Ego Down,
Soul Up
Counselling for Recovery, Relationships and Resilience
Supporting adolescents (14+) and adults across all life stages through evidence-based, compassionate care.
Whether you’re navigating addiction, relationship difficulties, anxiety, burnout, or the lasting impact of trauma, therapy can provide a space to better understand yourself, strengthen emotional resilience, and create meaningful change.
Hey, I’m Rini, the voice behind Real Talk with Rini.
I’m a Registered Counsellor with the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA), holding an Honours degree in Counselling and Psychology from SACAP and a Postgraduate Diploma in Psychiatric Addiction Care from the University of Cape Town.
I’m also a lifelong student of human behaviour and someone deeply curious about how we heal, grow, and make meaning of our experiences.
My path into this work has been shaped by trauma, healing, and a deep curiosity about why we suffer and how we move through it. I know what it means to navigate loss, uncertainty, and difficult seasons, and these experiences have profoundly shaped the way I hold space today.
Over the years, I have had the privilege of working across community-based organisations, addiction services, trauma settings, and private practice. These experiences have allowed me to walk alongside individuals, couples, families, and professionals navigating anxiety, burnout, trauma, addiction, relationship challenges, and life’s transitions.
My work is informed by both professional training and lived experience. Drawing from evidence-based and relational approaches, I believe healing happens through honest conversations, emotional safety, and the courage to explore what lies beneath the surface.
I don’t believe in fixing people. I believe in witnessing. Healing is relational. Safety is earned. Presence is power.
I help people make sense of their pain, reconnect with themselves and others, and move towards a life that feels more honest, meaningful, and alive.
Real Talk with Rini isn’t just a brand. It’s a space for depth, honesty, and the kind of conversations that don’t flinch.
If you’re looking for real over polished, depth over perfection, and truth over performance, you’re in the right place.
Happiness is a daily choice. Let’s navigate the journey together.
Honest Conversations. Meaningful Change.
Rini’s Approach: Real Talk. Real Healing.
My approach to counselling and coaching is built on raw truth, lived wisdom, and zero judgment. I don’t offer generic advice or toxic positivity. Instead, we dive into honest conversations to unpack the chaos, honor your pain, and actively build a path forward.
Together, we work on shifting your perspective from merely surviving to actively choosing your own happiness, day by day.
The heart behind real talk
Rather than applying a one-size-fits-all model, I tailor therapy to the unique needs, goals, and experiences of each individual. The Heart Behind Real Talk
Above all, I believe people heal through connection.
Healing doesn’t always happen through profound breakthroughs. Often, it happens in the quiet moments when we begin to understand ourselves with greater compassion, recognise patterns that no longer serve us and learn that we do not have to navigate life’s challenges alone. Real Talk with Rini is a space for honest conversations, meaningful self-discovery and lasting change. Because sometimes healing doesn’t begin with having all the answers.
Sometimes, it begins with real talk.
What does real talk consist of?
Insight & practical tools
A balance of insight and practical tools. I believe meaningful change requires both understanding and action.
Some sessions may focus on developing practical skills to navigate anxiety, regulate emotions, strengthen relationships, or manage life’s challenges. Other times, we may gently explore the deeper stories, unmet needs, and emotional wounds that continue to influence your present.
My approach
My approach is rooted in curiosity, compassion, and honest conversations. I strive to create a space where you can show up without needing to have the right words, the perfect explanation, or everything figured out. Together, we explore not only what is happening in your life, but also the patterns, beliefs, relationships, and experiences that have shaped how you relate to yourself and others.
Who I Work With
Adolescents (14+)
Adults
Couples
Professionals
Entrepreneurs
Healthcare Workers
Individuals in recovery & wanting recovery
My work draws from a number of evidence-based and relational approaches, including:
Solution-Focused Therapy
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT)
Psychodynamic Therapy
Trauma-Informed Practice
Inner Child Work
Emotional Regulation Skills
Relational Approaches
Imago Relationship Therapy
My work draws from a number of evidence-based and relational approaches, including:
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT)
Psychodynamic Therapy
Trauma-Informed Practice
Inner Child Work
Emotional Regulation Skills
Relational Approaches
Imago Relationship Therapy
What does real talk consist of?
My approach is rooted in curiosity, compassion, and honest conversations. I strive to create a space where you can show up without needing to have the right words, the perfect explanation, or everything figured out. Together, we explore not only what is happening in your life, but also the patterns, beliefs, relationships, and experiences that have shaped how you relate to yourself and others.
A balance of insight and practical tools. I believe meaningful change requires both understanding and action.
Some sessions may focus on developing practical skills to navigate anxiety, regulate emotions, strengthen relationships, or manage life’s challenges. Other times, we may gently explore the deeper stories, unmet needs, and emotional wounds that continue to influence your present.
My work draws from a number of evidence-based and relational approaches, including:
Solution-Focused Therapy
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT)
Psychodynamic Therapy
Trauma-Informed Practice
Inner Child Work
Emotional Regulation Skills
Relational Approaches
Imago Relationship Therapy
Rather than applying a one-size-fits-all model, I tailor therapy to the unique needs, goals, and experiences of each individual. The Heart Behind Real Talk
Above all, I believe people heal through connection.
Healing doesn’t always happen through profound breakthroughs. Often, it happens in the quiet moments when we begin to understand ourselves with greater compassion, recognise patterns that no longer serve us and learn that we do not have to navigate life’s challenges alone. Real Talk with Rini is a space for honest conversations, meaningful self-discovery and lasting change. Because sometimes healing doesn’t begin with having all the answers.
Sometimes, it begins with real talk.
Who I Work With
Adults
Couples
Professionals
Entrepreneurs
Healthcare Workers
Individuals in & wanting recovery
Who I Work With
Adults
Couples
Professionals
Entrepreneurs
Healthcare Workers
Individuals in & wanting recovery
Who I Work With
Adults
Couples
Professionals
Entrepreneurs
Healthcare Workers
Individuals in & wanting recovery
Who I Work With
Adults
Couples
Professionals
Entrepreneurs
Healthcare Workers
Individuals in & wanting recovery
What does real talk consist of?
Real talk is about seeing what someone truly needs, whether that’s healing, clarity, or support to move forward. It’s also about knowing the difference between counselling and coaching, so you can get the right kind of help.
Counselling is about healing.
It focuses on emotional and psychological struggles, often rooted in the past. A counsellor helps you work through trauma, mental health challenges, or major life events, using therapeutic techniques. They’re professionally trained and registered, and often work with issues such as anxiety or depression.
Coaching is about growth.
It’s designed for people who want to set and achieve personal or professional goals. A coach doesn’t diagnose or treat mental health, but instead uses planning, motivation, and strategies to help you move forward. Coaching is usually short-term and results-driven, and it doesn’t require licensing.
The short version?
Pain from the past, see a counsellor.
Goals for the future, see a coach.
What Rini offers is different.
She blends both counselling and coaching in her practice, meeting each client exactly where they are. Whether you need healing, direction, clarity, or growth, her style creates space for deep emotional work while also building momentum for purposeful action.
Real talk is honest and clear. It’s not about sugar-coating, it’s about what truly helps. And that’s exactly what Rini does: she meets you where you are.
Rini's Approach
At Real Talk with Rini, I believe that healing is not about becoming someone else; it’s about understanding yourself more deeply. Life has a way of teaching us how to survive. Sometimes those ways of coping serve us well, and sometimes they leave us feeling anxious, disconnected, overwhelmed, stuck, or repeating the same painful patterns. Rather than simply managing symptoms, I believe therapy offers an opportunity to understand the deeper emotional landscape beneath them.
My approach is rooted in curiosity, compassion, and honest conversations. I strive to create a space where you can show up without needing to have the right words, the perfect explanation, or everything figured out. Together, we explore not only what is happening in your life, but also the patterns, beliefs, relationships, and experiences that have shaped how you relate to yourself and others.
A balance of insight and practical tools. I believe meaningful change requires both understanding and action.
Some sessions may focus on developing practical skills to navigate anxiety, regulate emotions, strengthen relationships, or manage life’s challenges. Other times, we may gently explore the deeper stories, unmet needs, and emotional wounds that continue to influence your present.
My work draws from a number of evidence-based and relational approaches, including:
* Solution-Focused Therapy
* Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
* Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT)
* Psychodynamic Therapy
* Trauma-Informed Practice
* Inner Child Work
* Emotional Regulation Skills
* Relational Approaches
* Imago Relationship Therapy
Rather than applying a one-size-fits-all model, I tailor therapy to the unique needs, goals, and experiences of each individual. The Heart Behind Real Talk
Above all, I believe people heal through connection.
Healing doesn’t always happen through profound breakthroughs. Often, it happens in the quiet moments when we begin to understand ourselves with greater compassion, recognise patterns that no longer serve us and learn that we do not have to navigate life’s challenges alone. Real Talk with Rini is a space for honest conversations, meaningful self-discovery and lasting change. Because sometimes healing doesn’t begin with having all the answers.
Sometimes, it begins with real talk.
Supporting Meaningful Change
Supporting individuals and couples through life’s challenges with compassionate, evidence-based counselling.
45 Minutes with Rini
Pay as you go
- 45-minute Online or in person sessions
- Deep dive into mindset, strategy, action planning
- Optional recording, shared with the client
- No Hidden Fees
60 Minutes with Rini
Pay as you go
- 60-minute Online or in person sessions
- Deep dive into mindset, strategy, action planning
- Optional recording, shared with the client
- No Hidden Fees
Getting Real -Intro Pack
4 Session of honest, judgment-free conversations.To be paid upfront
- 1 x 15- 20 minute call per Month
- Weekly 1:1 Counselling and Coaching Sessions
- Unlimited Support Between Sessions
- Bonus On-Demand Calls
- Custom Resources & Tools
- Accountability check-ins
Supporting Meaningful Change
Supporting individuals and couples through life’s challenges with compassionate, evidence-based counselling.
Addiction Talk
Recovery is about more than abstinence; it’s about rebuilding your relationship with yourself and creating a life worth staying sober for.
I support individuals navigating:
• Substance use and addiction
• Recovery maintenance
• Relapse prevention
• Codependency
• Shame and guilt
• Identity reconstruction in recovery
• Emotional regulation
• Long-term committed recovery
Relationships Talk
Relationships can become strained when communication breaks down, emotional connection fades, or trust has been damaged.
Areas of support include:
• Communication breakdown
• Conflict resolution
• Emotional disconnection
• Relationship distress
• Affair recovery
• Premarital counselling
• Rebuilding trust and intimacy
• Strengthening emotional connection
Corporate Talk
High-achieving individuals often carry significant pressure while appearing to cope on the surface.
I work with:
• Corporate professionals
• Entrepreneurs
• Healthcare workers
• Remote workers
• Business owners and leaders
• Common concerns include:
• Anxiety and chronic stress
• Burnout
• Perfectionism
• Emotional exhaustion
• Imposter syndrome
• Work-life imbalance
• Decision fatigue
• Emotional regulation difficulties
Teen Talk
Adolescence can be challenging, particularly in a world shaped by constant connectivity, comparison, and pressure.
I support teenagers experiencing:
• Anxiety
• Social anxiety
• School-related stress
• Self-esteem difficulties
• Social media stress
• Online comparison
• Emotional dysregulation
• Friendship and peer difficulties
• Identity and confidence challenges
Suitable for adolescents aged 14 and older.
Life Challenges Talk
Past experiences often continue to shape how we think, feel, relate, and respond to life’s challenges.
I provide support for:
• Childhood trauma
• Emotional neglect
• Relationship trauma
• Adverse childhood experiences
• Life transitions
• Crisis support
• Grief and loss
• Trauma recovery
Together, we work to understand the impact of these experiences and create healthier ways of relating to yourself and others.
Rooted and Rising with Rini
Explore your roots. Rise with clarity and confidence 8 sessions. To be paid upfront
- 2 x 15- 20 minute call
- Weekly 1:1 Counselling and Coaching Sessions
- Unlimited Support Between Sessions
- Bonus On-Demand Calls
- Custom Resources & Tools
- Accountability check-ins
Real Work Extended
This is where consistent effort meets lasting change 12 sessions. To be paid upfront
- 4 x 15- 20 minute call
- Weekly 1:1 Counselling and Coaching Sessions
- Unlimited Support Between Sessions
- Bonus On-Demand Calls
- Custom Resources & Tools
- Accountability check-ins
Individual Counselling
R950 per session
Couples Counselling
R1 100 per session
Introductory Call:
15-minute complimentary consultation
Individual Counselling
Couples Counselling
R950 per session
R1 100 per session
Introductory Call:
15-minute complimentary consultation
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Rini's Qualifications?
Eirini’s Qualifications are BPsych Equivalent, Honours Degree in Psychology (HPCSA Registered Counsellor) @ SACAP
Psychiatric Addictions Care @ UCT.
Short courses in Death and Bereavement
Emotional Aid
What do Psychologists do?
Clinical Psychologists:
They assess, clinically diagnose, and provide treatment (in the form of psychotherapy) for more serious forms of psychopathology, psychiatric disorders, and psychological conditions. They primarily work in clinical settings or private practices and are also trained in psychometric testing. Clinical psychologists do not typically prescribe medication.
Counselling Psychologists:
They assist clients by assessing, diagnosing, and intervening in life challenges and developmental problems to optimise psychological wellbeing.
Research Psychologists:
They focus on applying research methods and techniques to contribute to the knowledge base of psychology. They do not typically render services to the public but can produce evidence that supports psychological treatment and interventions.
Industrial Psychologists:
They apply psychological principles to work-related issues in order to optimise individual, group, and organisational wellbeing and effectiveness. Industrial psychologists are typically trained within industrial psychology and business faculties at universities.
Educational Psychologists:
They assess, diagnose, and intervene to facilitate the psychological adjustment and development of children and adolescents within the contexts of family, school, social or peer groups, and communities.
How long do I need?
Each client embarks on a unique journey, shaped by their own experiences. There is no “right” or “wrong” timeframe for counselling; it depends entirely on the process. The goal is the process itself.
Does medical aid cover?
It depends on your medical aid and chosen scheme. Registered counsellors do not claim through Prescribed Minimum Benefits (PMBs), but claims can be made from your savings. If you wish to claim from your medical aid, please contact your broker to confirm whether you are eligible.
How long are sessions?
Individual sessions are 50–60 minutes.
Are sessions available online?
Yes. Online and in-person sessions are available.
What can I expect in the first session?
The first session focuses on understanding your concerns, goals, and what brings you to therapy. Together, we’ll determine how best to move forward.
Do I need to be in crisis to start therapy?
No. Therapy can be helpful for anyone seeking support, self-understanding, personal growth, or help navigating life’s challenges.
You Don't Have to Navigate It Alone
Seeking support takes courage. Whether you’re struggling with addiction, anxiety, relationship difficulties, burnout, or the impact of past experiences, therapy can provide a space for understanding, growth, and meaningful change.