Mental Wellness

WHO IS NQOBILE MAPHUMULO?

I am a small-town girl operating in my calling as a clinical psychologist at my practice, uNqobile Psychologists. I am a warm and approachable person, passionate about spreading mental health awareness. I love what I do, and I believe in the power of its influence. I currently have a private practice in La Lucia and my areas of speciality include trauma, grief, relationships and mood disorders.

WHY PSYCHOLOGY?

Coming from a small village means that I grew up with very limited information about mental health, however, I could see the effects of it around me in my community. This resulted in me always wanting to understand the dynamics behind human behaviour. I use my profession to do exactly that. It gives me the platform to help guide people through their personal life dynamics and how these may affect their overall functioning.

HOW DID YOU END UP WHERE YOU ARE TODAY?

The journey to becoming a clinical psychologist included seven years of professional training, a lot of personal challenges, and growth. I have had the privilege of working in various sociocultural contexts, which has helped me gain a lot of experience and understanding of the different cultural and religious dynamics which influence people's interaction with their mental health.

WHAT IS IT LIKE WORKING AS A FEMALE IN THIS PROFESSION?

Being a female psychologist has come with a lot of challenges. There is a general misconception that we are more likely to become too emotionally invested in clients’ issues. I feel that being a female psychologist is actually a strength because females generally have a deeper level of compassion and relatability due to our nurturing nature. I pride myself in the response of my clients to my therapeutic interventions, and it continues to show me that we can all use the things that make

WHAT INSPIRES YOU TO WORK HARD IN YOUR FIELD, PUSHING BOUNDARIES AND MAKING STRIDES?

My own life journey and personal battles that I’ve conquered and continue to conquer. I am also highly inspired by each and every client who I’ve had the pleasure of assisting. I will always be an advocate for mental health and create more awareness. One of my greatest desires is to be able to spread education to less fortunate communities that are very affected by mental health matters but may not have the right knowledge, information and tools to help them take the necessary steps to get help.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE OTHER WOMEN STARTING OUT IN YOUR FIELD OF WORK?

I would honestly say go for it. There’s such great strength in women using their natural nurturing ability in our profession. We need more women in psychology. As much as the journey can be long and challenging, if you persevere, it can be the most rewarding experience of your life. I would encourage anyone wanting to pursue a career in psychology to do it and do it wholeheartedly.