What Psychological Approaches Are Used to Treat the Eating Disorders?

In Cognitive Behavioral therapy (CBT), individuals learn to challenge thoughts, feelings, and behaviours that maintain eating disorder symptoms.

Interpersonal therapy (IPT) focuses on understanding links between eating disorder episodes and relationship issues. For instance, therapy might focus on difficulties in forming or maintaining relationships, unresolved grief, and disputes with friends or relatives.

Psychoeducation is typically delivered in group format, and provides factual information about the causes of eating disorders as well as strategies for overcoming an eating disorder.

Family therapy focuses on assisting the family to work together in overcoming the eating disorder.

Motivational enhancement therapy (MET) focuses on helping individuals work through their ambivalence about giving up their symptoms, and making life choices that are congruent with their higher goals.

How effective are psychological methods of treating eating disorders?

Research has shown that psychoeducation is a useful first intervention for individuals with mild to moderate bulimia nervosa. For individuals with more severe bulimia symptoms, interpersonal therapy and cognitive behaviour therapy have been shown to be highly effective, and identified as the treatments of choice.

Although research is still investigating the best treatments for anorexia nervosa, a comprehensive approach that addresses motivational issues, weight restoration, and underlying psychological issues is recommended. Family therapy has been shown to be a critical treatment component for younger clients.

Consultation with or referral to a registered psychologist can help guide you as to the use of these therapies.

top ~ next ~ send page to a friend