Factors Influencing the Utilization of Empirically Supported Treatments for Eating Disorders

Abstract

This study expands upon previous research investigating the use of empirically supported treatments (ESTs) for eating disorders by surveying a large sample of clinicians who specialize in treating eating disorders. Surveys developed for this study were sent to 698 members of a large, professional, eating disorder organization who were listed as treatment providers on the organization's website. Despite clinicians reporting frequently using CBT techniques, most identified something other than CBT or IPT as their primary approach to treatment. In contrast with previous research, the majority had received prior training in the use of manual-based treatments. However, consistent with previous investigations, most denied regular use of such treatments. Although manual-based CBT and IPT are referred to as “treatments of choice,” professional clinicians in the field are not consistently using them. Responses suggest several barriers to the utilization of ESTs in practice.

Notes

*This article is based on the masters thesis of the first author. Portions of this research were presented at the annual conference of the Eating Disorder Research Society in Toronto, Ontario, September, 2005.

Academy for Eating Disorders (2005). Mission statement and membership directory. http://www.aedweb.org/public/results.cfm. Retrieved September 2004 from http://www.aedweb.org.