Treatment of Eating Disorders
At A Secure Base Psychological Services, we understand the complexities and challenges of eating disorders. Our comprehensive approach, led by Dr. Yanet Vanegas, provides specialized care for individuals struggling with these conditions, emphasizing family involvement and evidence-based therapies.
Eating disorders are serious mental health conditions characterized by abnormal or disturbed eating habits. Common types include:
- Anorexia Nervosa: Characterized by severe restriction of food intake, an intense fear of gaining weight, and a distorted body image.
- Bulimia Nervosa: Involves episodes of binge eating followed by compensatory behaviors such as vomiting, excessive exercise, or laxative use.
- Binge-Eating Disorder: Marked by recurrent episodes of eating large quantities of food, often quickly and to the point of discomfort, without regular compensatory behaviors.
Family Involvement in Treatment
Family involvement is crucial in the treatment of eating disorders. At A Secure Base, we incorporate family-based therapy (FBT) to support recovery:
- Family-Based Therapy (FBT): Also known as the Maudsley approach, FBT involves parents playing an active and positive role in their child's recovery. This method is particularly effective for adolescents with anorexia nervosa.
- Parental Guidance: We provide education and support for parents to help them understand the nature of the disorder and their role in the recovery process.
- Family Sessions: Regular family therapy sessions aim to improve communication, resolve conflicts, and create a supportive home environment.
What to Expect from Family-Based Therapy (FBT)
Phase 1 - Weight Restoration
In this initial phase, parents take an active and loving role in their child's eating habits to ensure they receive proper nutrition and achieve healthy weight gain. Family meals are closely monitored, with parents providing unwavering support and encouragement every step of the way, creating a safe and nurturing environment for their child's recovery.
Phase 2 - Returning Control to the Adolescent
As your child begins to demonstrate the ability to make healthy eating choices, control is gradually returned to them. This phase emphasizes continued parental support and gentle monitoring, reinforcing your child's progress and fostering a sense of accomplishment and self-efficacy.
Phase 3 - Establishing Healthy Independence
The focus shifts to addressing broader family dynamics and the adolescent's developmental tasks. Therapy aims to establish healthy family relationships and promote the adolescent's independence. This phase empowers the whole family, enhancing communication and creating a supportive home environment that nurtures long-term recovery.
What to Expect From Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy
Identifying and Challenging Negative Thoughts
In our supportive environment, patients learn to recognize and challenge the negative thoughts and distorted beliefs about food, weight, and body image that contribute to their struggles. Dr. Yanet Vanegas works closely with patients to develop healthier, more balanced thinking patterns, fostering a positive self-image and a more constructive relationship with food.
Behavioral Techniques
Our approach includes engaging in thoughtful behavioral experiments and exposure tasks designed to reduce avoidance behaviors and the anxiety associated with eating. Dr. Yanet Vanegas helps patients establish regular eating patterns and develop effective coping strategies to manage triggers and urges, all within a nurturing and non-judgmental setting.
Relapse Prevention
We understand the importance of maintaining progress and preventing relapse. Our CBT strategies, guided by Dr. Yanet Vanegas, are tailored to help patients manage stress and emotional triggers that could lead to disordered eating behaviors. Through ongoing support and skill-building, we empower patients to sustain their recovery and navigate life's challenges with confidence and resilience.
How Dr. Vanegas Can Help
At A Secure Base Psychological Services, we offer a comprehensive treatment plan tailored to each individual's needs, including:
- Personalized Therapy: Dr. Yanet Vanegas specializes in treating eating disorders using evidence-based practices such as Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Family-Based Therapy (FBT).
- Holistic Approach: We consider all aspects of a person's life, including their physical health, emotional well-being, and social environment.
- Integrated Care: Collaboration with dietitians, medical professionals, and other specialists to ensure a holistic approach to treatment.
- Telehealth Services: For convenience and accessibility, we offer secure teletherapy sessions, allowing clients to receive support from the comfort of their homes.
Additional Resources
For more information and support on eating disorders, consider the following resources:
- National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA): www.nationaleatingdisorders.org
- Academy for Eating Disorders (AED): www.aedweb.org
- Eating Disorders Anonymous (EDA): www.eatingdisordersanonymous.org
- Books:
- "Help Your Teenager Beat an Eating Disorder" by James Lock and Daniel Le Grange.
- "8 Keys to Recovery from an Eating Disorder" by Carolyn Costin and Gwen Schubert Grabb.