How to provide safe care when a client has an eating disorder (September 9, 2025)

Presented by: Lori Henry

The overall incidence of eating disorders worldwide is estimated at four times higher than previously believed. In the last five years, hospital admissions for eating disorders in the UK have increased by an incredible 84% (Royal College of Psychiatrists, 2022). Similarly, clinicians across Canada are more likely to see a client who has an eating disorder in their setting than ever before. Although these complex psychiatric illnesses require specialist services, all clinicians can make a difference when engaging with this population.  This webinar will provide an overview of how to recognize when someone is affected by an eating disorder in any setting, including some of the medical complications. It will also explore how clinicians can adjust their practice to better serve this population, using eating disorder-informed language and giving appropriate recommendations. The presenter will share ways occupational therapists can adapt their current interventions so that they are supporting safe practice and recovery for their clients with suspected or diagnosed eating disorders. 

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

1. Understand how eating disorders present in the general population.
2. Identify when a client needs specialist support for an eating disorder.
3. Apply this new understanding to occupational therapy interventions in a variety of practice settings.

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

Area of practice Mental health, Primary care, Psychotherapy

Client age group Adolescents (13-19 years old), Adults (20-64 years old) 

Language English