Natasha

Miss Natasha Merlo, BSW

Clinical Social Worker

“I am a registered clinical social worker and psychotherapist working in private practice in Somerset West. I provide in-depth individual psychotherapy, group therapy, support and treatment to individuals and families struggling and/or living with the impact of mental illness and addiction.”

About Me

I support individuals struggling with drug/alcohol addiction, problem gambling/gaming, or those seeking to moderate or reduce their substance use. I also provide in depth therapy for compulsive sexual behaviours, mood disorders, anxiety & panic disorders, chronic stress, personality disorders & relationship difficulties. My role is not to provide all the answers, but to help you discover the understanding and insight that make change possible. My practice is a LGBTQ+ affirming space, and my approach to therapy is grounded in respect, curiosity, and care. I believe the therapeutic relationship is a profound and privileged one—something I hold with deep respect.

Approach

My practice is deeply rooted in psychodynamic theory, which forms the core foundation of how I understand human experience and emotional distress. Psychotherapy allows individuals to explore their feelings, beliefs, and behaviours in a safe and non-judgmental environment. This collaborative process enables the client to gain insight into how past experiences and unconscious motivations shape their current behaviour. By better understanding emotional patterns and their roots, clients are better equipped to manage their problems, improve personal relationships and develop coping techniques that will help them both now and in the future.
Contact Natasha

Ask a quick question or arrange a time to meet.

Basic Information

In-person & Online

Services

Services Offered:

  • Group Therapy

    Therapy conducted with a small group of people who share similar concerns, using peer interaction and diverse perspectives as part of the healing process.

    Learn more about Group Therapy
  • Psychotherapy

    In-depth therapeutic work that explores patterns in thoughts, emotions, and relationships to produce lasting psychological change.

    Learn more about Psychotherapy
  • Rehabilitation

    Structured programmes that help people recover functioning after addiction, injury, or severe mental illness through therapy, skills training, and ongoing support.

    Learn more about Rehabilitation
  • 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

Works With:

  • Adults
  • Families
  • Groups
  • Individuals

Area of Expertise

Scope of Practice:

  • Addiction

    A compulsive dependence on a substance or behaviour, such as alcohol, drugs, or gambling, that causes harmful consequences to health, relationships, or daily life.

    Learn more about Addiction
  • Anxiety

    Persistent worry, nervousness, or fear that is disproportionate to the situation and interferes with daily functioning.

    Learn more about Anxiety
  • Mood Disorder

    A category of mental health conditions, including depression and bipolar disorder, in which a person's emotional state is significantly and persistently disrupted.

    Learn more about Mood Disorder
  • 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

Professional Title:

  • Clinical Social Worker

    A social worker trained to diagnose and treat mental health conditions through therapy, often in healthcare or community settings.

Credentials

Registrations

South African Council for Social Service Professions (SACSSP)

Social Worker

Registration: SACSSP: 1036628

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South African Addiction Medicine Society

Clinical Social Worker

Board of Healthcare Funders (BHF)

Social Worker

Qualifications

Bachelor of Social Work

University of South Africa

Year: 2012

Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Psychology

Stellenbosch University

Year: 2013

Master's degree in Clinical Social Work

University of Cape Town

Year: 2024

Service Areas

Natasha Merlo

In-person & Online

Somerset West, Western Cape

South Africa

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Somerset West, South Africa