In this week’s episode of the Full of Beans Podcast, I’m joined by the incredible Dr. Amy Harrison, Clinical Psychologist, Associate Professor at UCL, and Clinical Lead at Altum Health. With over 13 years of experience across inpatient, day, and outpatient settings, Amy brings a wealth of expertise and warmth to her work supporting young people with eating disorders.

Together, we take a deep dive into Family-Based Treatment (FBT), a powerful, evidence-based approach designed to help children and adolescents recover in the community with the support of their families.

Key Takeaways

• What Family-Based Treatment (FBT) is and how it works
• Who FBT is designed for and how it supports younger individuals
• The structure and goals of FBT across different stages of treatment
• Why involving someone's family as support is central to recovery
• Debunking myths: FBT does not blame parents
• Challenges of FBT and how to navigate resistance and emotional distress
• How clinicians can get trained in FBT (including Amy’s upcoming training with Altum Health)

Timestamps:

• 06:30 – What is Family-Based Treatment (FBT)?
• 10:15 – Who FBT is suitable for (and who it may not fit)
• 13:50 – Reintegrating autonomy after initial food support
• 17:30 – Looking beyond food: feelings, systems & communication
• 22:40 – Common challenges families and clinicians face
• 27:20 – Advice for clinicians seeking FBT training
• 30:00 – The power of collaboration in recovery

Trigger warning: This episode discusses eating disorders, suicidal ideation and assisted dying.

Connect with Us:

Subscribe to the Full of Beans Podcast here

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Connect with Amy and Altum Health:

• Amy's LinkedIn
• Altum Health on LinkedIn
• Altum Health on Instagram

Read our latest blog here

Further Resources: First Steps ED

Thank you for listening and being part of this important conversation!

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Sending positive beans your way, Han 💛