From Theory to Practice
I grew up in a small town where 'gay' was used as a slur.
Spending my formative years without support taught me how to survive in silence but, it also sparked a lifelong obsession with understanding how we heal. That journey led me into the deep research of my Master’s degree. My dissertation; The Transformative Role of Chosen Families was more than an academic pursuit, it was my way of proving that we don't have to stay lonely to stay safe.
The power of chosen family
I found that chosen families are not just social circles; they are transformative networks that provide the identity affirmation and security required to transition from crisis to sustained flourishing.
Jacques van der Westhuizen
(he, him) Founder
Navigating familial dynamics
My research analysed the liminal space queer individuals inhabit when biological support is conditional. I help clients process the grief of familial rejection and set the boundaries necessary for survival.
Resilience & the inner critic
My research showed how queer people internalise shame. My therapeutic approach focuses on dismantling that 'inner critic' and rebuilding a sense of self-worth that is not dependent on external validation.