How are eating disorders assessed and diagnosed?

 ​​Many people struggle with disordered eating, body image concerns, and excessive exercise. Very few can escape the social and cultural pressure to achieve an "ideal look," whatever that may be. Your beliefs and behaviors may differ from "traditional symptoms," but that is perfectly normal and does not mean you are not struggling. When assessing the level of treatment needed, I begin by conducting a comprehensive interview using the Eating Disorder Questionnaire (EDQ), the Clinical Impairment Assessment (CIA), and the Cross-Cutting Symptom Questionnaire (CCSM). We then use a Cultural Formulation Interview (CFI) to ensure the cultural relevance of symptoms and behaviors, including all intersecting identities. Lastly, I review the DSM-5-TR diagnosis criteria with you to be sure you feel the diagnosis is correct. For those who do not meet the full criteria for a diagnosis, we still work together to create a personalized treatment plan and work toward the recovery and change you want to achieve. Note: As a Health at Every Size and Body Acceptance advocate, I do not focus on weight loss as a treatment goal.