About RootCalm — Science-Based Anger Transformation

With nearly three decades of experience as a clinical psychologist, I have had the privilege of guiding people through challenging emotional landscapes. Growing up on a farm outside a small town in South Africa, I learned the values of resilience, hard work, and the importance of community, which continue to shape my personal and professional life today.

I hold a B.A., B.A. (Honours), and M.A. in Clinical Psychology — all earned cum laude — a Master's in Personal & Professional Leadership, and a PhD in Psychology from North-West University. My doctoral dissertation, "A Computer-Based Self-Help Programme Facilitating Anger Management Using Positive Activity Interventions," directly informs the methodology behind RootCalm. I began my career in the South African National Defence Force as Chief Psychologist with the rank of Major (1999–2007), before transitioning to private practice. Today I continue to work with individuals facing severe depression and complex emotional struggles, while building RootCalm to bring evidence-based anger work to people who would never otherwise step into a therapy room.

My anger management work is grounded in NAMA-approved training through Growth Central Training, and I am a Certified Anger Management Specialist–II (CAMS-II) with the National Anger Management Association (NAMA) — the international gold standard for this field (Certification No. 42337543354520, issued 24 June 2026).

My therapeutic approach is rooted in cognitive therapy (CT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and brainworking recursive therapy (BWRT). I specialize in helping adults navigate psychological, emotional, and personality disorders, always with an emphasis on setting clear therapeutic goals. I believe in providing clients with options when they feel trapped, and I am committed to equipping them with the right information to facilitate their healing journey.

Through my own experiences with powerful emotions, particularly anger, I have come to understand that anger is often a message signaling unmet needs. This realization has driven my passion for studying and teaching effective anger management strategies for over 20 years. I have learned that addressing the root causes of anger-identifying and satisfying underlying needs-can lead to profound transformations in one's life and relationships.

Beyond my professional commitments, I cherish the simple joys of life shared with my family. I am married to my unique and amazing husband, and together we have two extraordinary children. While my husband has worked overseas for much of our lives, we've maintained a strong bond filled with laughter, sarcastic jokes, and a love for exploring the wild adventures of Africa. Our home may be chaotic and filled with our beloved cats and dogs, but it is always warm and loving. I can't cook, make clothes or keep any plants alive but I am very good at learning and creative problem solving. Something that I apply wholeheartedly in my work with people.

As I enter a new season in my life, with my children preparing to leave home, I feel compelled to expand my reach and share the invaluable lessons I've learned. I am embracing the challenge of stepping into the public eye, determined to leave a legacy for my children-a resource for them and others who may need guidance during difficult times.