CBT-E

CBT-E is the abbreviation for “enhanced cognitive behaviour therapy”, and is one of the most effective treatments for eating disorders. 

It is a “transdiagnostic” treatment for all forms of eating disorder including anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, binge eating disorder and other similar states​.

CBT-E generally involves an initial assessment appointment followed by 20 treatment sessions over 20 weeks, lasting 50-minutes each.

There are 4 stages; 

Stage 1 focuses on gaining a mutual understanding of the eating problem and helping them to modify and stabilise their pattern of eating. There is also emphasis on personalised education and the addressing of concerns about weight. It is best if these initial sessions are twice a week.

Stage 2 is very brief, we review progress and plan for stage 3. 

Stage 3 consists of a run of weekly sessions focused on the processes that are maintaining the eating problem. Usually this involves addressing concerns about shape and eating; enhancing the ability to deal with day-to-day events and moods; and the addressing of extreme dietary restraint.

Stage 4 the emphasis shifts onto the future. There is a focus on dealing with setbacks and maintaining the changes that have been obtained.

Generally a review session is held some months after treatment has ended. It provides an opportunity for a review of progress and the addressing of any problems that remain or have emerged.