Shelley Hall on the downhouse, shared humour, and being married to a farmer
A clinical psychologist and BWRT® practitioner, international mentor and supervisor writes about living in Jamaica, what helps her slow down, gardening as a teaching tool, and taking proper time to rest.
1 Your practice of 23 years has recently expanded …
I completed my Masters in Psychology in 2003, and over the years my work has expanded in some very exciting ways, particularly within the BWRT community. Alongside clinical work, I now supervise, teach and mentor practitioners both nationally and internationally. I’m also involved in BWRT training in South Africa and developed a child-focused BWRT course that is taught virtually worldwide.
In addition, Juanita Carreira, an HPCSA-registered counsellor and BWRT practitioner, consults independently online for adults and children, helping create more flexible after-hours support options for families.
2 You’ve lived in Jamaica. Which memories do you still treasure?
We lived in Jamaica for over nine years and both my daughters were born there, so it will always feel special to me.
What I treasure most is the warmth and sense of community. We arrived knowing no one, yet were quickly embraced by people who made us feel completely at home. That feeling of being genuinely welcomed and supported has stayed with me ever since.
3 How about introducing us to your family?
I’m married to my husband, Tom, who is a farmer, and we have two daughters, Zoe and Meghan. We also have a rather large collection of animals including dogs, horses, a cat and plenty of fish.
We live on a sugarcane farm alongside my in-laws, which has created a very connected family life. The girls still call our house the “downhouse” and their grandparents’ home the “uphouse” — names they made up as little children that somehow never disappeared.
4 What do you most enjoy about being a mom?
What I enjoy most is the sense of connection and belonging that family creates. I love watching my daughters grow into their own unique people while also realising how much motherhood continues to grow me too.
There’s something very grounding about the shared humour, traditions and support that develop within a family over time.
5 Many people associate you with roses. Why is this?
Roses are my therapy, creativity and quiet place all in one. I grow flowers to arrange and sell locally, but mostly because they bring me joy and help me slow down.
Gardening also became a way of teaching my daughters about balance, resilience, hard work and gratitude. I want them to understand that fulfilment comes not only from achievement, but also from creativity, contribution and connection.
6 How do you like to reload your batteries?
Being in the garden and surrounded by nature is probably my biggest reset. I also really value quiet one-on-one time with my family.
I’ve learnt that self-care needs to become something we actively prioritise, not just something we talk about. Sometimes that means slowing down enough to allow someone else to care for you too — even if it’s simply through a massage, facial or taking proper time to rest.
Professionally, regular supervision and collegial support are also incredibly important to me in helping prevent burnout.
7 What are your dreams or ideals for the future?
Professionally, I hope to continue expanding the educational and supervision side of my work, particularly in making psychological support more practical, ethical and accessible.
Personally, I hope to continue building a life grounded in family, marriage, nature and community. Most of all, I hope my daughters grow into kind, resilient women who understand that success is measured not only by achievement, but also by the quality of the life and relationships you build around you.
Also listen to Shelley’s explaining how to get the most out of therapy - including why the prospect of therapy may feel daunting, finding the right therapist, and navigating therapy with and for your child.
About Shelley, including contact details
Shelley Kim Hall is a clinical psychologist and certified BWRT® Practitioner (Levels 1, 2, and 3). She is an international mentor and supervisor for The Terence Watts (BWRT BrainWorking Recursive Therapy) Institute and is involved in the running of BWRTSA training, supervision and courses. Shelley developed and presents an international training course focused on the use of BWRT with children.
In addition to her core BWRT training, Shelley has completed advanced BWRT training in areas including OCD, fertility-related work, and Smashing Subconscious Limits. She works with both children and adults in Empangeni, Richards Bay, and online.
Tel / WhatsApp: 063 055 2172 - Admin hours (Juanita): 08:00 – 13:00
Website: https://www.shelleyhall.co.za/
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/shelley-hall-zululandpsychologist
Facebook: www.facebook.com/zululandpsychologist and Shelley Hall
Instagram: @shelleykimhall
Information on BWRT®:
Also listen to Shelley’s advice on guiding children through grief and trauma using BWRT.
Thumbnail image of the Halls’ farm: photograph by Shelley Hall
Photographs of Shelley Hall, her family and her home-grown flowers and arrangements: supplied