Dr Marina Hilleary completed her BSc in Psychology at the University of Exeter, graduating with first-class honours, before going on to complete an MSc in Mental Health Studies and a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology at the Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College London. Her career has taken her through NHS Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS), where she has supported children, young people, and families, which has shaped the way she now works with clients.
In the therapy room, Dr Hilleary brings an integrative, compassionate, and person-centred approach. She draws on training in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Mindfulness-Based Approaches, and Systemic Family Therapy (SFT). Dr Hilleary conducts psychological and cognitive assessments to inform a shared understanding of the presenting difficulties and tailor a treatment plan that is both evidence-based and individually suited. Dr Hilleary aims to build motivation, engage young people in decision-making around their care, and work collaboratively with families and support systems where appropriate.
All clinicians at The Chelsea Psychology Clinic are trained to conduct comprehensive assessments, considering the client as a whole person rather than focusing solely on specific difficulties.
Dr Hilleary works with individuals facing a wide range of challenges, including depression, anxiety (including generalised anxiety disorder, social anxiety, separation anxiety, panic disorder, and OCD), stress/burnout, emotional dysregulation, low self-esteem, PTSD, behavioural difficulties, adjustment difficulties, relationship/interpersonal issues, and additional neurodevelopmental needs (including ADHD and ASD). Whatever someone is struggling with, Dr Hilleary aims to offer support that recognises and respects their unique needs and experiences.