Occupational Therapy EXPLAINED

Occupational Therapy for Eating Disorders

Rebuilding confidence, balance, and purpose through personalised therapeutic support.

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Occupational Therapy EXPLAINED

What Is Occupational Therapy for Eating Disorders?

Occupational Therapy (OT) is a holistic, person-centred approach that supports individuals to re-engage with daily activities, routines, and meaningful roles that may have been disrupted by an eating disorder. Through practical, evidence-based interventions, OT helps people rebuild independence, confidence, and well-being in the everyday tasks that shape a fulfilling life.


At The London Centre, eating disorders occupational therapy focuses on restoring practical skills, strengthening emotional resilience, and helping clients reconnect with a sense of identity and purpose beyond the eating disorder.

1.25M

people living with an eating disorder

The Role of an Occupational Therapist in Recovery

Our occupational therapists work collaboratively with clients to build life skills, reduce anxiety around daily tasks, and achieve balance across self-care, work or study, relationships, and meaningful activities.

46%

of Adults feel unhappy about their appearance

WHY IT MATTERS

Why Occupational Therapy Matters in Eating Disorder Treatment

Eating disorders can significantly impact functioning across many areas of life. OT bridges the gap between psychological therapy and day-to-day living, helping clients put therapeutic gains into practice in real, practical, and sustainable ways.

How Occupational Therapy Supports Recovery

OT empowers individuals to rebuild structure, stability, and confidence in daily routines, using a combination of emotional exploration and practical activity. Sessions help clients gradually reintroduce valued occupations, develop healthier coping strategies, and reconnect with relationships, goals, and interests that support long-term wellbeing. This approach is gentle, collaborative, and tailored, guiding clients to make steady progress at a pace that feels safe and supportive.

How We Support you

What Happens During OT Sessions?

OT sessions for eating disorders are individually tailored and begin with a thorough assessment of current strengths, challenges, and goals. Together, the therapist and client create a personalised plan that may involve practical skill-building, exposure-based work, routine development, or graded re-engagement with meaningful activities. Activities may include:
  • Creating sustainable morning or evening routines
  • Supported meal planning or food shopping
  • Guided cooking practice
  • Exposure sessions in cafés or restaurants
  • Building confidence with independent travel or attending social events
  • Mindfulness, grounding, or sensory regulation work
  • Coping strategies for mealtimes at university or work
  • Clothing selection and body image support
  • Creative, leisure, or social re-engagement
  • Support with job applications, volunteering, or returning to study/work
THE PROCESS

A Supportive and Collaborative Process

OT at The London Centre is collaborative and compassionate. Clients are supported to progress at their own pace, with an emphasis on empowerment, autonomy, and restoring an identity beyond the eating disorder.

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THE BENEFITS

Benefits of Occupational Therapy for Eating Disorders

  • Encourages structure, balance, and independence
  • Reduces anxiety around meals and daily routines
  • Supports emotional regulation and self-esteem
  • Rebuilds healthy daily habits and coping strategies
  • Promotes meaningful engagement in life roles and activities
  • Complements psychological, nutritional, and psychiatric care
  • Supports long-term recovery and relapse prevention
A Place of Specialist Support

Who Can Benefit from Occupational Therapy?

OT can support individuals at any stage of recovery — whether returning to daily activities following inpatient treatment, embedding new routines as part of ongoing outpatient therapy, or addressing long-standing difficulties with independence, structure, or confidence. It is also helpful for those experiencing co-occurring challenges such as anxiety, low motivation, perfectionism, neurodivergence, or difficulties with sensory processing or social interaction. Sessions are appropriate for adolescents and adults and can be adapted depending on emotional, cognitive, and physical readiness.

Start your journey

Take the First Step
Towards Recovery

Rebuilding a meaningful and balanced life after an eating disorder is possible, and you don’t have to do it alone. Occupational Therapy can provide the practical, emotional, and structured support needed to help you regain confidence and move forward with clarity and hope. If you’d like to explore whether OT could support your recovery, we’d be very happy to speak with you.

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FAQs

FAQs About Occupational Therapy for Eating Disorders

OT aims to help individuals rebuild independence, structure, and confidence in the everyday activities that support health, identity, and quality of life.

No. OT can be beneficial at any stage of recovery and is always adapted to your current needs, goals, and medical safety.

Sessions are usually weekly, but frequency can be adjusted depending on your goals and progress.

Yes. OT is most effective as part of a multidisciplinary treatment plan and integrates well with therapy, dietetics, and psychiatric support.

Yes, we offer both in-person and virtual sessions to ensure flexibility and accessibility.

If helpful and appropriate, family or carers may be included to support routines, communication, and recovery at home.