DR VICKY DOWNING
Guiding Hands Therapy
Educational Psychologist and Family Mediator offering comprehensive therapy, assessments, and specialised training services, situated in Boksburg & Benoni.
IN EDUCATION
IN PRIVATE PRACTICE
GUIDING HANDS THERAPY
Psychological, Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) and Training
Educational Psychologist
We offer psychological, psycho-educational and psycho-legal (forensic) assessments, therapy, and guidance for children, adolescents, and families. Our services include emotional evaluations, play therapy, trauma and bereavement counselling, career and subject choice guidance, and school readiness assessments.
Family Mediator
We offer a supportive space to help families navigate divorce, separation, and prepare parenting plans with understanding and care. Our goal is to promote healthy communication and peaceful resolutions that prioritize the best interests of either children concerned or involved.
Training for Educators, Mental Healthcare Professionals and Caregivers
We provide specialised training for educators, mental healthcare professionals and caregivers, focusing on supporting children with ADHD, anxiety, and emotional challenges. Our programs also promote personal wellness through self-care, time management, and stress management techniques.
ADHD: Working With Children And Their Families, Diagnosis And Treatments
ABOUT
Dr Vicky Downing
Educational Psychologist
SAAM Accredited Family Mediator
I support individuals, couples, and families through a range of services including psychotherapy, play therapy, marriage and couples counselling, family therapy, and mediation. My approach is integrative and client-focused, drawing from Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Gestalt, and Integrative Brain Based Therapies (IBBA) to suit each client’s needs.
BY DR VICKY DOWNING
Articles about Psychology
My child has been referred for play therapy… Now what?
Children use play to express their wishes, desires, struggles and concerns. As children aren’t always aware of what they are feeling and they don’t often have the words to express these feelings, play is used as a medium of communication. What is the process?...
ADHD Signs and Symptoms in Children
Signs and symptoms of ADHD in children: The following are the most common signs and symptoms: carelessness, wandering attention, inability to pay attention for a length of time, poor organisational skills, inability to complete assignments, easily distracted,...
ADHD Treatments
These are alternatives to medication which may assist the child with ADHD: Nutritional supplements rich in Omega 3 fatty acids, Vitamin B6, Zinc, Magnesium Behavioral modification strategies Play therapy/ therapy Inform the teacher as she can then implement strategies...