Lutfiyya Chothia

Educational Psychologist with 12+ years leading support services for neurodiverse and mainstream learners. Expert in psychotherapy, trauma counselling, psychometric assessment, and school management. Drives inclusive, evidence-based programmes that improve student well-being and learning outcomes.

Department Head & Psychologist - Gauteng Department of Education (Transoranje School) - Transoranje School

(2013-04)

Leading the therapy team (nurse, OT and Audiologist, Social Worker) at a school with learners aged 3-25 in the Auxiliary Services (School Based Support Team) department.

• Lead a multidisciplinary support services department, managing intern psychologists, social workers, and liaising with hospitals and psychiatrists
• Deliver psychotherapy, trauma counselling, and crisis intervention for learners, staff, parents, and deaf adults across all school levels
• Conduct psychometric assessments and placement recommendations for learners with hearing disabilities, overseeing forensic referrals and disciplinary decisions

Psychologist (part time private practice) - Medicare Pharmacy Medical Practice

(2015-04)

Private Psychologist providing comprehensive psychological services.

• Deliver private psychotherapy, trauma debriefing, and marriage counselling across diverse adult and learner populations
• Administer vocational guidance testing, scholastic assessments, and exam accommodation evaluations
• Provide parent guidance and therapeutic support, ensuring holistic, client-centred care in a medical practice setting

Independent Contractor – Teaching Assistant (assistant to lectures) - University of South Africa

(2023-04)

• Facilitate online tutoring and e-tutoring sessions, supporting undergraduate students across multiple modules
• Mark and moderate exam scripts, assignments, and portfolios, consolidating and capturing student results accurately
• Assist lecturers in curriculum delivery, ensuring consistent academic support and quality feedback to students

Independent Contractor – Student teacher supervisor - Rosebank College

(2023)

Department of Education.

• Supervised and assessed student teachers on practicum placement, providing structured developmental feedback aligned with teaching competency frameworks

Psychology Intern/Counsellor - Transoranje School

(2012-04 - 2013)

Psychology department providing counselling and guidance services.

• Delivered counselling, life skills, social skills, and anti-bullying programmes for deaf and hearing learners from foundation to young adult level

Educator - Tshwane Muslim School

(2004-01 - 2010-12)

Foundation Phase Department teaching Grades R to Grade 3.

• Taught Grade R–3 learners, identified learning barriers, coordinated sports, and managed phase reporting and parent guidance

Practice Administrator - Dr. S Ellemdin (Private Medical Practice)

(1994-04 - 2000)

• Managed full practice administration and supported clinical pre-consultation procedures including ECG setup and BP monitoring

Master's Degree - Educational Psychology - University of South Africa (2012 - 2014)

BED (Honours in Guidance and Counselling) - Guidance and Counselling - University of South Africa (2010 - 2010)

BA - Psychology and Education - University of South Africa (2010 - 2010)

PGCE (Early Childhood Education) - Early Childhood Education - University of South Africa (2002 - 2003)