Workshops 2024

PsySSA Workshop Series 2024

Welcome to the PsySSA Workshop Series 2024! We are thrilled to invite you on a journey where you will delve deep into the fascinating world of psychology. Join us for an array of workshops that are designed to expand your knowledge and expertise in this field. Explore a multitude of thought-provoking topics that cover a wide range of interest fields, guaranteeing a workshop that resonates with your passion and curiosity. These learning opportunities are not to be missed! Enrich your understanding, connect with like-minded individuals, and embark on an enlightening experience that will leave you inspired and empowered.

Next workshop: 22 May 2024

Workshop countdown

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Workshop 1

Abstract

Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) was developed as a multi-modal intervention for chronically suicidal, self-harming and dysregulated clients. Most therapists don’t have access to a team, so individual therapy is their primary mode of treatment. In this 2-session series, we will focus on using DBT in Individual Therapy by providing a framework for formulating and treating clients who have difficulty regulating emotions. Session 2 will build on the foundations of session 1 and explore some intervention strategies. The aim of these sessions are to provide participants with tools they would be able to apply their practice, regardless of the context.

Presenter Bio

Werner Teichert

Werner Teichert is a clinical psychologist based in Sydney, Australia. He is a full member of the Australian Psychological Society (APS) and Fellow of The College of Clinical Psychologists (FCCLIN).

 Werner was trained in Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) by Behavioral Tech, in Rational Emotive Behaviour Therapy (REBT) at the Albert Ellis Institute in New York and in Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) by The Beck Institute.

 As the managing director of The South African DBT Institute and Australian DBT Central, Werner has dedicated the last decade to treating clients with Borderline Personality Disorder and training and supervising practitioners to use DBT effectively.

Workshop 2

Abstract

As South Africa gears up for its seventh democratic general elections, we pause to reflect on changes on the ground. Several initiatives at national and provincial levels have been implemented, that seek to address the persistent reality of violence. Yet, violence continues to define the society that we create and live in.

This workshop focuses on the lived experiences of violence, specifically gender-based violence and sexual violence among gender and sexually non-conforming persons. We take a personal, intimate look at the experiences of violence among marginalised persons. We reflect critically at the dynamics at play and ask what has changed and what needs to change. What role can/should psychologists play as practitioners and activists in contributing towards a violent-free society?

Presenter Bios

Dr Angeline Stephens

Angeline Stephens, PhD (she/her) is a psychologist working in student mental health at the University of KwaZulu-Natal. She is also an executive member of the Sexuality and Gender division of the Psychological Society of South Africa (PsySSA). Her work is informed by feminist, critical and decolonial approaches to psychological praxis that recognise the interconnectedness between persons and contexts. She is particularly interested in the intersections of gender, sexuality, violence, citizenship, and work with marginalised people. Her current work focuses on trauma and healing from sexual and gender-based violence.

Prof Thabo Msibi

Thabo Msibi is the Deputy Vice Chancellor for Teaching and Learning and a professor of Curriculum Studies in the School of Education at the University of KwaZulu-Natal.   He completed his Master of Education degree at Teachers College: Columbia University and obtained his PhD in Education from the University of Cambridge. He has published research in South African and international journals and books and is author of the book Hidden sexualities of South African Teachers: Black male educators and same-sex desire.  He has also co-edited a book entitled Gender, Sexuality and Violence in South African Educational Spaces, with Deevia Bhana and Shakila Singh.  He also is an associate editor in The Oxford Encyclopedia of Gender and Sexuality in Education.  Prof Msibi is a recipient of a Distinguished Teacher’s Award from the University of KwaZulu-Natal and is an NRF P-rated scholar.  He is also the recipient of the Early Careers Distinguished Alumni Award, awarded by Teachers College: Columbia University and the Chen Yidan Visiting Global Fellow, awarded by Harvard University.  Prof Msibi also received the inaugural Human Sciences Research Council Young Scholars Medal for the Social Sciences and Humanities in 2019.  In 2022, Prof Msibi was appointed by the Basic Education Minister to serve on the sixth Umalusi Council.  At the University of KwaZulu-Natal, he also leads the University Staff Doctoral Programme offered via the United States-South Africa Higher Education Network.

Ms Sibongile Mdibi

Sibongile Mdibi, known as Sbo MaDlamiini, is a mother of three girls and three grandchildren. She is a survivor of GBV. She is the author of the book No one marries to divorce and was one of 16 women who contributed to a book of poems, This is how we mend our bones,  which was facilitated by Masoodah Mohamed. Despite the hardships that she has endured, Sbo manage to study and obtained a BA degree in Health Science and Social Services, specialising counselling. Sbo is very passionate about working with families who experience GBV, especially those living in deep rural areas. She offers counselling support and seeks to empower and encourage families to speak out against GBV.

Thenjiwe Mswane

Thenjiwe Mswane is SGBV Strategic Coordinator at the University of Kwa-Zulu Natal.  Before taking up this role, Thenjiwe worked as the Education Campaigns Officer at Wits University’s Gender Equity Office (GEO). Thenjiwe has also worked for the Centre for the Study of Violence and Reconciliation (CSVR), Livity Africa, Kwa-Zulu Natal Research Institute for TB and HIV (K-RITH), and the Centre for Aids Research In South Africa (CAPRISA). Thenjiwe is the author of the Sunday Times Literary Awards shortlisted novel All Gomorrahs Are the Same (Blackbird Books, 2021) and has written for numerous publications including HOLAafrica! the GALA Queer Archives Queer Realness.

Workshop 3

Abstract

In this two-hour workshop presented for the Psychological Society of South Africa (PsySSA), we will address the emergent ethical challenges and opportunities for psychologists in the AI era. The session aims to provide an introductory overview of the ethical implications of AI integration in psychological practice, with a focus on maintaining the core values of confidentiality, informed consent, and professional integrity.

We will explore the fundamental ethical considerations surrounding AI use, including the potential biases in AI algorithms and their implications for diagnostic accuracy and therapeutic interventions. The workshop will also highlight the limitations of AI in understanding the nuances of human psychology and behavior.

Participants will engage in discussions about the ethical dilemmas posed by AI, such as balancing technological advancement with client welfare. We will also touch upon the opportunities AI presents, such as increased access to mental health services and data-driven insights into treatment effectiveness.

Given the time constraints, the workshop will provide a foundation for understanding these complex issues, rather than exhaustive coverage. It is designed to initiate a critical dialogue among psychologists, encouraging further exploration and education in this rapidly evolving field. The goal is to leave attendees with a heightened awareness of the ethical considerations in AI and a starting point for integrating these technologies into their practice responsibly.

Presenter Bio

Dr Ewald Crause

Dr. Crause, a registered counselling psychologist since 2006, has recently assumed the role of Social Media Associate Editor for the South African Journal of Psychology (SAJP). Dr. Crause’s professional journey, encompassing both private practice and dedicated public service in South Africa, offers a unique vantage point on healthcare and education settings. Notably, he has also made international contributions, having worked for the Ministry of Education in New Zealand, further enriching his professional background. Previously, during his tenure as an Executive Committee member of PsySSA, where he also served as treasurer for two years, Dr. Crause portfolio included spearheading initiatives to drive digital transformation and amplify the digital footprint of PsySSA. His approach in leveraging technology to enhance the organization’s presence and outreach underscores his commitment to advancing the field and embracing the opportunities presented by the digital age. Furthermore, Dr. Crause’s current focus lies in harnessing the potential of business intelligence systems within the helping professions to shape policies, inform practice, and provide valuable insights to practitioners.

Workshop 4

Abstract

The aim of this three-part workshop series is to introduce practitioners to ACT, an evidence-based treatment, which is firmly rooted in Relational Frame Theory (RFT).  

Topics to be covered over the three-part series:

  • What exactly are ACT, ERP and RFT.
  • How to effectively diagnose OCD keeping comorbidity in mind.
  • The essentials and treatment goals of ACT for OCD.
  • Making decisions on whether to involve the client’s social support network in the treatment process.
  • Lessons learned in constructing exposure exercises, both in and out of the session.
  • Lessons learned in treating children with OCD.
  • Lessons learned in dealing with experiential avoidance and defense mechanisms.

To bring the work alive, I will make use of illustrative case studies (the successes and the not so successful experiences), experiential exercises, metaphors, and offer workshop attendees opportunities to practice some of the tools used in the treatment of OCD.

There are few practitioners who treat OCD, particularly child clients, and few who use evidence-based methods. We are in desperate need to get more practitioners on board in the effective treatment of OCD.

To convey how ACT can be used as an effective treatment for OCD in clinical practice integrating Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) by means of focusing on a little bit of theory, doing experiential exercises, learning about the importance of metaphors and how to use them, tracking patient progress,  lessons learned – the successful and not so successful! To bring the theory and the work alive I will make use of case studies, practical therapeutic  ‘tools’, and my clinical experience.

Presenter Bio

Bernice du Plessis

Working in the private sector as an evidence-based therapist for well over a decade, Bernice’s treatment approach is informed by both Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Mindfulness-CBT.  Bernice had the privilege of completing her clinical training at SUN which offered an intensive CBT program. Owing to the dearth of continued training in this field Bernice joined and became a board member of the South African Chapter for the Association of Contextual and Behavioral Science (ACBS SA). The ACBS has been instrumental in providing practitioners with the opportunity to be taught ACT by top accredited international trainers including Dr. Robyn Walser, Prof. Tamar Pincus, Prof. Melanie Noel and Dr. Russel Harris to name a few!

Bernice has had the opportunity to present at various local and international conferences and workshops with the focus on using ACT in clinical practice. She has been published in the Journal of Peace and Conflict and the Journal of Child and Abuse and Neglect. Even though she holds a second masters in psychological research from UCT, she much prefers her clinical work.

Bernice’s expertise lies specifically in the treatment of OCD, anxiety related disorders, children who have experienced trauma, tic disorders, trichotillomania, Dermatillomania, ADHD, Autism and working with clients who live with chronic health conditions and persistent pain. She works with children and adults in both English and Afrikaans.

The values which inform her work are adventure, acceptance, authenticity, challenge, curiosity, collaboration, flexibility, humour, humility, independence, and innovation. Bernice is known for forward-thinking and her non-conformist approach to life and work, she is a creative, out-of-the-box thinker with an unconventional approach to both her work and life.

Workshop 5

Abstract

The global number of Type 2 diabetes cases is estimated to rise by 46% from 537 million in 2021 to 784 million in 2045 (IDF 2021), while expenditure on treating diabetes is predicted to increase with 316% over the next 15 years in the USA (IDF, 2021). The growing number and increased expenditure are not only a cause of concern for the health care sector, but also implies that more people living with the condition will be seeking help from health care practitioners. 

Living with diabetes requires adjusting to diabetes management behaviours, including regular blood glucose monitoring, taking medication, and adjusting your lifestyle and eating plan. These behaviours are often challenging to adhere to and result in patients experiencing stress, depression, and isolation. In addition to the behavioural management, people living with diabetes also need to manage the resulting emotions and psychological distress. Most interventions in diabetes are focused on the medical treatment, while mental health is often overlooked. In this workshop, we would like to acknowledge the mental health challenges faced by those living with diabetes and share suggestions on how to address these challenges. 

The first part of the workshop will provide more information on diabetes and living with the condition, as well as an overview of the mental health challenges experienced by those living with diabetes, both form an academic and practice perspective. The second part of the workshop will focus on possible interventions, such as understanding illness perception and its implication, and using cognitive behavioural therapy as a method for improving diabetes management.

Presenter Bios

Dr Sonja Mostert 

Dr Sonja Mostert is a registered Research Psychologist currently employed as a senior lecturer in the Department of Psychology at University of Pretoria. She is passionate about the field of health psychology and ways of improving patient-provider relationships by means of improved health literacy and health communication. She is a member of the Health Psychology Division of PsySSA and teaches several undergraduate and postgraduate modules including health psychology to both undergraduate medical students and honours psychology students. Her primary research areas include Health Psychology; Health literacy; health communication; illness cognitions; self-efficacy; and Cognitive Psychology, specifically attention and memory.

 Dr Patrick Piotie 

Dr Patrick Ngassa Piotie is a Co-founder of the University of Pretoria Diabetes Research Centre, serving as the Chairperson of the Diabetes Alliance South Africa and Convenor of the South African Diabetes Summit. Dedicated Public Health Specialist with a robust background encompassing two decades of impactful research and project management. His unwavering commitment lies in addressing global health challenges, particularly non-communicable diseases (NCDs) through proficiency in health systems strengthening, implementation research, and policy advocacy. His interests include diabetes management in primary care, mental health in diabetes and the integration of NCD services in HIV/AIDS and TB programmes. Fluent in French and English, Patrick holds a medical degree and a PhD in public health.

 Prof Elmari Deacon 

Prof Elmari Deacon is a professor in Psychology at the NWU and registered Clinical Psychologist. She obtained her PhD in Psychology from NWU in 2008 and is currently employed as acting Director of the School of Psychosocial Health of the North-West University. She is also a member of the Health Psychology Division of PsySSA. 

Prof Deacon is passionate about empowering people to be the most that they can be. As clinical psychologist, she mainly worked with children. She understands human behaviour from the cognitive behaviour approach emphasising the importance of beliefs. She is the principal investigator in the Smile with diabetes project investigating the psychosocial variables that influence adjusting to diabetes management behaviours. She has published numerous articles on the illness perception of adolescents and the meaning-making of young adults in living with type 1 diabetes.

 Dr Elne Visagie 

Dr Elne Visagie is a lecturer at the University of Pretoria and a counselling psychologist with a part-time private practice. She graduated with undergraduate and postgraduate degrees from the University of North-West and earned her PhD in 2024, marking a significant milestone in her academic career. Dr Visagie’s professional passion lies in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, which she adeptly employs in her practice of six years to address various mental health challenges. Dr Visagie’s enthusiasm for Health Psychology fuels her desire to delve into individuals’ relationships with food, nutrition, diabetes management, and their perceptions of health and wellness. She aims to foster a comprehensive understanding and integration of mental health within the context of Health Psychology and diabetes care. 

Daniel Sher 

Daniel is a clinical psychologist with over 32 years of living with Type 1 diabetes. His primary special interest is the provision of diabetes-focused psychotherapy. Beyond diabetes, Daniel is passionate about the brain-body connection, providing neuropsychological interventions for brain-based disorders and medico-legal support.

Workshop 6

Abstract

The workshop will introduce the basics of ADHD and how to identify the different types and symptoms of ADHD, according to the DSM-5. We shall examine the differences people with ADHD experience throughout their lifespan.  We will discuss the impact of ADHD on academic performance at different phases and stages of academic life, as well as the effects it has on the learner, the educator, and the parent. From there we will propose some strategies for intervention and support that will assist the learner, educators, parents, and other people who interact with those who face the challenges of living with ADHD. We will explore strategies to assist learners in achieving their optimum performance as well as ways in which they compensate for the challenges they face.  We shall examine the gifts people with ADHD bring to the world. We shall discuss why there is such a high drop-out rate at schools and universities and some strategies to prevent this. Lastly, we shall look at the co-morbid conditions that often occur along with ADHD, which often make it much more challenging to manage.

Presenter Bio

Dr Lynn Holmes

Dr Lynn Holmes has been an educational psychologist since 2007. She worked in a government primary school for 5 years as their psychologist and then started her own private practice. She is an ex-chair of SEPSA and has supervised educational psychologist interns at UJ for many years. She lectures on developmental dyslexia to students, teachers, and runs CPD courses on dyslexia as well as ADHD and other relevant topics. She is currently training teachers on the East Rand with another colleague on how to deal with students with disabilities and complete the SIAS documents correctly. She works with people of all ages, dealing with trauma, illness and assisting people coping with death and dying. She assesses people of all ages, ensuring they receive the correct accommodations, and enjoys working with families. She is trained in Eriksonian Hypnotherapy, Ego State therapy, as well as Solution Focused therapy and uses Cognitive Behaviour therapy as well as creative expressive arts in her practice.

Workshop 7

Abstract

The aim of this three-part workshop series is to introduce practitioners to ACT, an evidence-based treatment, which is firmly rooted in Relational Frame Theory (RFT).  

Topics to be covered over the three-part series:

  • What exactly are ACT, ERP and RFT.
  • How to effectively diagnose OCD keeping comorbidity in mind.
  • The essentials and treatment goals of ACT for OCD.
  • Making decisions on whether to involve the client’s social support network in the treatment process.
  • Lessons learned in constructing exposure exercises, both in and out of the session.
  • Lessons learned in treating children with OCD.
  • Lessons learned in dealing with experiential avoidance and defense mechanisms.

To bring the work alive, I will make use of illustrative case studies (the successes and the not so successful experiences), experiential exercises, metaphors, and offer workshop attendees opportunities to practice some of the tools used in the treatment of OCD.

There are few practitioners who treat OCD, particularly child clients, and few who use evidence-based methods. We are in desperate need to get more practitioners on board in the effective treatment of OCD.

To convey how ACT can be used as an effective treatment for OCD in clinical practice integrating Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) by means of focusing on a little bit of theory, doing experiential exercises, learning about the importance of metaphors and how to use them, tracking patient progress,  lessons learned – the successful and not so successful! To bring the theory and the work alive I will make use of case studies, practical therapeutic  ‘tools’, and my clinical experience.

Presenter Bio

Bernice du Plessis

Working in the private sector as an evidence-based therapist for well over a decade, Bernice’s treatment approach is informed by both Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Mindfulness-CBT.  Bernice had the privilege of completing her clinical training at SUN which offered an intensive CBT program. Owing to the dearth of continued training in this field Bernice joined and became a board member of the South African Chapter for the Association of Contextual and Behavioral Science (ACBS SA). The ACBS has been instrumental in providing practitioners with the opportunity to be taught ACT by top accredited international trainers including Dr. Robyn Walser, Prof. Tamar Pincus, Prof. Melanie Noel and Dr. Russel Harris to name a few!

Bernice has had the opportunity to present at various local and international conferences and workshops with the focus on using ACT in clinical practice. She has been published in the Journal of Peace and Conflict and the Journal of Child and Abuse and Neglect. Even though she holds a second masters in psychological research from UCT, she much prefers her clinical work.

Bernice’s expertise lies specifically in the treatment of OCD, anxiety related disorders, children who have experienced trauma, tic disorders, trichotillomania, Dermatillomania, ADHD, Autism and working with clients who live with chronic health conditions and persistent pain. She works with children and adults in both English and Afrikaans.

The values which inform her work are adventure, acceptance, authenticity, challenge, curiosity, collaboration, flexibility, humour, humility, independence, and innovation. Bernice is known for forward-thinking and her non-conformist approach to life and work, she is a creative, out-of-the-box thinker with an unconventional approach to both her work and life.

Workshop 8

Abstract

This workshop seeks to address the critical need for a nuanced understanding of effective trauma-focused therapies within the unique sociocultural landscape of South Africa. Drawing on the expertise of specialists in the field, participants will explore and critically evaluate various therapeutic approaches, aiming to identify a potential gold standard for trauma intervention in the South African context.

The workshop will provide a platform for specialists to share their insights into the challenges and opportunities associated with trauma-focused therapies in South Africa. Attendees will gain valuable perspectives on culturally responsive interventions, considering diverse factors such as historical trauma, communal resilience, and the intersectionality of identities.

Participants will engage with evidence-based practices and emerging approaches that have demonstrated efficacy in addressing trauma within the South African population. The goal is to collaboratively discern key elements of effective therapeutic interventions, emphasising accessibility, cultural relevance, and sustainability.

By the conclusion of the workshop, attendees will have acquired a comprehensive understanding of the evolving landscape of trauma-focused therapies in South Africa. Insights from specialists will inform discussions on establishing a gold standard for trauma intervention, fostering a collective effort to enhance the quality and impact of mental health support for individuals affected by trauma in the South African context.

Presenter Bios

Dr Duane Booysen

Dr. Duane D. Booysen (PhD) is a licensed clinical psychologist and senior lecturer in the Department of Psychology at Rhodes University in South Africa. Dr. Boysen’s research interest explores the effectiveness, feasibility, and acceptability of prolonged exposure therapy for PTSD in low-resourced settings characterized by ongoing adversity. Dr. Booysen is a Y-2-rated researcher and has a visiting fellowship at Emory University in Atlanta, Georgia, USA.

Dr Jaco Rossouw  

Dr Jaco Rossouw is an extraordinary senior lecturer at the Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences at Stellenbosch University. His research area lies in the field of PTSD and cognitive-behavioural treatment of PTSD amongst youth and adults. His research focus on the implementation of trauma-focussed psychosocial treatments for PTSD in different age groups and a diverse range of settings. His current research projects include, completing a 5-year follow-up of adolescents from LIMIC settings who received a task-shifted prolonged exposure treatment for PTSD; a project on task-shifted prolonged exposure treatment at a NGO serving traumatised individuals that include refugees;  a task-shifted stepped care management of PTSD amongst adolescents with both PTSD and a sleep disturbance to investigate if a short group treatment of the sleep disturbance would also reduce PTSD symptom severity. New projects in planning include evaluating the effectiveness of a shorter (in time and sessions) prolonged exposure treatment amongst adults, as well as an early-stage project developing and evaluating a shorter prolonged exposure treatment for youth diagnosed with PTSD within a LIMIC setting.

Jaco is also in his 30th year of private practice with a focus on CBT treatment of emotional disorders as well as OCD and PTSD. He is an Associate Fellow of the Albert Ellis Institute and a registered Supervisor in Rational-Emotive & Cognitive-Behaviour Therapy (RECBT).  

 

Workshop 9

Abstract

Session 1 (The grieving process)

Life is about loss in which grief is provoked whether it be loss of a loved one through death or loss of a hope, dream, wish or expectation.

This session focuses on understanding the nature of the grieving process employing various models that help to normalize ones grief response.  

  • Why the platitudes of grief are so unhelpful (For example, God never gives you more than you can handle, Time heals, God never makes mistakes, He is in a better place etc…)
  • Understanding Attachment Theory (we are biologically programmed to attach AND we are biologically programmed to grieve)
  • Exploring the losses of Life (Primary/Secondary, Symbolic, Developmental, Tangible)
  • Discussing Worden’s 4 tasks of mourning (and critique thereof)
  • Kubler Ross’s stages of grief (limitations thereof)
  • Exploring a model of absorption, adjustment/adaptation and integration
  • The grieving period (How long is too long?).
Presenter Bio

Marc Lipshitz

Marc Lipshitz is a Clinical Psychologist in private practice with a special interest in loss and bereavement, and death and dying, due to his own personal losses. He was awarded a distinction for his Masters dissertation (UCT) titled: Meaning-making processes among bereaved mothers who have lost a child to cancer. Marc is also a seasoned Lecturer and Clinical Supervisor (University of Cape Town, University of Stellenbosch, and The South African College of Applied Psychology). He was the Counselling Manager for approximately 10 years at Nechama (Jewish Bereavement Counselling Service) in Cape Town. Marc has been invited as a guest speaker on Cape Talk radio on the topic of loss and bereavement as well as making a television appearance on SABC 2 speaking on sibling loss. In addition, he facilitates Grief Workshops for the public and for professionals.

Workshop 10

Abstract

    Session 2 (Complicated grief)

    Love stretches our heart to the limits of what it can hold, and grief, to the limits of what it can bear.

    This session explores the mediating factors that facilitate or hinder the grieving process as well as several pathological grief reactions that could develop. Discussing why it is too dangerous not to grieve. 

    • Definitions of Complicated grief
    • Discussing why we resist grief/grieving
    • Exploring the 7 Mediators of mourning (Why we become stuck in our grief?)
    • Discussing 4 common pathological/unresolved grief reactions
    • Exploring Disenfranchised grief and the implication thereof
    • Techniques/methods for working with unprocessed grief in the body (emotional landscaping and contours of grief)
    Presenter Bio

    Marc Lipshitz

    Marc Lipshitz is a Clinical Psychologist in private practice with a special interest in loss and bereavement, and death and dying, due to his own personal losses. He was awarded a distinction for his Masters dissertation (UCT) titled: Meaning-making processes among bereaved mothers who have lost a child to cancer. Marc is also a seasoned Lecturer and Clinical Supervisor (University of Cape Town, University of Stellenbosch, and The South African College of Applied Psychology). He was the Counselling Manager for approximately 10 years at Nechama (Jewish Bereavement Counselling Service) in Cape Town. Marc has been invited as a guest speaker on Cape Talk radio on the topic of loss and bereavement as well as making a television appearance on SABC 2 speaking on sibling loss. In addition, he facilitates Grief Workshops for the public and for professionals.

    Workshop 11

    Abstract

    Session 3 (Finding meaning in loss)

    He who conceals his grief finds no meaning in it.

    This final session looks at the concept of meaning-making and how we can turn poison into medicine. As well as exploring the fear of healing. Ultimately, staying connected to the deceased whilst learning to live a more meaningful life.  

    • Definitions of Meaning-making
    • Explore Victor Frankl’s understanding of the search for meaning
    • Share results of thesis on meaning-making (bereaved mothers)
    • Explore the underlying fear of healing
    • Implementing rituals that allow for ongoing meaning-making
    • Discuss the main themes of dying patients from clinical experience (Was I loved and Did I love well?)
    Presenter Bio

    Marc Lipshitz

    Marc Lipshitz is a Clinical Psychologist in private practice with a special interest in loss and bereavement, and death and dying, due to his own personal losses. He was awarded a distinction for his Masters dissertation (UCT) titled: Meaning-making processes among bereaved mothers who have lost a child to cancer. Marc is also a seasoned Lecturer and Clinical Supervisor (University of Cape Town, University of Stellenbosch, and The South African College of Applied Psychology). He was the Counselling Manager for approximately 10 years at Nechama (Jewish Bereavement Counselling Service) in Cape Town. Marc has been invited as a guest speaker on Cape Talk radio on the topic of loss and bereavement as well as making a television appearance on SABC 2 speaking on sibling loss. In addition, he facilitates Grief Workshops for the public and for professionals.

    Workshop 12

    Abstract

      As therapists, we are often not equipped with the skills and resources to market our private practice. Keeping within the scope of the HPCSA ethical code makes us even more hesitant to advertise our services. This workshop will help you generate ideas and tools that you can immediately apply to your practice, all within ethical guidelines.

       Topics covered: 

      • HPCSA rules on advertising
      • Building your brand
      • Digital marketing tools
      • Media opportunities
      • Managing social media as a therapist
      • Handling bad reviews on Google
      • Finding your niche
      • Being accountable with marketing homework
      Presenter Bio

      Nicky Abdinor

      Nicky Abdinor is a Clinical Psychologist, international keynote speaker, and founder of the registered non-profit organisation, Nicky’s Drive.

      Nicky has over 18 years of clinical experience in Psychology. She studied at the University of Stellenbosch where she obtained her BA (majoring in Psychology and Social Work), BA Honours (Psychology) and her MA (Clinical Psychology) in 2004. Nicky’s primary therapeutic approaches are Cognitive-Behaviour Therapy (CBT) and Schema Therapy. Nicky has been fortunate to train with local and international practitioners in the field of CBT and Schema Therapy.

      Nicky travels globally for keynote speaking events and has spoken at conferences across Africa, Europe, the USA, Australia, and the Middle East. Nicky is always commended on being a “credible” agent of change whether you are connecting with her one-on-one or from an audience. When you meet Nicky, it is hard not to recognise that she puts her message into practice!

      Nicky has a passion for helping psychologists who are embarking on private practice. She runs quarterly “Bootcamps” where she shares resources and practical skills to demystify the process of running a successful practice.

      Workshop 13

      Abstract

      Is branding inherently fake, or real enough to have value for professionals? In this practical workshop we interrogate the research-based meaning and value of branding and apply branding concepts in work, and life. The workshop includes an introduction to branding, with a focus on purpose-driven branding. Professional branding concepts are explained using some familiar and some not so familiar South African and African examples from traditional and social media. Find out what brand strategy, identity, positioning, personality, promise, and differentiation mean, and what these mean for psychology professionals. During the workshop participants will get the opportunity to start their own professional branding journey, build on the professional brand path they have already taken, or change course if they need to, while staying true to their story, purpose, and values. The workshop offers a step-by-step guide to professional branding, and is relevant for psychological professionals in private practice, academia, research, business, government, and non-profit organisations.

      Presenter Bios

      Ms Leonie Vorster

      Leonie Vorster is on a mission to promote accessible research-based insights, grounded in ethically sourced, contextually relevant evidence, used fairly and for positive impact. She is a Research Psychologist with more than 30 years’ experience, in academic, non-profit, and commercial contexts, for clients across the globe. Her work is inspired by everyday life in one of the most beautiful, fascinating, and complicated countries in the world, and by her travels to others. She gets excited when she is seeking the furthest limits of the possible and imaginative, when she makes a positive difference, and when she encourages others to do the same. Leonie seeks out accomplishment in unique, untried situations where she must find original perspectives and solutions. Her legendary commitment to professional excellence and her passion for quality and ethical standards are unwavering. She currently chairs the PsySSA Division for Research and Methodology and is an Additional Member of the PsySSA Trauma and Violence Division Executive Committee.

       Jude Anone 

      Jude Anone is passionate about helping people learn. He works in the e-learning space as a freelance presenter and trainer. Most days you will find him in front of the lens, strutting his stuff online with his calm, engaging voice. He wanted to be an actor and studied Performing Arts in the United States. When acting did not pay the bills, he also completed a training certificate which was the start of his career in e-learning. Jude is the epitome of unbranded excellence. He has travelled the world, appearing in boardrooms and training rooms across the globe. He is comfortable in front of and behind the camera. When his busy schedule allows, he produces videos for his passion project: teaching life skills to teenagers. Jude has a special talent for mimicking accents to make his audience feel at home – it is unreal!

      Workshop 14

      Abstract

        Decolonisation, decoloniality, decolonial praxis and decolonial psychology has been thought and written about extensively. In this workshop, we seek to grapple with what decolonial praxis entails and looks like in action, and how decolonial praxis may engage with the lived realities of oppressed communities.

        The workshop will be facilitated by Professor Ronelle Carolissen, who will draw from her insights and experiences of a collaborative and participatory transnational project, ‘Neoliberalism, Gender and Curriculum Transformation in Higher Education: Feminist Decoloniality as Care’ (FEMDAC) , to frame the workshop aims and discussion. In so doing, she will invite participants on a journey of her and her team’s exemplar of decolonial praxis and invite participants to think about their own application of decolonial praxis that centres on community care, healing and development.

        The workshop will encompass both theoretical concepts and practical applications, with participants encouraged expected to complete a preparatory exercise and readings ahead of the workshop.

        Discussions will focus on the following:

        • A critique of North-centric and universalised notions of care and healing that often ignore or minimise the complexities of gender, race, and intersecting identities, and fail to recognise the differential value and care accorded to black or oppressed bodies
        • Foundational principles and values of decolonial praxis
        • The ways in which decolonial praxis can disrupt the valorisation of dominant knowledges, harness embodied knowledges, privilege multiple forms of knowledge-making, generate situated and novel knowledges, and engage in counter practices
        • Participatory and creative methodology a decolonial praxis
        Presenter Bio

        Prof Ronelle Carolissen

        Ronelle Carolissen is a clinical psychologist and full professor of Psychology in the Department of Psychology at Stellenbosch University. She is an NRF rated researcher. She has also served as the vice-dean (Teaching and Learning) in the Faculty of Education from 2017-2020 and has chaired the division for Community and Social Psychology of the Psychological Association of South Africa (2016-2019). Her predominantly qualitative research expertise and publications explore transformation in higher education. Her research focuses on decolonial feminist pedagogies and critical, decolonial community psychologies in higher education contexts, highlighting experiences of marginalised university students and academic staff. She has published numerous journal articles in these areas and is the co-editor of the books Community, self and identity: Educating South African university students for citizenship (Human Science Research Council (HSRC Press, 2012), Discerning critical hope in educational practices (Routledge 2014), Transforming Transformation in Teaching and Research in Higher Education (African Sun Media, 2018) and Community Psychology: South African Praxis (2022). She serves on South African and international journal editorial boards that intersect in the fields of education and community psychology and serves on managing boards, most notably the SAMRC (South African Medical Research Council 2019-present). She holds the 2016 Psychological Association of South Africa award for excellence in teaching psychology in higher education. She was a visiting professor at Stanford University’s Bing overseas community engagement programme in Cape Town (2015-2019) and is a Fulbright research scholar (2021-2022) alumni and a member of ASSAF (Academy of Science of South Africa). She is the Chief Editor of PINS (Psychology in Society).

        Workshop 15

        Abstract

        Details to be uploaded soon

        Presenter Bio

        TBC

        Workshop 16

        Abstract

        The aim of this three-part workshop series is to introduce practitioners to ACT, an evidence-based treatment, which is firmly rooted in Relational Frame Theory (RFT).  

        Topics to be covered over the three-part series:

        • What exactly are ACT, ERP and RFT.
        • How to effectively diagnose OCD keeping comorbidity in mind.
        • The essentials and treatment goals of ACT for OCD.
        • Making decisions on whether to involve the client’s social support network in the treatment process.
        • Lessons learned in constructing exposure exercises, both in and out of the session.
        • Lessons learned in treating children with OCD.
        • Lessons learned in dealing with experiential avoidance and defense mechanisms.

        To bring the work alive, I will make use of illustrative case studies (the successes and the not so successful experiences), experiential exercises, metaphors, and offer workshop attendees opportunities to practice some of the tools used in the treatment of OCD.

        There are few practitioners who treat OCD, particularly child clients, and few who use evidence-based methods. We are in desperate need to get more practitioners on board in the effective treatment of OCD.

        To convey how ACT can be used as an effective treatment for OCD in clinical practice integrating Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) by means of focusing on a little bit of theory, doing experiential exercises, learning about the importance of metaphors and how to use them, tracking patient progress,  lessons learned – the successful and not so successful! To bring the theory and the work alive I will make use of case studies, practical therapeutic  ‘tools’, and my clinical experience.

        Presenter Bio

        Bernice du Plessis

        Working in the private sector as an evidence-based therapist for well over a decade, Bernice’s treatment approach is informed by both Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Mindfulness-CBT.  Bernice had the privilege of completing her clinical training at SUN which offered an intensive CBT program. Owing to the dearth of continued training in this field Bernice joined and became a board member of the South African Chapter for the Association of Contextual and Behavioral Science (ACBS SA). The ACBS has been instrumental in providing practitioners with the opportunity to be taught ACT by top accredited international trainers including Dr. Robyn Walser, Prof. Tamar Pincus, Prof. Melanie Noel and Dr. Russel Harris to name a few!

        Bernice has had the opportunity to present at various local and international conferences and workshops with the focus on using ACT in clinical practice. She has been published in the Journal of Peace and Conflict and the Journal of Child and Abuse and Neglect. Even though she holds a second masters in psychological research from UCT, she much prefers her clinical work.

        Bernice’s expertise lies specifically in the treatment of OCD, anxiety related disorders, children who have experienced trauma, tic disorders, trichotillomania, Dermatillomania, ADHD, Autism and working with clients who live with chronic health conditions and persistent pain. She works with children and adults in both English and Afrikaans.

        The values which inform her work are adventure, acceptance, authenticity, challenge, curiosity, collaboration, flexibility, humour, humility, independence, and innovation. Bernice is known for forward-thinking and her non-conformist approach to life and work, she is a creative, out-of-the-box thinker with an unconventional approach to both her work and life.

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