Educational Psychologist Brain Spotting Practitioner BWRT Therapist
Larry Hirschowitz
I am a 20+ years experienced psychologist based in Sydenham, Johannesburg, focusing on psychotherapy and psychological assessment. With training in brain-based approaches like Brain Spotting and BWRT, I assist in navigating trauma and emotional challenges. My work extends to psychoeducational assessments for learning difficulties and examination accommodations.
My Approach
A Practical, Paced Exploration
Therapy unfolds as a practical, paced exploration where bodily responses and cognitive patterns guide our focus, helping you make sense of difficult reactions and day-to-day hurdles.
I run sessions in English from my practice in Sydenham, Johannesburg, and online — welcoming clients from Glenhazel, Norwood, Sandringham and across Gauteng, so we can shape work that fits your life.
Sessions combine somatic noticing, focused BWRT/BSP steps and targeted diagnostic insights to create manageable strategies you can practise between meetings.
People facing trauma, learning differences or physical disability often find this steady, evidence-informed rhythm helpful.
Services
How I Can Help
Psychotherapy
Individual therapy for trauma, emotional challenges, and personal growth using brain-based approaches.
Psychoeducational Assessments
Comprehensive assessments for learning difficulties, providing clarity and actionable recommendations.
Examination Accommodations
Assessments and documentation to support applications for examination accommodations.
Brain Spotting (BSP)
A brain-based therapeutic approach that helps locate, process, and release trauma and emotional distress.
BWRT
Brain Working Recursive Therapy — a rapid, effective method for resolving unwanted patterns and responses.
Psychological Assessment
Thorough psychological evaluations to understand cognitive, emotional, and behavioural functioning.
Works With
Credentials
Qualifications & Registrations
Education
University of the Witwatersrand
Registrations
Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA)
Board of Health Funders (BHF)
Professional Title
Educational Psychologist
Common Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is BWRT?
BWRT stands for Brain Working Recursive Therapy. It is a modern, neuroscience-based approach that works with the brain's natural processes to resolve unwanted patterns, fears, and emotional responses — often in just a few sessions. It does not require you to discuss traumatic details in depth, making it a comfortable option for many people.
What is Brain Spotting (BSP)?
Brain Spotting is a therapeutic technique that uses specific eye positions to access and process trauma stored in the body and brain. By identifying where you look when you feel distress, we can target and release deeply held emotional and physical tension. It is particularly effective for trauma, anxiety, and performance issues.
How long is a session?
A standard therapy session is approximately 50 minutes. Psychoeducational assessments typically require longer appointments, and the duration will be discussed and arranged beforehand based on your specific needs.
Do you accept medical aid?
As a registered psychologist with the HPCSA and BHF, sessions may be claimed from your medical aid depending on your plan and available benefits. I provide the necessary documentation and billing codes for you to submit claims. Please check with your medical aid provider regarding your specific cover for psychology services.
What can I expect in a first session?
The first session is about getting to know each other and understanding what brings you in. We will discuss your background, current challenges, and what you hope to achieve. There is no pressure to share more than you are comfortable with. By the end, we will have a clearer picture of how to move forward together.
Do you work with children?
I work primarily with adolescents (from around age 13) and adults. For younger children, I am happy to recommend a colleague who specialises in child psychology. I also conduct psychoeducational assessments for learners of various ages to identify learning difficulties and support examination accommodation applications.
Do you offer online sessions?
Yes. I offer both in-person sessions from my practice in Sydenham, Johannesburg, and online sessions via a secure video platform. Online therapy is just as effective for most concerns and makes it easier to fit sessions into a busy schedule or if you are not based in Johannesburg.
Location
In-person & Online
3 Kenilworth St, Sydenham
Johannesburg, Gauteng, 2192
South Africa
Convenient for Glenhazel, Norwood, Sandringham & surrounds
Get in Touch
Contact Larry
Ask a quick question or arrange a time to meet.