About

Andi Bengis

I qualified as an OT at the University of Witwatersrand (Johannesburg, South Africa) in 1996 and have never stopped learning.

Besides my OT degree, I have certificates and qualifications in:

Trauma counselling
Psychodrama
HIV counselling
Applied Psychoneuroimmunology
Art therapy
Brave Girls Club Journaling
Emergency psychological first aid
Sexual health

"I just want to say that once I was very depressed and negative about my life and I was admitted to the Clinic, I met some amazing individuals, but most building and fun experiences was with Andi Bengis. I learned a lot about myself, my capabilities and what I could let go if it's disturbing my well being.

Ever since I left that therapy session, nothing can get me down. I have tried so many things and failed, but I always have this energy of even doing better, and my take was if you are down and out, there is only way out is up.

And I apply that method in everything I do.

Thanks Andi" - J.S.

I love in-patient work, especially group therapy, and spend part of my days working in an in-patient mental health facility.

When I am not working as an OT, I volunteer as a crisis responder.

I am also on the executive team for an annual community learning conference.

I am passionate about using all of my experience, and my qualifications, to provide treatment in a creative and individualised way for each client that I work with.

This is what makes my therapy unique.

I am always honoured to be part of my client’s journey to health and do not take the trust that they put in me lightly.

Interesting facts about me:

I adore crafting and I own way too many crafting materials.
While some people are horrified of the idea of a glitter bomb, I couldn’t think of much better than being in a cloud of glitter.
I am obsessed with elephants (and if I could do anything other than be a therapist, I would care for elephants).
Art journaling is my personal therapy that keeps me grounded.
I am an extrovert and I get energy from being surrounded by people.
I am relentlessly positive and believe in the glass always being half full (although it doesn’t matter because it can always be refilled…)

"From the moment I stepped into Andi's care, I felt an overwhelming sense of compassion and dedication emanating from her. She didn't just see me as a patient; she saw me as a person with dreams, struggles, and potential waiting to be unleashed. Despite the chaos of my psychosis, Andi remained a beacon of patience and understanding, never once casting judgment. Instead, she listened with an open heart and guided me with unwavering support towards healing and integration into society. Andi is not just everything one could hope for in an OT; she surpasses all expectations with her boundless empathy, belief in her patients, and commitment to their well-being." S.A.