Building and Maintaining Authentic Relationships in Eating Disorders and Body Image Therapy

By Melissa Orshan Spann

This book addresses the unique interplay of interpersonal characteristics of the clinician and client, coupled with effective treatment tools, to explore how to leverage authentic therapeutic relationships to enhance treatment outcomes.

Within the field of eating disorder treatment, authentic relationships are the cornerstone to breaking through these difficult to treat diseases. A clinician's tone, affect, physical presence, appropriate use of disclosure, and embodiment of the work impact whether a client will be receptive to care. By focusing on the therapeutic relationship, rather than focusing on the disorder, this book empowers both therapists and clients to break free from harmful cycles and destructive patterns that perpetuate disordered eating and move toward self-acceptance.

By bridging the gap between relational dynamics and evidence-based practice, this book provides invaluable insights and tools for clinicians and offers a fresh perspective on the therapeutic process, emphasizing the critical role of authentic relationships in effective treatment.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 1041062842
• ISBN13: 9781041062844
• Release Date: July 2026
• Publisher: Routledge
• Length: 260 Pages