Journal of Obesity & Weight Loss Therapy
Open Access

Abstract

A considerable proportion of those with eating disorders (EDs) either relapses or fails to respond at all to standard treatments. CBT outcome studies for bulimia nervosa (BN) commonly report drop-out rates of between 20 to 40% and at follow-up typically only half of participants are abstinent. Evidence to support the effectiveness CBT for anorexia nervosa is scant (AN). Many individuals with EDs express denial over the seriousness of their illness and are highly resistant to change due to deepseated fears of weight gain, thereby interfering with compliance and motivation to change within standard treatment programs. Schema Therapy (ST) is arguably ideally suited to the treatment of eating disorders, particular for those with complexity and co-morbidity. ST is an integrative therapeutic approach developed to address entrenched interpersonal and self-identity difficulties, including personality disorder. This model addresses change not only at an intellectual/cognitive level, but also incorporates techniques which lead to emotional & behavioral change. ST techniques specifically target the rigid belief systems & high levels of avoidance characteristic of eating disorders & other complex problems that frequently interfere with progress in traditional treatments. In this paper we will present the rationale and treatment model for ST for eating disorders and describe preliminary results of recent and ongoing research trials in the field.

Biography

Email: susan_g_simpson@yahoo.com