Meet the Expert: Dr Charlotte Merriman

Clinical Psychologist | Family Court Expert Witness | Coach and Interpersonal Psychotherapist

Dr Charlotte Merriman is a highly experienced Clinical Psychologist with over 20 years of NHS experience working with children, young people, and families. Charlotte brings a rare depth of clinical knowledge to her expert witness work in the Family Courts, combining decades of frontline NHS practice with rigorous psychological assessment skills. She is a Clinical Psychologist, an Accredited Interpersonal Psychotherapist and Supervisor, a Psychological Coach and is trained in a range of evidence-based approaches including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and experienced in working systemically with families. She is also ADOS and ADI-II trained, equipping her to carry out detailed neurodevelopmental assessments.

Much of Charlotte's clinical career has been spent in CAMHS, where she developed expertise in complex neurodevelopmental presentations, co-morbid mental health difficulties, and neuropsychological assessment of children from age five through to adolescence and into the adult years. She has worked extensively with families, schools, and multi-agency teams to develop formulations and interventions that address the full system around a child.

In her court work, Charlotte provides independent psychological assessments of individuals, families, and children for the Family Courts in both Public and Private law cases. Her reports are known for their high standard of writing, clinical precision, and sensitivity to the complexity of the families she assesses.

Charlotte has recently completed the Bond Solon Expert Witness Training, a nationally recognised qualification that equips psychologists with the legal knowledge, courtroom skills, and procedural understanding to act as expert witnesses to the highest standard. This credential underscores her commitment to excellence in medico-legal practice.

If you would like to discuss a referral, please contact the team at info@mdownsandassociates.co.uk or call 0114 303 5053.