# Overcoming Implementation Barriers of Concurrent Treatment for Eating Disorders and Posttraumatic Stress Disorder: Two Novel and Feasible Approaches

## TL;DR

This paper introduces two new, practical methods for treating eating disorders and PTSD together, reducing the burden on clinicians.

## Contribution

Two novel, low-training interventions for concurrent treatment of eating disorders and PTSD are proposed and evaluated for feasibility.

## Key findings

- A cognitive behavioral workbook intervention is feasible for concurrent treatment of ED and PTSD.
- Combining Written Exposure Therapy with ED treatment is practical across outpatient and day hospital settings.

## Abstract

Eating disorders (EDs) and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) frequently co-occur and share a functional relationship. Evidence suggests benefits of integrated and/or concurrent treatment; however, implementation is hindered by clinician training burden and the challenges of delivering two treatments simultaneously. This paper explores two novel and feasible approaches to addressing ED-PTSD. The first is a clinician-guided cognitive behavioural workbook intervention delivered concurrently with ED treatment. It involves psychoeducation, addresses dissociation, and encourages approach (versus avoidance) practices. The second involves combining Written Exposure Therapy (WET) with ED treatment at both outpatient and day hospital levels of care. Both interventions have a low training burden and are feasible in routine clinical practice, making concurrent approaches available to those who need them.