Dr Rachel Loomes

Biography

I first started working in eating disorders in 2011, when I was involved in research evaluating two psychological treatments for adults with anorexia/underweight eating disorders. Since this time I have worked across both adult and adolescent eating disorder services in both outpatient and inpatient settings.

Alongside my work at The London Centre I am a Principal Clinical Psychologist at in an NHS Eating Disorder Service. I am also an Honorary Teaching Fellow at UCL, training therapists in CBT-ED. I have a particular clinical and research interest in autism and eating disorders. I am passionate about improving timely assessment and diagnosis for autistic people/people with autism, and adapting therapy appropriately. This also includes having a better understanding of how autism can present differently for many women & girls who are autistic.

I primarily use a Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) model when approaching how to overcome problems with eating and body image concerns. I also draw on other therapeutic models including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), to ensure that treatment fits the needs and goals of the individual. As a psychologist I value being warm, open and collaborative with the people I work with and believe in focusing on a person’s strengths in order to explore how they can bring about change and move forward.