
Maria Francesca Ciotta
Clinical Psychologist Aylesbury

​I am a Clinical Psychologist, deeply committed to helping people understand themselves and navigate life’s emotional challenges. My qualification involved six years of intensive academic study, clinical training, and research, equipping me with the tools to support individuals in meaningful, lasting ways. Over the past ten years, I have worked across a wide range of public and private mental health services. I have supported adults living with a variety of difficulties, including depression, anxiety, autism, low self-esteem, learning disabilities, personality disorders, and complex trauma. Many of the people I work with may also experience challenges such as substance use, suicidal thoughts, or self-harming behaviour.​ My clinical experience spans acute inpatient settings, forensic services, personality disorder units, and rehabilitation services for people living with long-term mental health conditions such as schizophrenia and bipolar disorder.
In private practice, I support individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship difficulties, addictions, and adjustment challenges. I also work with university students and young adults who may be experiencing stress, identity concerns, or the emotional impact of life transitions. I have a special interest in supporting people who have been through difficult or traumatic life experiences. These experiences often continue to affect emotional wellbeing, relationships, and day-to-day life. My aim is to provide a safe, compassionate space where people feel seen, heard, and understood—somewhere they can begin to make sense of their story and move towards healing and growth.
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My approach is collaborative, respectful, and tailored to each person’s unique needs and preferences. I believe that the relationship between therapist and client is the foundation for meaningful change. It is important to me to create a warm, non-judgemental atmosphere where people can feel safe to explore their experiences at their own pace. I draw on a range of evidence-based therapies to support people in managing difficulties and developing tools for long-term wellbeing. These include:
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Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT): particularly helpful for challenges such as anxiety, depression, low mood, low self-esteem, and obsessive behaviours.
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Trauma-Focused CBT: specifically tailored to support recovery from distressing and traumatic experiences.
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Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT): designed to support people who find it difficult to regulate intense emotions or maintain stable relationships.
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Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT): helpful for those struggling with shame or self-criticism, often linked to early experiences of neglect or abuse. CFT supports the development of self-kindness, emotional resilience, and a sense of safety.
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Mindfulness-Based Approaches: to help cultivate presence, self-awareness, and a gentler relationship with thoughts and emotions.
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Psychodynamic-Informed Work: where helpful, I draw on elements of this approach to explore how past relationships and early experiences may still be shaping current difficulties.
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Clinical Supervision: I offer clinical supervision to qualified psychologists, trainees, and assistant psychologists within a supportive and reflective space. My approach is grounded in evidence-based practice and draws from a range of therapeutic models to meet individual and service needs. Supervision focuses on developing clinical skills, enhancing reflective practice, and supporting professional growth.
Psychological Assessment
In addition to therapy, I offer structured psychological assessments where helpful in clarifying difficulties and informing treatment. These include:
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The International Personality Disorder Examination (IPDE) – a semi-structured clinical interview used to assess personality disorders in line with DSM-5 and ICD-11 criteria. It allows for a thoughtful, comprehensive understanding of long-standing personality traits and patterns.
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The Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale (WAIS) – a standardised cognitive assessment that offers a detailed profile of intellectual functioning. It can be useful in understanding cognitive strengths and areas for development, especially in the context of neurodiverse presentations, learning difficulties, or complex diagnostic questions.
These assessments are conducted with care and sensitivity, and results are shared with clients in a clear and collaborative manner.
My Professional Background
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I hold Chartered status with the British Psychological Society (BPS) and am registered as a Clinical Psychologist with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC). These bodies set and uphold the highest professional and ethical standards in clinical psychology. I actively maintain my training and development to ensure the care I offer is up-to-date, evidence-based, and compassionate.
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Professional Memberships