Understanding Eating Disorders
What Are Eating Disorders?
Eating disorders are complex mental health conditions that involve persistent disturbances in eating behaviours and related thoughts and emotions. These disorders can have serious physical and emotional impacts and often stem from a combination of genetic, psychological, and social factors.
In my practice, I offer compassionate support for individuals struggling with various eating disorders, such as anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, binge eating disorder, and other specified feeding or eating disorders (OSFED).
Common Types of Eating Disorders
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Anorexia Nervosa: Characterised by an intense fear of gaining weight, distorted body image, and significant food restriction.
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Bulimia Nervosa: Involves cycles of binge eating followed by compensatory behaviours such as vomiting, excessive exercise, or misuse of laxatives.
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Binge Eating Disorder (BED): Recurrent episodes of eating large quantities of food, often quickly and to the point of discomfort, accompanied by feelings of shame and distress.
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OSFED (Other Specified Feeding or Eating Disorders): Eating disorders that don't fit the exact criteria of other disorders but still cause significant distress.
How Therapy Can Help
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Develop healthier relationships with food and body image.
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Identify and address underlying emotional and psychological factors.
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Build effective coping strategies to manage triggers and distress.
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Foster self-compassion and challenge harmful beliefs about food and body image.
My Therapeutic Approach
I use an integrative approach to therapy, drawing on various evidence-based methods to support individuals with eating disorders, including:
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EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing) – To address trauma or distressing memories that may contribute to disordered eating patterns.
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Mindfulness and Hypnotherapy – To enhance self-awareness, reduce anxiety, and promote healthier eating habits.
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Attachment-Informed Psychotherapy and Counselling – To explore relational patterns and build a stronger sense of self.
I approach this work with empathy and compassion while providing necessary challenges to support growth and change. I prioritize repairing therapeutic ruptures if they occur and work collaboratively with clients to build trust and safety. Clients are taken on a case-by-case basis and must have a stabilised condition to engage in therapy. When needed, I work alongside GPs and psychiatrists to ensure comprehensive care.
Next Steps
If you or someone you know is struggling with an eating disorder, I am here to help. I offer a free 15-minute consultation to discuss your needs and explore potential therapeutic approaches.
Helpful Resources:
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Beat Eating Disorders: www.beateatingdisorders.org.uk
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Mind: www.mind.org.uk
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NHS Eating Disorders Support: www.nhs.uk
Recovery is possible, and you don't have to face this alone.