Eating disorders involve a complex array of symptoms including concerns about weight, shape, and caloric intake. The disorders also include problems in interpersonal and emotional regulation. There are currently empirically supported interventions for eating disorders, namely CBT and interpersonal therapy. At ICBTR, we rely on a combined CBT and interpersonal approach. Specifically, the CBT interventions reduce the risks associated with acute eating problems, and interpersonal treatment helps promote long-term improvement. Two of the most well known eating disorders are:

Bulimia Nervosa: This condition involves extreme concerns with weight and body shape, and typically is associated with alternating periods of binging and food restriction and/or purging. While it is commonly associated with purging, many individuals with bulimia do not purge, but instead follow binges with prolonged periods of calorie restriction. Many individuals with bulimia report feelings of guilt and anxiety following binge episodes. Binges are defined as a period of very large caloric intake (often two to three times that consumed during a normal meal) with a corresponding feeling of being 'out of control.'

Anorexia Nervosa: As with bulimia, individuals with anorexia nervosa struggle with weight and body shape concerns. Binge episodes may also occurr. However, individuals with anorexia show obvious signs of extreme weight loss. Further, with greater weight loss, it becomes increasingly difficult to rely on traditional psychotherapy for treatment. Traditional psychotherapy often uses metaphors and abstract concepts to promote behavioral change. However, with greater weight loss, there is a sharp increase in rigid patterns of thinking, making abstract reasoning impaired. Therefore, particularly during acute periods of anorexia, it is essential that treatment consist of highly structured and focused interventions. Once weight can be maintained at a safe level, then interventions that rely on traditional cognitive behavioral procedures may be applied.