Dr. Elizma van der Smit

Clinical Psychologist | Anger Management Specialist | Lifelong Learner

 With nearly three decades of experience as a seasoned clinical psychologist, I have had the privilege of working with over 5,000 extraordinary individuals, guiding them through their most challenging emotional landscapes. Growing up on a farm outside a small town in South Africa, I learned the values of resilience, hard work, and the importance of community, which continue to shape my personal and professional life today.

I hold a B.A., B.A. (Honors), and M.A. in Clinical Psychology—all earned cum laude—as well as a master’s degree in Personal Development and a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology with a focus on Anger Management. My journey began in the military, where I served as a Major before transitioning to private practice. Currently, I work in a hospital setting with individuals facing severe depression and other struggles, while also maintaining a dedicated private practice where I work closely with clients to alleviate their pain.

 My therapeutic approach is rooted in cognitive therapy (CT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and brainworking recursive therapy (BWRT). I specialize in helping adults navigate psychological, emotional, and personality disorders, always with an emphasis on setting clear therapeutic goals. I believe in providing clients with options when they feel trapped, and I am committed to equipping them with the right information to facilitate their healing journey.

Through my own experiences with powerful emotions, particularly anger, I have come to understand that anger is often a message signaling unmet needs. This realization has driven my passion for studying and teaching effective anger management strategies for over 20 years. I have learned that addressing the root causes of anger—identifying and satisfying underlying needs—can lead to profound transformations in one’s life and relationships.

 Beyond my professional commitments, I cherish the simple joys of life shared with my family. I am married to my unique and amazing husband, and together we have two extraordinary children. While my husband has worked overseas for much of our lives, we’ve maintained a strong bond filled with laughter, sarcastic jokes, and a love for exploring the wild adventures of Africa. Our home may be chaotic and filled with our beloved cats and dogs, but it is always warm and loving. I can’t cook, make clothes or keep any plants alive but I am very good at learning and creative problem solving – something that I apply wholeheartedly in my work with people. 

 As I enter a new season in my life, with my children preparing to leave home, I feel compelled to expand my reach and share the invaluable lessons I’ve learned. I am embracing the challenge of stepping into the public eye, determined to leave a legacy for my children—a resource for them and others who may need guidance during difficult times.

My motto in life is, “Life is full of cacti, but we don’t have to sit on it!"

I invite you to join me on this life-changing journey toward understanding and managing anger, discovering the needs behind it, and ultimately finding peace and fulfillment.

Let’s embark on this transformative path together.

B.A., B.A. Honns., M.A. Clin. Psych. (PU vir CHO), M.Phil PPL (RAU), PhD (NWU)

PR nr: 8645779

Professional affiliation :Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA) PS 0064793