Saryna van der Westhuizen is a highly qualified professional with a Master's Degree in Psychology, specialising in Play Therapy. She is also registered with the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA) as a Career Counsellor. With years of experience helping both children and adults, Saryna's compassionate and empathetic approach creates a nurturing environment for clients to explore their emotions and discover their true calling. Through her career guidance, many have found success in both their personal and professional lives.

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Saryna was born in Carnarvon in the Karoo and grew up on a farm, where she developed a love for people, nature, and animals. This inspired her to pursue a career dedicated to helping others. She began her studies in 2002 at the University of Stellenbosch, focusing on Career Counselling as her specialty area.

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After graduating in 2005, she worked with Dr. Anita Louw, a Counselling Psychologist at Louw Loopbane. This experience provided her with invaluable insights into career development. Saryna is passionate about helping individuals find their purpose and guiding them in the right direction. While working as a Career Counsellor, she also pursued her Master's Degree in Psychology (Play Therapy) at the North West University.

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During this time, she married the love of her life and moved to Oudtshoorn, where she continued her career. In 2011, she began working with the Western Cape Education Department as a School Psychologist. In this role, she supported 39 schools and helped numerous children from diverse backgrounds, witnessing firsthand the vulnerabilities and high emotional needs of South African children.

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In 2012, she was fortunate to become a mother. Saryna and her husband now have three children aged 12, 7, and 5. Being a parent has given her insight into the challenges that families and children face in today's fast-paced world. She recognized the value of play therapy for both young and old as a creative way to work through emotions and behaviours.

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In 2023, she took on the role of teacher for the Teddy Class (ages 2-3) at Little Bo-Peep Pre-Primary. This experience inspired her to pursue a Post Graduate Certificate in Education. With her rich professional and personal experiences, it is clear that Saryna has a passion for children, people, and, most importantly, helping them. 

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Qualifications:​

2005

Bachelor of Psychology  - University of Stellenbosch

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2006

Registered Career Counsellor  - Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA)

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2011

Masters of Arts in Psychology (Play Therapy)  - North West University

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2024

Post Graduate Certification of Education - Stadio

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