The University of Fort Hare (UFH) has made history as the first university in South Africa to have a cohort of Counselling Psychology Master’s students and Intern Psychologists train in Level 1 BrainWorking Recursive Therapy® (BWRT®). The BWRT® training, held from 11–13 April 2025, also included the participation of Mrs Lynette Flusk, a supervisor of the university’s intern psychologists.
A Significant Milestone
This milestone marks a significant step forward in UFH’s commitment to excellence in psychological practice and research. BWRT® is a cutting-edge psychotherapeutic intervention developed by British psychologist Terence Watts in 2011. Known for delivering rapid and lasting results, it is gaining global traction. In South Africa, the modality has been championed by renowned clinical psychologist Mr Rafiq Lockhat, who holds exclusive training rights for Africa and serves as Co-Chairperson of the British BrainWorking® Research Society.
The training was made possible through a collaboration between UFH Psychology lecturer, Dr Rivca Marais and BWRT South Africa, as part of a broader research project investigating BWRT® as an effective therapeutic modality. Dr Marais, who leads the research project, is co-supervising alongside Professor Leon van Niekerk, who also recently completed Level 1 BWRT® training. This brings the total number of BWRT®-trained staff at UFH to three, reinforcing the institution’s growing leadership in mental health innovation.
“Significantly, intern psychologists who completed the training can now offer BWRT® under the supervision of the three BWRT®-trained staff —expanding access to trauma-informed mental health services on campus,” Dr Marais undescored.
A Game-Changer
The student response has been overwhelmingly positive.
“I’ve found the most striking aspect of this modality to be its profound relevance to the South African context. We’ve reviewed multiple case studies involving everyday South Africans who, after just one session of BWRT®, experienced significant resolution in areas such as grief, suicidality, violence, and sexual trauma,” said Dale Contell, a Master’s student in Counselling Psychology.
Nomakholwa Poko, another MA student, added: “BWRT® is a game-changer. There’s still some stigma attached to attending therapy, especially among men. I believe BWRT® will help bridge that gap.”
Intern Psychologist Kgaliso Manenzhe shared her excitement: “I’ve applied BWRT® and was shocked—and excited—to see the results. We have a much better understanding of our research after interacting with the modality on this level.”
Looking Ahead
According to Dr Marais, the future looks even brighter for psychological services at UFH following this remarkable feat “With a deepened understanding of trauma interventions and new tools to support their communities, these students are well-equipped to make a meaningful difference—not only in academia but in the real lives of those they serve.”
“A heartfelt thank-you goes to BWRT® South Africa for their collaboration and investment in the next generation of South African psychologists.”
Article Supplied By: Department of Psychology