As a clinical psychologist practicing in Gardens, Cape Town, Kirsten Barnardt draws from evidence based approaches and new research findings in her work with clients of all ages. She strives to integrate effective therapeutic approaches in her work with clients. These approaches include Metacognitive Therapy, Interpersonal Therapy and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing. As people come to therapy for different reasons, the therapy approach used and length of therapy is different for each individual. Kirsten Barnardt aims to use brief approaches to therapy where possible but does provide longer term therapy when needed.

Her areas of experience and interest include therapy for adults, adolescents and children described in more detail below.

Therapy for Adults Initially, the focus is on gaining insight into the life events and patterns that may play a role in the concern bringing you to therapy. While it is important to understand areas of challenge, it is also important to understand strengths and how to use these to achieve goals set out in therapy. All of these aspects are considered when creating a therapy plan. During the process of therapy, new skills begin to replace less helpful ways of coping while exploration is balanced with teaching practical ways to manage distress. Some of the concerns Kirsten Barnardt works with with include depression, anxiety, bereavement, adjusting to life transitions, patterns of difficulty in relationships and coping with life affecting medical diagnoses. She also works with people seeking input to facilitate personal development.

Therapy for Adolescents Therapy can be a helpful way for adolescents to develop insight and learn new skills to help them move through challenges. Many adolescents experience difficulties relating to emotional regulation, self-esteem, identity and friendships/romantic relationships. The initial purpose of therapy is to get a good understanding of the concerns your child might be experiencing, to understand the family context and to set goals for therapy. As a parent, you play an important role in supporting your child throughout the therapeutic process. You may be asked to attend some consultations with your child while others may be attended by your child individually.

Therapy for Children and Parents Kirsten Barnardt offers therapy that is age appropriate and suited to the needs of each child and family. When a child comes for therapy, it is important to understand the challenges they are experiencing in the context of their lives. Parents are asked to offer insight into their concerns about their child’s emotional state, interactions with others or behaviour. Parents are also asked to reflect on their child’s strengths and the ways in which their child is resilient. Depending on the needs of your family the therapy process may focus more on sharing information, teaching practical skills, or nurturing the relationship between the child and parents. Some of the challenges Kirsten Barnardt works with include anxiety, fears, difficulty separating from caregivers, bereavement, challenging behavior and adjusting to changes such as coping with the birth of sibling or going to a new school.

For more information visit: www.barnardtfleming.com

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