Dr Christina Barras

Biography

I am a Consultant Psychiatrist with over 9 years of experience, specialising in eating disorders. Currently, I serve as the Clinical Lead for the Eating Disorders Service at Surrey and Borders NHS Foundation Trust, where I have developed extensive expertise in managing complex cases across the lifespan, from adolescents to adults. In my role, I lead a multidisciplinary team (MDT) and am passionate about creating integrated care pathways that provide seamless support for those with eating disorders.
A key aspect of my work is ensuring continuity of care for patients transitioning from child and adolescent services to adult services, particularly as many services tend to discharge or transition patients at age 18. I believe strongly in providing ongoing support during this critical time, ensuring a smooth and supportive transition for my patients into adulthood. At The London Centre (TLC) I work with patients aged 15 upwards.

I work within a comprehensive MDT at TLC, which includes specialists such as clinical psychologists, psychotherapists, dietitians, occupational therapists, and family therapists. This collaborative approach allows us to offer holistic, evidence-based treatments and ensures that my patients have access to a full range of therapeutic options within a single, integrated team.
I have a particular interest in the connection between eating disorders and neurodiversity. My experience in this area allows me to take a more personalised approach to treatment, especially for individuals with conditions like autism spectrum disorder, which often co-occur with eating disorders. I’m passionate about improving the quality and accessibility of eating disorder services, and have led initiatives to make a real difference. This includes developing new treatment pathways for young people with Avoidant Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID), ensuring they receive the tailored support they need.

I take a warm, direct, and collaborative approach to my work, always striving to offer a supportive and compassionate environment for my patients and their families. Eating disorders are complex, and my goal is to provide compassionate, evidence-based treatment that addresses both the psychological and physical aspects of recovery.