Interoceptive Exposure for Adolescents With Low Weight Eating Disorders

Launched by ICAHN SCHOOL OF MEDICINE AT MOUNT SINAI · Feb 28, 2023

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is studying two different types of psychological treatments for adolescents aged 12 to 18 who are struggling with anorexia nervosa, a serious eating disorder where individuals eat very little and may lose a lot of weight. The trial compares Exposure-based Family Therapy (IE) with Family Based Therapy (FBT) to see which approach helps improve expected body weight and reduces difficulties in daily life over a 12-month period. Researchers will also look at how certain factors, like being more aware of one’s body and learning to eat without judgment, might help in recovery.

To participate in this trial, young people must be between 12 and 18 years old, speak English, and have permission from their doctor to receive outpatient care. They should be experiencing significant food restrictions and have trouble maintaining a healthy weight. However, those with certain mental health issues, such as severe mood disorders, or who are currently thinking about harming themselves, cannot join the study. If eligible, participants can expect to engage in therapy sessions that focus on their eating habits and body awareness, helping them on the path to recovery in a supportive environment.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • Aged 12-18
• • Speak English
• • Permission from pediatrician or equivalent to receive outpatient care
• • Clinically significant restriction of food intake by EDA-5 or evidence of persistent food avoidance from patient or guardians
• • Evidence of the inability to maintain greater than minimally low body weight based on BMI for age percentiles and growth trajectories
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Comorbid psychotic or bipolar disorder
• • Active suicidal ideation
• • Current substance dependence
• • Psychiatric medication initiated or dosage changes \<2 weeks from baseline
• • Major medical illness (e.g., diabetes mellitus, Crohn's disease, etc.)