Dr Mallory Frayn on Acceptance and Commitment Therapy for Eating Disorders

In this episode of 'The Flex Factor,'  Dr. Mallory Frayn, who specializes in the treatment of impulse-related concerns, discusses the application of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) for treating eating disorders, an increasingly prevalent mental health issue complicated by diet culture. She explores how ACT's components—values, acceptance, distress tolerance, and mindfulness—can enhance traditional behavioral treatments like CBT by addressing the underlying emotional challenges associated with disordered eating. Dr. Frayn provides practical interventions, shares research insights, and answers questions about integrating ACT into therapy, particularly for individuals who have not responded to other treatments. The episode emphasizes the importance of a holistic, flexible approach to mental health and introduces valuable strategies for clinicians working with eating disorders.

 

00:00 Introduction to The Flex Factor Podcast

01:19 Meet Dr. Mallory Frayn

02:31 Understanding Eating Disorders

04:23 Behavioral Treatments for Eating Disorders

11:24 ACT and Its Application in Eating Disorders

16:53 Values in Eating Disorder Treatment

24:32 Acceptance and Distress Tolerance

29:05 Prioritizing Relationships Over Food Anxiety

29:54 Understanding Urge Surfing in Behavioral Therapy

30:56 Mindfulness and Acceptance in Eating Practices

32:58 Exploring Mindful Eating Techniques

34:30 Addressing Hunger and Satiety Cues

37:58 Food Exposures and Behavioral Experiments

39:51 Integrating Values, Acceptance, and Mindfulness

40:36 Q&A: Practical Applications and Research Insights

48:49 Confronting Diet Culture and Weight Bias

55:38 Closing Remarks and Future Directions