Meet Daniel Sher, a Clinical Psychologist registered with the Health Professions Council of South Africa. Having lived with type 1 diabetes for 33 years, Daniel has a special interest in providing diabetes-focussed care. His lived experience, together with his qualifications make him a valuable member of the diabetes management team.
Who is Daniel Sher?
I am a clinical psychologist specializing in diabetes-focused psychotherapy. Living with type 1 diabetes for over 33 years has helped me to appreciate the importance of psychology when it comes to thriving with this condition. My passions in life include family (my lovely wife and cats), surfing, martial arts and studying the brain.
My work involves providing evidence-based therapeutic support to individuals with type 1 or type 2 diabetes, as well as to their families. While my practice is based in Cape Town, I also offer online consultations to accommodate clients from further afield.
How do you see your role as part of a Diabetes Care Team?
As a psychologist, my role in the Diabetes Care Team is to help individuals navigate the emotional and mental challenges that come with self- and team-management of this condition, enhancing their ability to thrive despite the challenges. I’m also called upon to assist when an individual with diabetes is diagnosed with a co-occurring psychological condition.
Why is it important to include you in the Diabetes Care Team?
My inclusion in the Diabetes Care Team is crucial because managing diabetes is not just about the physical aspects; it’s also about mental well-being. My expertise in psychotherapy provides a holistic approach to diabetes care, addressing the emotional and psychological needs of those living with this condition.
What is you number 1 Tip for Someone Living with Diabetes?
My number one tip for someone living with diabetes is to acknowledge and address the emotional and psychological impacts of the condition. It’s vital to seek support when needed and remember that managing diabetes is a continuous journey that involves both physical and mental health.
Where can we find you?
I practice in Cape Town, or online. You can contact me through my website (https://danielshertherapy.com/book-a-session/). Please don’t hesitate to reach out.
It’s crucial to look after your mental health while living with a chronic condition. We often overlook that aspect. While we are strong individuals, we also need mental support. Thank you, Daniel, for sharing your insights!
Next, we will chat to the Pharmacist, a greatly underutilised potential resource.
Continue the diabetes care and advocacy conversation with ‘not ARTIFICIALLY Sweetened’, a FREE weekly CDE Academy podcast, providing unfiltered reflections on all thing’s diabetes. These podcasts, aimed at both people with diabetes and the health professionals that facilitate their care, offer a free weekly knowledge, attitudes, skills and insight update. Join specialist physician Dr Stan Landau, and diabetes specialist nurse, Michael Brown in building bridges of shared insights between all people touched by diabetes. Now available on Spotify with listeners in 29 countries! If you see value in this podcast, we would appreciate you sharing either of the two image-based adverts attached with any health professional, or person with diabetes you know. If you have any questions, suggestions, comments or contributions for future episodes, please email Stan and Michael @ Podcast@CDEDiabetes.co.za


E xx