Eating Disorders

Eating disorders can affect a person’s relationship with food, their body, and their overall wellbeing. They often involve distress around eating, weight, or body image, and may impact mental health, relationships, and daily life. 

At Psychwest, our psychologists provide evidence-based therapy for adolescents and adults experiencing eating disorders or disordered eating. We work collaboratively with clients to help them develop a healthier relationship with food, their body, and themselves. 

Eating disorders can present in many different ways. Some individuals may restrict their food intake, while others may experience binge eating, strong body image distress, or ongoing preoccupation with food and weight. Therapy focuses on understanding these patterns and building practical skills to support recovery. 

Our psychologists can support individuals experiencing: 

  • Anorexia Nervosa

  • Bulimia Nervosa

  • Binge Eating Disorder

  • Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID)

  • Disordered eating patterns

  • Body image concerns

  • Shame or anxiety related to food and body image 

Eating disorders are often connected with other emotional experiences such as anxiety, perfectionism, shame, identity concerns, and difficulties managing overwhelming emotions. Psychological therapy can help individuals understand these patterns and develop new ways of coping. 

Evidence-Based Treatment Approaches

Our psychologists use established, evidence-based approaches for eating disorder treatment, including: 

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy for Eating Disorders (CBT-E)

A structured treatment that helps individuals identify and change the thoughts and behaviours that maintain eating disorders. 

Family-Based Treatment (FBT)

An evidence-based approach for adolescents, where parents or caregivers are supported to help their child restore healthy eating patterns. 

Specialist Supportive Clinical Management (SSCM)

A collaborative approach that focuses on restoring eating patterns while addressing the emotional and psychological challenges that often accompany eating disorders. 

Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) Skills

DBT skills can help individuals develop strategies for managing intense emotions, tolerating distress, and improving relationships. 

Inclusive and Affirming Support 

We recognise that eating disorders and body image concerns can intersect with experiences of identity development, gender identity, and diverse sexualities. Our psychologists aim to provide a supportive and affirming space for individuals navigating LGBTQIA+ experiences, identity exploration, neurodivergence, shame, and anxiety. 

How We Help

At Psychwest, our psychologists take the time to understand your individual experiences and goals. Therapy is tailored to your needs and may focus on: 

  • Building a healthier relationship with food

  • Improving body image and self-esteem

  • Developing skills for managing emotions

  • Reducing eating disorder behaviours

  • Supporting identity exploration and self-understanding 

Looking for an Eating Disorder Psychologist in Perth?

Psychwest has psychologists available who are experienced in supporting individuals with eating disorders and disordered eating. 

To find out more about visiting us for eating disorder treatment, we welcome you to get in touch with our team today to find the best psychologist for you, discuss fees and rebates, and book a session.