Multi-Family Therapy for bulimia nervosa

Multi-Family Therapy for bulimia nervosa (MFT-BN) is a cutting-edge treatment developed at the Maudsley Centre. Much like other multi-family treatments, MFT-BN allows up to 8 families to work together in a group to learn, communicate and try out new strategies with the support of a professional team.

MFT-BN focuses on helping young people to manage strong emotions and unhelpful coping mechanisms, improve family communication, and reduce isolation. It is offered as a series of 90 minute sessions, held weekly for 3-4 months.

MFT-AN begins with 4-5 consecutive therapy days, followed by 4-6 follow-up days over the following 6-9 months. We usually organise these sessions during school holidays, to prevent disruption to education. Each day lasts from 10am to 4pm.

Both of our MFT groups participate in a variety of group activities, some for everyone together, and others for young people or parents only. Whether you’re writing, drawing, making things, playing games, role-playing or just talking, you’ll always be doing something hands-on and creative. Some of these activities may challenge you or make you feel emotional, and others will be a lot of fun. 

Young people and parents report that being with other families in MFT has helped them to understand their conditions and each other more, and increase their motivation for change.