Gené van der Merwe, BA

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

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:

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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.
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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
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Relationship Counselling
Counselling for couples or partners focused on improving communication, rebuilding trust, and strengthening emotional connection.
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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:

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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
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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

Professional Title:

•
Specialist Wellness Counselor
A counselor specialising in holistic well-being, integrating mental, emotional, and lifestyle support.

Qualifications

BA Honours in Counselling Psychology

Bachelor

University of South Africa (UNISA)

Year: 2026

Medical Neuroscience

Duke University via Coursera

Year: 2026

Registrations

Association for Supportive Counsellors and Holistic Practitioners (ASCHP)

Registered Specialist Wellness Counselor

Service Area

Quintessence Natural Healing

In-person & Online

Linden

Randburg, Gauteng

South Africa