| Abstract: | As most psychologists are aware, there are many difficulties associated with the assessment and treatment of hospitalized individuals with eating disorders and their family members. Problems such as denial or minimization of the eating disorder, lack of motivation for change, treatment resistance, and lack of insight are common, and techniques that can diminish or eliminate these challenges are sorely needed. This article describes the clinical utility of therapeutic assessment, which is a nontraditional, collaborative approach to psychological evaluation, as an early step in overcoming assessment and treatment difficulties encountered in this population. Case examples are provided to illustrate the assessment method as a brief intervention. Possible mechanisms underlying the therapeutic effects are also discussed. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2010 APA, all rights reserved) |
