Adolescent Focused Therapy (AFT) for Anorexia Nervosa

New Zealand Eating Disorders Clinic

About this event

Adolescent Focused Therapy (AFT) is a manualised, empirically evaluated individual treatment for adolescent anorexia nervosa. It evolved out of Ego-Orientated Individual Therapy (EOIT); (Robin et al., 1994, 1999), which was adapted and manualised into AFT at Stanford University by Fitzpatrick, Hoste et al. It was used as the control therapy in the well-known RCT comparing this model with Family Based Treatment (FBT), (Lock, Le Grange et al. 2010).

AFT theory originates from a self-psychological model and views anorexia as a maladaptive coping mechanism used by the adolescent to manage the complex demands and transitions associated with adolescence. AFT consists of three phases of treatment spread across approximately one year. Although AFT is an individual approach it makes liberal use of separate collateral sessions with parents with the aim of engaging and educating them about anorexia.

This workshop introduces the AFT model, its theory and application. Clinicians will gain an understanding of the model and how to practically implement it into clinical practice. This training is suitable for clinicians with pre-existing knowledge of eating disorders and who are working with adolescents and young adults with a diagnosis of Anorexia Nervosa. 

The training is based on the new 2020 treatment manual for AFT.

Learning Outcomes:
• Describe the theoretical framework and evidence base of AFT, as well as clinical indicators for whom the treatment may be suited for
• Describe the developmental phases of adolescence
• Describe the treatment phases, key elements and therapeutic processes of AFT
• Describe the role of parents/family and whanau
• Demonstrate understanding of the development of the four main formulations essential to AFT

This training has been approved by NEDC as meeting the requirement of Evidence-Based Treatment Model
(AFT) training as required for the ANZAED Eating Disorder Credential.