For more than 30 years, Professor Pillay has been involved in Mental Health and Clinical Psychology in the capacity of clinical service provision, teaching and training, organizational management and research. He is an Associate Professor and Principal Clinical Psychologist. His clinical service and research work have included training in mental health care and forensic mental health. He is one of the most senior Clinical Psychologists in Mental Health service and training in South Africa and has conducted research in various areas of mental health and professional training.

Prof Pillay has been committed to mentoring young professionals and training junior faculty over the span of his career.