Dr Sybrand de Vaal
Specialist Psychiatrist
About Dr Sybrand de Vaal
Dr Sybrand de Vaal completed his medical degree at Stellenbosch University in 2003, and specialized as a family physician through Stellenbosch University in 2011. His passion for mental health grew while working at Claro Clinic's Chemical Dependence Unit, leading to him pursuing specialist psychiatry training at UCT, where he qualified as psychiatrist in 2021. He has since worked at Lentegeur and Alexandra hospitals, gaining experience in intellectual disability, child and adolescent mental health, and acute adult psychiatry.
In November 2025 he transitioned to full-time private practice, to focus on the individual clinical care of a broader range of clients. To this end, he joined forces with a formidable practice manager called Magda. They hope to serve you well.
Dr de Vaal is married to the delightful Celeste, and they are the parents of four feisty daughters. He loves God, people, music, nature, deep conversation, movies, and dad jokes (as well as the odd PC game).
About Our Service
Dr Sybrand de Vaal is a registered general psychiatrist with a background in family medicine. He is based at Claro Clinic, N1 City, Cape Town. He assists adults, adolescents and children 6 years and older with any mental health problem.
Dr de Vaal believes in a holistic bio-psycho-social-spiritual approach, where evidence-based medication may be necessary; physical health is important; evidence-based psychotherapy is encouraged; and social and spiritual support is crucial.
He values empathic listening and a collaborative therapeutic relationship. He has a special interest in mood, anxiety and psychotic disorders; addictions; child and adolescent mental health; and neurodiversity.
He offers in-person as well as tele-consultations (at least the first consultation must be in-person).
It takes courage to seek support during the storms of life. We aim to help you navigate the troubled waters of mental disorder towards recovery and resilience.
Our Practice Manager
Magda Olwage
Hi and welcome,
I’m Magda, and I’ll be the first friendly face (and voice) you’ll meet here at Dr. Sybrand de Vaal’s practice. I’m so glad to be part of creating a space where patients feel supported and at ease.
Whether you reach out by phone, WhatsApp, or in person, I’ll be here to listen and help. My goal is to make every interaction warm, welcoming, and judgment-free—because I know how much courage it takes to take that first step.
I hold a diploma in Counselling and Communication, and I’ve always had a deep interest in mental health. On a personal level, I’m married and a mom, and like many families, ours comes with its own unique struggles. Those experiences have taught me a lot about balance, resilience, and the importance of empathy—lessons I bring with me into my role every day.
Of course, I’ll also be handling the admin side of things to keep the practice running smoothly—but at heart, my passion is people. I want every patient to feel comfortable, heard, and cared for right from the start.
I look forward to welcoming you to our practice.
Our Values
- Patient-Centred
- Warmth
- Empathy
- To Serve
- Truth
- Respect
- Non-Judgemental
Our Mission
We aim to provide quality, evidence-based, compassionate mental healthcare that helps clients navigate life’s storms towards resilience and wellness.
Our Vision
People of all ages and all walks of life, thriving in body, soul and spirit, amidst the challenges of daily life.
Our Rates
We are registered with most major medical schemes. We can submit billing to the medical scheme, but you remain responsible for outstanding fees.
If you have a PMB (Prescribed Minimum Benefit) condition, we can submit a PMB application to your medical aid. Dr de Vaal cannot diagnose a PMB condition if you do not meet its diagnostic criteria.
Our cash rates are in line with average local rates and the Healthman Psychiatry Costing Guide. Contact us for enquiries about our rates.
We are a cash-less practice. You are expected to settle your account with a card after your consultation. A new appointment won’t be made until past accounts have been settled.
If you cancel in less than 24 hours, or don’t arrive for your appointment, you will be held liable for the full fee, which a medical aid will not pay.
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For Emergencies
We are not available after hours. In case of an emergency, visit your nearest hospital’s emergency centre.
South Africa Suicide Crisis Helpline: 0800 12 13 14
Lifeline: 0861 322 322
South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG): 0800 567 567
Mental Health Crisis Line: 0800 456 789
