Bulimia Nervosa
WHAT IS BULIMIA?
Bulimia nervosa is an eating disorder in which people binge eat at least once a week for three months, engage in compensatory behaviours to try and prevent weight gain, and judge themselves based on their weight and/or shape. Bingeing is when one eats a large amount of food (family bag of crisps / large bar of chocolate / loaf of bread) in a short space of time, whilst experiencing a sense of loss of control (feeling unable to stop). The compensation can take a number of forms: purging (vomiting / taking laxatives) or dieting/skipping meals/exercising in an attempt to compensate for the binge. When people use dieting or exercise to compensate for bingeing, it is called “non-purging bulimia nervosa”. Sometimes people experience a sense of loss of control over eating, despite not eating a large amount of food. This may be “subjective binge eating” which can still cause of a lot of distress and requires treatment - although this is more likely to fall under the diagnosis of OSFED (Other Specified Feeding or Eating Disorder).
WHAT MAINTAINS BULIMIA?
Those struggling with bulimia are often trapped in a highly distressing cycle of unhealthy eating behaviours, with both physiological factors (hunger) and psychological factors (stress, guilt, shame or low mood) feeding into the bingeing. Because of the compensatory behaviours, people with bulimia nervosa are typically in the healthy weight range, although frequent large binges can cause weight gain. However, as with other eating disorders, people with bulimia are likely to experience high levels of body dissatisfaction and often have a strong desire to lose weight. Bulimia nervosa can also be associated with depression, low self-esteem, binge-drinking or self-harm.
WHAT TREATMENT IS BEST?
Effective treatment for bulimia nervosa needs to target both the physiological and emotional triggers, as well as the underlying causes. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy is known to be the most effective treatment for bulimia nervosa and so is most commonly recommended by our clinicians. Other helpful treatments could include Family Based Therapy (especially for children or adolescents) or DBT.
Specialist Team
The London Centre comprises specialist health professionals trained in evidence-based treatments for eating disorders. The team include:
Psychiatrists
Clinical Psychologists
Counselling Psychologists
Trainee Psychologists
Occupational Therapists
Dietitians
Family/Couple Therapists
Diverse Treatment Options
The clinic's specialist nature and the experience of its team also enable the offering of a wide variety of treatment approaches and therapies. The clinics offer both in-person and remote consultations.Personalised Care
At the London Centre, we believe it's important to align our patients with both the right clinician and the appropriate treatment. While we ensure the use of evidence-based therapies we also ensure taking the time to listen to client preferences. This approach enables us to find the therapist and approach that best suits your needs.Testimonials
How it works
Our team conducts a comprehensive evaluation, leveraging the expertise of multiple specialists, to ensure that our treatment is effective and tailored to your personal recovery.
Step 1
Contact Us
Before making an appointment you can contact us with any questions you might have via phone, email or by using our online contact form. Your first contact will more than likely be with Kerry, our wonderful PA.Step 2
Assessment
Before the initial session, clients are requested to complete a brief questionnaire regarding their current circumstances, preferences, and availability for appointments. While not mandatory, this information assists us in matching individuals with the most suitable clinician.Step 3
First Session
Following the assessment, clients will have a session to discuss their recommended treatment plan. A start date will be agreed upon, and arrangements will be made for an initial session.Featured
FAQs
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The fees do vary depending on, which clinician you see. For a full summary of our fees, what health insurance company policies we accept, and details about making payments please click the link. (https://www.thelondoncentre.co.uk/fees)
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Our Team PA, Kerry, is available to answer any questions you may have prior to booking an assessment. If you would like to discuss treatment options or have a general conversation prior to booking, you are able to schedule a call with Mini Jones, our Clinic Lead who is always happy to discuss any questions or concerns. For further information, or to request a call back, please click the link provided to get in touch via email, phone, or through our online contact form.(https://www.thelondoncentre.co.uk/book-an-appointment)
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It is important to note that we do have a 24 hour cancellation policy on all booked appointments. Any cancellations received within 24 hours remain fully charged.
We request payment for an initial assessment appointment in advance of your appointment, which you can make over the phone using a debit or credit card or via the secure payment link sent to you with your invoice. For any further treatment sessions, and unless covered by private health insurance, we will invoice you sessionally which is payable upon receipt, however, we offer a maximum 30-day period in order to receive payment.
All appointment reminders will be sent to you via our client management system ‘Cliniko’ - notifications@cliniko.com please do add this email address to your inbox contacts to ensure all communications are received promptly. -
Therapy is most effective when a series of appointments tailored to your individual requirements can be established. The NICE guidelines are between 20-40 appointments but we are guided by our clients depending on their needs, preference, and motivation to adopt change. We will always remain flexible to accommodate your preferences.