The Fitzrovia Psychology Clinic

About Us
Clinical Supervision DBT Consultation Work with us

Our Specialist Teams

Multidisciplinary Partners Children and Adolescent Mental Health Team DBT Team Eating Disorders Team Couples and Family Therapy Team General Adult Mental Health Team Health Psychology Team Neurodivergent Team Perinatal Team Schema Therapy Team Trauma Team
Therapies
Cognitive Analytic Therapy Cognitive Behaviour Therapy Compassion Focused Therapy Dialectical Behaviour Therapy Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing Family Therapy Mentalisation Based Therapy Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy Motivational Interviewing Narrative Therapy Positive Behaviour Support Schema Therapy Solution Focused Brief Therapy Trauma Focused Therapy
What We Treat
Anxiety ADHD Autism Bereavement Bipolar Disorder Depression Eating Disorders OCD Panic Disorder Personality Disorders Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Phobias Psychosexual Self-Esteem Self-Harm Sleep Disorders Stress
Anxiety Test
Eating Disorder Test
Resources
FAQs Press Testimonials
Online Services

Book An Appointment

Contact Us Payment Link
About Us
Clinical Supervision DBT Consultation Work with us

Our Specialist Teams

Multidisciplinary Partners Children and Adolescent Mental Health Team DBT Team Eating Disorders Team Couples and Family Therapy Team General Adult Mental Health Team Health Psychology Team Neurodivergent Team Perinatal Team Schema Therapy Team Trauma Team
Therapies
Cognitive Analytic Therapy Cognitive Behaviour Therapy Compassion Focused Therapy Dialectical Behaviour Therapy Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing Family Therapy Mentalisation Based Therapy Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy Motivational Interviewing Narrative Therapy Positive Behaviour Support Schema Therapy Solution Focused Brief Therapy Trauma Focused Therapy
What We Treat
Anxiety ADHD Autism Bereavement Bipolar Disorder Depression Eating Disorders OCD Panic Disorder Personality Disorders Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Phobias Psychosexual Self-Esteem Self-Harm Sleep Disorders Stress
Anxiety Test
Eating Disorder Test
Resources
FAQs Press Testimonials
Online Services

Book An Appointment

Contact Us Payment Link

PERSONALITY DISORDER SUPPORT
AT THE FITZROVIA PSYCHOLOGY CLINIC

WHAT CAN BE EXPECTED

  • Initial Consultation
     A confidential space is provided to discuss personal experiences and patterns of thought, emotion, and behaviour. 
  • Comprehensive Assessment
     A detailed psychological assessment explores emotional regulation, behaviour, relationships, and associated mental health difficulties. Consideration is also given to early life experiences, as personality disorders are thought to develop from a combination of inherited traits and environmental factors.
  • Clear, Thoughtful Feedback
     Following assessment, findings are explained clearly, including whether patterns indicate a mild, moderate, or severe personality disorder, alongside specific personality traits. The aim is to provide clarity and understanding of what the diagnosis means in practical terms.
  • Personalised Treatment Plan
     A treatment plan is collaboratively developed, often centring on structured talking therapy. Other approaches, such as therapeutic communities or medication for co-occurring conditions like depression or anxiety, may also be recommended, depending on individual needs.
  • Supportive and Ongoing Care
    Therapy can last weeks, months, or longer, depending on severity and complexity. High-quality private care is provided in a safe, confidential setting, with flexible appointments in London or online.

DIAGNOSIS AND TREATMENT

Personality disorders can arise from a combination of inherited traits and early life experiences, including distressing or neglectful childhood events. Symptoms vary depending on the individual and the type of personality disorder.

Personality disorders are often long-standing, but improvement is possible with appropriate support. Psychological therapy can help individuals develop healthier coping strategies, strengthen relationships, and promote greater emotional stability. In some cases, therapeutic communities may be recommended for intensive and structured support.

15-minute initial consultation

Following your initial enquiry, we will schedule a brief telephone consultation with you in order to gather some basic information about you, your needs and hopes and goals.

A comprehensive assesment

Our private mental health assessment typically involves a 60-90 minute consultation with one of our senior clinicians. You will be asked about your mental health history, current symptoms, physical health, lifestyle factors, and any previous experiences with therapy.

A personalised treatment plan

Experience evidence-based therapies that are always tailored to your needs and goals, delivered by specialists who remain at the clinical forefront.

Book a Consultation

MEET THE TEAM

The Fitzrovia Psychology Clinic’s senior clinical and counselling psychologists specialise in supporting adults with complex psychological difficulties, including personality disorders. The team combines professional expertise with warmth and understanding, ensuring care is both personal and meets individual goals.

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Dr Emily Alteirac (Nee Smyth)

Co-Founder | Clinical Psychologist | Team Lead of The Trauma Team

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Dr Kate Watchorn

Clinical Psychologist | Team Lead of The Perinatal and Child Team

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Dr Frances Maclennan

Consultant Clinical Psychologist

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Dr Heather Westwood

Clinical Psychologist

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Dr Ama Hagan

Clinical Psychologist

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Dr Sara Lakin

Clinical Psychologist

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Dr Adela Mrkaljevic

Counselling Psychologist

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Dr Frankie Washington

Clinical Psychologist

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Dr Jasmine Shingadia

Counselling Psychologist

Frequently Asked Questions – Personality Disorders

What is a personality disorder?

A personality disorder is a long-term pattern of thinking, feeling, or behaving that differs significantly from what is typically expected. These patterns can affect relationships, emotional wellbeing, and everyday life.

What types of personality disorders are there?

There are several types of personality disorder, each presenting differently. For example, borderline personality disorder may involve intense emotions, unstable relationships, and difficulty managing feelings. Antisocial personality traits may involve frustration, difficulty controlling anger, and conflict with others.

What causes personality disorders?

Personality disorders are thought to result from a combination of inherited traits and early environmental experiences. Distressing or neglectful events in childhood may contribute, though the exact cause is not fully understood.

How are personality disorders diagnosed?

Diagnosis involves a thorough assessment by a mental health professional. Current approaches may describe a personality disorder as mild, moderate, or severe, alongside specific personality traits. The assessment considers patterns of behaviour, emotional regulation, relationships, and any co-occurring mental health conditions.

What treatments are available for personality disorders?

Treatment usually involves talking therapy, which helps people understand their thoughts, feelings, and behaviours, develop coping strategies, and improve relationships. Other approaches may include therapy to address associated conditions, such as depression or anxiety.

How long does treatment last?

Treatment can last several months or longer, depending on the severity of the condition and any additional mental health difficulties. Therapy is tailored to the individual’s needs and progress.

Can people recover from a personality disorder?

Many people experience gradual improvement with appropriate support. Recovery may involve therapy, medical treatment, or practical support. There is no single approach that suits everyone, and care should always be personalised.

Can personality disorders occur alongside other mental health problems?

Yes. Personality disorders often co-occur with conditions such as depression, anxiety, or substance misuse. Treatment can address these alongside the personality disorder to support overall wellbeing.

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  • "Absolutely the best clinic out there for help & support with any psychological problems you may be facing. The therapists are so compassionate, kind, caring and supportive and make you feel safe from the moment you contact them. Highly recommended."

    Tan Feltham

  • "My experience with Dr Rigg has been amazing. cant highly recommend her and Fitzrovia Clinic enough."

    Gracie Williams

  • "Fitzrovia Psychology Clinic have been incredibly supportive and professional. The psychologists are compassionate and truly dedicated to helping clients grow. Thank to their care, I feel more confident and empowered in my mental health journey."

    Jennifer