Understanding Family-Based Treatment: What It Is and How It Can Help Your Child or Teen Overcome Eating Disorders

Eating disorders in children and teens are complex and challenging conditions that can profoundly affect their physical and emotional well-being. Family-Based Treatment (FBT), also known as the Maudsley Approach, is a highly effective method that has gained recognition for its success in treating these disorders. In this blog post, we’ll explore what Family-Based Treatment is, why it’s effective, and how you can support this approach to help young people struggling with eating disorders.

What Is Family-Based Treatment (FBT)?

Family-Based Treatment (FBT) is a structured therapy that actively involves the entire family in the treatment process. Developed at the Maudsley Hospital in the UK, FBT has proven successful in treating adolescents with anorexia nervosa and has been adapted for other eating disorders, including bulimia nervosa and binge eating disorder.

Rather than viewing the family as part of the problem, FBT considers the family to be a critical component of the solution. By involving family members in the treatment process, FBT utilizes their support to aid the child or teen’s recovery. This method has shown promising results due to its focus on family involvement, structured phases, and evidence-based practices.

How Family-Based Treatment Works

FBT is divided into three distinct phases, each with specific goals designed to address different aspects of the eating disorder.

Phase 1: Refeeding

The first phase of FBT focuses on refeeding the child or teen and restoring their physical health. This phase is crucial as it addresses the immediate health risks associated with eating disorders, such as malnutrition and severe weight loss. Parents play an active role in managing their child’s eating habits, ensuring they consume adequate nutrition, and preventing harmful behaviors like purging or excessive exercise.

During this phase, therapists work closely with the family to provide guidance and support, helping them navigate the challenges of managing their child's eating and ensuring they adhere to the treatment plan. This stage is critical in stabilizing the child’s physical condition and laying the foundation for further recovery.

Phase 2: Gradual Return to Independent Eating

Once the child’s physical health has improved, the focus shifts to fostering independence in eating. During this phase, parents gradually allow their teen more control over their food choices in a way that is appropriate for their age and stage of recovery. The goal is to support the development of flexible eating habits while continuing to provide guidance and support.

It’s important to note that setbacks may occur during this phase, and parents might need to temporarily retake responsibility for food to address these challenges. Recovery is often a non-linear process, and occasional setbacks are a normal part of the journey.

Phase 3: Establishing Autonomy and Relapse Prevention

The final phase of FBT focuses on preventing relapse and ensuring long-term recovery. This phase involves developing strategies to manage potential setbacks and maintain healthy behaviors. The therapist continues to support the family as they integrate the skills and strategies learned during treatment into their daily lives. This phase also includes addressing any other mental health issues that may have emerged and ensuring that the child or teen can independently manage their eating behaviors.

The goal of this phase is to help the child or teen achieve long-term stability and autonomy in their eating habits while providing the family with the tools and confidence to support ongoing recovery.

FBT’s effectiveness can be attributed to several key factors:

Active Family Involvement

Empowerment of Parents

Structured and Phased Approach

Focus on Restoration and Independence

Evidence Supporting Family-Based Treatment

FBT’s success is well-documented in research. Studies indicate that approximately 50-60% of teens with anorexia nervosa achieve full remission after one year of FBT. Furthermore, about 75-90% of patients are fully weight-restored at a five-year follow-up. These statistics underscore FBT’s effectiveness in treating eating disorders and supporting long-term recovery. The substantial evidence supporting FBT highlights its role as a leading treatment option for adolescents with eating disorders.

Moving Forward Together

Family-Based Treatment offers a comprehensive and promising approach to treating eating disorders in children and teens. By involving the family, providing structured support, and focusing on both immediate and long-term goals, FBT addresses the complexities of these disorders effectively.

Reach Out for Help Today

If your family is facing the challenges of an eating disorder, seeking professional help is essential. Our dedicated team of FBT therapists is here to provide the support and guidance you need throughout the recovery process. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and take the first step towards healing and well-being for your child and family.

To learn more about how Family-Based Treatment can benefit your family and to schedule a session, contact us today. We are here to offer the support and expertise you need to navigate this challenging time and work towards a healthier future together. Learn more about evidence based treatment for eating disorders in-person in Mount Pleasant and virtually anywhere in South Carolina.

Family-Based Treatment (FBT): A Comprehensive Approach to Eating Disorders in Children and Teens