CBT Therapy for Eating Disorders in Seattle
Cognitive behavioral therapy is an evidenced based therapy for eating disorders as well as many other conditions including depression and anxiety disorders. Grace uses CBT— including exposure and response prevention (ERP) which is the first line treatment for OCD and often co-occurs with eating disorders.
What is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)?
CBT is a more structured form of therapy that is about identifying and exploring thoughts, beliefs, behaviors and emotions in order to change unhelpful patterns of relating to oneself and the world.
Does CBT Work for Eating Disorders
Yes! CBT works for eating disorders. CBT is an important aspect of all eating disorder treatment and research shows it supports:
Binge eating disorder
Bulimia
Anorexia (including atypical anorexia)
ARFID
Unspecified & Specified Feeding and Eating Disorders
Finding a CBT & Eating Disorder Therapist in Seattle
You can find a CBT and an eating disorder therapist by filtering for both specialties on sites like psychology today or therapy den. Many therapists these days incorporate CBT alongside other modes of treatment types/styles as well (For example, I consider myself a psychodynamic therapist, but I still incorporate CBT). So if you’re looking for support challenging thoughts and behaviors but also want a therapist to go deeper— that is definitely possible. My team and courses incorporate CBT into all treatment for eating disorders as well as anxiety and depression. We do this by supporting parents, teens, and adults as they challenge: thoughts, diet culture, and body image while re-incorporating fear foods in order to live and eat more freely again.
My Body Freedom Bundle of 3 on-demand courses is based largely in CBT and ACT principles (as well as HAES!) —consider enrolling for lifelong access if you or someone you know is struggling.