About Me
I am Anja, a certified biodynamic and Dr. Upledger CranioSacral therapist.
Hello! I’m Anja
Licensed Therapist
Playing in various European orchestras for several years, I soon realised that the competitive and stressful life as a flautist was not for me. As a result, I changed direction, graduated as a primary school teacher in Germany and subsequently obtained the South African teaching diploma for high schools. The core question during and beyond my years of teaching always remained the same:
Why do some children thrive and excel and others do not?
Since then I have embarked on a journey of continued learning in the fields of brain development, primary infant reflex and sensory integration, anatomy and CranioSacral Therapy studies.
Discovering there some of the root causes for many presumed incurable conditions such as attention deficit disorder (ADD), attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), Autism spectrum, developmental delay, behavioural challenges, anxiety, and chronic conditions accelerated my search and empowered me on my own healing path, and that of my children.
From my private practice in Somerset West, South Africa, I work with all age groups and a variety of health conditions such as musculoskeletal pain, migraines and headaches, post-concussion syndrome, dental trauma, TMJ issues, teeth grinding, physiological dysfunctions, emotional and physical trauma and chronic illnesses. My work incorporates a potent combination including CranioSacral Therapy, SomatoEmotional Release® and Myofascial Release.
Please note that no injury is too old to be treated. The nervous system holds the key to the body’s incredible potential to heal itself!
Powerful treatment can be provided to help with childhood trauma and in-utero and birth experiences.
As this work is extremely gentle, it can be very helpful with babies and children, pregnancy, postpartum, and elders.
My Approach & Values
As a therapist, my approach is to provide holistic, client-centered care, in which I acknowledge and appreciate the uniqueness of each patient. My values are grounded in the understanding that the body and mind are interconnected, and as such, my treatment approach aims to identify and address the root cause of a condition, rather than merely treating its symptoms.
I approach therapy with the understanding that every patient has their own journey and unique set of challenges, which can benefit from an integrated and personalized approach. As such, I work with each patient to gain an understanding of their individual health history and circumstances. Through this process, I am able to develop a personalized treatment plan that takes into account the patient’s needs and goals.
My values center on treating the whole person, not just the symptoms. I am passionate about understanding and addressing the root cause of a condition, rather than simply treating its symptoms. My approach is to provide a safe, supportive, and compassionate environment for my patients, where they feel comfortable sharing their experiences and concerns.
I believe in empowering my patients through education and support, as well as providing them with tools and techniques to help them take control of their health and well-being. By working together in partnership, my patients and I can create a plan that helps them to achieve their goals and move towards a more balanced, healthy, and fulfilling life.
Overall, my approach is grounded in a deep respect for the mind-body connection, and a belief in the power of holistic, personalized care to help individuals achieve optimal health and wellness.
Medical Professional Development
- 2023 Somato Emotional Release 2 – Croatia
- 2022 Certification as CST-T therapist with The Upledger Institute – USA
- 2022 Somato Emotional Release 1 & Touching the brain Level 1
- Dr Upledger Craniosacral Therapy Module 2 2020
- Dr Upledger Craniosacral Therapy Module 1 2019
- Biodynamic Craniosacral Therapy 2017 – 2019
- Neuroanatomy at the University of Stellenbosch, Medical Faculty 2019
- Muscular and Skeletal Anatomy University of Stellenbosch, Medical Faculty 2018
- Myofascial Therapy Release, John Barnes – Level 1,2 & Unwinding 2018
- Craniosacral Fascial Therapy course CFT, Dr Gillespie 2016
- MNRI© Dynamic and Postural Reflex Pattern Integration 2016 – 2018
- Rhythmic Movement Training – Level 1,2,3 2014
Educational Professional Development
- Honours in Inclusive Education 2015 – 2017
- Postgraduate Certificate in Education 2005
- Bachelor of Education in Music, Mathematics & Physical Education 2003
- Bachelor of Music in Flute Performance & Education 2001
Teaching Experience
- ASAP Autism Spectrum Adaptive Programme (2015 – present)
- Acres of Love Orphanage (2015 – present)
- The Grove Primary School (2009 – 2014)
- Wynberg Boys’ High School (2006 – 2008)
- Wynberg Girls’ Junior School (2005 – 2008)
- Music School Musicum (2001 – 2005)
Neurodevelopmental Therapy
Neurodevelopmental Therapy uses evidence-based approaches to help children with developmental challenges reach their full potential.
CranioSacral Therapy
CranioSacral Therapy is a gentle manual therapy that balances tissue tension around the brain and spinal cord in order to enhance the self-corrective mechanisms in the body.
SomatoEmotional Release Therapy
SER facilitates a gentle process for releasing tissue memory, thereby helping the person to decrease the adverse effects of past injuries, traumas and negative experiences.
Contact Me
Ask a question or book an appointment below. For emergencies visit your nearest hospital