Adolescent-Focused Therapy for Anorexia Nervosa

Book excerpt: From pioneering family-based treatment developer James Lock, this is the first comprehensive guide to adolescent-focused therapy (AFT) for anorexia nervosa (AN), an evidence-based individual approach. AFT is an effective alternative to family-based treatment that may be a better fit for some patients. Lock explains how AN serves as a maladaptive response to developmental challenges of adolescence. He presents a manualized framework for helping adolescents find more adaptive coping strategies, manage difficult emotions, and develop greater autonomy and a stronger sense of self, while reducing risky behaviors and restoring weight. AFT emphasizes the therapist–patient alliance and involves parents in a supportive role. Rich case material and sample dialogues illustrate how to implement each phase of the approach. AFT is recognized as a best practice for the treatment of anorexia nervosa in adolescents by the U.K. National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE).