A pilot feasibility and acceptability study of an online compassion-focused group therapy intervention to treat comorbid eating disorders and PTSD symptoms

Eating disorders (EDs) and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) commonly co-occur but existing treatments do not effectively address these conditions concurrently. This pilot study describes outcomes of an online compassion-focused group therapy intervention that was adapted for adults experiencing EDs and posttraumatic stress symptoms.

Twenty women and one non-binary person with an ED and PTSD symptoms (age 35.68 ± 13.61 years) completed a 10-week group-based (five groups) outpatient compassion-focused therapy (CFT) intervention. CFT was delivered online using video conferencing. In addition to ED symptoms and symptoms of PTSD, measures of self-compassion, fears of compassion, compassionate engagement and action, shame, depression, anxiety and stress were administered at baseline (the week prior to commencement), Week 6, endpoint (Week 10), and at 3-month follow up.

Across all groups, uptake and attendance was high and completion rates across the five groups averaged 86.7 %. Significant improvement was evident for all variables between baseline and endpoint, with the exception of dietary restraint and anxiety. Symptoms were largely stable or demonstrated further improvement across measures at the 3-month follow-up. All participants stated that they would recommend the intervention to others.

This study provides preliminary evidence of the feasibility and acceptability of compassion-focused group therapy delivered in an outpatient setting via video conferencing. Results suggest that CFT may be an effective transdiagnostic treatment for reducing aspects of ED and PTSD symptoms. Larger trials are needed to build the evidence base for this novel, telehealth intervention.