Below are answers to common questions about our specialist eating disorder clinic and our 12-week enhanced pathway for individuals aged 16 and over living with anorexia, bulimia, ARFID, OSFED, orthorexia, and body dysmorphia.
What eating disorders do you treat?
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We provide specialist treatment for a range of eating disorders and related conditions, including:
- Anorexia nervosa
- Bulimia nervosa
- Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID)
- Other Specified Feeding or Eating Disorder (OSFED)
- Orthorexia
- Body dysmorphia (Body Dysmorphic Disorder; BDD)
Our programme is designed for individuals who need temporary enhanced and coordinated support to improve their relationship with food, eating, and/or body image.
We work in accordance with NICE Guidelines, alongside multidisciplinary clinical judgement.
How do I know if this pathway is right for me?
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We offer a free initial 20-30 minute consultation call once you have submitted a referral form to discuss suitability. If another type of support would be more appropriate, we will be transparent and help guide you towards the right service (where possible).
Is the pathway suitable for severe or complex eating disorders?
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Yes. We do support individuals with complex, longstanding, or relapsing eating disorders.
However, our pathway is a community-based therapeutic clinic. Individuals who require medical stabilisation or appear at significant risk of harm to self or others may need alternative treatment before starting with us. We take risk and safeguarding very seriously and whilst we do everything we can to support your safety, we do not offer medical monitoring or crisis management. If your safety needs should change during the pathway we may pause or end your treatment with us and inform your primary healthcare professional to provide you with a more appropriate referral. You can see our full terms & conditions here.
Do I need a diagnosis before starting treatment?
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No. A formal diagnosis is not required to access our pathway and we do not provide diagnostic assessments. We assess suitable fit for the pathway on a needs basis.
Many people seek help when they recognise that their relationship with food, eating, or body image is becoming problematic. We can complete a clinical assessment and help determine the most appropriate treatment approach.
How do I start treatment with you?
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The first step is to submit a referral form on the Make a Referral page.
You can self-refer or a family member or healthcare professional can refer on your behalf. We then offer a free 20-30 minute consultation to call to discuss suitability and arrange when to start. Once you start the programme we begin a more extensive assessment and create an individualised care plan.
What happens after the 12-week pathway ends?
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Most people will step down at the end of 12 weeks to continue with their primary care in the community (e.g. GP, private therapist, community team). However, in some cases, we may offer 4, 6, or 12 week extensions, or consider a phased discharge.
Our aim is to support individuals to build the skills, confidence, and stability needed to manage their recovery safely and effectively within their everyday lives. We continuously assess your progress and will consider the best options for your discharge, as well as recommendations for your continued recovery post-discharge.
Can you support me alongside my mental health team?
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Yes! We are always happy to collaborate and liaise with existing mental health services such as CMHTs or CYPMHS or private therapists.
Our aim is to compliment – not replace – your current care. However, you will need to check with your service whether this is something they can agree to. We would be happy to speak with any professionals or services to agree the terms and maintain joined up working.
Can partners, families, or carers be involved in treatment?
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Absolutely – we encourage active participation from your support network wherever appropriate and with your consent, as they often play a vital role in recovery.
Some individuals request family input to assessment and relapse prevention planning, whilst others ask family members or partners to join them in sessions. Some do not want any family involved and that is fine too.
Who can refer to the Next Steps Eating Disorder Clinic?
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You can self-refer by submitting a referral form online. You do not need to wait for a GP or professional referral to contact us.
We also accept referrals from:
– General practitioners (GPs)
– Therapists
– Healthcare professionals
– Parents or carers
– Schools, colleges, and universities
Will my treatment be confidential?
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Yes. All treatment is confidential and delivered in line with professional, ethical, and legal standards.
Information is only shared with other professionals when:
– You give consent
– There is a significant risk to safety
– It is required by law
We will always discuss confidentiality clearly at the start of treatment. You can see our privacy policy for more information about how we collect and store your data.
Do you offer treatment nationwide?
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Yes – our Next Step Pathway is delivered entirely online to make it as accessible as possible across the UK. We may be able to offer in person sessions if you are based in Hertfordshire or London.
Do you accept private healthcare insurance?
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Yes. We currently only accept privately funded clients, whether self-funded or via private healthcare insurance.
If you cannot find the information you need, please contact us using the details at the bottom of the website.
We are happy to discuss your situation and help you decide whether our clinic is the right fit.
