Therapist
Kasthuree Gounden
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Nadja Zivkovic
Q&A for Therapists and Coaches
Tell us a bit about yourself.
I am a Registered Counsellor based in Durban South Africa. Training comprised of a professional post graduate degree and Board Examination of the Health Professional council of SA. Ability to practice is further determined by annual compliance with Continuous Professional Development requirements. I specialise in person centred therapy. My approach is non judgemental and based on unconditional positive regard.
How long did your education and training take — and what did your path to this profession look like?
My career path is very different from the one I envisaged after secondary education. My first career choice did not pan out due to lack of finances . I then entered employment in the Government Education Sector and continued with my search for my niche. I dabbled in various fields ( law and Commerce …Go figure) in the interim . I couldn’t reconcile my beliefs with Law and I certainly wasn’t a number cruncher.
I eventually found that psychology and therapy resonated with my temperament and my curiosity around human behaviour. It also served my deep seated desire to help. I believe I have finally found my purpose. I truly love what I do.
How would you describe your general approach when working with people?
My general approach is to offer my clients a safe space in which to explore their thoughts , challenges and fears ; whilst aware that they are accepted unconditionally and without judgement. The goal is to live authentically and achieve full potential.
Is there a moment with a client (anonymous, of course) that stayed with you?
There are many moments that stay with me. I am always amazed by the indomitable spirit within us. Even in the face of extreme adversity people still manage to thrive given the right support.
Early in my practice ,during my service at a psychiatric hospital , a patient recounted for the first time ever , the absolute horrific abuse she had encountered. I struggled to maintain my composure during the intervention. After the session , I got into my car and wept. This was a pivotal moment as it cemented my resolve to assist and my belief that sometimes all we need is to be heard.
On a lighter note , A child I was working with once asked “ what work do you do ?” I replied that I talk with people and listen to whatever they have to say. The child then looked at me for a few minutes , clearly perplexed , then said , in a solemn tone “ Talking is not a job , You must get yourself a real job , like working with computers” I guess this may have been one of the motivators to join the online therapy space of SupportRoom
What do you do when you're stressed?
I use music to relax. Any genre will do . Music helps me to shed the stressors.
Sport is also a great stress reliever. Watching late evening football matches works for me. Avid Liverpool fan
What's one small habit that makes a big difference in your everyday life?
To look for humour in every day. A day without laughter is a day lost.
What’s one piece of advice you’d give for a lighter, happier life?
Focus on you. Know yourself and work towards contentment. Do not get distracted by others and their goals.
What does being part of SupportRoom mean to you?
Digital support is amazing. Help at your fingertips. Most often when challenges are experienced , assistance is not readily available. Supportroom eliminates long waits , scheduling appointments and even travelling for therapy. The client chooses the time and setting , this is especially vital for people who are feeling overwhelmed.
And now, just for fun:
– Do people assume you can read their minds?
Yes they do. There are those who believe I should be super analytical all the time. Professionally , I am fully attuned , personally…..nah
– Do friends ask for advice even when you’re off the clock?
Sometimes , and I must remind them that I am speaking as a friend and not a therapist
– Have you ever argued with your partner… and later realised they were kind of right?
More times than I’d care to admit. I think I will take the Fifth on this question.