Nourish: A Framework for Nourishing Eating-Disordered Clients Using a Structural and Relational Methodology

Abstract

Abstract This article introduces an integrative framework for working with clinical disorders and maladaptive behaviors. This framework is based on the author’s experience working with eating and weight issues. The term “eating disorders” is used to refer to both undereating and overeating or obesity. Existing psychotherapy approaches to eating disorders and weight-related issues are explored, and the transactional analysis literature on eating disorders is evaluated. The author presents a framework she has found useful, which she calls Nourish. She has developed this model following heuristic research with 19 long-term clients with eating disorders and weight issues, especially anorexia nervosa, bulimia, binge eating, and obesity. This integrative, holistic framework combines classical TA theory and a relational approach to working clinically with eating and weight and focuses on supporting therapists in private practice as well as in clinical teams.