Introduction
Eating disorders are complex mental health conditions that require comprehensive treatment approaches. The Australian Psychological Society (APS) (Evidence-based Psychological Interventions in the Treatment of Mental Disorders: A Literature Review | APS, 2018) endorses several evidence-based therapies for treating eating disorders in adults, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Family-Based Therapy (FBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Interpersonal Therapy (IPT). For children, APS only endorses CBT, FBT, Psychodynamic Therapy and Behaviour Therapy (BT). These therapies have been shown to be effective in numerous studies and clinical applications.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
CBT is one of the most widely used therapies for eating disorders, particularly for bulimia nervosa and binge eating disorder. This approach focuses on identifying and changing negative thought patterns and behaviors related to food, body image, and self-esteem. CBT helps clients develop healthier eating habits and coping strategies. Research has demonstrated CBT's effectiveness in reducing symptoms of eating disorders and improving psychological well-being (Fairburn & Harrison, 2003).
Fictional Example: Monica, a 25-year-old woman struggling with bulimia nervosa, found CBT transformative. Through therapy, she learned to challenge her negative beliefs about her body and developed healthier coping mechanisms for stress, leading to a significant reduction in binge-purge episodes.
Family-Based Therapy (FBT)
FBT, also known as the Maudsley approach, is particularly effective for adolescents with anorexia nervosa. This therapy involves the family in the treatment process, empowering parents to take an active role in restoring their child's weight and normal eating patterns. Studies have shown that FBT can lead to significant improvements in weight restoration and family dynamics (Lock & Le Grange, 2012).
Fictional Example: Amelia, a 14-year-old with anorexia nervosa, and her family participated in FBT. By working together, Amelia's parents were able to support her in re-establishing healthy eating habits, leading to her gradual recovery and improved family dynamics.
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
DBT, originally developed for borderline personality disorder, has been adapted for treating eating disorders, particularly those involving emotional dysregulation. DBT focuses on building skills in mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotion regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness. Research has shown that DBT can reduce binge eating and improve emotional regulation (Safer et al., 2001).
Fictional Example: Ahmad, a 30-year-old man with binge eating disorder, benefited from DBT by learning to manage his emotions and reduce his reliance on food as a coping mechanism. As a result, he experienced fewer binge episodes and greater emotional stability.
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
ACT is a form of therapy that encourages individuals to accept their thoughts and feelings rather than fighting or feeling guilty for them. It helps clients commit to actions that align with their values. ACT has been shown to be effective in reducing symptoms of eating disorders by promoting psychological flexibility and acceptance (Juarascio et al., 2010).
Fictional Example: Tayla, a 22-year-old college student with anorexia, used ACT to embrace her emotions and focus on her values, such as health and personal growth. This approach helped her reduce her preoccupation with weight and food, leading to a more balanced lifestyle.
Interpersonal Therapy (IPT)
IPT focuses on improving interpersonal relationships and communication patterns that may contribute to the development and maintenance of eating disorders. It is particularly useful for clients whose eating issues are linked to interpersonal conflicts or life transitions. IPT has been shown to be effective in treating bulimia nervosa and binge eating disorder (Wilfley et al., 2002).
Fictional Example: Brendon, a 28-year-old with bulimia nervosa, used IPT to address unresolved conflicts with family members that triggered his eating disorder. As his relationships improved, Brendon experienced fewer binge-purge cycles and greater emotional well-being.
Conclusion: Evidence-Based Therapies for Eating Disorders
The APS-recommended therapies for eating disorders offer structured and effective approaches for individuals seeking recovery. By utilizing CBT, FBT, DBT, ACT, and IPT, clients can address the underlying psychological factors contributing to their eating disorders and work towards healthier, more fulfilling lives. If you or someone you know is struggling with an eating disorder, consider reaching out to a licensed psychologist trained in these evidence-based therapies for support and guidance.
References
Evidence-based psychological interventions in the treatment of mental disorders: A literature review | APS. (2018). https://psychology.org.au/getmedia/23c6a11b-2600-4e19-9a1d-6ff9c2f26fae/evidence-based-psych-interventions.pdf
Fairburn, C. G., & Harrison, P. J. (2003). Eating disorders. The Lancet, 361(9355), 407–416. https://doi.org/10.1016/s0140-6736(03)12378-1
Lock, J., & Le Grange, D. (2012). Treatment manual for anorexia nervosa: A family-based approach (2nd ed.). Guilford Press.
Safer, D. L., Telch, C. F., & Agras, W. S. (2001). Dialectical behavior therapy for bulimia nervosa. American Journal of Psychiatry, 158(4), 632–634. https://doi.org/10.1176/appi.ajp.158.4.632
Juarascio, A. S., Forman, E. M., & Herbert, J. D. (2010). Acceptance and Commitment Therapy Versus Cognitive Therapy for the Treatment of Comorbid Eating Pathology. Behavior Modification, 34(2), 175-190. https://doi.org/10.1177/0145445510363472
Wilfley, D. E., Welch, R. R., Stein, R. I., Spurrell, E. B., Cohen, L. R., Saelens, B. E., Dounchis, J. Z., Frank, M. A., Wiseman, C. V., & Matt, G. E. (2002). A randomized comparison of group Cognitive-Behavioral therapy and group interpersonal psychotherapy for the treatment of overweight individuals with Binge-Eating Disorder. Archives of General Psychiatry, 59(8), 713. https://doi.org/10.1001/archpsyc.59.8.713
Comments