5 Powerful Cognitive Behavioural Therapy Techniques to Use for Bulimia
Seeking help for eating disorders takes immense courage, so if you are starting your search, then I commend you. In this post I’ll explore how cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT) techniques can work really well for eating disorders such as bulimia.
What is cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT)?
CBT is based on the idea that how we think and what we believe can impact how we feel and behave. So, CBT helps people change their thoughts, feelings and behaviours in a positive way by first recognising how thoughts and beliefs might be impacting their feelings and behaviours.
You are then encouraged to challenge those thoughts and beliefs, examine whether they are true or helpful, and if not, change them. Over time you learn to replace the negative thoughts with those that are more constructive and lead to more positive feelings and also learn how to change how you act in different situations.
In CBT you’ll get “homework” so that you can practise new ways of thinking and doing, outside of your sessions. CBT is also goal-oriented in that it focuses on specific issues and problems – you and your coach or therapist will set clear intentions for what you want to achieve and work towards that goal.
CBT and treating eating disorders
In the context of treating eating disorders, CBT seems to be particularly effective and has been shown to be better than other therapeutic techniques such as psychoanalysis. It’s thought that the reason why CBT is so good for treating people with eating disorders is due to them having distorted thoughts and beliefs about bodies, eating and food.
CBT helps you notice these thought patterns, challenge whether they are true and then replace them with healthier beliefs. CBT also helps you address the behaviours associated with eating disorders, such as binge eating, purging, or extreme dietary restrictions. By modifying thought patterns and behaviours, CBT plays an important role in promoting a more positive and balanced approach to eating and body image. It gives people the tools to overcome various challenges and work towards lasting recovery.
So what techniques can be used, specifically?
Here, I’m sharing 5 powerful techniques, although it’s worth noting that there are many techniques that can be used and these are just a handful that I use with clients.