The Phoenix Philosophy
The heart of how I work
The phoenix symbolises rebirth and strength — the essence of renewal.
Every morning, it rises from the ashes. Not once in a lifetime, but every single day. And here’s what makes that meaningful: the phoenix doesn’t leave its experience behind. It carries forward the wisdom, the growth, the lessons learned — and rises stronger because of them.
That’s the invitation I offer every client.
Each day is a fresh opportunity to step forward. To bring with you everything you’ve learned, everything you’ve grown through, and to leave behind only what no longer serves you. Life reignited. New possibilities waiting.
This isn’t just a philosophy I talk about. It’s the foundation of how I work.
Healing happens on many levels. When we limit ourselves to one approach — only the mind, only the body, only the practical — we leave parts of ourselves behind. And those parts matter.
That’s why my practice weaves together counselling, coaching, and holistic modalities. Not because more is better, but because you are more than one thing. Your emotional wellbeing, your physical experience, your relationships, your sense of purpose — they’re all connected. When we honour that connection, real transformation becomes possible.
The words below, from Nthabiseng Shongwe, capture this better than I ever could:
Integrative Healing
“Moving forward we must rethink – or rather – remember that for our whole being, healing happens on many levels and so requires multiple opportunities for intervention. It may seem complex, but it is indeed possible to look at therapy in an integrated way. We ought to break-down the barriers that prevent us from learning and receiving the best from different health and healing systems, which are often perceived from a western or traditional view and practice. Both systems offer paths for our progression if only we look at them holistically.
It remains true that we go further together than we do alone. We may use this premise to advocate for the integration of different healing practices and therapies. By opening ourselves up to processes that work for various parts of our being – the emotional, psychological, and physical – we can find healing that is holistic, leaving no part of our Self behind on the journey.
Further, by allowing these therapies and those who facilitate them (therapists) to take hold we accept that we can – as lead is turned to gold – be transformed by alchemy. We can become the best versions of ourselves and can live a golden life understanding that both worry and wonder are part of the journey to a state of ultimate well-being.”
~ Nthabiseng Shongwe (Owner of We are Insights and member of South Africa SWAA Chapter Committee)
We go further together than we do alone.
You can be transformed. You can live a golden life.
And every morning - no matter what yesterday held - you can rise again.
Ready to Rise?
Let’s take the first step together.