Laurian Ward Counselling Psychologist

08/08/2026

This Women’s Day, let’s stop measuring ourselves by what we have, who stayed, who left, whether we became mothers, built careers, started again, or are still trying to find our way. Our worth was never determined by our relationship status, our age, our circumstances or the chapters that broke us. It lives in the woman who kept going when nobody saw how hard it was, who found the courage to begin again, who learned from what she survived and who is still becoming. You have already overcome things you once thought would break you. Never forget the strength that brought you here.

07/08/2026

Therapy Changes More Than You Think

Therapy isn't about having all the answers—it's about discovering them.

It can help you understand your emotions, process difficult experiences, build healthier coping strategies, strengthen relationships, and reconnect with the person you want to be.

You don't have to wait until you're in crisis to seek support. Sometimes the bravest step is simply deciding that you deserve to feel better.

Healing doesn't happen overnight, but every conversation can be a step towards hope, resilience and lasting change.

Therapy doesn't change who you are—it helps you become more of who you were always meant to be.

03/08/2026

International Overdose Awareness Day – 31 August.

Behind every overdose, every su***de, and every statistic is a person, a family and a story that matters.

Depression can leave people feeling isolated and hopeless, but there is hope. Early intervention, compassionate support and professional care can save lives.

Let's continue to break the stigma around mental illness, encourage open conversations, and remind those who are struggling that they do not have to face it alone.

If you or someone you care about is finding life overwhelming, please reach out. Asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness.

Su***de awareness starts with a conversation. One conversation could save a life.

https://psychologistpretoriaeast.co.za/international-overdose-awareness-day-depression-su***de-and-the-importance-of-su***de-awareness/

***deAwareness

24/07/2026

Are Your Genes Your Destiny?

Many people worry that because depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder or another mental health condition runs in their family, it is only a matter of time before they experience it too. The science tells us a different story.

While genetics can increase your vulnerability to certain mental health conditions, they do not determine your future. Our emotional wellbeing is shaped by the interaction between our genes, our environment and our life experiences.

Think of it this way: Genetics may load the gun, but life experiences pull, or don't pull, the trigger.

Supportive relationships, healthy coping skills, quality sleep, regular exercise, managing stress, and access to professional support all influence how our genes are expressed.

This is where the fascinating field of epigenetics comes in. Research shows that while we cannot change the DNA we inherit, our experiences can influence which genes become more active and which remain less active.

This is also why therapy can be so transformative. Therapy doesn't change your DNA, it helps change how your brain responds to stress, processes emotions and builds resilience. By learning healthier ways to cope with life's challenges, we can often reduce the impact of inherited vulnerabilities.

Your family history is part of your story, but it is not the whole story.

You are more than your genes. If you are struggling with your mental health or have concerns because of your family history, know that support is available. Seeking help is not a sign of weakness, it is a positive step towards understanding yourself and building a healthier future.

Laurian Ward
Counselling Psychologist | East of Pretoria

Therapy does not change your DNA, but it can help change the way your brain responds to stress, processes emotions and builds resilience. Through developing healthier coping strategies, improving relationships, processing difficult experiences and learning emotional regulation, many people significa...

09/07/2026

As the colder months settle in, many people notice a change in their mood. The shorter days, colder weather and slower pace can leave us feeling more tired, less motivated and, for some, simply sad. This is a very real experience and one that many couples navigate together.

When your partner seems withdrawn or emotionally flat, it can be tempting to assume they are upset with you. You may feel rejected, become frustrated or try to "fix" how they are feeling. Often, however, what they need most is your understanding rather than your solutions.

Instead of asking, "What's wrong with you?" try asking, "How can I support you today?"

Sometimes support looks like sitting together in silence, going for a walk, making a warm cup of tea, sharing a meal or simply listening without trying to solve the problem. Feeling heard and accepted can be far more healing than receiving advice.

Of course, if sadness becomes persistent, begins affecting daily functioning or is accompanied by feelings of hopelessness, it is important not to ignore it. Reaching out for professional support can make a significant difference.

Relationships are strengthened not because we always know the right thing to say, but because we choose to be present for one another, especially during life's more difficult seasons.

If you or your partner are finding this season particularly difficult, I invite you to reach out. You do not have to face it alone, and together we can explore practical ways to restore hope, connection and emotional wellbeing.

SAD can strain relationships, especially when it’s misunderstood. A partner may misinterpret the symptoms as disinterest or even rejection.

06/07/2026

Life can present challenges that leave us feeling overwhelmed, uncertain or emotionally exhausted. Whether you are facing anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, relationship difficulties or simply feel that life has become a constant balancing act, you do not have to navigate it alone.

I am Laurian Ward, a qualified Counselling Psychologist, and I obtained my Master's Degree in Counselling Psychology (Cum Laude) from the University of Pretoria in 2008.

I believe that every person has a unique story, which is why I tailor therapy to meet the individual needs of each client. My goal is to provide a safe, supportive and confidential space where you can explore your experiences, build on your strengths, and develop the confidence to create a more fulfilling and meaningful life.

I have extensive experience working with teenagers, adults, couples and families, helping them navigate:

• Depression
• Anxiety
• Grief and bereavement
• Stress management
• Trauma and PTSD
• Personal growth
• Interpersonal relationships
• Chronic illness
• Workplace wellness
• Career counselling
• Study skills

Seeking support is not a sign of weakness—it is an investment in your wellbeing and your future.

If you are ready to take the first step towards positive change, I invite you to get in touch to arrange a confidential consultation. Together, we can explore a path that helps you move forward with greater resilience, balance and hope.

https://psychologistpretoriaeast.co.za/about-laurian/

02/07/2026

Therapy is for more than a crisis. It begins with you.

Therapy isn’t just for emergencies or trauma — it’s a steady practice of caring for yourself. Just like we service our cars or recharge our phones, our minds need regular attention to stay clear, strong, and balanced. Sometimes it’s about learning to let go; other times it’s about recharging, being heard, and finding small tools that make daily life easier.

If you live in the East of Pretoria and need a safe space to be listened to and understood, I am Laurian Ward a Counselling Psychologist. Therapy as maintenance helps you stay well before things become urgent.

You don’t have to wait for a crisis to ask for support. Reach out today — your wellbeing matters

23/06/2026

Therapy: A Safe Space for Healing & Growth

Therapy provides a safe, contained space to pause and reflect. It allows you to explore your deepest concerns, struggles, hopes, and aspirations with someone trained to help you make sense of what you're experiencing. Sometimes the greatest value of therapy is simply having a space where your needs matter too.

This is particularly important for adolescents. Many parents assume emotional distress is simply "part of growing up." While adolescence certainly comes with challenges, persistent sadness, withdrawal, anxiety, self-harm, or hopelessness should never be dismissed as "just a phase."

Across the world, mental health concerns among teenagers have increased significantly, and su***de remains one of the leading causes of death among young people. Seeking therapy early can make a profound difference. 🌱

The strongest people are not those who never ask for help. They are the ones who recognise when support could benefit them and take action before a crisis develops.

If you or someone you love is struggling, please consider reaching out. You don't have to face this alone.

📩 Message me to learn about therapy options for adolescents and young adults.

The strongest people are not those who never ask for help. They are the ones who recognise when support could benefit them and take action before a crisis develops. Just as you service your vehicle to ensure it performs at its best, therapy helps you maintain the most important resource you have: yo...

08/06/2026

We can’t control aging or injury, but we can control how we respond, with responsibility, presence, and generosity. Come to the table accountable and valuable: bring your wisdom, your stories, your care, not just take. Speak about challenges honestly but celebrate being older, focus on what you can do, not what you can’t. Being older doesn’t mean less able; it means differently able, resilient, and full of contribution. Show up, lean in, and let your presence be the gift.