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Coastal Aerial View

 Deidre Heafield

Choosing a therapist for you or your child is such a personal choice. Usually people start by looking at the photo. Rightly or wrongly that's where most of us start - so if you like the look of me - please read on and decide if my bio resonates with you.

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For the past 30 years I have straddled the worlds of psychology and education and fulfilled a variety of roles. 

It's crazy how quickly time moves; one day, you look back and realise just how many seasons, people, and places have contributed to who you are today.

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Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of working in a wide variety of roles across several countries. Professionally, my journey has taken me to Asia, North America and Europe and I have fulfilled many roles including educator, special needs teacher, learning support coordinator, Head of Middle School, Head of High School, and owner of private psychology practices in Gauteng, KwaZulu-Natal, and now Somerset West in the Western Cape. You’re welcome to explore my LinkedIn profile for the full pathway, but here I want to offer something more personal—a window into the values and lived experiences that shape how I work.

 

One of the most transformative experiences was my time in Japan, far outside my usual comfort zone. It was there that I discovered the concept of Ikigai—a beautiful Japanese idea often described as “a reason for being.” Ikigai sits at the intersection of what you love, what you’re good at, what the world needs, and what you can be paid for. It is not necessarily a grand passion, but rather the small, meaningful things that bring daily purpose, fulfilment, and direction. This philosophy has influenced both my life and my practice.

 

I am a mother to two teenagers, and this role has deepened my understanding of young people and the pressures they face. My daughter recently matriculated from a mainstream high school and is very academically inclined. My son, on the other hand, is happiest with the sun on his back and a fishing rod in hand. He loves the ocean and thrives when he can explore, tinker, and engage in hands-on learning. As a family, we chose the homeschooling route for him so he can develop his interests and passions more freely. Walking this journey with both of them has given me a rich, first hand appreciation for how unique each teenager’s path can be—and how important it is to honour those differences.

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Because of this, I’ve developed a deep and practical understanding of the many educational pathways available to teens—mainstream, alternative, vocational, international, and home-based options. I’m always happy to share this knowledge with families who are navigating uncertainty, pressure, or confusion about what comes next. When we help young people connect with their Ikigai—their sense of meaning, motivation, and joy—it can make all the difference.

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These days, what I value most is balance. I believe that when our lives are in balance, we create space for joy, harmony, and contentment. Some days I manage this beautifully, and other days… not so much. But I’ve come to realise that perfect balance is an illusion. Life moves like the ocean—constantly shifting, ebbing and flowing. When one part of our lives becomes all-consuming for too long, a sense of dis-ease can settle in. I believe that gently restoring equilibrium to the body, mind, and spirit is the key to living a fulfilled and contented life.

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Balance for me means spending time with my family, looking after my health by practicing yoga and swimming, eating healthy food, spending time in nature and diving in the ocean. It means reading, painting and gardening. By spending time on the things I enjoy and the things I value I have the physical and emotional resources to give to my practice and to each of my clients. 

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If you feel that I am someone who can help restore balance and joy to your life or the life of family member, please reach out. I would be honored to walk part of the journey with you.

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