After 16 years at the Wedge Gardens Treatment Centre, many of which were spent as deputy manager, Ms Laetitia Goosen has moved to the Tarentaal retirement village where she will hold the same position.
Wedge Gardens is a substance abuse treatment centre in Whitney Gardens that offers holistic care, while Tarentaal provides subsidised accommodation to senior citizens. Both are owned by the Rand Aid Association.
“There have been many patients who have benefited from Laetitia’s guidance over the years. They have been fortunate enough to experience Laetitia’s soothing and nurturing nature. She was a mother figure to many,” said Wedge Gardens manager, Ms Adél Grobbelaar.
Ms Goosen started at Wedge Gardens as a part-time therapist before being appointed full time. She was eventually promoted to deputy manager.
She played an integral part in the development and implementation of the Full Circle therapeutic treatment programme at Wedge Gardens.
She also helped the transition from Wedge Gardens admitting only men over the age of 28 with alcohol abuse issues, to men 18 years and older suffering from various substance addictions.
“In addition to her duties, she facilitated groups of students from various academic institutions who did their practical experience at Wedge Gardens.
“Her input and participation will be missed. Wedge staff and residents wish her all of the best for her future and the new challenges she will face as deputy at Tarentaal Village,” said Ms Grobbelaar.
Ms Goosen replaces Ms Annchen Henshaw as Tarentaal’s second in command.
