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Child and Family Therapist, Coordinator and
Workshop Presenter
I’ve spent over 25 years working as a therapist in schools and private practice in South Africa, where I’ve spent years helping parents and teachers understand and support children’s emotional, social, and behavioural growth. I’m excited to bring what I’ve learned to Portugal, to support and enrich the lives of families and school communities.
By using playful, caring, and effective therapy methods, I hope to make school a better place for everyone. Additionally, I bring 25 years of experience in counselling, coordinating, training, and giving talks on children’s emotional, social, and behavioural development. From managing a preschool to counseling students up to 13 years old, and running my play therapy practice, I’ve covered a lot of ground.
I’ve also trained school staff and guided parents, and I’d love to use this extensive experience to help create a supportive and enriching environment for your school and institution.
Professional Skills
- Expert in play therapy techniques
- Experienced in addressing and healing child trauma
- Skilled in designing and conducting parental guidance and presentation sessions on understanding a child’s social, emotional and behavioural difficulties, experienced
- Proficient in developing and leading teacher training and support programs
Experience
- Play Therapist in Private Practice 2008 – 2023
- Developed and led a play therapy program that improved behavioural issues in 90% of participating students within the first year.
- Resident child therapist at Brooklyn Primary School 2008 – 2022
- Guided children dealing with divorce, trauma, bereavement, social difficulties, emotional
- awareness, parental guidance, debriefing etc.
- Pre-school teacher at Evergreen Pre-Primary School 2002 – 2007
- Taught children of ages 18 months – 6 years
- School Supervisor duties 2006 – 2007
- Provided Play Therapy services in the afternoons at the school for two years
Education & Certifications
- Polyvagal Theory (2020)
- CRM (Community Resiliency Model 2018)
- EMDR Training via Reyhana Seedat (2014 and 2019)
- MDIAC (Masters in Play Therapy) (2005-2007)
- Unisa – Pre-Primary Education 1st Year level (2000/1)
- University of Pretoria– BA(Social Work) (1995-1998)
What can I offer you?
As a permanent member of your team, I can offer ongoing support and development for both students and staff, ensuring a well-rounded approach to education and mental health.
As an external consultant, I can provide targeted workshops and training sessions tailored to specific needs, bringing fresh perspectives and specialised knowledge to your institution.
I would like to take the opportunity to collaborate with your institution. I offer comprehensive workshops and training sessions tailored for staff or educators and parents, focusing on developmental support and guidance. Additionally, providing direct therapy sessions for children which integrate seamlessly with educational settings.
Also, I’m very interested in understanding more about your current needs and how I might be able to contribute to the team.
Ready to enhance the emotional, social and psychological well-being of your students and staff? Contact me to discuss how I can contribute to your institution’s success.
Let’s schedule a meeting!
Cell: 911 8838 28
Email: Natachalatouf@gmail.com
Thank you,
Natacha
Registered associations:
South African Council of Social Services Profession
(SACSSP): 10-19833
South African Social Workers In Private Practice
(SASWIPP): 800063
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