Clinical Round Table 6 - Culturally-sensitive Adaptations of Evidence-based Interventions for Eating Disorders

Recent epidemiologic studies have highlighted an increase in the prevalence of eating disorders (EDs) at a global level, with statistics revealing rates are now fairly equal across racial groups in the United States. While there is promising evidence in support of utilizing culturally sensitive interventions with racial and ethnic minorities, and recognition of the importance of considering cultural factors when providing treatment for EDs, services and guidelines for adapting evidence-based protocols are scarce. Adaptations, such as the inclusion of cultural values, flexibility in the clinician’s role, recognition of socioeconomic circumstances and adjustment of exercises to match educational levels, may  promote treatment retention, the therapeutic alliance, and perhaps even rates of recovery in vulnerable populations. This clinical roundtable aims to primarily highlight key cultural considerations and corresponding ways of adapting empirically-supported interventions to facilitate engagement in treatment and potentially enhance outcomes. The framework of two first-line treatments for EDs, specifically enhanced Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT-E) and Family Based Treatment (FBT) will be presented. The panelists will synthesize clinical and literature-based information on  the treatment of eating disorders and highlight potential challenges with overlooking crucial cultural factors. Case vignettes will be used to illustrate diverse clinical presentations, the components of the interventions, and recommended adaptations within a cultural context. Finally, this expert panel will discuss challenges, current efforts, and areas of future direction for providing culturally sensitive interventions in higher-level of care settings.