The Acceptability of a Rolling Compassion Focused Therapy Group Embedded Within an Eating Disorder Day Hospital...

Interventions embedded within eating disorder day hospital programmes are often provided on a rolling basis with flexible entry and exit points. This clinical audit examined the acceptability of one such intervention: a rolling Introduction to Compassion Focused Therapy for Eating Disorders (CFT-E) group.

Acceptability was assessed across 22 sessions, over 5 months. Using anonymous feedback forms, participants rated each session using Likert scales and open-ended responses.

Across 112 total attendances, session ratings indicated good acceptability, particularly for improving motivation, knowledge of compassion-focused principles, and personal and supportive group connections (all mean scores > 4.0). The trajectory of the mean ratings across each session also pointed to consistent and enduring acceptability. CFT-E theory (n = 62) was the most frequently reported helpful category, followed by group process factors (n = 47), and improved self-awareness (n = 9). Openness from the group, particularly regarding discussing eating disorders, was referred to in a positive light across various analyses. Some engagement issues (n = 12) were also highlighted.

The demonstrated acceptability of this rolling Introduction to CFT-E group supports its continued provision and justifies further evaluation of similar introductory, compassion-focused formats in eating-disorder services. Engagement issues offer room for improvement.