Chapter 10 - New Pathways: Applying Acceptance and Commitment Therapy to the Treatment of Eating Disorders

Abstract

The Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) is scientifically based behavioral and cognitive therapy. It is supported by a rich body of research dating back some 25 years that documents its effectiveness with disorders of experiential avoidance, disorders that are driven by a compelling urge to avoid or control unwanted internal experiences—thoughts, emotions, or sensations. A growing body of comparative studies suggests that ACT may actually be more effective than cognitive-behavioral therapy, psycho-educational approaches, and psychopharmacology in treating avoidance disorders. Newly diagnosed, medically stable patients who are not in complete denial about ED thoughts and behaviors can benefit from an ACT approach, as well as patients who have struggled long enough to recognize the time, money, energy, relationships, and life experiences that have been lost to their illness. Most of my patients desperately wish to get rid of their grinding, obsessive thoughts and preoccupation with body, food, and weight, as well as their compulsion to starve, binge, purge, or exercise.