What we’re about
This support group will serve as a compassionate and empowering environment for parents and family members of individuals struggling with an eating disorder. As the therapist, I will facilitate meaningful conversations that foster understanding, empathy, and practical support among participants. The group will meet regularly to discuss experiences, share challenges, and explore effective strategies for supporting their loved ones while also maintaining their own well-being.
Throughout these sessions, I will introduce fundamental skills from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). For instance, family members will learn about identifying and reshaping unhelpful thought patterns (CBT) that may arise in high-stress situations, such as guilt, fear, or hopelessness. Additionally, I will guide participants in DBT techniques, such as mindfulness practices, emotion regulation skills, and distress tolerance strategies, equipping them to remain calm and compassionate during difficult interactions.
Medication management education will also be incorporated into the group, ensuring that families understand the importance of medical and psychiatric support when appropriate. This will include discussing the role of medication when treating an eating disorder, how to recognize and respond to side effects, and collaborating with healthcare professionals to support their loved ones’ comprehensive treatment plans.
Ultimately, this support group aims to provide a space for family members to feel validated, learn practical coping mechanisms, and foster a community of mutual encouragement and understanding.