ABOUT ME
My name is Werner Briedenhann. You're welcome to call me Verner or Vern.
It's been a minute or two since I qualified as a clinical psychologist in 2013. Since then, I've worked in psychiatric hospitals, substance rehabilitation centres, tertiary education, primary healthcare, community mental health, and private practice. During this time, I've listened to many people's stories and seen how they change when they resolve what's on their minds.
I'd like to believe that none of us are one-dimensional, and neither is my approach to therapy. As a therapist, I combine different therapeutic orientations in my practice and work integratively. I draw on elements from CBT, DBT, Motivational Interviewing, Solution- Focused Therapy, Reality Therapy, and Person-Centred Therapy. Read more about the types of therapies I utilise in my practice in my blog.
A core component of my practice is building awareness. We can work towards change when we are more aware of how we feel, think, and act. This is where our therapeutic relationship comes in. How we interact can tell us a lot about what's going on behind the scenes for you. Learning from our interactions is what makes therapy a helpful relationship.
ABOUT THERAPY
In my practice, therapy is a conversation. When we meet, I'll ask what brought you to therapy today. You'll do most of the talking while I listen, observe, and process what you say. There will be water, coffee, or tea to help with the mental unpacking.
During our conversation, I'll ask questions to help me understand you and clarify what I've heard. I'll mention what I notice and ask what you become aware of as you talk. At some point, I'll share how I perceive what's going on for you. We'll keep talking and making sense of what's happening for you. There might be tears- I have tissues for this- and laughter in between. Together, we'll untangle what brought you to the couch and what to do next.
I usually work with adults and provide therapy for individuals, couples, and groups. Additionally, I assess ACC Sensitive Claims. To read about the types of problems I see in there, click here.
ABOUT SESSIONS
Sessions are fifty minutes and can be in-person or online. I prefer in-person sessions where possible. The cost of an individual session is $180. You are welcome to pay cash on the day or by EFT. Cancellations within 24 hours of a booked session will be charged.
There may be funding options available to you as I'm registered with Southern Cross and ACC Sensitive Claims as a treatment provider. For other funding options, please check with your insurance. If you are 25 and under, I am registered with I Am Hope/Gumboot Friday. Or read about funding options on my blog.
