Approach & Services
Evidence-based, mind–body and client‑centred care for individuals, couples and families.
Therapeutic Approach
Dr Niedinger’s approach blends:
• Talk-based psychological counselling
• Somatic Experiencing (SE™) — a body-aware method for trauma and stress resolution
• Emotional regulation and coping skill development
• Spiritual insight where desired by the client
Quick links: Self-Image • Relationships • Spiritual matters • Anxiety • Trauma • Eating disorders • Addiction • Depression
About key methods
Somatic Experiencing (SE™)
A body-oriented, nervous-system-focused approach that helps resolve stress and trauma held in the body through gradual regulation and resourcing.
Triune Brain (metaphorical model)
An influential but scientifically oversimplified framework describing instinct, emotion, and rationality as layered brain systems. Used metaphorically in therapy to aid understanding of responses.
EFT Tapping
A widely practiced technique involving tapping specific body points while focusing on distress. Evidence is mixed and mainstream science does not support its traditional theoretical claims; it may be offered if it aligns with client preference.
“River of Health” / Life Models
Metaphorical frameworks representing life flow, supports, obstacles, and growth. They can help clients make sense of life narratives and nervous-system adaptivity.
As a Counselling Psychologist and Somatic Experiencing Practitioner (SEP), Dr Helena Niedinger integrates psychological science, body-based therapeutic methods, and, where appropriate, spiritual perspectives to support deeper healing and long-term emotional wellbeing. Spiritual integration available on request.
She works with individuals, couples, and families facing trauma, relationship struggles, anxiety, depression, addiction, self-esteem challenges, and spiritual conflict. Treatment is collaborative and tailored to your needs, drawing from CBT, ACT, mindfulness, and somatic approaches to restore safety, connection, and resilience.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is a session?
A standard therapeutic hour. We will discuss what works best for you during booking.
Fees and payment
Current fees and payment options are provided when you enquire or book. Invoices can be supplied for Medical Aid claims where applicable.
In-person or telehealth?
Both are available by appointment. Telehealth is conducted via secure video.
Do you integrate spirituality?
Yes — only if you wish. Spiritual integration is offered respectfully and at your request.
Self-Image and Self-Worth
The most important relationship in your life is the relationship you have with yourself. This relationship often involves low self-esteem, negative self-views and internal conflict. Self-image is formed from early life experiences and interactions, especially when children are not given enough healthy emotional support and validation. Many children grow up feeling they are never good enough if their emotional needs for safety and security weren’t met.
Adults with a negative self-image often carry this forward, shaping how they see themselves and their world. Dr Niedinger helps clients uncover the roots of these internal messages and work toward a more adaptive self-concept that supports fulfilling life rather than self-criticism.
Marriage and Relationship Problems
People are naturally social and most seek happiness through close relationships (“Happiness Index”). However, unresolved emotional pain from early relationships often impacts intimacy, connection, and trust in adult partnerships.
Dr Niedinger works with couples to improve communication, resolve patterns that block intimacy, and build emotional safety so both partners can experience deeper connection and happiness together.
Spiritual Matters
Dr Niedinger is also an ordained NG (Dutch Reformed) minister with theological training. She brings a spiritual perspective to life’s struggles for clients who want that dimension explored in therapy. She helps people understand why they feel stuck, assists in integrating their beliefs into therapeutic healing, and supports clients to use faith or spiritual insight in growth and healing.
Eating Disorders
Dr Niedinger has extensive experience working with anorexia and bulimia. Eating disorders are complex and often stem from emotional pain, self-criticism, and control issues. Treatment involves understanding deeper psychological triggers and gradually building a healthier relationship with food, self-image, and emotions.
Depression and Emotional Problems
She takes a holistic approach to emotional issues. The root causes of negative emotions such as depression, anxiety and trauma are explored, and clients are supported to process long-held feelings. Her work often involves helping people move out of survival-based reactions and toward a sense of internal peace and empowerment.
Acute and Post-Traumatic Stress
Some people experience trauma from significant life events that negatively influence how they feel about themselves and the world. Dr Niedinger helps individuals process trauma and its emotional impact so they can live more fully in the present and feel safer in their bodies.
Addiction
Addictions often develop as self-medication — an attempt to escape painful emotions through substances or behaviours (alcohol, drugs, food restriction, gambling, pornography, etc.). Dr Niedinger supports individuals in breaking addictive cycles by addressing underlying emotional pain and building healthier coping strategies.
Anxiety Disorders
Anxiety and related conditions (panic attacks, obsessive-compulsive thinking) are often rooted in insecurity and a constantly triggered nervous system. Dr Niedinger works with clients to understand nervous system responses, calm emotional reactivity and build resilience that reduces physiological panic and fear responses over time.