Maryke Van Zyl

My Background and Approach

I am a licensed clinical psychologist with over a decade of experience working with men, families, and couples. My career in the Veterans Affairs system gave me deep insight into how men navigate relationship dynamics under stress. I hold a doctorate from Palo Alto University in Diversity and Community Mental Health, and earlier training as a Marriage & Family Therapist means I bring systemic, relational, and attachment-based perspectives to the work. My therapeutic approach is grounded in mindfulness, evidence-based practice, and relational attunement: I use modalities such as Emotionally Focused Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, DBT skills work, and adult neuro-diversity assessment. In sessions, you’ll find a collaborative, practical, and compassionate space where we together explore the patterns keeping you stuck, build new tools to help you act from clarity rather than reactivity, and reconnect with your partner and children in meaningful ways.

Why I am a Good Fit for You

You’re looking for a therapist who understands the pressures and hopes of parenthood, partnership, and modern family life, especially when you want to be present but feel off balance, unheard, or disconnected. Because I have lived this both personally as a parent and professionally through years of supporting dads, couples, and families, I bring empathy, clarity, and steadiness to our work. I specialize in helping men who care deeply about their families and want to become more emotionally connected and resilient. Together, we will move beyond short-term relief toward meaningful change: a clearer sense of yourself as a parent, stronger relationships, and the confidence to show up authentically and with grounded presence.