Appetite for innovation: Dynamic occupational therapy provision in eating disorders (August 6, 2024)

Presented by: Clare Steedman 

Eating disorders are serious mental health conditions with increasing prevalence in Canadian youth since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic (Toigi et al., 2024; Toulany et al., 2023). Occupational therapy has been a profession which has been involved throughout time in supporting this client group (e.g., Giles & Allen, 1986; Mack et al., 2023; Martin, 1978; Vermeersch, 2018) and eating disorders disrupt occupations and occupational roles (e.g., Clark & Nayer, 2012; Elliot, 2012; Quiles-Cestari et al., 2012), however there is a lack of research and service provision offered within this field. This webinar will outline how occupational therapy can contribute to the field of eating disorders within contemporary practice. Statistics and facts on eating disorders will be explored, as well as the role of occupational therapy within eating disorders and a review of the literature. The development, strengths, and challenges of an eating disorder therapy service, The Eating Disorder Specialists (TEDS), will be shared to inspire occupational therapy professionals on how to develop and provide dynamic eating disorder services. 

After taking part in this webinar, participants will be able to: 

1. Understand an overview of facts and clear up misconceptions of eating disorders.
2. Describe the role of the profession of occupational therapy in eating disorders.

Level  Beginner (0-2 years of experience in this specific practice area) 

Area of practice Eating & Nutritional Wellness, Mental Health, Role-Emerging

Client age group Adults (20-64 years old)