What are multidisciplinary treatments for eating disorders?

Multidisciplinary treatments

Eating disorders are complex and multifaceted which means holistic treatments are required to address these challenges. This is where multidisciplinary treatments come in and one of the reasons that they are at the forefront of progressive healthcare. 

At DBH, embracing progressive healthcare treatments not only signifies our commitment to innovative care but also offers our employees an invaluable opportunity to explore and experiment with these techniques. 

If you’re looking for a culture of continuous learning and advancement in patient care, learn about our various multidisciplinary treatments for eating disorders. 

Cognitive behavioral therapy

Cognitive behavioral therapy, or CBT, is a psychotherapeutic treatment that focuses on helping patients to identify and modify dysfunctional thoughts so they are equipped with the coping skills to deal with different situations. 

More specifically in the treatment of eating disorders, such as anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, or binge eating disorder, CBT is used to challenge behaviors related to food, body image, and self-esteem.

CBT is often integrated into a comprehensive treatment plan alongside medical care, nutritional counseling, family therapy, and other interventions. 

Exposure and response prevention

Exposure and response prevention, or ERP, is a behavioral therapy treatment that exposes patients to their fears or obsessive thoughts in a safe environment. 

ERP is most commonly used in the treatment of OCD but can be used for eating disorder patients by gradually exposing them to anxiety-provoking food situations and thoughts, starting from less distressing scenarios and advancing to more challenging ones. 

Additionally, it supports patients in gradually diminishing or abstaining from food-related rituals and behaviors, helping them cope with the anxiety stemming from not participating in these rituals.

It is important to note that we provide patient-centered care at Discovery so not all treatments are suitable for every patient. We treat patients case by case so you’ll have the opportunity to create tailored treatment plans depending on your role. 

Dialectical behavior therapy

Dialectical Behavior Therapy, or DBT, is a psychotherapy treatment that helps patients with complex and severe emotional dysregulation. 

In the treatment of eating disorders, DBT provides tools to manage distressing situations and helps patients foster healthier relationships with food, emotions, and self-perception. 

All of these multidisciplinary treatments are often part of a comprehensive treatment plan and are rarely used alone. These plans acknowledge the complexity of eating disorders and aim to address all of the different aspects that affect our patients. 

Our multidisciplinary treatment team at DBH 

We believe in the power of a multidisciplinary treatment model that integrates various specialized professionals to provide comprehensive and holistic care to our patients. 

Our therapists are an integral part of this approach, collaborating with a diverse team that includes a range of experts such as a Registered Dietitian and Psychiatrist. 

Each professional addresses the complex interplay of factors influencing eating disorders. For example, our Registered Dieticians offer their expertise in nutrition and dietetics, focusing on crafting personalized meal plans, nutritional counseling, and lifestyle adjustments tailored to meet the specific needs of each patient. 

And our Psychiatrists who specialize in diagnosing and treating mental health conditions, offer medical expertise and, when necessary, prescribe medications that can significantly aid in managing symptoms and supporting patients' mental health journeys. 

Through this comprehensive approach, we aim to optimize the overall health and well-being of our patients.

Why are multidisciplinary treatments important for eating disorders? 

Multidisciplinary treatments for eating disorders provide well-rounded and holistic care tailored to the patient's specific condition. Personalization is crucial because the needs of individuals seeking treatment can vary tremendously. 

These types of treatments consider not just the physical but also the psychological, emotional, and social aspects of a patient's health, resulting in improved outcomes and a higher quality of care. And we are committed to delivering clinical excellence that benefits our patients in the long term. 

We also regularly utilize the latest research findings to create our comprehensive, trauma-informed treatment programs. 

You’ll be in a great position to provide comprehensive and compassionate care with DBH. 

Learn more about why you should bring your career to Discovery today or sign up for job alerts to be notified when a position becomes available.