The Teddy Bear Clinic is one of three specialist centres in Gauteng that manages complex child-abuse cases. Established 40 years ago by Prof Lorna Jacklin, it works alongside the Teddy Bear Foundation to provide play therapy, court preparation, and SAFE Schools programmes. Since August 2015, I have served as Clinical Head, leading forensic medical assessments, multidisciplinary case management, and the training of doctors. We work with the NPA, Department of Justice, and other partners to help children and families move towards recovery and justice.
I am regularly asked to provide second opinions and expert testimony in complex cases.

As a Jewish woman, I lead in the rare, demanding field of child protection, providing forensic expertise, strengthening care, and training practitioners to deliver justice and recovery to South African children.

I aim to inspire young doctors to enter this demanding field of medicine. I currently supervise four doctors, including a paediatrician, to build a sustainable succession pipeline and improve access to specialist care. I also plan to develop a postgraduate programme in child-abuse medicine with the University of the Witwatersrand through the Department of Clinical Forensics.

I have faced three distinct periods of challenge in my career. First, the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted healthcare services and placed enormous pressure on staff and patients. Second, when the clinic faced possible closure, I worked to sustain the service and protect its role in caring for vulnerable children. Third, the ongoing challenges of working within the South African justice system demand persistence, meticulous forensic work, and resilience. Despite these obstacles, I have contributed to successful convictions and appropriate sentences in complex child-abuse cases.

Recreational activities
Art, embroidery, Pilates and cooking