Hi, I’m Dr. Salena Bhanji

I’m a Clinical and Counselling Psychologist with over 20 years of combined pre- and post- qualification experience supporting individuals, couples and families with a broad range of mental health issues. For me, doing this work is truly a privilege — to walk alongside people as they navigate life’s challenges, gain insight into unconscious patterns that keep them stuck and take strides towards psychological well-being.

I knew from my early teens that I would be a psychologist. Since beginning my undergrad psych degree in the late 1990s, I’ve been fortunate to complete extensive professional training and gain clinical experience across the UK, Australia, and the USA. This journey has given me a rich appreciation for the role that cultural and social diversity plays in shaping our response to the world, while also reminding me how universal many of our struggles are — simply by virtue of being human.

In the earlier part of my career, I worked largely with individuals who struggled with addictions, anxiety and mood disorders within a range of inpatient and outpatient services. Over time, my focus shifted to treating other complex psychological issues such as eating disorders, body dysmorphia, OCD and complex trauma, particularly with individuals who present with ADHD and/or Autism. This focus has become an area of expertise. 

At the heart of my approach is the belief that therapy works best when it’s grounded in genuine care, warmth and compassion. Research consistently shows that the quality of the therapeutic relationship is one of the strongest predictors of good treatment outcomes and patient satisfaction— sometimes more so than the specific techniques used. For this reason, my priority is to create a space where you feel safe, comfortable and truly heard, and where you have a clear understanding of the therapy process and the treatment approaches we use together.

I draw on a broad range of evidence-based therapies, integrating them flexibly to suit your unique needs rather than following a rigid, one-size-fits-all approach. I believe that “good therapy” is active and focussed on achieving your goals, with each session leaving you with the feeling that you’ve understood a bit more and can cope a bit better. Together, we’ll map out your challenges, explore how they developed and clarify how you can develop effective and sustainable coping skills — all through the lens of psychology and neuroscience.

If you’re considering therapy for yourself or your adolescent child and would like to ask a few questions before booking, I warmly invite you to get in touch via email and I’d be very happy to arrange a time to speak with you.

Warmly,

Dr. Salena Bhanji