About - Heather Delaney | Clinical Psychologist & Executive Coach

Registered with the Health Professions Council of South Africa and Board of Healthcare Funders.

Heather Delaney Clinical Psychologist, MA, HPCSA

I have always been interested in understanding people: why we think, feel and behave as we do, how our experiences shape the way we see ourselves and others, and why certain patterns can become so difficult to change. I believe that each person’s experience is unique. While people may present with similar difficulties, the meaning and impact of those experiences are shaped by their individual histories, relationships and circumstances. For this reason, my approach is responsive to each individual, rather than guided by a predetermined formula.

My approach to therapy

My approach is integrative and depth-oriented. I am interested in looking beyond the immediate symptoms or difficulties to understand the experiences, emotions and relational patterns that may be contributing to them.

Attachment theory informs my understanding of how our early and significant relationships can influence our sense of security, our expectations of others and the ways we navigate relationships throughout life. I am also interested in how these patterns can evolve and change through greater self-understanding and new experiences.

I place particular importance on the therapeutic relationship. I believe people need to feel understood and accepted before they can comfortably explore aspects of themselves that may be difficult, painful or unfamiliar. At the same time, therapy is not simply about feeling supported. It also involves being curious about ourselves, questioning familiar assumptions and sometimes being challenged to consider things differently.

I work collaboratively with my clients to explore experiences, make connections and develop a deeper understanding of what may be happening beneath the surface. I believe that this process can create opportunities for meaningful psychological change, both in how we understand ourselves and in how we relate to others.

My professional background

My clinical training and experience have shaped an appreciation for the complexity of human experience. During my training in academic hospital settings, I was exposed to a range of therapeutic approaches, including psychodynamic, psychoanalytic and systemic family therapy, as well as working in acute psychiatric settings. This provided a valuable foundation for understanding psychological difficulties from different perspectives.

Before entering the field of clinical psychology, I spent more than 20 years working in the corporate environment. This included overseeing an international sales department within a global organisation, working across different cultures and navigating the demands of professional responsibility and leadership.

That experience continues to inform my understanding of the pressures people face in their working lives, particularly when professional expectations intersect with personal responsibilities, relationships and wellbeing. It also underpins my interest in corporate psychology, leadership and psychological safety in the workplace.

Areas of Clinical Practice

In my clinical practice I have experience working with trauma, depression and mood difficulties, self-esteem, emotional regulation, relationship patterns and significant life transitions. I work with people navigating experiences such as divorce, bereavement, caregiving responsibilities and changing personal or professional roles.

Alongside my clinical practice, I work with organisations on psychological safety, emotional intelligence, workplace relationships and the psychological dimensions of leadership and team functioning.

Beyond the therapy room

I remain interested in the ongoing exploration of human behaviour, relationships and psychological wellbeing. Through my writing, I reflect on some of the themes that arise in both clinical work and everyday life, including shame, self-esteem, communication, resilience and change. I hope these reflections encourage people to become more curious about themselves and the ways they experience the world.

Therapy Services

Teens, Adolescents and Adults

Individual Psychotherapy
Group Psychotherapy
Couple and Family Therapy
LGBTQA+ Affirming Therapy
Corporate Training and Consulting

Areas of Interest

Anxiety and Adjustment disorders
Depression and Mood disorders
Trauma and stress related disorders
Self-esteem and Emotional Resilience
Interpersonal Relationships
Team Dynamics

Corporate Services

Individuals, Groups or Teams

Trauma debriefing
Trauma Informed workspaces
Psychological Safety
Leadership and Ethics
Emotional Intelligence and Resilience