Donna Oakes is the Founder and Registered Counsellor of Kenosis Counseling Pty Ltd. Born and raised in Cape Town, South Africa, she is passionate about helping individuals, couples, and families navigate life’s challenges with compassion, professionalism, and hope.

Donna holds both a Bachelor of Science and a Master of Science in Counseling Psychology from the United States. She was awarded a U.S. scholarship in recognition of her commitment to community development and leadership in South Africa. Following the completion of her studies, she made the intentional decision to return home, bringing her internationally recognised training and experience back to South Africa to invest in the wellbeing of individuals, families, and communities.

With more than 20 years of professional experience spanning corporate leadership, project management, education, community development, and counselling, Donna brings a wealth of knowledge and a holistic understanding of the emotional, relational, and workplace challenges people face. Her counselling experience includes working with individuals from diverse cultural and socioeconomic backgrounds across South Africa, the United Kingdom, and the United States, both in person and online.

Donna has extensive experience supporting clients through trauma, grief and loss, anxiety, depression, relationship and marital challenges, life transitions, stress, and personal growth. She integrates evidence-based therapeutic approaches with genuine empathy, creating a safe, confidential, and non-judgmental environment where clients can heal, build resilience, and move towards lasting emotional wellbeing.

At Kenosis Counseling Pty Ltd, Donna is committed to providing professional, ethical, and client-centred care—walking alongside each person with compassion, respect, and the belief that healing and hope are always possible.