A systemic family psychotherapist with shoulder-length dark hair smiling outdoors, wearing a blue blazer over a black top, standing near green foliage and a wooden fence.

About Me

Hello, I’m Dipali Malik Bhatnagar, a UKCP accredited Systemic Family Psychotherapist with 14 years of experience in the field of counselling psychology and psychotherapy. I currently serve in the National and Specialist Child and Adolescent Eating Disorder Service at the South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, where I specialize in treating eating disorders.
While eating disorders are my area of expertise, my practice encompasses a wide range of difficulties. I have extensive experience working with individuals, couples, and families dealing with a variety of emotional and psychological difficulties. Whether it’s navigating relationship struggles, managing mental health issues, or addressing family dynamics, I am committed to helping clients navigate the complexities of their emotions and experiences.
I believe in creating a compassionate, culturally sensitive, non-judgmental, and collaborative space where healing can occur. My approach is grounded in systemic theory, which means I don’t just focus on the individual, but also consider the broader family dynamics and social contexts that influence mental health and well-being.
 
Logo of UKCP (UK Council for Psychotherapy) and the Professional Standards Authority indicating an accredited register.

My Philosophy

My philosophy is rooted in the belief that therapy is a collaborative process. I do not see myself as the "expert" who provides solutions, but rather as a guide who helps you tap into your own inner resources and strengths. In our work together, I will support you by facilitating open, respectful conversations, offering new perspectives, and helping you explore solutions that work for your unique situation. The goal is for you, as an individual or family, to become empowered to take control of your healing and growth.
 
I believe that everyone has the capacity for change, and my role is to provide a safe, non-judgmental, and supportive space where you can express your thoughts and feelings freely. I aim to help you uncover the patterns that may be contributing to struggles, and together we will develop strategies to address those challenges and strengthen the foundation of your relationships.
 

Professional Information

Qualifications

  • MSc. Systemic Family Psychotherapy - Kings College London (UKCP and AFT)

  • Systemic Family therapy Graduate certificate - Kings college London (AFT)

  • MA Counselling Psychology - Amity University, India

Additional Training

  • Non-violence resistance training (NVR) - Oxleas NHS foundation Trust

  • Family Therapy for Anorexia Nervosa - Maudsley Centre for Child and Adolescent Eating Disorder Service (MCCAED)

  • Family Therapy for Bulimia Nervosa - Maudsley Centre for Child and Adolescent Eating Disorder Service (MCCAED)

  • Attachment Based Family Therapy level one part 1 Introductory Training by ABFT international training institute

  • Attachment Based Family Therapy level 1- part 2 Introductory Training by ABFT international training institute

Experience

I bring a broad range of clinical experience to my practice as a Systemic Family Psychotherapist, developed across NHS services, private practice, and international contexts. I currently work within the National and Specialist Eating Disorder Service (MCCAED) at South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, providing systemic family therapy and evidence-based interventions, including family-based treatment, for young people and their families. My previous roles include working with couples and families at the SLAM couples clinic, delivering systemic interventions within multidisciplinary CAMHS teams in Surrey and London, and supporting young people with complex emotional and behavioural needs. My experience also spans educational and residential settings, where I supported children and adolescents with autism and special educational needs. Prior to my systemic training in the UK, I practised as a Counselling Psychologist in India, working across schools, hospitals, non-profit organisations, and private practice to provide therapeutic support to diverse populations.