Assessments for Eating Disorders
Learn About the Eating Disorders Assessment Process
The Assessment Process
At ACEDS, we understand that seeking help for an eating disorder can feel overwhelming. That’s why we’ve designed our assessment process to be as welcoming and reassuring as possible, ensuring that you feel supported and understood from the moment you reach out to us.
Phase 1
Getting to Know You Initial Contact
When you contact us, we’ll briefly discuss your needs and concerns. This conversation helps us determine the best starting point for your assessment, whether it’s with a dietitian or a psychological therapist.
We will then start with scheduling Your Assessment, by finding a time that works for you to come in for your assessment. This can be in person or online, depending on your preference and location
Phase 2
Meeting Your Practitioner
Depending on your initial discussion, your first meeting will be with either a dietitian or a psychological therapist. During this meeting, you will discuss your eating habits, behaviours, and any psychological factors contributing to your situation. This is a judgment-free zone where your comfort and safety are our top priorities. We will cover:
- Your History and Goals: We’ll talk about your history, and most importantly, what you hope to achieve.
- Assessment Tools: We may use questionnaires or other tools to help us get a clearer picture of your needs.
- Finally, we’ll outline and discuss your treatment plan.
Phase 3
Treatment Plan
Based on the assessment, we’ll propose a treatment plan tailored just for you. This plan will consider your personal goals, preferences, and any specific concerns you might have. Your comfort and trust in your treatment plan are paramount. We’re here to adjust and adapt as needed.
Phase 4
Ongoing Support
Regular Check-ins and ongoing Therapeutic Support.
Whether you start with dietary changes, therapy sessions, or both, we’ll schedule regular sessions to monitor your progress and adjust your plan as needed.
Our team approach ensures that you have access to the support you need, when you need it, including resources, group sessions, and one-on-one care.
One in three people with eating disorders also struggle with ADHD and ASC.
Eating Disorder Assessment Diagnosis Criteria are used by practitioners to identify different types of eating disorders. These criteria are essential for ensuring that individuals receive appropriate treatment.
The most widely used criteria come from the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), which outlines specific symptoms and behaviours associated with various eating disorders, such as Anorexia Nervosa, Bulimia Nervosa, Binge-Eating Disorder, ARFID, orthorexia and others.
Key components of these criteria include:
1. Behavioural Patterns: These involve eating habits, such as restriction of food intake, binge eating, or purging behaviours (e.g., vomiting, excessive exercise).
2. Psychological Factors: This includes the individual’s preoccupation with body weight, shape, or size, as well as a distorted body image or intense fear of gaining weight.
3. Physical Symptoms: Significant weight loss or gain, changes in menstrual cycles, or other health issues related to malnutrition or overconsumption of food are considered.
4. Duration and Impact: The duration of these behaviours and their impact on the individual’s physical health, mental well-being, and daily life are also crucial in making a diagnosis.
You are not alone
Remember, this journey is about you, but you’re not on it alone. Our team is here to guide, support, and walk with you every step of the way. If you have any questions or concerns about the assessment process or anything else, please don’t hesitate to reach out.