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A Computer-Based Platform for Aiding Clinicians in Eating Disorder Analysis and Diagnosis
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Supporting Individuals on Eating Disorder Waitlists Through App-Based Motivational Interviewing: A Qualitative
Amané Halicki-Asakawa1, Jill Gerlof1, Emily Mayzes-Kotulla1
1Department of Psychology, UBC Okanagan Campus, Kelowna, British Columbia, Canada.
The International Journal of Eating Disorders
|October 6, 2025
Summary
A mobile app called MI-Coach: ED is feasible and acceptable for individuals with eating disorders awaiting treatment. It enhances motivation and provides accessible support during the pretreatment period.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry and Mental Health
- Digital Health Interventions
- Eating Disorder Treatment
Background:
- Individuals with eating disorders (EDs) experience significant delays in accessing formal treatment, leading to increased distress and decreased motivation.
- Limited structured interventions exist to support patients during the critical pretreatment waiting period.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the feasibility, acceptability, and perceived utility of MI-Coach: ED, a mobile application utilizing motivational interviewing principles for individuals with EDs on treatment waitlists.
Main Methods:
- A qualitative study involving semi-structured interviews with individuals with lived ED experience (n=14) and ED clinicians (n=5).
- Framework analysis was employed to synthesize themes across both participant groups.
Main Results:
- Both individuals with EDs and clinicians found MI-Coach: ED to be accessible, flexible, and relevant to recovery.
- Preliminary benefits included improved clarity on change, better goal management, and increased motivation for individuals with EDs.
- Clinicians observed similar motivational benefits for their patients experiencing treatment delays.
Conclusions:
- MI-Coach: ED demonstrates feasibility and acceptability as a digital tool for supporting individuals with EDs awaiting treatment.
- Findings inform refinements to enhance emotional safety, accessibility, and equitable use, guiding future randomized controlled trials on clinical impact.
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