Jo Hamilton

Educational Psychologist

Greenside, Johannesburg

I am an experienced Educational Psychologist who has been working with children, adolescents, and adults for over 20 years. I am a passionate, warm and caring therapist. I am a deep thinker who listens carefully and who values the privilege of journeying with my clients as we explore their emotions and life experiences. I am skilled at sharing psychological understanding in an accessible manner and I offer practical advice to parents. My many years of clinical work has enabled me to have an in-depth understanding of human needs and development at all stages of life.

B.A. H.D.E. (Prim) F.D.E. (Special Edu Needs) B.Ed (Psych) M.Ed (Psych)

Registration No: PS 0085731

Practice No: 0144630

Who do I work with

I enjoy working with children, adolescents and adults. I offer a variety of support and intervention in my practice.

Play therapy with children
Individual therapy with adolescents
Individual therapy with adults
Parent-infant psychotherapy
Parental guidance and psychoeducation with parents and caregivers
Group work with children and adolescents where interpersonal difficulties and conflict management is explored and age-appropriate assertive skills are taught
Talks and workshops at schools with children, parents and teachers

How do I work

My work primarily focuses on developing awareness of and insight into the emotions and needs of one’s inner world, and how these interplay in the interactions and relationships with others in one’s outer world. My theoretical thinking is psychodynamically informed with a mindful inclusion of the various ecosystems within which we live and interact. I draw from different modalities depending on the age and need of my clients. These modalities include non-directive play therapy, relational psychoanalytic therapy, dialectical behavioural therapy, cognitive behavioural therapy and solution focused therapy.

Qualifications & work experience

I first qualified as a primary school teacher (1995) and soon found that my interest and passion in child development extended beyond teaching. I returned to university to gain a detailed understanding and experience in special educational needs (1999). However, my true passion lies in in the emotional and social development of people of all ages. This led me to completing my Master of Education, Educational Psychology (cum laude) at Stellenbosch University in 2003.

Following this I spent 10 years working in various school settings, addressing the emotional and social needs of the children, parents and teachers. This experienced provided me with an in-depth understanding of the needs of school aged children. Simultaneously, for the past 20 years I have run my private practice where I work with children under 5 years, school aged children, adolescents, adults and parents.

I enjoy learning and expanding my knowledge of human development, the psyche and interpersonal dynamics. My concern for others, curious intuition, and ethical intent fuels my desire to give of my best.

In 2017 I wrote the book The Ultimate Assertiveness Toolbox For Kids (Clockwork Books Publishers) and we have sold over 2800 copies.