Karin Gerber &
Finley & Cooper
Educational Psychologist & Therapy Dogs
Karin Gerber is an educational psychologist practicing in Stellenbosch, offering psychotherapy to school-going children (Gr 1 and older), teenagers, students, and young adults. She is dedicated to promoting mental health and well-being by helping clients and families to overcome their emotional difficulties and improve their quality of life.
Her therapy dogs, Finley & Cooper the Golden Retrievers, welcome all with big smiles and a wag of their tails.
Areas of Special Interest
Jungian Sandplay Therapy, Integrative Brain Based Approaches (IBBA), Brain Working Recursive Therapy (BWRT Level 1), Interactional Pattern Analysis (IPA), Child Centered Play Therapy & Parental Guidance
At the heart of Karin's psychotherapeutic approach is the person-centred approach, which means that she believes in creating a warm, non-judgemental space where clients feel truly heard, valued, and accepted. This approach, developed by Carl Rogers, is based on the idea that every person, whether child or adult, has the capacity for growth and self-understanding when given the right support. Rather than directing or diagnosing, Karin walks alongside her clients, helping them to explore their thoughts, feelings and experiences at their own pace.
As Carl Rogers beautifully put it: "The curious paradox is that when I accept myself just as I am, then I can change."
Karin's goal is to provide a therapeutic space where clients feel safe to be themselves, gain a deeper self-awareness, and move towards a more fulfilling and authentic life.
Karin is an educational psychologist registered at the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA). Her qualifications include a BEdPsych (Educational Psychology) degree, as well as an MEdPsych (Educational Psychology cum laude) degree. She is trained and experienced in various relational and brain based therapy approaches, including play therapy interventions, Jungian Sandplay therapy, Brain Working Recursive Therapy (BWRT), Integrative Brain Based Approaches (IBBA) and Interactional Pattern Analysis (IPA). In her practice, she focuses on psychotherapy with primary and high school learners, as well as tertiary students and young adults under the age of 30.
Many ask "What is an educational psychologist?"
Perhaps the best starting point is to explain what the profession of psychology entails. Psychology is the scientific study of human thoughts, emotions, and behaviours. It aims to understand how people think, feel, and interact with the world around them, helping individuals navigate challenges and enhance their well-being.
As an educational psychologist, Karin's focus extends beyond academics. Educational is not scholastic — it is about equipping individuals with the skills needed to engage meaningfully in life. Learning happens across the lifespan, and education is not limited to school but rather about gaining the skills necessary to be effective in our human roles — as children, parents, partners, employees, and community members.
Karin's role is to support individuals in understanding themselves, building resilience, and developing strategies to thrive in various life domains. This may involve:
Strengthening self-esteem and emotional regulation
Enhancing communication and interpersonal relationships
Supporting learning and problem-solving across different life stages
Providing guidance in navigating personal challenges and transitions
Through this work, Karin aims to help clients engage optimally with their environment and develop the tools they need to lead fulfilling lives.
The idea of therapy can be a daunting thought to some, but rest assured that visiting a psychologist can provide a wonderful opportunity for self-discovery and growth if you are willing to take on the journey with its mountains and valleys.