Eating disorders are complex conditions that can significantly impact one’s physical, psychological, and emotional well-being.
Since the majority of eating disorders are multi-faceted illnesses, using a multidisciplinary care team approach is the most effective way to treat them. This is when a group of healthcare professionals with varying expertise work together to help treat all symptoms of the eating disorder, essentially fighting it from every angle.
Let’s talk more about what a treatment team entails, the different roles your treatment team may consist of, and why each of their contributions is important in recovering from an eating disorder.
What Is a Treatment Team in Eating Disorder Recovery?
A treatment team in eating disorder recovery refers to a group of healthcare professionals with diverse expertise who collaborate to provide comprehensive care for individuals struggling with eating disorders.
Team members work together to address all physical, psychological, nutritional, and emotional symptoms to create an individualized treatment plan that meets the person’s unique needs, challenges, and goals in recovery.
The overarching goal of the treatment team is to provide integrated care that supports the individual in achieving physical and mental well-being, developing a healthy relationship with food, and promoting sustained recovery from the eating disorder.
What Does a Treatment Team Consist Of?
An eating disorder treatment team is a multidisciplinary group of healthcare professionals who work collaboratively to address the complex physical and psychological aspects of eating disorders. The composition of the team may vary based on the severity and specific needs of the individual, but it often includes the following members:
- Primary Care Physicians
Primary care physicians (PCPs) are critical in monitoring the individual’s overall health, conducting physical exams, and managing any medical complications resulting from the eating disorder. Physical monitoring may include blood work, vital signs, and other tests or procedures to ensure the individual’s physical health and well-being.
Due to issues like weight stigma in the healthcare field, it’s critical to find a primary care physician who is specialized or highly educated in the treatment of eating disorders to receive the best possible care.
- Psychiatrists
Psychiatrists assess and treat the psychological aspects of the eating disorder, including co-occurring mental health conditions such as, but not limited to depression, anxiety, or obsessive-compulsive disorder. When necessary, they may prescribe medication to help individuals manage their symptoms.
Just like all other members of the treatment team, psychiatrists collaborate with other team members to provide the most comprehensive care plan. An ED-specialized or informed psychiatrist is essential, as medication efficacy, risks, and benefits are different for patients struggling with potential nutritional deficiencies.
- Therapists
Having an individual therapist in eating disorder treatment is essential for patients to address the underlying emotional and psychological factors contributing to the eating disorder. Various therapeutic modalities may be employed, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), and family therapy. Therapy also provides a safe space for individuals to address their concerns and develop necessary coping skills to help them succeed along their recovery journey.
- Dietitians or Nutritionists
Registered dietitians or nutritionists are essential in evaluating an individual’s current nutritional status and thoughts and behaviors regarding eating. They help design and oversee a personalized nutrition plan to help individuals restore physical health and normalize eating behaviors.
Similar to other treatment team members, an ED-specialized or informed dietitian or nutritionist is essential for educating individuals on proper nutrition and guiding them to develop a healthy relationship with food.
- Other Members of a Treatment Team
Other potential treatment team members may vary depending on the person’s individual needs. In some instances, individuals will work with a case manager or care coordinator who ensures the treatment plan runs accordingly, connects individuals with providers, and gives beneficial community resources.
Family therapy can also be an effective technique in eating disorder recovery, especially for children, adolescents, and even young adults. Not only will this help the person’s support system become educated about what they’re going through, but it also helps the individual develop and employ necessary coping skills used daily throughout recovery.
Eating disorder support groups are another essential part of many people’s recovery journey. Our RecoVERY Community is a safe space for individuals to connect and gain support in their recovery, as well as gain valuable resources and psychoeducation regarding eating disorder treatment.
Some individuals in recovery may also work with an occupational therapist, physical therapist, or other healthcare professionals to meet their unique needs.
Note: It is necessary for all members of your treatment team to be educated and knowledgeable about treating the complex physical and psychological components of eating disorders. Otherwise, you may receive misinformation or harmful advice rooted in outdated eating disorder misconceptions.
Why a Treatment Team in Recovery Is Important
An eating disorder treatment team is crucial to recovery due to the complexity and severity of these conditions. Research shows that a multidisciplinary approach ensures the most comprehensive care, addressing all medical, nutritional, and mental health needs.
Each team member brings specialized knowledge and skills, such as medical expertise, psychological insight, nutritional guidance, and therapeutic support. Their collective expertise and collaborative approach help to address the multi-faceted nature of eating disorders, promoting a more thorough and successful recovery process.
Furthermore, the individualization of treatment plans created by all members of the team allows for more personalized plans of action tailored to the individual’s unique needs and challenges. This individualization also enhances the effectiveness of interventions and relapse prevention.
Goals of Eating Disorder Treatment
Goals are often an integral part of eating disorder treatment for several reasons including monitoring one’s progress, having a direction or purpose, and defining focus in treatment, among many others. While specific goals may vary based on the individual’s unique needs and the severity of the disorder, common objectives often include:
- Nutritional stabilization: Establishing regular and balanced eating patterns, promoting a healthy relationship with food, and providing nutritional education to support healthy long-term eating habits.
- Improving emotional well-being: Identifying and addressing underlying psychological issues contributing to the eating disorder, developing helpful coping mechanisms to manage triggers, and enhancing self-esteem and body image.
- Behavior changes: Challenging disordered eating behaviors, establishing and maintaining healthy eating habits, and addressing harmful exercise patterns.
- Relapse prevention: Equipping individuals with tools to recognize and manage triggers and providing ongoing support and resources for sustained recovery.
- Social functioning: Addressing social isolation, improving relationships with loved ones, and encouraging participation in social activities.
Taking the First Steps Into Eating Disorder Recovery
Taking the first steps into eating disorder recovery can feel nerve-wracking, especially if you’ve been dealing with it alone for some time. However, finding the right support team is the best way to fight the disorder head-on and make your way toward a lasting, successful recovery. Always remember: Your well-being is worth every step forward.
If you or a loved one is exhibiting signs of disordered eating or struggling with an eating disorder, don’t wait to reach out for help. Schedule a free consultation to learn more about how VERY can help you take the first steps into a lasting recovery.
