In the realm of psychology and counselling, the name Shanae Theunissen shines brightly as a beacon of strength and resilience. Matriculating from HIS Veriza in Eris, she embarked on an academic journey that would lead her to become a prominent figure in the field. Today, as we celebrate her one-year milestone since completing her thesis, it's imperative to shed light on her remarkable achievements and contributions.
Academic Prowess:
Shanae's academic journey commenced in 2012 when she earned her A degree in Psychology, Sociology, and Languages. Her dedication and passion for the field were evident as she obtained her honors degree in Psychology with distinction in 2013 at the North-West University (NWU), Vanderbijlpark campus. Her commitment to the profession was further solidified during her registered counselor internship at the NWU crisis center in 2014.
The Path to Clinical Expertise:
In 2015, Shanae took her knowledge to greater depths by completing her MA in Clinical Psychology at Nelson Mandela University. This paved the way for her employment at Witrand Psychiatric Hospital in Potchefstroom, where she began making a meaningful impact on the lives of those struggling with mental health challenges.
Current Endeavors:
Currently, Shanae holds the position of a lecturer in the NWU Psychology department at the Vanderbijlpark campus, showcasing her commitment to both academia and the development of future psychologists. As the deputy subject group leader, she plays a crucial role in shaping the next generation of mental health professionals.
Private Practice and Non-Profit Work:
In addition to her academic responsibilities, Shanae continues to make a difference in the lives of individuals through her private practice. Her dedication extends to working with non-profit organisations, providing training and support for counsellors who, like her, aspire to be catalysts for positive change.
Trauma-Informed Strengths-Based Group Intervention:
One of Shanae's most significant contributions comes in the form of her groundbreaking thesis, titled "Trauma-informed strengths-based group intervention guideline for female survivors of adult sexual assault." The research involved three pivotal phases that underscored the importance of context in implementing strengths-based interventions in South Africa.
The first phase consisted of a rapid review to explore evidence-based interventions. The subsequent mixed-method study delved into survivors' lived experiences, and finally, the integration of findings led to the development of a comprehensive guideline. The study brought to light crucial factors for the implementation of strengths-based interventions, emphasising the significance of support during the recovery process.
Key Findings and Implications:
The study's findings shed light on the experiences and symptoms related to PTSD, psychological well-being, resilience, and posttraumatic growth for survivors at different recovery phases. A notable revelation was the correlation between longer therapy and improved mental health outcomes. However, barriers such as apprehension, distrust, resource limitations, and lack of informal support hindered survivors from accessing the help they needed.
Shanae's work underscores the critical role that professionals play in supporting survivors of adult sexual assault. Her dedication to developing guidelines and offering training highlights the importance of continuous education for those working in the field.
As we celebrate Shanae Theunissen's one-year milestone since completing her transformative thesis, we acknowledge her unwavering commitment to the field of psychology. Her journey, marked by academic excellence, clinical expertise, and a passion for supporting survivors, serves as an inspiration for aspiring psychologists and a testament to the profound impact one individual can have on the lives of many. Shanae's work not only contributes to the academic discourse but also exemplifies the compassion and dedication required to make a meaningful difference in the realm of mental health.
