Get to know Cate 🌿
Hi, I’m Cate. My journey into counselling has taken a few scenic routes — and I wouldn’t have it any other way.
I began with a degree in Psychology, drawn to the ways people think, feel, and connect. After completing a Graduate Diploma in Education, I spent years teaching and travelling the world (to over 60 countries!), constantly learning from people and cultures of all kinds. No matter where I was, I found myself returning to deeper conversations — holding space for people through life’s challenges, transitions, and vulnerabilities.
That pull to connect and truly support others led me to complete a Master of Counselling — and I’ve never looked back.
Professionally, I’ve worked in school-based counselling, walking alongside adolescents as they navigate emotional struggles, identity, family dynamics, and change. I’ve also supported students with diverse learning needs — including ADHD, ASD, and other neurodivergent profiles — helping young people feel seen, heard, and empowered in systems that don’t always fit them. My ongoing work in schools keeps me grounded in the day-to-day realities adolescents face.
My approach is grounded in the principles of trauma- and violence-informed practice. This means I understand that many people carry unseen wounds — and that safety, trust, and choice are essential to healing. Whether you’ve experienced trauma, systemic injustice, or chronic stress, I work gently and collaboratively, always centering your autonomy and strengths.
As a mother of three, I also bring personal insight, deep empathy, and a special interest in supporting women through the emotional complexities of pregnancy, birth, and early motherhood. These seasons can be beautiful and deeply challenging. I’m passionate about creating a non-judgmental, validating space for mothers navigating perinatal mental health, identity shifts, and overwhelm.
Alongside counselling, I have a strong interest in the connection between mental health, nutrition, and lifestyle. I believe in a holistic view of wellbeing — one that honours the mind-body connection and the impact of our environment. I love supporting clients to find simple, sustainable ways to feel more grounded, balanced, and nourished.
Now, through Cape Naturaliste Counselling, I offer a warm, compassionate, and collaborative space for people of all ages to explore, grow, and heal — at their own pace, and on their own terms.
You are the expert in your own story.
I’m here to walk beside you.
Cate da Silva
COUNSELLOR
Mission
Cape Naturaliste Counselling is grounded in a person-centred, trauma-informed approach that values compassion, authenticity, and emotional safety.
With a strong interest in family systems and the use of evidence-based therapies such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), my goal is to support individuals in building greater self-awareness, resilience, and meaningful connection.
I aim to provide a calm, respectful space where people feel heard, supported, and empowered to navigate life’s challenges and make meaningful change.
Vision
To support individuals in their journey toward healing, connection, and self-understanding.
The vision behind Cape Naturaliste Counselling is to create a space where people feel safe to explore their inner world, strengthen their relationships, and build the tools needed to live with greater clarity, purpose, and emotional wellbeing.
Through compassionate, evidence-based support, the aim is to help people reconnect with themselves and others — and move forward with confidence and hope.
