How to Deliver Psycho-Education Effectively in Eating Disorders Treatment (Workshop)

WAEDOCS

About this event

Psychoeducation is a crucial component of all of our evidence-based treatments for eating 
disorders (EDs). Providing up-to-date psychoeducation relevant to the diagnosis or formulation 
helps patients and their families understand their illness and empowers them to make informed 
decisions about their treatment and the recovery process. 

Recent research has provided us with much more detailed information about the 
psychoeducation topics that are typically mentioned in treatment manuals. For example, we now 
have a much a greater appreciation of the effects of starvation on the brain, and an increased 
knowledge of the genetic underpinnings of EDs, neurobiology, neuroplasticity and the gut-brain 
axis. We have also developed new ways of delivering psycho-education in order to optimise its 
value for individuals and families.

In this half day workshop, we will emphasise the importance of offering comprehensive 
psychoeducation early in treatment, starting right from the assessment phase. Participants will 
update their knowledge and gain access to up-to-date resources about these key points: 

• The impact of starvation on the body and the brain
• Genetics
• Neurobiology and neuroplasticity
• The influence of the microbiome
• The limitations of relying on BMI as an indicator of health
• Why dieting does not work
• Diet culture and weight stigma
• Correcting myths and providing information about the impact of ED behaviours

In addition to this, the workshop will feature a particular focus on the “how to” of delivering 
effective psychoeducation. We will discuss, role play and practice a range of different methods 
for “getting the message across” and learn from all of the experience, new ideas and initiatives 
that participants will bring to the workshop themselves.