Siyathokoza Mthembu - Educational Psychologist

Download The full Case Study: Summary: Amahle’s story offers an important look into how early trauma, loss and inconsistent caregiving can shape a child’s emotional world. First presented at Ububele Education and Psychotherapy Trust, this case study follows the therapeutic journey of a seven year old girl who had experienced severe abuse, neglect and multiple changes in caregivers. Removed from her biological home at age five and placed in institutional care, Amahle struggled

Parenting a child with a disability is a significant journey filled with both joy and challenge. For many single mothers in South Africa, this journey carries an additional emotional and practical burden. In one of my published studies, I explored the lived experiences of twelve single mothers raising a child with a disability between the ages of seven and eighteen. The goal was to understand their daily realities and to give voice to experiences that often go unheard. Read t

I had the privilege of joining SABC’s Lehae for a conversation focusing on the postpartum period, a time that brings enormous change. Many mothers experience emotional highs and lows as their bodies heal, their routines shift, and they adjust to caring for a new baby.

I recently had the privilege of joining SABC’s Lehae for an important conversation focusing on bullying in schools. During the interview, we discussed how bullying continues to evolve and how deeply it impacts learners. I emphasised that bullying is not simply a behavioural issue, it is a psychosocial concern that affects how a child feels, learns, connects with others, and sees themselves.

The teenage years are a time of growth, change, self discovery, and increasing independence. It is a meaningful and often challenging stage for both teens and their families. With academic pressure, social expectations, identity development, and emotional changes, many teenagers can feel overwhelmed or unsure of how to cope. Therapy offers a safe and supportive space for teens to explore their thoughts and feelings, develop coping skills, and build confidence in who they are

Every child learns and develops in their own unique way. While some children thrive with ease at school, others may struggle with learning, concentration, emotions, or behaviour. These challenges can feel confusing and worrying for parents who want to understand how best to support their child. A Psycho Educational Assessment provides clarity, insight, and a roadmap to help children reach their full potential.

The first years of a child's life are deeply meaningful. They shape a child's emotional security, confidence, and sense of safety in the world. Parenting during this early season can feel both beautiful and overwhelming. While there is joy in welcoming a new baby, there can also be moments of doubt, exhaustion, and emotional adjustment for parents and caregivers.

Play is not just an activity that keeps children busy. It is the language of childhood and a powerful tool for emotional, social, and cognitive growth. Through play, children express their feelings, make sense of their world, and develop the skills they need to cope with life’s challenges.

As parents and caregivers, it is natural to focus on a child’s behaviour, especially when it feels challenging, unexpected, or difficult to manage. Yet behind every behaviour is a message. Children often communicate their inner world through actions long before they are able to express their thoughts and feelings in words. When we shift from the question "How do I stop this behaviour?" to "What is my child trying to tell me?", we open the door to connection, understanding, a