Have questions?
If yours isn't here, bring it to a free intro call.
Beginning
Do I need a diagnosis to start?+
No. Counselling is for anyone who feels stuck, overwhelmed, or wants support navigating life's challenges, whether or not there is a formal diagnosis.
What happens in the first session?+
You share why you are considering counselling, whether that is a specific issue or a general sense that something needs attention. I explain how I work, answer your questions, and we decide together whether we are a good fit.
What's the difference between a counsellor and a psychologist?+
A psychologist can assess and diagnose mental health conditions, and can bill through medical aid. My scope as a Specialist Wellness Counsellor is different: I don't diagnose. If a diagnosis or medication is what you're after, start with a psychologist or psychiatrist and I'm happy to point you toward someone good.
My work is about how you live day to day: growing, getting through the hard seasons, building stronger ways of coping, and making sense of what you've carried from the past.
What are Calu's qualifications?+
I hold a BA in Psychology and Organisational Psychology from the University of Cape Town (UCT), completed in 2015, and an Honours degree in Psychology through UNISA, graduating in 2023.
I am a registered Specialist Wellness Counsellor with the Association for Supportive Counsellors and Holistic Practitioners (ASCHP), registered in 2025.
Alongside my private practice, I work in Corporate Wellness and volunteer as a counsellor with LifeLine and Hope House.
The rhythm of sessions
What is 'therapy by the sea'?+
The same therapeutic work, held outdoors on a quiet beach in the deep south, anywhere between Muizenberg and Simon's Town. Sessions run 1 hour, walking or sitting, and we decide on the beach together beforehand.
If the weather turns, we move the session online or reschedule. Confidentiality still applies: we choose quiet stretches of beach and keep a comfortable distance from others.
How do online sessions work?+
Sessions take place on Google Meet, or WhatsApp video call if you prefer. Once booked, a calendar invite arrives with the meeting link.
All you need is a private space, a stable internet connection, and a device with a camera and microphone.
How often should I come?+
Weekly sessions are recommended in the beginning. The regular rhythm is what builds our working relationship, and it is where the real momentum comes from.
Once we are established, we review how things are going and decide together whether to keep the weekly rhythm or move to fortnightly. Circumstances and finances change, and the schedule can change with them.
What if I need to cancel?+
Life happens. Please give at least 24 hours' notice for cancellations or rescheduling.
Fees & payment
How does payment work?+
You'll be invoiced after every session and can pay by EFT or credit card with a QR code. Cash is also accepted for 'therapy by the sea.'
Do you accept medical aid?+
Not at present. Services provided under ASCHP registration are not currently covered by medical aid.
Anything else on your mind?
Bring it to a free 30-minute call. There's no such thing as a silly question here.