What is an appropriate approach for treating patients with anorexia in the private practice setting?

The appropriate approach for treating patients with anorexia in a private practice setting is to help patients feel empowered by joining the nutrition team. This method emphasizes the importance of collaboration, support, and empowerment in the treatment process. By involving patients in their own care and encouraging their participation, they are more likely to feel a sense of control and agency over their recovery. This supportive environment can foster trust and allow patients to gradually explore their relationship with food and their bodies without the pressure of strict rules.

Empowerment also aligns with the principles of intuitive eating, which focus on listening to one's body, recognizing hunger and fullness cues, and cultivating a positive relationship with food. In contrast to this supportive approach, strategies that rely on strict meal planning, weighing and measuring food, or asking patients to avoid intuitive eating principles tend to reinforce feelings of restriction and control, which can be detrimental to individuals dealing with anorexia. These methods can lead to further disordered eating behaviors and do not address the underlying psychological and emotional components of the disorder. Thus, fostering a sense of empowerment is crucial in the treatment of anorexia in a private practice setting.