Welcome to
Bongiwe. M Private Social Worker

I am Bongiwe Mkhize, a registered Social worker dedicated to providing ethical, confidential and compassionate mental health support. My practice offers a safe, non-judgmental space where clients are supported through life challenges, emotional distress, trauma and personal growth journey.


Whether you prefer in-person sessions or telecounselling professional support is accessible to you.

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Call to Action Section


You do not have to navigate life alone. Let’s begin your healing journey together.

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OUR SERVICES 

Trauma and emotional wellbeing

Providing support for individuals who have experienced trauma, abuse or significant life disruption.

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Individual & Group  counselling

Providing support for stress, anxiety, depression, grief, life transition, gender based abuse  and emotional challenges.

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Online Tele-counselling

Secure and confidential counselling sessions conducted via encrypted video platforms. Receive professional support from the comfort and privacy of your own space. 

Teen and child support

Age-appropriate counseling addressing behavioral concerns, emotional struggles, and developmental challenges.

 Couples counselling

Improving communication, rebuilding trust and strengthening healthy relationship dynamics.

 Employee wellness (EAP)

Professional mental health support for employees through structured wellness intervention

OUR BLOG

Learning to choose yourself: The power of self-love

In a world where many people are taught to constantly give, support and care for others, choosing yourself can sometimes feel uncomfortable or even selfish. Many individuals spend years prioritizing the needs of family, work and relationships while quietly neglecting their own wellbeing. But the truth is this: Self-love is not selfish, It is obligatory. Learning to love and priotise yourself is an important part of maintaining emotional, mental and physical wellbeing. When you take care of yourself, you strengthen your ability to show up for others
in a healthy and balanced way.

Learning to love and priotise yourself is an important part of maintaining emotional, mental andphysical wellbeing. When you take care of yourself, you strengthen your ability to show up for others
in a healthy and balanced way.

What is self-love?

Self-love is the practice of treating yourself with the same kindness, patience, and compassion that you naturally extend to others.

It means acknowledging your worth and understanding that your needs, feelings, and boundaries matter. Self-love is not about being perfect or always feeling confident.

Instead, it is about accepting yourself, including your strengths and your imperfections, while choosing behaviors that support your
wellbeing. When we practice self-love, we allow ourselves to rest, to heal and to grow.

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Why do many people struggle to put themselves first?

For many individuals, putting themselves first does not come naturally. Some people were raised tobelieve that priotising their own needs is selfish. Others may feel guitly when they try to say no or take
time for themselves. People may also struggle with self-love due to:

  • Fear of disappointing others
  • People-pleasing behaviors
  • Low self-esteem
  • Cultural expectations to always sacrifice
  • Past experiences that affected their sense of self-worth

Over time, constantly placing others first can lead to emotional exhaustion, stress, and feelings of being overwhelmed. Hence, Recognizing the importance of your own wellbeing is the first step towards creating healthier emotional boundaries.

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Practical Ways to Practice Self-love
Self-love does not always require big changes. Often, it begins with small but meaningful choices that honour your wellbeing.


1. Setting Healthy boundaries
Learning to say no is an important act of self-respect. Boundaries protect your time, energy, and emotional wellbeing. Setting limits does not make you selfish, instead, it allows you to maintain balance in your life.


2. Prioritize Rest
Rest is essential for both physical and emotional health. Allowing yourself time to pause, recharge, and recover is not laziness, it is an important form of self-care.

3. Speak gentle to yourself. Many people are their own harshest critics. Practicing self-love includes becoming aware of how you speak to yourself and replacing self-criticism with self-compassion.

4. Protect your emotional Energy
Not every situation requires your emotional investment. Learning when to step back from negativity or draining environments can assist to protect your peace.

5. Ask for Support when you need it
Seeking support is a sign of strength. Talking to a trusted person or a mental health professional can help you to develop healthier coping strategies and improve your relationship with yourself.

A Moment for Self-Reflection

Take a moment to ask yourself:

  When was the last time I did something purely for myself?
  Do I feel guilty when I prioritize my own needs?
  Am I treating myself with the same kindness I offer to others?

These questions can help you become more aware of how you show up for yourself. Choosing yourself is an act of growth. Choosing yourself does not mean abandoning others or becoming self-centered. It means recognizing that your wellbeing matters too.

When you nurture your own emotional health, you are creating a space for growth, resilience, and healthier relationships. Self-love allows you to give from a place of fullness rather than exhaustion.

Remember that learning to prioritize yourself is a journey. With time, patience, and self-compassion, it becomes easier to honour your needs and embrace your worth. If you find it difficult to prioritize your wellbeing or struggle with self-worth, speaking with a
mental health professional can provide valuable support and guidance on your journey towards
healing and self-acceptance.

Fees and medical aid

Cash payment is accepted prior the session.
Medical aid: All medical aid schemes are accepted. Sessions may be claimed from your medical aid.

Cancellation policy

A minimum of 24 hours notice is required for cancellation. Late cancellation or missed appointments will be billed.
For detailed fee information, please contact the practice directly

Privacy notice section

All sessions are conducted in accordance with professional ethical standards. Client confidentiality is strictly maintained in line with SACSSP regulations and POPIA requirements.

Get In Touch

EMAIL

lungilebongiwe17@gmail.com

PHONE

+27 82-8452-904

ADDRESS

 Amanzimtoti, 4126

Office hours: Monday - Friday

07:30-16:00
(After hours appointments by arrangements available)