Eating disorder treatment programs typically include a variety of different types of therapy designed to address a specific component of the eating disorder. Each of these therapies serves a different purpose and offers its own unique advantages. Although the specific therapies used in eating disorder treatment may vary, some of the best eating disorder treatment approaches are listed below.
1. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Cognitive behavioral therapy is one of the most common forms of therapy used in the treatment of eating disorders, as well as other conditions. This type of therapy works by helping clients identify and modify their dysfunctional thoughts, behaviors and emotions. When cognitive behavioral therapy is successful, clients are able to change the patterns of behavior that cause them problems. For example, for a client who has an eating disorder that results in part from an unrealistic body image, cognitive behavioral therapy may focus on helping the client recognize that his or her body image is inaccurate, challenge this irrational perception and change it.
2. Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT)
Dialectical behavioral therapy is another of the best eating disorder treatment options available. This type of therapy utilizes a combination of skills training and individual psychotherapy to help clients add value to their lives. Some of the skills therapists may teach in dialectical behavioral therapy sessions include regulation of emotions, interpersonal communication and mindfulness.
3. Group Therapy
Cognitive behavioral therapy and many aspects of dialectical behavioral therapy involve time spent one-on-one with a counselor. However, group therapy can also be beneficial to people who have been diagnosed with eating disorders. During group therapy sessions, people who have eating disorders are able to interact with one another, support one another and learn from one another. During these sessions, clients often feel less isolated and alone. They also have an opportunity to share their feelings and experiences with a group of people that will understand on a deeper level and will not pass judgment.
4. Experiential Therapy
Experiential therapies are alternative therapies that utilize specific experiences in the treatment of eating disorders. Some of the most common examples of experiential therapy include psychodrama, movement therapy, music therapy and art therapy. Many clients find that these alternative therapies allow them to express themselves in a different way than more traditional options.
5. Physical Therapy
Many people with eating disorders deal with physical symptoms and complications related to malnutrition or excessive exercise. The goal of physical therapy is to help clients to rebuild their strength, alleviate pain and restore the health of their bodies. Physical therapy can be useful even in cases where the client doesn’t have any specific physical problems related to his or her eating disorder.
Each of the therapies above offers a different set of benefits, so it isn’t necessary to choose just one type of therapy. In fact, the best eating disorder treatment facilities offer a combination of treatments to meet the needs of their clients. Treatment programs at these facilities are typically customized to ensure every client is participating in the most effective treatment program possible.
Monte Nido offers many therapy options. Both day treatment and residential treatment structures are available at our facilities. We also have several convenient locations all across the country. Please contact us today to learn more.