SERVICES
Eating Disorder Support.
Our dietitian’s play a crucial role in the recovery process for those who are living with an eating disorder. Our dietitian work in collaboration with the person living with an eating disorder and their family or carer gives through providing nutritional guidance and support.
Our dietitians also work collaboratively with the individual and the rest of the treatment team, including therapists, psychologists, and medical professionals. Our dietitians work through a Health at Every Size® (HAES®) lens and are weight-inclusive promoting improved health behaviours, body image and self-compassion for all populations regardless of size.
- Initial Dietitian $170.00 (1 hour)
- Review $110.00 (30 mins)
Our dietitian’s play a crucial role in the recovery process for those who are living with an eating disorder. Our dietitian work in collaboration with the person living with an eating disorder and their family or carer gives through providing nutritional guidance and support.
Our dietitians also work collaboratively with the individual and the rest of the treatment team, including therapists, psychologists, and medical professionals. Our dietitians work through a Health at Every Size® (HAES®) lens and are weight-inclusive promoting improved health behaviours, body image and self-compassion for all populations regardless of size.
- Initial Dietitian $170.00 (1 hour)
- Review $110.00 (30 mins)
HOW WE DO THINGS
Practice Approaches.
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT-E)
Our dietitian incorporates principles of CBT into their practice to help the individual develop a healthier mindset and behaviours related to food and body image. and Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is often incorporated into their treatment plan. CBT is an evidence-based psychotherapy approach that focuses on identifying and changing negative thought patterns and behaviours. When applied to eating disorders, CBT aims to reshape the persons relationship with food, body image, and overall eating behaviours.
Here’s how our dietitian use CBT therapy for eating disorder recovery:
The dietitian initially assesses the individual’s eating habits, attitudes towards food, and body image concerns. They may also evaluate the person’s nutritional needs, health and medical stability.
The dietitian educates the person about the principles of CBT and how it relates to the recovery process. They explain how negative thoughts, beliefs, and behaviours contribute to the development and maintenance of eating disorders.Accordion Content
The dietitian helps the individual identify triggers, such as certain foods, situations, or emotions, that lead to disordered eating behaviours. They also assist in recognizing maladaptive thought patterns, such as distorted body image or an unhealthy focus on diets and weight.rdion Content
With the person living with an Eating Disorder, the dietitian addresses irrational or negative thought patterns related to food, body image, and self-worth. They guide the person in challenging and replacing these thoughts with healthier, more adaptive beliefs that support recovery.
The dietitian, in collaboration with the person, gradually exposes them to feared or triggering foods, situations, or thoughts. This process helps the person build resilience and develop coping mechanisms to resist engaging in disordered eating behaviours.
The dietitian assists the individual in making practical changes to their eating patterns, promoting balanced and regular meals and snacks. They guide meal planning, and provide guidance on intuitive eating, aiming to rebuild a healthy relationship with food.
The dietitian creates in collaboration with the person a suitable meal plan or structure that align with the individual’s nutritional needs, preferences, and recovery goals. They ensure a variety of foods and work to modify any excessive restriction or binging behaviours. Our dietitians work through a practice informed approach known as RAVES (Regular, Adequate, Variety, Eating spontaneity) as a supportive framework for a person’s recovery.
The dietitian collaborates with the person to develop strategies for maintaining progress and preventing relapse. They provide ongoing support, monitoring, and guidance to help the person transition toward long-term sustainable recovery.
By incorporating CBT principles into their practice, the dietitian helps individuals with eating disorders challenge and change their disordered thoughts and behaviours, fostering a healthier relationship with food and body image. This collaborative approach ensures a comprehensive and holistic recovery journey for the individual.
Family Based Treatment (Maudsley Method) (FBT)
Our dietitians also are informed in Family-Based Therapy (FBT) for eating disorder recovery. FBT, also known as the Maudsley Approach, is an evidence-based treatment for adolescents with eating disorders. It involves the active involvement of the entire family to support the recovery process. The primary goal of FBT is to help parents or caregivers take charge of refeeding their child and restoring their weight.
In the context of FBT, the dietitian works closely with the family to provide education, guidance, and support regarding nutritional rehabilitation and meal planning. Here are a few key aspects of the dietitian’s role in FBT
The dietitian conducts an initial nutritional assessment to evaluate the individual’s dietary habits, nutritional status, and specific needs. This assessment helps determine the appropriate calorie and nutrient requirements for the refeeding process.
The dietitian educates the family about the importance of regular and balanced meals in the recovery of their loved one. They provide guidance on meal planning, portion sizes, and the inclusion of various food groups. The dietitian may help create meal plans that gradually increase the caloric intake to meet the individual’s nutritional needs.
The dietitian serves as a coach and support system for the family. They help parents develop effective strategies to handle resistance, challenges, and any negative behaviours during meals. The dietitian guides them in managing mealtime stress and implementing structure and consistency.
Individuals with eating disorders often develop fear and avoidance of certain foods. The dietitian helps families gradually reintroduce these fear foods, ensuring they feel supported and guided throughout the process. The dietitian may use exposure therapy techniques to help the individual face and overcome their fears regarding specific foods.
The dietitian works collaboratively with other members of the treatment team, including therapists, physicians, and psychiatrists. They share information and provide updates on the individual’s progress, challenges, and any concerns related to their nutritional well-being.
As the individual progresses in their recovery journey, the dietitian helps the family transition from structured meal plans to normalizing food choices and restoring independence. The dietitian provides ongoing guidance and support for long-term maintenance, promoting a healthy relationship with food and body.
Overall, the dietitian in FBT plays a crucial role in educating and empowering parents or caregivers to take an active role in refeeding and promoting healthy eating behaviours. Their expertise and guidance contribute to the successful recovery of the individual affected by the eating disorder within the supportive framework of the family.
Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT)
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) is a form of psychotherapy that has been used in the treatment of eating disorders by dietitians and other mental health professionals. ACT focuses on helping individuals develop mindfulness skills, increasing their psychological flexibility, and promoting values-based actions.
ACT for eating disorders involves helping individuals develop a more accepting and compassionate attitude towards their thoughts, emotions, and bodily sensations related to food and body image. This involves mindful eating practices, where individuals learn to tune into their physical hunger and fullness cues, as well as their emotional and psychological experiences with food.
Additionally, ACT helps individuals identify their personal values, such as health, balance, and vitality, and encourages them to take committed actions that align with these values. This may involve setting specific goals for their eating behavior, engaging in regular physical activity, and practicing self-care.
Dietitians who use ACT for eating disorders work collaboratively with their clients to create a supportive and non-judgmental therapeutic environment. By combining nutritional expertise with ACT principles, dietitians can help individuals develop a healthier relationship with food, body image, and themselves.
It is important to note that ACT is just one of many therapeutic approaches used in the treatment of eating disorders, and its effectiveness can vary depending on individual circumstances and needs. It is recommended for individuals with eating disorders to seek comprehensive treatment that may include medical, psychological, and nutritional support.
Get in touch.
Our team of experienced nutritionists and dietitians are here to help and would love to hear from you.
