I am a Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA) registered arts therapist working specifically with drama therapy. I am interested in supporting people to tell their life stories and, if needs be, finding new perspectives on old narratives which can include forgiveness if needed and/or strengthening of already healthy relationships maybe bringing new insights. I strongly believe in people’s right to dignity and sense of agency no matter their age or ability, and so work completely in a client-centred and client-led way; seeing my role as a supportive facilitator rather than an expert of another’s life.

My experiences with death started as a young child when my father was hospitalised annually with chronic life-threatening health problems. One of my earliest memories is of the family being called together because “Dad is dying”. He passed away twenty years later, but this childhood experience normalised death as being part of life. This is something that we all have to face and ideally with as little fear as possible.

I am interested in supporting families and individuals during the period of transition which is inevitable with death, resulting in shifting relationships to self and others. How do we safely tell all the stories that still need to be aired and express the memories that bring joy. As meaning making creatures, we can find relief and expression in these narratives and creativity.

In addition, I (from personal experience) know the toll on care-givers and am passionate about offering support and resting holding space to those who give so much of themselves.
A family or individual can reach out with any questions or an initial free of charge meeting.

Email: margiepankhurst@gmail.com

Contact number: +273 993 0211