Who We Are

As a team of established treatment professionals,

​we are one of the first and by now the most established ibogaine clinic in South Africa.

Martie Underwood

Martie Underwood

Owner & Ibogaine Researcher (PhD)

Martie joined the centre as partner in 2019 and is now the owner. She is currently studying towards her PhD in Psychology, having chosen Ibogaine as her research topic. She holds an MSc in Transpersonal Psychology (London), and she is a Herbalist registered with the African National Healers Association. She serves on the Advisory Board of the Global Iboga Therapy Alliance, and she regularly delivers keynote presentations at Ibogaine conferences around the world.

Anso Taljaard (1968 - 2021) - IN LOVING MEMORY

Anso Taljaard (1968 - 2021) - IN LOVING MEMORY

Our Founder & Mentor

Our founder and mentor, Anso Taljaard, was a clinical psychologist and a pioneer. During her years in private practice, she became frustrated by the inefficiencies of traditional clinical models. She became interested in Ibogaine at a time when not much was known about the substance and when non-traditional treatments were severely frowned upon. She pioneered our current treatment model and founded our approach on robust psychological principles. Sadly she lost her long battle with cancer in 2021, but she left a legacy that has profoundly changed the lives of so many.  Pic: Alon Skuy

Dr Durel Baruani

Dr Durel Baruani

Attending Physician & Medical Doctor

Dr Durel Baruani is an ACLS certified medical doctor with current emergency room experience. Dr Baruani has been with the Centre since 2018, and has successfully supervised numerous Ibogaine treatments without a single adverse event. More than his experienced medical skills, Dr Baruani’s bedside manner is impeccable. He is incredibly compassionate and empathetic, and truly cares about our clients and their safety. 

Victoria Khoza

Victoria Khoza

Trauma Nurse

Victoria Khoza joined our team in May 2022. She is highly qualified as an emergency nurse, providing assistance to our clients during treatment. Her quiet confidence, her extensive experience and her meticulous attention to detail make her a valued addition to our team.

Keorapetse Tladi

Keorapetse Tladi

Trauma Nurse

Keorapetse Tladi joined the Centre in August 2022 as Trauma Nurse. Her extensive experience and her kind and compassionate manner make her a valuable addition to our team. Keo, as she’s affectionately known, is passionate about the wellbeing of our clients, and consistently strives to ensure they feel safe and taken care of. 

Thato Ramagofu

Thato Ramagofu

Paramedic

Thato is an ACLS certified Paramedic and joined our team in December 2022. His current advanced emergency response experience makes him a valuable member of our team. Beyond his medical expertise, we value his kindness and patience, and his compassionate bedside manner.

Kerryn Matthews

Kerryn Matthews

Therapist & Treatment Guide

Kerryn Matthews holds an Honours Degree in Psychology and is currently studying towards her Master’s Degree in Psychology. Kerryn has been with the Centre since 2018 and provides enlightened and innovative  therapeutic interventions for our clients. As a valued member of our team, Kerryn’s gentle, empathetic approach, combined with her sharp wit and quick mind make her a force to be reckoned with.

Johann Hattingh

Johann Hattingh

Therapist & Treatment Guide

Johann joined the Centre in 2019 following his successful Ibogaine treatment for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. Johann has been an exceptional advocate for the use of plant medicine in treating trauma, and is the founding member of the PTSD SA support group.  After joining the Centre, he also completed a qualification with UNISA in Victim Empowerment and Support. Clients are drawn to Johann, and resonate with his kindness and wisdom. His experiences are relatable and understandable, and clients often cite insights they gained from conversations with him.

Shayne Nowikow

Shayne Nowikow

Treatment Guide

Shayne has been involved since the Centre’s early days, facilitating journeys with various plant medicines. Following a period of absence to pursue other interests, he returned in November 2022. He brings a wealth of knowledge and experience in ibogaine treatment, not to mention his unique and upbeat sense of humour.

Kumbie Mushangwe

Kumbie Mushangwe

Housekeeper & Receptionist

Kumbie also joined in the early days of the Centre. She is an integral part of our team, ensuring that all clients feel safe and welcome on their arrival. Her impeccable taste in décor, and her nurturing care of all things living – plants and people – make her a valued member of our team. Her sassy sense of humour, and her willingness to learn and serve others is testament to her beautiful heart.

Lebogang Molefe

Lebogang Molefe

Treatment Assistant

Lebogang, or Lebo as she is affectionately known, joined our team in November 2022. Her keen observation skills, along with her sunny personality and her willingness to learn make her a valued team member, much loved by her colleagues and clients.

Maurice Mashira

Maurice Mashira

Grounds Maintenance Supervisor

Maurice Mashira is the reason why we can operate on a property that is serene and beautiful. Mr. Maurice and his team of contractors ensure that everything is working and looking amazing. Maurice lives on the property with his wife Memolish and baby Sasha. More than his skills as a maintenance supervisor, he also serves as occasional prophet to us, his vivid dreams providing insight and strength during tough times. 

Liquorice & Team

Liquorice & Team

Professional Good Boy & Therapy Dogs

Liquorice is a professional good boy and the most senior of our therapy dogs. From taking shots at the vet, to cuddling on the couch, Liquorice has excellent manners down to a fine art. He tries his best to lead the pack of hooligans we have at the Centre, and mostly gets it right.