Types of Therapy
Effective treatment for eating disorders and related difficulties requires specialist skills, knowledge and experience.
Research has shown that there are effective treatments for eating disorders and that recovery is achievable for many people.
That said, there is no 'one size fits all' therapy that will work for all people. That's why our work would begin with a comprehensive assessment to think about you, your current difficulties and their history, and your individual hopes and goals for treatment.
We would think together about which treatment approaches might be most effective at meeting your needs. It is common that more than one therapeutic approach will be drawn on during treatment.
Learning more about the different approaches can be useful for supporting recovery from eating and body-image related difficulties.
Enhanced Cognitive Behavioural Therapy
(CBT-E)
CBT-E is a leading evidence-based treatment for eating disorders. It is an appropriate treatment for anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa and binge eating disorder. It is a highly structured treatment that focuses on changing unhealthy eating behaviors and the distorted thoughts that sustain them.
Maudsley Model of Anorexia Nervosa Treatment for Adults (MANTRA)
MANTRA is a leading evidence based treatment for anorexia nervosa in adults. It also has a developing evidence based for use with adolescents. It is a flexible structured therapy that addresses the underlying cognitive, emotional, and social factors that keep anorexia going. It involves working on thought patterns, improving emotional regulation, and strengthening relationships.
Compassion Focused Therapy
(CFT)
CFT is therapeutic approach rooted in CBT and evolutionary psychology that aims to help those who struggle with shame and self-criticism through helping them develop self-compassion and reduce self-criticism. It fosters a kinder and more understanding relationship with oneself.​
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy
(ACT)
ACT encourages individuals to accept their thoughts and feelings without judgment. It focuses on committing to actions that align with one's values, leading to meaningful behavior changes. This therapy helps clients improve their overall well-being by fostering psychological flexibility.
Dialectical Behavioural Therapy
(DBT)
DBT combines cognitive-behavioral techniques with mindfulness practices to help manage emotions and reduce harmful behaviors. It enhances emotional regulation, distress tolerance, and interpersonal effectiveness. This therapy is particularly effective for those struggling with intense emotions and self-destructive behaviors.
Radically Open - Dialectical Behavioural Therapy
(RO-DBT)
RO-DBT is designed for individuals with rigid, over-controlled personality traits. It teaches skills to increase emotional expression, openness, and social connectedness. This therapy helps clients develop more flexible thinking and behaviors, which can improve eating disorder symptoms.
Schema Therapy
Schema Therapy addresses deep-rooted patterns and beliefs formed in childhood that contribute to eating disorders. It helps clients identify and change these negative schemas, promoting healthier coping mechanisms. This therapy supports long-term emotional growth and stability.
Emotion Focused Therapy
(EFT)
Emotion-Focused Therapy is an experiential treatment that helps individuals explore and process their emotions in a safe and supportive environment. It emphasizes the importance of experiencing emotions fully to promote healing and change. By understanding and managing their emotional responses, clients can develop healthier coping strategies and reduce reliance on disordered eating behaviors.