ABOUT US
Dr. Esther van der Spuy
PhDRD(SA)
HPSCA DT0001937
Pr Nr. 0638587
Dr. Dalena Vogel
DEd
HPCSA PS0031143
Pr Nr. 8619115
We are a compassionate team with a personal interest and investment in recovery from destructive behaviour and with a belief in the inner strengths of each person. Although each of us already managed our separate practices, we appreciated each other’s views, research and experiences on eating disorders, and preferment of emotional well-being and a healthy lifestyle. During 2008 we started identifying the need and spreading the news on prevention and intervention of eating disorders.
Using professional guidance and empathy we want to Assist you in making responsible and sensible decisions about your lifestyle and your empowerment. Our practice offers a variety of services that focus on optimum well-being through counselling and psychotherapy.
I am registered as a dietitian with the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA)., and is a member of ADSA (Association for Dietetics South Africa)
I completed my BSc (Dietetics) as well as Hons.BSc (Dietetics) at the University of Stellenbosch.
A few years later I continued my studies at the University of Pretoria where I finished a Masters Degree and PhD.
I had experience of a private practice for a few years before I was appointed as a lecturer at the University of Pretoria where I was teaching Nutrition and Food Service Management for 22 years.
My research focuses on eating disorders, obesity and the prevention of lifestyle diseases.
Currently I am practicing as a nutrition consultant as well as part of a team in a practice for eating disorders.
My practice focal point is developing individual customized eating plans for optimum nutrition and well-being. Eating plans are designed for individuals according to their lifestyle, health conditions and interests. The goal is the prevention and treatment of lifestyle diseases and metabolic syndrome through all life stages.
Another significant focus of the practice is a long term obesity management plan to combat obesity. This program aims to help obese individuals overcome physical and emotional difficulties.
I am registered as psychologist with the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA) since 1991.
Psychology is the study of behaviour and mind, embracing all aspects of human experience. It is an academic discipline based on research and applied science which seeks to understand individuals and groups. Psychotherapy is not aimed at giving advice, but to create a safe space to discover emotional healing.
I completed my studies in Social Work at the University of Stellenbosch; Teachers HED (Unisa), BEd Hons (Psych) and MEd (Psych) at the University of Pretoria and DEd at Unisa.
I worked as a social worker with Correctional Services (Prisons Department) and as a school psychologist. I have developed a special interest in early bonding of the child, trauma and stress that manifest in different ways in individuals, couples and families. I have more than 30 years experience in aspects of psychology and completed training in a variety of psychological therapies. I lectured at Unisa (Associate Professor) and presented papers at national and international conferences and workshops and trained students in counselling skills, aspects of trauma and youth counselling.
My services include child and adolescent psychotherapy, parent counselling, couples and marriage counselling, supportive therapy for eating disorders, trauma, loss and grief. I work with an integrated approach to the individual needs of each person.