An integration of cognitive-behavioral therapy and interpersonal psychotherapy for bulimia nervosa: a case study using the case formulation method.
OBJECTIVE
The current study provides an illustration of an integration of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and interpersonal psychotherapy (IPT) for the treatment of bulimia nervosa (BN), based on the case formulation strategy.


METHODS
A 25-year-old Hispanic female referred herself for the treatment of eating difficulties and depressed mood. Diagnostic criteria were met for BN, major depressive episode, and alcohol abuse. Components of both CBT and IPT were utilized throughout the course of treatment.


RESULTS
CBT techniques appeared to be most effective in eliminating binge eating and binge drinking behavior, whereas IPT techniques seemed to be most effective in reducing purging behavior. Results revealed that the client was no longer experiencing clinically significant symptoms of BN, depression, or alcohol abuse at end of treatment and follow-up (18 months after treatment onset).


CONCLUSIONS
Findings support the integration of CBT and IPT for the treatment of BN and, potentially, other eating disorders.
Hendricks
Peter S
PS
Department of Psychology, University of South Florida, 4202 East Fowler Avenue, Tampa, FL 33620, USA.
Thompson
J Kevin
JK
D000328:Adult; D002032:Bulimia / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000628:therapy*; D015928:Cognitive Behavioral Therapy / Q000379:methods*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007398:Interpersonal Relations; D011613:Psychotherapy / Q000379:methods; D012720:Severity of Illness Index; D016896:Treatment Outcome