Experiences of compassion focused therapy in eating disorder recovery: A qualitative model

Objective: This qualitative study explores participants' patterns of relating to self and others before and after attending a Compassion Focused Therapy for Eating Disorders-2 (CFT-E2) group intervention. Method: Data from semi-structured interviews conducted before (n = 13) and after (n = 9) the intervention were analysed using thematic and relational analyses. Results: Pre-intervention participants described experiencing difficult memories, identity struggles, negative self-evaluation, powerlessness to the eating disorder, emotional dysregulation and an interest in change. Participants' descriptions of CFT-E2 were broadly positive with some experiences common to group therapy approaches, such as feeling hope and trust, and some experiences specific to CFT-E2, such as the flow of compassion and knowledge in the group. Postintervention, the interviews reflect positive changes that participants experienced. Participants reported a more compassionate mentality in their relationship with themselves and others, self-belief, a sense of responsibility, stronger relationships, experiences of relinquishing control of their eating disorder and feeling less overwhelmed. Discussion: Compassion Focused Therapy for Eating Disorders-2 offers a new approach for treating self-criticism and shame for people with eating disorders. This qualitative study supports the view that this approach offers novel and generic group therapy benefits for clients.