Elisabetta Cittadini

About me

My clinical experience began over twenty five years ago when as a young medical student I initially attended the Child Neuropsychiatric outpatient clinic in the Hospital of my home town. I specialised in neurology and moved to London where I had the opportunity to be directly involved in research. Working as a clinical neurologist taught me the importance of listening carefully to each individual’s story. I became aware of the profound and transformative experience which can take place when a person feels heard and understood. My clinical experience of listening and seeking to understand my patient’s stories led me to pursue a training in psychotherapy. My passion for arts led me to study integrative arts psychotherapy, followed by further training in mentalisation based therapy (MBT). I have worked in the charity sector and several clinical settings within the National Health Service (NHS). Through my work in the NHS, I gained experience of working with adults with a variety of complex psychological difficulties such as depression, anxiety, personality difficulties, etc.

My approach

As an integrative psychotherapist, I draw on several theories and relational approaches: psychodynamic, humanistic, existential, mentalisation based therapy, attachment theory, sensorimotor psychotherapy. As an art psychotherapist I am trained in both talking and art therapy. I am also trained to work with different creative media and art forms. Sometimes it is hard to find the words to articulate our experiences, or words do not seem enough to convey what’s going on inside. The creative process can be a powerful aid for expression and communication. There is no need for you to be an artist or to have any previous experience in art. My broad experience, alongside my integrative approach, enables me to adapt my approach to fit your needs.

Therapy is a journey for both client and therapist. I am aware of the importance of providing a consistent, confidential and non-judgmental space to facilitate self-discovery and self-awareness. I am committed to support you during the different stages of this journey. A solid and trusting therapeutic alliance is key: it develops slowly over time and allows us to go deeper in our work together.

Initial step

The first step is to arrange an initial consultation: this provides an opportunity for us to meet and explore what brought you to therapy, your background history, to ask questions, discuss the right intervention and whether we can work together. This should give you a sense of my way of working and how we will work together. If we decide to work together, we will arrange a date and time to work on a weekly basis.
I work with individuals and groups and can offer therapy in person or online.

Sessions take place weekly at an agreed date and time and last 50 minutes.
I offer therapy in English and Italian.