Treating eating disorders by professionals with similar experiences: A systematic review

Although a significant number of professionals who provide eating disorder (ED) treatment have lived experience with an ED in the past, there is no consensus on whether these professionals should use these experiences in treatment. This review aims to evaluate current literature on recovered professionals with an ED past treating ED patients, unravelling advantages and disadvantages in treatment, the impact on professionals and their surroundings, and implications for practice.

A systematic literature search was conducted which included 10 articles. We analysed qualitative data through a systematic synthesis. Strength of evidence was calculated for each subtheme.

Three themes and 14 subthemes were divided into categories. The category 'treatment (patient-professional interaction)' was divided into: advantages, disadvantages and other implications for treatment. Additionally, the category 'professionals themselves' included subthemes that directly impact or relate to ED professionals: recovery as a non-linear process, the significant role of self-care and adverse feelings of professionals. Finally, the category 'work settings' included: company culture and training, supervision and professional development.

Recovered ED professionals are a promising addition to ED treatment due to the enhanced expertise of the professional. However, attention should be paid to the risk of distorted boundaries between patient and professional.