Jaco van der Bijl

I believe strongly that people, through language and reflection, can step outside themselves and change their worlds. I enjoy helping people discover and use their strengths to learn new ways of being in the world that will improve their lives.

Issues I can help with:

• trauma
• stress
• anxiety
• self-esteem
• confidence
• personal development
• goal setting
• feeling stuck
• depression
• burnout
• anger management
• emotional control
• conflict management
• communication skills
• motivation and purpose
• insecurities
• identity

How I can help…..

• For you, life has become a challenge and you need help to move forward or become ‘unstuck’?
• You need help to realise your true potential?
• You are on a journey of personal growth and need help to reach your next level?
• You may have faced adversity or been involved in an event that has had a significant impact on your life and that is holding you back?
• You may be finding that life is just too hard and need help to navigate your way through life’s challenges?

With most things in life, one size does not fit all and this is true for individuals seeking help for their mental well-being. Everyone is unique in the challenges they face or goals they want to achieve.

Together we will find some answers to help you on your journey. We will explore a variety of tried and tested techniques including client centered, cognitive behavioural, psycho-dynamic theory to find the right fit for you.

Most importantly, you will be provided with a safe and secure environment to express yourself and your needs and you will have someone to help and support you in whatever challenges you face or goals you strive to achieve.

My Approach

I prefer to use psychodynamic theory to help clients understand how their circumstances and personal difficulties have developed over time and support the idea that in therapy healing happens as part of the therapeutic relationship.

I have also been trained in cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT) and will, at the start of a client’s journey with me, discuss an approach that will best suit each client.

Therapy Groups

There is a magic that happens doing counselling in groups. In groups, we emphasise that we are a part of a system or systems, where who I am and who you are have an impact on how things work out for everyone. I believe that creates a great place for us to learn and to keep moving (stay active) psychologically. Each therapy group is picked to ensure that the environment is safe and supportive, and that the group dynamics provide the best opportunity for members to learn and grow.

About Me

I qualified as a Clinical Psychologist in South Africa. I have practiced for 20 years in variety of contexts in South Africa, England and New Zealand including local mental health services, government organisations, private practice, the military, and secure forensic services.

My experience includes working with individuals, groups, and organisations. I have supervised other psychologists and trained intern psychologists. I have managed teams and consulted at a senior level in large organisations.

I have lived in New Zealand for over ten years with my wife and two kids.