The Humanitas Counselling Interns are volunteering their time to offer free online counselling services.

The Humanitas Counselling Interns are an amazing group of people. They have either a degree or an honours degree in Psychology or Social Work and each one of them is passionate about working with people. They have recently completed their theoretical component of our Humanitas Counselling Course and are now ready to start with their practical component or internship. During this second component of their training, our interns will offer over 200 hours of counselling, free of charge to the general public, via an online platform. They also offer face to face counselling sessions, and volunteer their time, at the amazing organisations and institutions who we have partnered with.

Our Humanitas Counselling Interns are eager to connect, listen and talk with you. If you would like to book a free ONLINE counselling session – please have a look at the different people who are able to help. Choose the person you would like to book your session with and fill in the form at the bottom of this page. They will get back to you as soon as possible.

PLEASE NOTE: The need for free counselling is extraordinarily high. Our Interns make themselves available as and when they have capacity to take on new clients. If no intern-profiles are reflecting on this page, it means that none of our interns currently have capacity to start any new processes. 
Please check in regularly, as we have several intakes throughout the year and therefore new interns join us on a regular basis, or in case of an emergency, please make use of the emergency numbers provided on this site.

You are not alone. Reach out and chat to one of our counselling interns today.

MEET THE HUMANITAS COUNSELLING INTERNS

In case of emergency, please contact the following free platforms:

Life Line: 0861 322 322

SADAG: 0800 456 789 (24 hour helpline)

Suicide Emergency: 0800 567 567

Or alternatively you can make use of the following online paid for services:

Vita Nova: www.vitanova.co.za

Vita Nova Counselling
  • Georgia

    Humanitas Counselling Intern

    Georgia Bent

    I offer a warm, gentle space where you can slow down and feel truly heard. Life can feel heavy at times, and you do not have to carry it alone. In our sessions, you are not expected to have the “right” words, just showing up is enough.

    My approach is person-centred and trauma-informed, grounded in empathy, curiosity, and deep respect for your unique story. I do not believe people need fixing. Instead, we work together to explore what healing and growth mean for you.

    I am deeply affirming of the LGBTQ+ community and feel especially connected to working with people from diverse communities and walks of life, including creatives and neurodivergent individuals. I value creating an inclusive, accepting space where you can show up exactly as you are, without fear of judgement. 

  • Shivadh

    Humanitas Counselling Intern

    Shivadh Puran

    Hello there! I am Shivadh and I am passionate about the well-being of people. Life can be overwhelming at times, but regulating one's emotions can help manage distress

  • Ellene

    Humanitas Counselling Intern

    Ellene Naude

    Hello! I'm Ellené and I am here for you. I can counsel in English or in Afrikaans, whichever you prefer.

    Excited to meet you!

  • Rabia

    Humanitas Counselling Intern

    Rabia Chhaya

    Hi, I'm Rabia!

    I believe counselling should feel like a safe and comfortable space where you can be yourself and feel truly heard. My approach is gentle, supportive, and understanding, and I aim to create an environment where you can explore your thoughts and feelings without pressure or judgment. Life can feel overwhelming at times, and it’s okay to take things one step at a time. I’m here to walk alongside you, helping you make sense of things and move forward in a way that feels right for you.

    You don’t have to have it all figured out to take the next step.

  • Sydney

    Humanitas Counselling Intern

    Sydney Hammond

    As a counselling intern, I offer a supportive and non-judgmental space where you can explore your thoughts and feelings at your own pace. My approach is rooted in person-centred counselling and holistic practices, which means I value your unique experiences and believe in your capacity for growth and healing. I am committed to creating an affirming environment for everyone, and I especially welcome members of the LGBTQIA+ community and neurodivergent individuals. Together, we can work towards greater self-understanding, resilience, and wellbeing.

  • Vanessa

    Humanitas Counselling Intern

    Vanessa de Gouveia

    Hi, I’m Vanessa.

    I am a Specialist Wellness Counselling Intern with Humanitas.

    I am drawn to wellness counselling because I hold a deep respect for the complexity of being human. I care about creating a space where people feel heard, seen and supported. I understand that life does not always unfold in straight lines. Seasons change and circumstances shift, which can feel overwhelming, especially during times of stress or uncertainty.

    At times like these, having a steady space to pause and reflect can make a meaningful difference.

    My Approach

    My approach is person-centred and grounded in emotional safety. I aim to create a calm and supportive space where you can speak openly without fear of judgement.

    All sessions are confidential, and your privacy is treated with care and respect. Sessions are conducted in English.

    In our sessions, you may:

    ·       Talk through what you are experiencing

    ·       Explore patterns in your thoughts and emotions

    ·       Develop healthier ways of coping

    ·       Strengthen your self-understanding

    ·       Move forward at a pace that feels right for you

    These are simply starting points. Our sessions will be guided by your unique needs and experiences.

    We work together in a way that feels respectful and supportive. You are a person with a story, and that story matters.

    I am here to walk alongside you as you make sense of it all.

    Come just as you are.

    We begin there.

  • Jude

    Humanitas Counselling Intern

    Jude Daya

    I'm a gentle, warm person, forever curious about the diversity of human experience. I believe strongly in inclusion and celebrating people for their unique selves. While I welcome clients of all backgrounds, I am particularly suited to neurodivergent and LGBTQIA+ individuals.

    It takes courage to ask for help, and I applaud your taking that first step towards healing. I am not here to fix you, because you are not broken. However, I am here to listen, support, and assist you with managing any challenges you face. I do not impose any set ideas of what healing or growth looks like. Rather, we will work together to establish your counselling goals based on your needs.

    I have a BA in English and Psychology, BA Honours in Counselling Psychology, and Master's in Psychological Research.

  • Claudine

    Humanitas Counselling Intern

    Claudine Kandasamy

    Hi I'm Claudine

    My goal is to create a safe space where you can explore your feelings and thoughts without judgment.

    I look forward to meeting you and walking with you through this journey 😊

  • Ria

    Humanitas Counselling Intern

    Ria Sheoshanker

    Hi, I’m Ria, and welcome to counselling — a place to pause and be met with care.

    You don’t have to arrive with clarity or answers. You don’t need to have the right words or even know where to begin. This is a space where what feels heavy, confusing or overwhelming can be spoken about gently and without judgement. I offer a steady presence as we make sense of things together, at your pace — centred on your values, your voice and what matters most to you. You don’t have to carry it alone.

  • Marietjie

    Humanitas Counselling Intern

    Marietjie Visser

    Hi there! I can't wait to start your counselling journey with you!

  • Sindi

    Humanitas Counselling Intern

    Sindi Jafta

    My name is Sindi, Your Wellness Counselling Intern. 

    I’m someone who genuinely cares about creating a space where you can just be. I provide a safe and empathetic space where you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences at your own pace.  

    You can expect a warm, non-judgmental environment where you are truly listened to. I focus on building a genuine connection with you, because I believe that feeling safe and understood is where real change begins.

    When you’re ready, I’m here to walk this journey with you.

     

  • Phumi

    Humanitas Counselling Intern

    Phumi Mbewe

    Hi, my name is Phumela (Phumi) Mbewe. I hold a Bachelor's and Honours degree in psychology and I am currently a counselling intern. I offer counselling in English and Setswana.

    I am a compassionate and non-judgemental individual who is passionate about creating a safe, supportive space where you can feel heard and understood. I believe in meeting people where they are and working collaboratively to navigate life's challenges. 

    I look forward to walking alongside you on your journey

  • Diya

    Humanitas Counselling Intern

    Diya Laljit

    Hi, I'm Diya. I am a counselling intern who values creating a space where clients feel genuinely heard, respected, and understood. I believe that each individual has the inner capacity for growth and healing when provided with a safe and supportive environment. I offer counselling in English, and work collaboratively with clients, honouring their unique experiences, cultural backgrounds, and personal strengths. My aim is to walk alongside you with care as we work toward clarity, resilience, and personal growth.

  • Kate-Lyn

    Humanitas Counselling Intern

    Kate-Lyn Van Staden

    Welcome to the Humanitas Counselling Portal. I am so grateful that you're here.

    My name is Kate-Lyn van Staden, and I am currently a specialist wellness counsellor intern here at Humanitas.

    My primary goal is to create a safe and judgment-free space in which we can explore the challenges that you are facing.  I am very passionate about guiding you on your journey of healing and personal growth.  

    My approach to counselling is person-centred, which means that this is your journey and I am simply following you through it.  This also means that you are in control of your counselling process.

    I completed my undergrad in Psychology and Communication Sciences in 2024 and my Honours in Psychology in 2025.

    I look forward to meeting you and being a part of your journey.

  • Lakshana

    Humanitas Counselling Intern

    Lakshana Govender

    Hello, my name is Lakshana. I am 22 years old and someone who values warmth, kindness, and genuine connection. I aim to create a safe and welcoming space where people can feel heard, supported, and encouraged as they explore healing, growth, and resilience.

    I look forward to our journey ahead 😊

  • Angela

    Humanitas Counselling Intern

    Angela Chabalala

    Hey there!

    I'm a warm and gentle soul who believes everyone deserves a safe space to be themselves. I'm non-judgmental, open, and here to support you on your journey, no matter what brings you in. I'm passionate about creating a space where everyone feels welcome, let's work together to grow and heal :) 

  • Tasheek

    Humanitas Counselling Intern

    Tasheek Mavapersad

    You can expect me to be non-judgmental, accepting, and fully present with you. I aim to create a space where you feel heard, respected, and safe to explore your thoughts and experiences openly.

  • Anthony

    Humanitas Counselling Intern

    Anthony Leech

    Hello, I’m Anthony.

    As an intern Specialist Wellness Counsellor with an Honours degree in psychology, I am committed to creating a safe and caring space where you feel heard, understood, and supported. I believe healing begins with compassion, and I  walk alongside my clients with empathy and respect as they navigate life’s challenges. My gentle, client‑centered approach focuses on helping you build resilience, discover clarity, and embrace your own strength. I look forward to partnering with you in a supportive and authentic way, walking this journey together toward growth and wholeness!

     
     

     

     

     

     
     
  • Alex

    Humanitas Counselling Intern

    Alex Peev

    Looking forward to meeting you!

  • Reena

    Humanitas Counselling Intern

    Reena Behari

    i am genuinely interested in assisting individuals who are experiencing problems. I feel that by simply being human makes us all vulnerable, and therefore i motivated to help others

  • Kayla

    Humanitas Counselling Intern

    Kayla Jacobs

    Hi, I'm Kayla!

    I am student counsellor with Humanitas. I'm passionate about creating a genuine, safe and supportive space where you can be your most authentic self without judgement. My role is to support you in exploring whatever you bring to the session.

    I am committed to working together as you navigate academic pressures, personal concerns, relationship exploration, and life changes. I work with individuals from various different backgrounds navigating topics like emotions, stress, self-care, etc. My approach is person-centered, empathetic, and empowering, allowing you to discover and explore your strengths to make meaningful progress towards your goals.

    I'm here to walk this road with you!

  • Merjorie

    Humanitas Counselling Intern

    Merjorie Karoni

    My name is Merjorie Karoni, and I am a mental wellness counsellor passionate about helping those who are going through life’s challenges achieve emotional well-being and personal growth. I am a naturally confidential individual, which is essential in creating a safe and trusting environment.

    I approach my work with a non-judgmental, empathetic, and accepting attitude, respecting each individual regardless of their circumstances. I provide a supportive space for individuals, couples, and families to feel heard, understood, and valued.

    Through compassionate guidance, I help clients navigate life’s challenges, explore their experiences, and develop practical solutions that promote healing, resilience, and personal growth.

     

  • Jess

    Humanitas Counselling Intern

    Jess Kure

    Hi there, I'm Jess!

    I’m deeply drawn to this work because I care about people feeling truly seen, heard, and understood — often for the first time. I believe that when we’re given the right kind of space, insight and change unfold more naturally than we expect.

    I aim to offer a calm, grounded and genuinely safe space where you can explore your inner world at your own pace. My role isn’t to fix or direct you, but to open a window of light on your own unique journey — asking thoughtful questions, reflecting what I notice, and helping bring clarity to what may feel tangled or out of reach.

    I value honesty, presence and real connection, and I approach each conversation with curiosity and respect for your unique experience. I hope that our time together supports you in understanding yourself more deeply and in moving forward with greater confidence and self-trust.

    A little about me — I’m someone who values connection, creativity, self-discipline and movement. I love staying active, and I’m always learning, whether through podcasts, books, or simply paying attention to life. I’m drawn to both practical and creative ways of seeing the world, and I bring that curiosity into the space we share.

    I’d be honoured to work with you :)

  • Kayla

    Humanitas Counselling Intern

    Kayla Bekker

    Hi everyone! 
    My name is Kayla Bekker, I have a Bachelor's and Honour's degree in psychology, and I am currently completing the Humanitas counseling course. I can counsel in English and Afrikaans.
    I am a warm, empathetic, and engaging person with a passion for helping people. I look forward to meeting you. 

Request a counselling session

Thank you for wanting to make use of our free counselling platform. Please note that in order for this process to continue, we require the following information from you as well as your consent that counselling can take place. Once everything is filled out, your request will be sent to the relevant intern and they will respond within 24-48 business hours.

Disclaimer: Please be advised that the counseling interns are not psychologists, psychiatrists, or registered counselors with the HPCSA. They are counseling interns planning to register as Specialist Wellness Counselors with the Association for Supportive Counsellors and Holistic Practitioners (ASCHP) at the end of their internship. Additionally, they provide counseling only within the ASCHP’s scope of practice and adhere to its code of ethics, standards, and rules and regulations.

Your counselor will be in contact with you via email and/or WhatsApp.

Please ensure that:

  1. The contact details you provided are correct.
  2. You check your spam/junk mail, as some emails may be redirected there.

Real-time statistics

Online Counselling Requests Received

Total requests for the past 12 months: 4,470

Online Counselling Sessions Offered

Total sessions for the past 12 months: 12,585