The Use of Acceptance Commitment Therapy for Eating Disorders to be Addressed at 2013 iaedp Symposium

PEKIN, Ill., Feb. 15, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- The goal for treating eating disorders is behavior change.  There are many treatments for achieving changes in behavior, but many, such as Craig Johnson, PhD, FAED, F.iaedp, CEDS, believe the most effective is Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT).  Dr. Johnson will present his session on the history, goals and processes of ACT at the 27^th annual iaedp Symposium, held in Las Vegas, March 20-24.

The maintaining factors of eating disorders must be treated with a therapeutic method that creates behavioral change.  ACT is uniquely suited to address the treatment needs of adults with eating disorders because it swiftly and effectively addresses the major maintaining factors of eating disorders, including: rigidity, inability to see the "big picture," isolation and most importantly, emotional avoidance.

Dr. Johnson's session will present a comprehensive study of the language of the mind and how the mind is used to harm or help the recovery process.  ACT teaches patients to accept that humans have very little control over what thoughts show up in our minds and helps develop awareness about the ways that minds work.

Dr. Craig L. Johnson is one of the five keynote speakers featured at the Symposium and has been a leader in the field of eating disorders for more than 30 years. He is the Chief Clinical Officer of Eating Recovery Center in Denver, Colorado and was the Founding Editor of the International Journal of Eating Disorders.

"We are so honored to offer Dr. Johnson as one of the Symposium's keynote speakers.  His expertise is known the world over," said Bonnie Harken, iaedp Managing Director.

About iaedp:
The International Association of Eating Disorders Professionals provides education and training standards to an international and multidisciplinary group of various healthcare treatment providers and helping professions.                                                               

Contact: Susie Lomelino
[email protected]
214.269.2092

SOURCE iaedp