About
With over 25 years of experience in the assessment and treatment of mental illness in neurodevelopmental disorder, Dr Sawhney brings a deep and compassionate understanding to her practice. After completing her higher specialist training in psychiatry at Oxford, she has served as a consultant psychiatrist since 2007. Dr Sawhney has held several senior leadership positions, both in clinical practice and management, across diverse national settings, including roles with the Royal College of Psychiatrists (RCPsych).
Dr Sawhney’s dedication to clinical excellence has been recognised through multiple accolades, including being shortlisted among the top three psychiatrists for the Psychiatrist of the Year Award by the RCPsych in 2022, a finalist position for Clinical Leader of the Year at the HSJ Awards, and receiving the Professional of the Year Award within her trust amongst others.
Dr Sawhney’s passion lies in enhancing the experiences and outcomes for people with neurodevelopmental disorders. Dr Sawhney has spearheaded multiple service development initiatives both locally and nationally, many of which have received formal recognition for their impact.
Importantly, Dr Sawhney brings a unique and personal perspective to her clinical work, being a mother to a young adult with a neurodiversity. This lived experience has given her first hand insight into the challenges individuals with neurodiversity face and reinforces her commitment to timely diagnosis, holistic care and compassionate support. Dr Sawhney believes that every individual deserves to be understood in the context of their unique strengths and challenges. Dr Sawhney’s goal is to empower individuals and families, reduce stigma, and improve outcomes through informed, empathetic and evidence-based psychiatric care.
Position at Priory
Visiting consultant
Training
Dr Sawhney completed her higher specialist training in psychiatry at Oxford and gained her membership to the Royal College of Psychiatrists (MRCPsych) in 2004. She has served as a consultant psychiatrist since 2007. She was awarded Fellowship of the College (FRCPsych) as a mark of distinction and recognition of contributions to psychiatry.
Research interests
Dr Sawhney has authored over 50 peer-reviewed publications and book chapters, and has presented her work at numerous national and international conferences, earning awards for research and innovation. As a principal investigator, Dr Sawhney has led several studies focused on improving outcomes for individuals with neurodevelopmental conditions.
Languages
- English
- Hindi
- Punjabi
- Urdu