society involves the scientific study of how citizens’ thoughts, feelings and behaviours are influenced by fellow citizens as well as society’s leadership. Among the societal responsibilities are mutual respect and empathy and the celebration of all forms of diversity. Challenging discrimination and oppression should be a priority for psychology, considering the social justice and mental health imperatives. Additionally, the rapid advancement of artificial intelligence presents unique opportunities and challenges for psychology, particularly in understanding human-technology interaction and its implications for mental health and societal dynamics.

Society in psychology is understood as a network of social relationships, customs, and traditions that contribute to how people interact with each other and how they live their lives. This is reflective across disciplines such as education, politics, anthropology, economics, the healthcare disciplines, and others. The many social ills that exist in society, such as crime, gender and community-based violence, poverty, and the abuse and neglect of children are just some of the problems affecting the nation. Psychology must be geared to meet these social challenges if it intends to be socially and contextually relevant in promoting psychological wellbeing.

Against this background, the PsySSA Annual South African Psychology Congress 2025 will be hosted at the Durban ICC from 14 to 16 October 2025. The Congress Committee welcomes presentations that focus on the congress theme and general areas of relevance to psychology. Submissions of scholarly and practice-oriented presentations, research posters and symposia are invited. The congress will showcase how the discipline can make a positive societal impact in promoting individual and collective mental health and wellbeing.

PsySSA looks forward to receiving your submissions and to your participation in this important annual event.