About UsÂ
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Meet Bonita and Claire Ackerman du Preez, the Directors of The Trauma Recovery School. Together, we bring a deep commitment to supporting individuals in rediscovering balance, resilience, and well-being.
Bonita, a highly experienced therapist and coach, specialises in trauma recovery and emotional health. Our focus is on empowering highly functioning professionals to move forward from the challenges of past experiences with tools and strategies that fit their unique needs.
Over the past eight years, we’ve had the privilege of guiding hundreds of individuals toward a renewed sense of clarity and confidence using our proven 3-step Trauma Recovery Method. Through our comprehensive approach, we aim to help you feel more in control of your emotions and your life.
Join our free Masterclass to explore the practical techniques that have supported so many in creating meaningful and lasting change.
Our Mission
At The Trauma Recovery School, we are dedicated to understanding and addressing the effects of past experiences on the mind and body. We incorporate advanced techniques including IEMT, Brainspotting, Kinetic Shift, Rewind Therapy, NLP, FLASH EMDR, Quick Induction Hypnosis, and Personal Performance Coaching. These methods are inspired by neuroscience, therapeutic strategies, and coaching to support personal growth and well-being.
Our mission is to help individuals navigate the challenges after trauma or PTSD, from stress, overwhelm, and the emotional weight of past events. Whether facing grief, rebuilding confidence, or managing the impact of difficult life circumstances, we provide guidance tailored to each person’s unique needs.
Co-founded by Bonita and Claire, The Trauma Recovery School is here to empower you with knowledge, practical tools, and proven strategies to move forward. Our goal is to help you go beyond just getting by and instead embrace a life that feels balanced, fulfilling, and fully your own.
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Bonita's Story
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Bonita’s journey to recovery began after experiencing two deeply challenging life events that left her feeling overwhelmed both physically and emotionally. Despite trying various self-help methods, she struggled to find relief and felt stuck in cycles of self-doubt and worry. Her confidence waned, and daily life became increasingly difficult to navigate.
Recognising the need for professional support, Bonita sought the guidance of a therapist. Through dedication and commitment, she began to understand how her mind and body were responding to these experiences. With the right tools and strategies, she worked through the challenges, finding ways to manage and alleviate her symptoms. This transformative process reignited her sense of self and well-being.
Inspired by her own recovery, Bonita felt a deep calling to support others in overcoming the effects of past experiences. Her mission became clear: to help individuals rebuild their confidence, regain balance, and move forward with renewed hope and purpose.
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Bonita's Personal Touch
Bonita is deeply committed to her work but also values the importance of finding balance and joy in everyday life. She enjoys staying active at the gym, cycling, spending quality time with loved ones, and exploring new places. Having navigated her own challenges, Bonita prioritises her own well-being and understands the value of self-care.
Originally from South Africa, Bonita now lives in the United Kingdom with her wife, Claire. Together, they share their home with three cats and two lively horses, Henri and Nacho. Bonita’s experiences and personal growth inspire her dedication to helping others build resilience, confidence, and a fulfilling life.
Claire's Story
Claire’s life has been defined by resilience, dedication, and a commitment to supporting others. With over 30 years of service as a senior officer in a UK police force, she encountered the intense challenges and emotional weight that often accompany emergency work. These experiences shaped her understanding of trauma and the importance of compassion.
Throughout her career, Claire went beyond her duties to mentor and coach others, championing leadership development and advocating for inclusivity. Her dedication to fostering growth and representation left a lasting impact on her colleagues and the communities she served.
In recent years, Claire has pursued her passion for therapeutic practices, earning qualifications in techniques such as NLP, Rewind, FLASH EMDR, and hypnotherapy. Her personal experiences with loss and grief—including the profound impact of losing a close family member—have deepened her empathy and strengthened her commitment to helping others navigate their own healing journeys.
Claire approaches her work with profound understanding and care, providing a safe and supportive environment for individuals to explore their path toward growth and balance. She believes that seeking help is a courageous act and strives to empower others to rebuild their lives with confidence and hope.
Outside of her professional commitments, Claire finds joy and fulfillment in the equestrian world as a dedicated dressage rider, achieving success at top levels of competition. At home, she cherishes time spent with her wife Bonita, their three cats, and their two horses, Henri and Nacho. Claire’s passion for health, personal growth, and connection underscores her belief in living a balanced and meaningful life.
