About

My name is Carryn Hennessy.  I am a social worker in Benoni, South Africa, currently working in private practice.  I completed my BA Psychology degree at the Rand Afrikaans University (now known as UJ) in 2004, and completed my BA Honours Social Sciences degree (Cum Laude) at the University of Johannesburg (UJ) in 2005.  I then registered as a social worker with SACSSP, and have since worked at Child Welfare Organisations, a Child Youth Care Centre, in Private Practice, as well as Primary and High Schools in the East Rand.   I am also registered as a social worker in private practice with SAASWIPP as well as contracted with the BHF.  In 2022 I was blessed to begin lecturing for Humanitas Training, and am responsible for the modules on trauma and adult survivors of childhood sexual abuse.  I also assist with self care and crisis management modules, as well as supervise students whilst doing their practical placements.  I was also invited to mark for UNISA social work students on an ad hoc basis.

 I am also blessed to be a mother to a 10 year old boy, who has taught me much about being a parent, and being a human being.

My passion is to help those who are in need, particularly those who are vulnerable.  I have a special interest in children and teenagers, and have completed many courses and trainings in this field.  I believe in lifelong learning, and strive to stay abreast with current research and international trends in the therapeutic world.

I completed my Masters in Clinical Social Work at UJ (Cum Laude) in 2019.  My research topic was, “An assessment of psychosocial risk factors at a selected Gauteng high school” and is available for download from the university’s website here.  My clinical internship focused on journeying with adolescents experiencing depression, self harming behaviour and suicide related behaviours using dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT) and creative expressive arts within the school environment.

I currently offer the following services at my private practice in Benoni:

  • Play therapy (all ages)
  • Short term counselling and therapy (adults and teenagers)
  • Parental guidance and support
  • Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) referrals
  • Supervision services to other social workers and social work students.
  • Trauma related therapy
  • Creative expressive arts

My particular therapeutic focus includes:

  • Trauma work
  • Attachment
  • Working through childhood abuse (physical, emotional, sexual and neglect)
  • Emotion regulation
  • Distress tolerance
  • Children with developmental delays and special needs
  • Suicidal ideation and self harm

I also recognise that as therapists we have limitations and areas in which other professionals can support or assist.  In the instance where I am not able to assist you, I will refer to colleagues or services available within your community.