Related Experiment Video
Updated: Feb 23, 2026
A Computer-Based Platform for Aiding Clinicians in Eating Disorder Analysis and Diagnosis
Published on: May 10, 2022
Cognitive-behavioral therapy for eating disorders in primary care settings: Does it work, and does a greater dose
Charlotte Rose1, Glenn Waller2
1AWP, First Step, Primary Care Eating Disorder Service, Bristol, United Kingdom.
Objective:
This study aimed to determine whether cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) for eating disorders can be effective in a routine, primary care clinical setting, and to assess dose response.
Method:
The participants were 47 patients who commenced treatment with a publicly-funded primary care eating disorder service. They attended 7-33 sessions of individual CBT (mean = 17), using an evidence-based approach. Routine measures were collected pre- and post-therapy.
Results:
Three-quarters of the patients completed treatment. Using intention to treat analysis (multiple imputation), the patients showed substantial improvements in eating attitudes, bulimic behaviors, and depression. However, there was no association between the level of improvement and the length of therapy past the 8th to 12th session.
Discussion:
The level of effectiveness shown here is comparable to that previously demonstrated by more specialist services in secondary and tertiary care. The nonlinear association between number of sessions and recovery highlights the importance of early change, across the eating disorders.
Related Concept Videos
01:23Binge Eating Disorders
01:25Cognitive Therapy
01:22Behavior Therapy
Exposure therapy is a cornerstone of behavioral treatment for anxiety disorders. It involves systematic exposure to feared stimuli, either in real...
01:26Modeling in Therapy
Participant Modeling
Participant modeling involves therapists demonstrating calm and effective behaviors in...
01:30Electroconvulsive Therapy
01:24Treatment Strategies for Psychological Disorders
Psychological therapies focus on modifying emotions, thoughts, and behaviors through talking, interpreting, listening, rewarding, challenging, and modeling. Clinical psychologists, counselors, and social workers commonly practice psychotherapy. Clinical...