Patients’ Experience of a Narrative Group Therapy Approach Informed by the “Tree of Life” Model for Individuals with Anorexia Nervosa

ABSTRACT

The aim of this study was to develop and evaluate a pilot group using the Tree of Life model for individuals with a diagnosis of anorexia nervosa. Qualitative feedback from patients was collected in a focus group and analyzed using thematic analysis. Four themes were identified: (1) an image to remember, share, and change, (2) constructing an alternative perspective, (3) hope, and (4) creating a sense of community. The results and their implications are discussed.

Acknowledgments

The authors would like to acknowledge Jo Bynre (lead occupational therapist) for co-facilitating the group and Dr. Jane Evans for providing clinical supervision to JI during her clinical training. KT wants to acknowledge the Swiss Anorexia Foundation for support to develop group interventions for patients with anorexia nervosa. We are also very grateful to the rest of the team who showed genuine interest in the group and the patients who took part in the group and provided feedback. We would finally like to acknowledge Dr. Jennifer House for supporting us with the editing of this article.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Jeyda Ibrahim

Jeyda Ibrahim is a Psychologist in the Parenting and Child Team at Great Ormond Street Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, and the National and Specialist Inpatient Adolescent Unit (Woodland House) in South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust. Kate Tchanturia is a Reader in Psychology of Eating Disorders at King’s College London.