How psychologists help with eating disorders: what you need to know

Eating disorders are complex mental health conditions that need careful, coordinated care and support. A psychologist can assess, diagnose and provide evidence-based treatment for eating disorders, supporting people to develop a healthier relationship with food and body image. At Unbound Minds, we understand the challenges of living with these conditions and are dedicated to providing thorough, compassionate care for those struggling with eating disorders.

Understanding eating disorders

An eating disorder is a condition characterised by abnormal eating behaviours and an unhealthy relationship with food, which can negatively impact physical and emotional wellbeing. Eating disorders affect people of all ages, genders, and backgrounds, though they often begin during adolescence or young adulthood.

Common types of eating disorders include:

• Anorexia Nervosa: Marked by restrictive eating, intense fear of gaining weight, and distorted body image
• Bulimia Nervosa: Involving cycles of binge eating followed by compensatory behaviours like purging
• Binge Eating Disorder: Recurring episodes of eating huge amounts of food while feeling out of control
• Other Specified Feeding or Eating Disorder (OSFED): Eating disorders that don’t meet the specific criteria for other diagnoses

What psychologists do

Psychologists who work with eating disorders assess, diagnose and treat different forms of disordered eating. They are trained to identify the underlying psychological factors that contribute to eating disorders and to put evidence-based treatment strategies in place.

Skills and training

Psychologists who work with eating disorders are trained in:

• Thorough assessment and diagnosis of eating disorders
• Creating individualised treatment plans
• Addressing co-occurring conditions like anxiety or depression
• Working as part of a multidisciplinary team of dietitians and medical professionals
• Providing family support and education

Our psychologists concentrate on sustainable and long-term solutions through evidence-based therapy frameworks tailored to each individual’s unique needs.

Evidence-based treatments for eating disorders

When it comes to treating eating disorders, several evidence-based approaches are used.

Enhanced Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT-E)

Enhanced Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT-E) is an evidence-based treatment approach for eating disorders. This therapy works by:

• Recognising and challenging false beliefs about food, weight, and body image
• Developing healthy eating habits and behaviours
• Building skills to control difficult emotions without using food
• Creating strategies to prevent relapse

CBT-E normally involves 20–40 sessions depending on the severity of the eating disorder, and is used for anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge eating disorder.

Interpersonal Psychotherapy (IPT)

Interpersonal psychotherapy aims to improve interpersonal relationships and social functioning. This method:

• Explores how relationship problems can lead to eating disorder symptoms
• Helps improve communication skills
• Addresses social issues that might maintain disordered eating
• Builds stronger support networks

Specialist Supportive Clinical Management (SSCM)

SSCM combines clinical management with supportive psychotherapy, focusing on:

• Establishing normal eating patterns and weight restoration
• Giving targeted psychoeducation about eating disorders
• Taking care of personal matters that could affect the eating disorder
• Creating customised formulations and treatment plans

What to expect in eating disorder therapy

Seeking help from a psychologist is a big step. Understanding what therapy involves can ease fears about the process.

Initial assessment

The first few sessions often include:

• A detailed evaluation of eating behaviours and patterns
• Assessment of physical and psychological symptoms
• Discussion of personal history and contributing factors
• Collaborative goal setting for treatment

Treatment process

Throughout treatment, you can expect:

• Regular meetings focused on building healthier eating habits
• Strategies to control difficult thoughts and emotions
• Gradual exposure to feared foods or situations
• Continuous monitoring of physical and psychological wellbeing
• Skills development for the long term

When to seek help from a psychologist

If you or a loved one exhibits any of these signs, it may be time to speak with a psychologist:

• Significant weight changes or excessive attention on weight and shape
• Distorted body image or intense fear of gaining weight
• Restrictive eating, bingeing, or purging behaviours
• Social withdrawal, particularly at mealtimes
• Obsessive exercise patterns
• Physical symptoms like fatigue, lightheadedness, or digestive issues

Getting support early matters. We'll work with you on a plan that fits your situation.

Our approach at Unbound Minds

We provide compassionate, evidence-based care for individuals living with eating disorders. Our psychologists create personalised treatment plans drawing from approaches like cognitive behavioural therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, and other evidence-based frameworks.

We understand that eating disorders affect both individuals and their families. That’s why we take a full approach that involves family members when appropriate, giving them strategies and support to help their loved one.

If you’re worried about eating disorders in children, we also offer support for younger clients.

Taking the first step

Our psychologists who work with eating disorders will guide you through each stage.

When you're ready, call 1300 151 110 and we'll talk through who's the best fit. If you need support right now, call the Butterfly Foundation on 1800 33 4673.