Family Therapy for Eating Disorders

Working towards recovery from an eating disorder is incredibly challenging. Support is necessary in the recovery process. Supporting someone through recovery is also challenging, and everyone benefits when supports can learn how best to assist their unique loved one.

These conversations around what is supportive and what can perhaps be unintentionally detrimental are difficult and sensitive. Having the guidance of a trained eating disorder professional can alleviate the anxiety around these conversations and open the gateways for helpful and effective communication and support

Family therapy is never geared towards blaming a particular member or members of a system. Everyone is more likely to benefit from an approach that is solution-focused and identifies the various strengths that each individual has to offer.

Family therapy is especially critical for clients who still live with or interact daily with their family systems, but can also be greatly beneficial across a wide range of life stages. This approach allows clients the space to use their voices in guiding their loved ones, it is a process that is often empowering not only for that individual, but for the loved ones who leave sessions knowing they are better educated in how to help.

Common Concerns:

• Rebuilding mutual trust and connection
• Identifying and working through barriers to acceptance
• Education about eating disorders and recovery
• Skills coaching for family members
• Normalizing meals and exercise as a family
• Repairing communication barriers
• Managing stress as the loved one works on their recovery
• Practicing self-care as a support provider and family member