Dr Charlotte Priestley

Specialist Clinical Psychologist ยท she/her
DClinPsy 2014

Registration

  • Professional bodies: HCPC, BPS
  • Registration number(s): PYL31057
  • Public register entry: https://www.hcpc-uk.org/check-the-register/professional-registration-detail/?query=PYL31057&profession=PYL

Quick facts

  • Year qualified: 2014
  • Years in eating disorders: 15+ years
  • Consults at: Central London, Remote

Biography

I have worked in mental health services within the NHS for over 15 years, with the majority of my experience working as a Clinical Psychologist specialising in the treatment of eating disorders and appearance related distress. Since pursuing a career in clinical psychology I have held a keen interest in how eating, weight and body image can hugely impact upon a person’s well-being and quality of life.

approach to treatment

I consider my approach to be warm and supportive, I always welcome feedback and aim to work collaboratively towards a shared goal. I have worked hard to develop the knowledge and skills required not only to address unhelpful eating patterns, but to help people connect with and change underlying mechanisms, which often keep painful feelings and damaging behaviours going.

areas of interest / specialism

Alongside my eating disorder work, I have also provided psychological support to people undergoing physical weight loss treatment (including bariatric surgery) and appreciate how incredibly complex personal relationships with food and eating can be. I developed and led psychological services at the Royal London Hospital to support individuals undergoing appearance altering facial surgery. This experience allowed me to deepen my understanding of how body image and a perceived “different” or altered appearance, can profoundly impact upon a person’s identity and self-esteem.

specialised Training

  • CBT-E (Enhanced Cognitive Behavioural Therapy for Anorexia, Bulimia, BED, OSFED)
  • CBT for BDD (Body Dysmorphic Disorder)
  • CFT-E (Compassion Focused Therapy for Eating Disorders)
  • EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing for Trauma)
  • DBT & CAT Informed Practice

Senior Roles and Notable Prior Posts

  • Lead Clinical Psychologist for Appearance-Altering Facial Surgery Services, Royal London Hospital (4 years)
  • Specialist Clinical Psychologist, Secondary Care Adult NHS Eating Disorder Services
  • NHS Mental Health Services (15+ years experience)
  • I balance busy family life with a love for walking, live music and cooking. Always happiest spending quality time with friends and family, whether it’s a quiet catch up or a great party!
    Dr Charlotte Priestley

Q&A with Charlotte

I often find that clients come with a lot of shame surrounding their eating disorder or body image difficulty, and worry that it makes them appear vain or shallow. We know that these difficulties are so much more complex and usually develop as a way of coping.