Gené van der Merwe

Specialist Wellness Counselor

“I am a Specialist Wellness Counsellor providing holistic, neuroscience-informed support for adults and couples across South Africa. My practice is dedicated to helping you move from a state of "survival mode" and overwhelm toward a life of purpose, resilience, and deep connection. By bridging the gap between clinical science and soulful healing, I offer a compassionate online space for transformative growth.”

About Me

Based in Johannesburg, and working exclusively online, I focus on the intricate connection between the brain and our lived experience. With a BA Honours in Counselling Psychology and training in Medical Neuroscience, I view wellness through a holistic lens—integrating the body, mind, and soul. I understand that reaching out for support is a significant step. Whether you are navigating the complexities of grief, seeking to revitalize your relationship, or pursuing personal development, my goal is to provide a grounded partnership. Outside of the virtual therapy room, my interest in somatic methods and the biology of well-being informs my belief that everyone has the capacity for physiological and emotional renewal.

Approach

I use an Integrative approach that blends Person-Centred empathy with the practical tools of CBT and Positive Psychology. My practice is Culturally Sensitive and Multicultural, ensuring a respectful space for all South Africans. By combining these with Neuroscience insights, I offer a holistic path that aligns your mental patterns with your body's natural rhythm.

Contact Gené

Ask a quick question or arrange a time to meet.

Basic Information

Randburg, South Africa

In-person & Online

Services

I offer specialized Online Counselling across South Africa, focusing on: Wellness Counselling: Restoring balance to your daily life and nervous system. Grief & Loss: Navigating the heavy physical and emotional stages of bereavement. Couples Counselling: Creating "neuro-safe" communication and deeper intimacy. Personal Development: Building self-worth and aligning your life with your core values.

Services Offered:

Counseling
A form of talk therapy providing a safe, confidential space to explore feelings, thoughts, and behaviours with a trained professional.
Learn more about Counseling
Personal Development
The ongoing process of self-awareness, self-improvement, and reaching one's potential, pursued not because something is wrong but to live more fully.
Individual Therapy
One-on-one therapy sessions between a client and a therapist, focused on that person's specific concerns and goals.
Learn more about Individual Therapy
Mindfulness
The practice of paying deliberate attention to the present moment without judgement, used to reduce stress and increase awareness of automatic reactions.
Learn more about Mindfulness
Relationship Counselling
Counselling for couples or partners focused on improving communication, rebuilding trust, and strengthening emotional connection.
Wellness Support
Holistic support focused on overall well-being, including stress management, lifestyle balance, and building sustainable healthy habits.

Works With:

Adults
Couples
Individuals

Area of Expertise

Scope of Practice:

Anxiety
Persistent worry, nervousness, or fear that is disproportionate to the situation and interferes with daily functioning.
Learn more about Anxiety
Grief & Loss
The emotional, physical, and psychological response to the death of a loved one or another significant loss.
Learn more about Grief & Loss
Stress / Burnout
The body and mind's response to prolonged or excessive demands. When sustained, it can lead to emotional exhaustion, detachment, and reduced functioning (burnout).
Learn more about Stress / Burnout
Personal Development
The ongoing process of self-awareness, self-improvement, and reaching one's potential, pursued not because something is wrong but to live more fully.
Relationship Counseling
Counselling for couples or partners focused on improving communication, rebuilding trust, and strengthening emotional connection.
Trauma Therapy
Therapeutic approaches specifically designed to help people process and recover from traumatic experiences.
Learn more about Trauma Therapy
Life Transitions
Major life changes, such as relocation, retirement, parenthood, or career shifts, that disrupt routine and require psychological adjustment.
Learn more about Life Transitions
Self-Care
Deliberate actions taken to maintain or improve one's own mental, emotional, and physical well-being.
Learn more about Self-Care