Dr Emma Smith first began her training with a BSc (Hons) in Psychology at the University of Warwick, graduating with honours, before going on to complete an MSc in Forensic Psychology at the University of Portsmouth and her Doctorate in Clinical Psychology (DClinPsy) at Canterbury Christ Church University. Her path has taken her through specialist NHS services in Central London, where she worked as a Clinical Psychologist in a specialist service, supporting adults, and into NHS and private practice roles in Sussex, which has shaped the way she now works with clients.
In the therapy room, Dr Smith brings a collaborative and person-centred approach. She draws on training in Mentalisation-Based Therapy (MBT), Schema Therapy (ST), Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Mindfulness-Based Approaches, and Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT), with specialist experience in mentalisation-based approaches, schema therapy, and trauma-focused treatment. She works with individuals, families, and couples, tailoring therapy to meet their unique needs.
All clinicians at The Chelsea Psychology Clinic are trained to conduct comprehensive assessments, considering you as a whole person rather than a specific issue. They tailor treatment and integrate multiple therapeutic perspectives to create a plan that is both evidence-based and uniquely suited to you.
Dr Smith works with individuals facing a wide range of challenges, including depression, anxiety, stress/burnout, eating disorders, complex post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), personality disorders, substance misuse, emotional dysregulation, self-esteem difficulties, relationship difficulties, and trauma. She also has a particular interest in working with the families, partners and friends of people with mental health problems to support them in understanding their loved ones and coping with the difficulties that can arise in the relationships.
Alongside her therapy work, Dr Smith is also involved in supervision, training, and wellness initiatives, reflecting her passion for enhancing supporting individuals, teams, and organisations. Dr Smith also has experience in the management of multi-disciplinary teams in the NHS. She has contributed to the development of the clinic’s wellness retreats since 2019.