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Characteristics of an ideal psychotherapist for eating-disordered patients
1Eating Disorders Services, University of Iowa College of Medicine, Iowa City, Iowa, USA. arnold-andersen@uiowa.edu
Abstract:
Psychotherapy is an essential component of the treatment of eating disorders. A fully competent ideal psychotherapist needs a body of knowledge; personality characteristics of nonpossessive warmth and perseverance; training in scientific, manual-based psychotherapy; and experience, including supervision. The formal discipline of the therapist is less important than are these qualifications. Ideal means fully competent, not perfect. An ideal therapist is a crucial component in the treatment of eating-disordered patients.
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