Emma Matusu

About Emma Matusu

Emma Matusu is a Psychological Counsellor and a MSc psychology student at UCL. She is currently completing her training in an emerging field of Schema Therapy to be accredited ISST therapist. Emma believes that the schemas we develop in childhood significantly influence our present behaviours and emotional patterns. She also asserts that trauma accounts for approximately 80% of the illnesses and disorders treated by most psychiatrists today.

In addition to her Schema Therapy accreditation, Emma has received specialised training from the University of Oxford in CBT-E (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy for Eating Disorders). By June 2025, she will further expand her expertise in the Psychology of Addiction and Systemic and Family Therapy, also at the University of Oxford. Emma will start her Doctorate in Clinical Psychology (DClin) next year.

Treatment Approach

Emma Matusu combines Schema Therapy, CBT, CBT-E, Mindfulness, and integrative therapeutic techniques to address a broad range of psychological challenges, with a particular focus on helping individuals heal from the enduring effects of childhood trauma. Her approach is highly personalized, and she provides guidance on the estimated duration of therapy needed for significant progress. For issues rooted in early life experiences, such as trauma, she often recommends committing to at least one year of therapy to achieve deep and sustainable changes.

Emma offers an initial 15-minute consultation free of charge, providing a space for clients to share their concerns and discuss what therapy might look like. During this session, she offers insights into the underlying causes of their difficulties and outlines a tailored treatment plan to meet their individual needs. If you choose to work with Emma, sessions are typically held weekly and last 50 minutes.

Background and Experience

Emma’s diverse professional background, including roles at Deloitte and Forbes, gives her a unique understanding of the pressures in high-performance environments and their psychological impact. She also actively contributes to the field of psychology, conducting trauma research with the UCL Trauma Research Group and having previously worked as a research assistant at the CBC Lab at UCL. Emma is consistently learning about the advancements in trauma treatment and in psychology with leading experts like Bessel van der Kolk, M.D., and Kelly Weekers through her podcast series.

Emma participates in both group and individual supervision at the Private Therapy Clinic. These sessions ensure her clients benefit from the latest therapeutic advancements and receive the highest standard of care.

About Schema Therapy

Schema Therapy focuses on identifying the patterns (schemas) formed during childhood that shape how we think, feel, and behave today. Emma’s approach to Schema Therapy is tailored to break these unhelpful cycles and help you move toward healthier ways of thinking and relating to yourself and others. This evidence-based approach has proven effective in treating conditions like personality disorders, eating disorders, anxiety, depression, and addiction.