Tanya Oosthuyzen
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This professional is available for new clients.
This professional is available for new clients.
About me
Have you ever found yourself overwhelmed by anxiety—racing heart, sweaty palms, and your thoughts spiralling into a sea of "what-ifs"? You're not alone!
Anxiety can be exhausting, affecting everything from your work to your relationships, and it can leave you feeling like you're on edge all the time. Therapy can help you understand what's behind these feelings and give you the tools to manage them, so you can start feeling more in control, grounded, and at ease in your life again.
Anxiety can make you feel trapped in a cycle of stress, never really able to relax or escape the constant worry. You might experience a pounding heart, trouble sleeping, or even panic attacks that make you feel like you can’t breathe. They might come on suddenly, or they might be there all the time, lingering in the background, affecting your mood, energy, and daily life. In therapy, we’ll explore what’s causing these feelings and how they show up in your life.
I use a combination of therapeutic approaches, drawing from psychodynamic therapy, cognitive-behavioural techniques, internal family systems and trauma-informed practices amongst others. This means that together, we can tailor our work to fit your needs and help you feel understood, supported, and empowered. Together, we’ll explore, and challenge, those overwhelming thoughts and beliefs that fuel your anxiety, while also learning strategies to bring your focus back to the present moment. This isn’t about simply masking or managing the symptoms; it’s about addressing the root causes of your anxiety and giving you the tools you need to move forward with more confidence. Imagine waking up each day feeling more at ease, your mind clearer, and your body less tense. Instead of being ruled by constant worry, you'll have practical tools to help you navigate difficult emotions and regain your sense of calm.
Therapy is an investment in your well-being, and you don’t have to face it alone. I’d love to work with you to create a plan that’s tailored to your needs, so you can start managing anxiety in a way that fits your life. With time, anxiety will no longer control you— instead, you’ll have the freedom to live more fully and without constant fear or worry. Please feel free to reach out, taking the first step toward a calmer, more confident you!
Training, qualifications & experience
I am a qualified Clinical Psychologist with a Master’s Degree from the University of Cape Town, earned in 2014. My professional journey began in 2002, studying Health Sciences and Social Services at the University of South Africa. During this time, I trained as a Trauma Counsellor with the South African Police Services, providing support to victims of trauma.
After my undergraduate studies, I worked in the property development sector in administration and human resources, while also completing my Bachelor of Arts Honours in Psychology. I later pursued a full-time role as a Senior Addictions Counsellor and Manager at an addictions rehabilitation facility, where I supported clients through their recovery journey.
I then completed my Master’s in Clinical Psychology at the University of Cape Town, where I gained training in a wide range of psychotherapeutic modalities and interventions. My thesis explored the challenges faced by street-based sex workers in South Africa, using Photovoice, as part of a community project.
My clinical training included an internship at Tygerberg Medical and Stikland Psychiatric Hospital, where I gained experience in Adult Psychotherapeutics, High Care, Child and Adolescent Services, Addiction Services, and Psychometric and Neuropsychological Assessment. I also completed my Public Service year at Pollsmoor Correctional Facility in Cape Town, where I provided psychological support to detainees.
Over the years, I have built a diverse professional portfolio, working in inpatient rehabilitation, university lecturing, workshop development, and as part of multidisciplinary teams. I have worked across South Africa, the UK, and Canada, both in private practice and in association with other practitioners.
I am currently registered with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) in the UK, the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA), and the Canadian Psychological Association (CPA). I am also a certified BWRT Level II practitioner and a member of the online therapy directory.
Member organisations
school Registered / Accredited
Being registered/accredited with a professional body means an individual must have achieved a substantial level of training and experience approved by their member organisation.
The HCPC are an independent, UK-wide health regulator. They set standards of professional training, performance and conduct for 16 professions.
They keep a register of health professionals who meet their standards, and they take action if registered health professionals fall below those standards. They were created by a piece of legislation called the Health Professions Order 2001.
Registration means that a health professional meets national standards for their professional training, performance and conduct.
Areas of counselling I deal with
Other areas of counselling I deal with
Expatriates, adjustment and acculturation
Therapies offered
Photos & videos
Fees
£120.00 - £140.00
Concessions offered for
Health Insurance/EAP
Additional information
Please reach out with any questions, I am happy to work with you to keep therapy affordable.
When I work
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Further information
I believe psychotherapy is a collaborative process built on the relationship between therapist and client. It provides a safe, non-judgemental space to explore thoughts and emotions, helping to make sense of them with empathy and understanding. I work from a person-centred approach, addressing your needs with confidentiality, compassion, and respect. Through this, we can begin to shift unhelpful behaviours, thoughts, and relational patterns, fostering personal growth, improved insight, and better relationships.
I work with a wide range of psychological distress and clinical disorders, including trauma, complex PTSD, anxiety, depression, OCD, life transitions, ADHD including comprehensive assessments and bereavement. I also have a special interest in supporting expatriates adjusting to new environments and clients navigating life transitions. I offer both short- and long-term psychotherapy to individuals, couples, and families, drawing from an integrative psychodynamic approach, alongside techniques from CBT, DBT, Trauma-Informed Therapy, IFS, BWRT (Level II), and Motivational Interviewing. My goal is to empower you to unlock your potential, build resilience, and lead a fulfilling life.
