Bettina Messerli

From an early age, I have been deeply fascinated by the intricacies of the human condition. My formal path to becoming a psychologist began in the United States, where I pursued undergraduate studies in Business (major) and Psychology (minor) at Loyola Marymount University. After earning my degree, I returned to South Africa and spent several years in the corporate sector, gaining valuable experience in Human Resources. Although this work was fulfilling, my increasing desire to make a more profound and meaningful impact ultimately inspired me to return to the field of psychology.

I was fortunate to be given the opportunity to pursue advanced studies at the University of Johannesburg (UJ), where I completed both my Honours in Psychology and my Master’s degree in Counselling Psychology, graduating both with distinction. The subsequent year, I undertook an internship at the Centre for Psychological Services and Career Development (PsyCaD) at UJ. This opportunity allowed me to gain extensive practical experience in areas such as trauma and PTSD, anxiety, depression, relational difficulties, grief and loss, as well self-esteem issues. Additionally, I gained proficiency in conducting career and educational assessment, and report writing. At PsyCaD, I engaged deeply with various therapeutic modalities, allowing me to refine my techniques and enhance my understanding of effective interventions. Following this, I completed an internship at the Counselling and Careers Development Unit (CCDU) at the University of the Witwatersrand. This opportunity further honed my therapeutic skills and enabled me to continue applying my knowledge in practice, thereby improving my ability to offer empathetic and effective support.

About My Service

In private practice, I am committed to fostering the well-being of others through a holistic approach grounded in existential phenomenology. This philosophical framework emphasizes understanding and addressing the fundamental aspects of human existence, such as meaning, purpose, and self-awareness. To achieve these goals, I integrate techniques from various psychotherapeutic modalities, including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT), and Solution-Focused Therapy (SFT).

Embarking on a therapeutic journey can be both challenging and transformative. Despite the initial difficulties, it offers the potential for significant personal growth. I strive to create a warm, safe, and non-judgmental space where we can explore your inner self together. In this supportive environment, we will work collaboratively to equip you with the skills needed to pursue a more fulfilling and optimal life.