Desiré is a clinical psychologist registered with the Health Professions Council of South Africa (Reg No. 0124478), the Board of Health Care Funders (Practice No. 0636703) and the Psychological Society of South Africa (PsySSA).

She completed her academic training at the University of Pretoria and Stellenbosch University. Her practical internship was in the employ of the Western Cape Department of Health and involved rotations at psychiatric hospitals and clinics in Cape Town. She then completed a community service year and additional contracts in the Cederberg Sub-district working at the Clanwilliam Provincial Hospital and six primary health care clinics in the area. Previous work experience includes the delivery of mental health services and human resources consulting in England and South Africa.