“The impact of an eating disorder extends beyond the patient,” says Primary Therapist Arielle Cosgrove, LSW. “When families and loved ones are engaged in the treatment process, they have more tools to provide support, particularly after discharge. As a result, there’s a better chance of positive outcomes.”
Two different sessions are available—one targeted to families of children and adolescents, and the other for families and loved ones of adults. To protect patient privacy, staff do not disclose individual patient details during these secure, HIPAA-compliant virtual meetings.
Each week, the sessions feature a new psychoeducation topic ranging from emotion coaching to nutritional needs and medical complications. This interdisciplinary approach of the group maintains variety and provides unique perspectives. The sessions also leave plenty of time for questions and discussion.
Cosgrove recently facilitated a multifamily group discussion on emotion coaching and validation, a topic of particular importance for children and adolescents with eating disorders.
“When emotions are not discussed, they tend to be enacted through the eating disorder,” she says. “We try to help the entire family system become more comfortable with openly communicating about emotions. Modeling this behavior with consistency and confidence can in turn help patients better communicate their own emotions.”
Another benefit of the group is the opportunity to relate to shared experiences.
“The sense of relief when discussing shared experiences reduces feelings of guilt and shame and makes space for more self-compassion,” adds Cosgrove. “It’s always a moving moment when we see families recognize that they’re not alone.”