Eating disorder treatment with an integrated approach
We’re here to support you in overcoming your eating disorder
Eating disorders are complex mental health conditions that can affect people of any age, gender, culture or background. They are not a lifestyle choice or a phase, but serious illnesses that can have lasting emotional, psychological and physical consequences. However, with comprehensive treatment that addresses all aspects of the disorder, you can regain a balanced relationship with food and your body.
Care that meets you, however your eating disorder shows up
Our programmes support individuals living with a range of eating disorders
This includes:
- Anorexia nervosa
- Bulimia nervosa
- Binge eating disorder
- ARFID (Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder)
Learn more about these types of eating disorders. We also work with people who may not yet have a formal diagnosis but are struggling with disordered eating patterns, distress around food, or concerns about body image.
If eating-related thoughts or behaviours are interfering with your quality of life, it may be time to seek specialist support.
Compassionate care rooted in clinical excellence.
Guiding you through eating disorder recovery
Recovery from an eating disorder often requires support on several levels. At The London Psychiatry Centre, we use a multi-disciplinary, evidence-based approach tailored to your specific needs.
Every patient is different. Following your initial consultation and diagnosis, your care may include a combination of:
- Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT)
- CBT-E, a specialised form of CBT developed specifically for eating disorders
- Psychodynamic therapy to explore underlying emotional patterns
- Family therapy, where appropriate
- Group therapy for shared support and understanding
- Dialectical behavioural therapy (DBT) to help with emotional regulation and distress tolerance
Depending on your diagnosis, we may recommend that you undergo rTMS, a non-invasive, drug-free treatment that can complement psychotherapy in the treatment of eating disorders.
It is a neuromodulatory treatment that is pain-free, does not require sedation, and has little-to-no side effects.
In our clinical experience, rTMS can contribute to weight restoration in those with anorexia nervosa. Our systematic review also concluded that it reliably reduces cravings and urge to binge, and improves self-control and mood in those with bulimia nervosa and binge eating disorder.
You will work closely with a nutritionist to help you achieve a sustainable diet that provides the nutrients and calories your body needs. Your nutritionist will create a plan which considers any dietary restrictions (such as veganism or gluten intolerance), and can support you throughout your journey to recovery, adapting the plan to your needs as you progress.
Where required, we can refer you to other medical specialists such as an endocrinologist or cardiologist if there are physical health concerns requiring further assessment or medication.
Not all individuals with an eating disorder may need to take medication. However, in some cases, psychiatric medication (such as antidepressants or mood stabilisers) may be recommended, particularly for those with anxiety, depression, or eating-related obsessions or compulsions.
For those with physical conditions that have arisen as a result of an eating disorder, our consultants can refer patients to an appropriate specialist to obtain further care.
What your recovery journey may look like
Every person’s experience of an eating disorder is different, so treatment at The London Psychiatry Centre is always centred around the individual.
Your journey usually begins with a comprehensive psychiatric assessment. This allows us to understand your current difficulties, explore your personal and medical history, and identify any co-existing mental or physical health conditions. We also look at what treatments you may have tried before and how helpful they have been.
Following assessment, we work with you to develop a personalised treatment plan. This plan outlines the recommended therapeutic approaches, the level of support required, and clear goals for recovery.
For individuals who may benefit from rTMS, you will be assessed by Dr Zamar, who leads our rTMS protocols. He will determine the most appropriate treatment frequency, number of sessions and overall duration of therapy. During this period, you will continue to receive psychological support from our eating disorders team, ensuring that brain-based treatment and psychotherapy work alongside one another.
Throughout your care, you will have access to a range of evidence-based therapies, including CBT, CBT-E, psychodynamic therapy, family therapy, group therapy and DBT, together with ongoing psychiatric and medical monitoring.
Recovery is rarely a straight line, but with consistent, specialist support, many people find they can rebuild a healthier relationship with food, their body and themselves.
Frequently asked questions
about eating disorders
What is an eating disorder?
An eating disorder is a serious mental health condition that affects a person’s relationship with food, eating, body image and weight. It is not a lifestyle choice or a lack of willpower, but a complex illness that can have significant psychological and physical effects.
Eating disorders often develop as a way of coping with overwhelming emotions, distress or a need for control, and they commonly occur alongside other difficulties such as anxiety, depression or trauma.
Which types of eating disorders do you treat?
At The London Psychiatry Centre, we support individuals with a range of eating disorders, including anorexia nervosa; bulimia nervosa; binge eating disorder; and ARFID (Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder).
We also help people who may not yet have a formal diagnosis but are struggling with disordered eating patterns, distress around food, or preoccupation with weight and shape. If eating-related thoughts or behaviours are affecting your quality of life, specialist assessment can help clarify what is happening and what support may be most helpful.
What are the programmes available for eating disorders?
Treatment at The London Psychiatry Centre is always tailored to the individual. Following a comprehensive assessment, your consultant psychiatrist will work collaboratively with you to design a bespoke treatment plan based on our needs, symptoms and goals.
Your programme may include a combination of evidence-based psychotherapies, such as cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), CBT-E (a form of CBT specifically developed for eating disorders), psychodynamic therapy, family therapy, group therapy and dialectical behavioural therapy (DBT).
Some patients may benefit from rTMS (repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation), a non-invasive, drug-free treatment that can be helpful in complex cases.
We also provide nutritional support through specialist dietetic input, and psychiatric and medical follow-up, which may include medication where appropriate. This integrated approach allows us to address both the psychological and physical aspects of eating disorders in a coordinated way.
What are the symptoms of eating disorders?
Symptoms can vary depending on the type of eating disorder, but common signs include:
- Severe restriction of food intake or skipping meals
- Episodes of binge eating, sometimes followed by purging behaviours such as vomiting, laxative misuse or excessive exercise
- Intense fear of weight gain
- Distorted body image
- Feeling out of control around food
- Avoidance of eating with others
- Noticeable changes in weight or physical health, such as fatigue, digestive problems or menstrual changes
Who’s at risk of eating disorders?
Eating disorders can affect people of any gender, age, ethnicity or background. While they are more commonly recognised in adolescents and young adults, they can develop at any stage of life. Risk factors may include low self-esteem, perfectionism, a history of dieting, exposure to weight stigma, traumatic experiences, and co-existing mental health conditions such as anxiety or depression.
How do eating disorders affect day-to-day life?
You may find that thoughts about food, weight or body image begin to dominate your day. This can affect your relationships, your work or studies, and your sense of self-worth. Many people experience intense feelings of shame, secrecy or loss of control, which can make reaching out for help seem daunting.
Physically, eating disorders can place significant strain on the body, impacting the heart and other organs, digestive system, and hormones. Emotionally, they are often linked with anxiety, depression and trauma.
Do you also support parents, carers or other family members?
Yes. Eating disorders can have a significant impact on families and loved ones, and their involvement can be an important part of recovery. We offer support to help parents, carers and partners better understand the condition and learn how to provide helpful support at home. Our clinicians can offer family sessions where appropriate, and our nutrition professionals can work with families to ensure they feel confident in supporting meal plans and nutritional guidance in everyday life.