About Marilise| Psychometrist in Independent Practice
Guiding Potential. Nurturing Growth.
I am an HPCSA-registered psychometrist based in Cape Town, working with children, students, and adults. I offer psychometric assessments to better understand how individuals think, learn, and experience the world, and to provide meaningful, practical insight that can be applied in everyday life.
My interest in this work has always been about more than just results. I’m drawn to understanding people more deeply, how things fit together, where challenges come from, and what kind of support actually makes a difference. Because of this, my approach to assessment is structured and grounded, but also thoughtful, gentle, and human.
I aim to create a space where people feel comfortable enough to be themselves, especially in a process that can often feel overwhelming or uncertain. I work closely with families, students, and professionals to ensure that assessment outcomes are not just informative but genuinely helpful and usable.
I take a neurodivergent-affirming approach in my work, and being neurodivergent myself has shaped my understanding of people’s experiences. It allows me to be more attuned to differences in thinking, processing, and emotional experience, while still maintaining a strong commitment to clarity and ethical practice.
I have experience working across psychoeducational, career, and broader assessment contexts, and collaborate with psychologists and other professionals where needed to ensure a comprehensive and ethical service.
For me, assessment is not just about identifying difficulties. It’s about making sense of things, finding patterns, and helping people walk away with a clearer understanding of themselves and their needs.
Outside of my work, I value time in nature and quiet spaces that allow for reflection. This often mirrors how I approach my work, with patience, curiosity, and a genuine interest in understanding people more deeply. I’m also deeply drawn to helping people make sense of their experiences, especially when they’ve struggled to find the words themselves.
Professional Background
HPCSA-registered Psychometrist (Independent Practice)
Collaborative work with psychologists and a range of allied professionals, including psychiatrists, occupational therapists, and speech therapists
Experience working across cognitive, psychoeducational, and neurodevelopmental assessments
Formally trained in psychometric assessment and testing across educational, medico-legal, and corporate settings
Adherence to South African healthcare and ethical regulations
Qualifications:
- BPsych Equivalent (Psychometry)
- BA Honours in Counselling Psychology
- B.Soci.Sc in Human and Societal Dynamics
Assessment Approach
Assessments are conducted using standardised, validated psychometric instruments selected based on the referral question. Interpretation considers each individual’s context, development, and relevant cultural factors within the South African setting.
Reports are written in a clear and accessible way for both clients and professionals, with the aim of making the information meaningful, understandable, and useful in guiding next steps.
Referral and Collaboration
The process usually begins with a pre-assessment meeting, where we talk through your referral or enquiry and explore what you are hoping to understand from the assessment.
Assessment
The assessment is conducted using appropriate psychometric tools, within a clearly defined scope tailored to the referral question.
Reporting
A written report is compiled based on the assessment results, together with other relevant information gathered. The report aims to provide clear, meaningful insight into the findings, along with practical and supportive recommendations.
Feedback
Feedback is provided in a supportive and collaborative way, ensuring that results are clearly understood and can be used to guide next steps.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a referral? +
A referral is not always required. Many individuals and families reach out directly, while others are referred by schools or healthcare professionals. This can be discussed during the initial enquiry.
How long does the assessment process take? +
The duration can vary depending on the type and scope of the assessment. This will be discussed during the pre-assessment meeting and tailored to your needs.
Are diagnoses guaranteed? +
No, formal diagnosis falls outside the scope of a psychometrist.
The assessment process often serves as a first step in understanding the referral question, helping to clarify what may be going on and whether further input from a psychologist or psychiatrist is needed.
Where appropriate, the process can form part of a collaborative approach and may contribute to and lead to a diagnosis. The aim is always to provide a thorough and accurate understanding based on the assessment results and all relevant information gathered.
Do you work with adults? +
Yes, assessments are offered for children, students, and adults, depending on the nature of the referral.
Are you based in Cape Town? +
Yes, the practice is based in Cape Town.
Most assessments are conducted in person, but certain services, such as career and subject-choice assessments, may offer more flexibility. This can be discussed further during the enquiry process.