Eating Disorder Acronyms: A Word Bank to Help You Understand

When you first enter the world of eating disorder treatment, whether as a client, a parent, or a clinician-in-training, it can feel like learning a new language. Suddenly, there are acronyms everywhere: FBT, ARFID, CEDS, CBT-E.

For families, this “alphabet soup” can feel intimidating and confusing. For providers, it’s easy to forget that not everyone lives in the shorthand of clinical care.

At The Eating Disorder Consultants, we believe that knowledge is power.

Understanding the terms used in treatment helps clients and families feel more grounded. It also gives clinicians the clarity to communicate with confidence. Here’s a word bank of common eating disorder acronyms, explained in plain language:

Treatment Approaches

These acronyms describe therapeutic models and methods that guide recovery. They’re often mentioned in treatment plans, therapy sessions, or when discussing evidence-based practices. Knowing what they mean helps families and clients feel less overwhelmed and more prepared.

FBT (Family-Based Treatment)

Sometimes called the “Maudsley Approach,” FBT is considered the gold standard for treating adolescents with anorexia nervosa. Parents play an active role in helping their child restore nutrition and challenge disordered behaviors, with the support of a therapist (Lock & Le Grange, 2015).

CBT-E (Enhanced Cognitive Behavioral Therapy)

CBT-E is a specialized form of CBT designed for eating disorders. It focuses on interrupting cycles of restriction, bingeing, or purging. This method builds healthier thoughts and behaviors around food and body image (Fairburn, 2008).

DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy)

Originally developed for borderline personality disorder, DBT has been adapted for eating disorders. It emphasizes mindfulness, emotion regulation, distress tolerance, and interpersonal effectiveness. These skills support recovery when emotions feel overwhelming (Linehan, 2015).

ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy)

ACT helps clients accept uncomfortable thoughts and feelings while committing to actions that align with their values. In eating disorder treatment, it can reduce shame and support body acceptance (Juarascio et al., 2013).

Diagnoses and Related Terms

These acronyms describe the different types of eating disorders recognized in the DSM-5. Each diagnosis has unique features, but they all carry emotional, medical, and psychological consequences that deserve compassionate, evidence-based care.

AN (Anorexia Nervosa)

AN is characterized by restriction of energy intake, intense fear of weight gain, and disturbance in the way one’s body is experienced.

BN (Bulimia Nervosa)

BN is marked by recurring episodes of binge eating followed by compensatory behaviors such as vomiting, laxative use, or excessive exercise.

BED (Binge Eating Disorder)

BED is characterized by recurrent binge episodes without regular compensatory behaviors. It is the most common eating disorder in the U.S.

ARFID (Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder)

ARFID involves avoiding or restricting food, not due to body image concerns but often because of sensory sensitivities, fear of choking, or low interest in eating.

OSFED (Other Specified Feeding or Eating Disorder)

OSFED is a diagnosis given when symptoms don’t neatly fit into AN, BN, or BED, but still cause significant distress and impairment.

Professional Credentials

These acronyms often show up after a clinician’s name. They represent training, licensure, and specialization, helping you know whether someone has advanced expertise in treating eating disorders.

CEDS (Certified Eating Disorder Specialist)

CEDS is a professional designation earned by clinicians with advanced training and experience in treating eating disorders.

CEDS-C (Certified Eating Disorder Specialist – Consultant)

This indicates a clinician is qualified not only to treat clients but also to supervise and consult with other professionals in the field.

RD (Registered Dietitian)

RDs are nutrition professionals who may specialize in eating disorders and provide medical nutrition therapy to support recovery.

LCSW / LMFT / CMHC

These are licenses for different types of mental health professionals who may provide therapy for eating disorders.

Why This Matters

For families, learning these acronyms can ease some of the anxiety of treatment. Instead of feeling like an outsider in a confusing medical system, you can feel empowered to ask questions and advocate for your loved one.

For clinicians, fluency in this language signals competence and trustworthiness. It ensures that when you sit with clients or collaborate with dietitians, doctors, or treatment centers, you’re all speaking the same language of care.

Shifting the Conversation Forward

Eating disorder care is already complex. The last thing anyone needs is to feel shut out by jargon. By breaking down acronyms into clear, human language, we can make treatment more accessible and less intimidating for everyone involved.

At The Eating Disorder Consultants, we believe in demystifying this process for families, clients, and Utah clinicians seeking supervision or training.

Because clarity builds trust, and trust is the foundation of healing.

Conclusion

In the journey of understanding eating disorders, knowledge is your ally. By familiarizing yourself with these terms, you empower yourself and those around you. You can navigate the complexities of treatment with confidence.

Remember, you are not alone in this. Together, we can foster positive outcomes for clients and their families. Let’s embrace this journey with open hearts and minds!

References

• Fairburn, C. G. (2008). Cognitive behavior therapy and eating disorders. Guilford Press.

• Juarascio, A. S., Forman, E. M., & Herbert, J. D. (2013). Acceptance and commitment therapy versus cognitive therapy for the treatment of comorbid eating pathology. Behavior Modification, 37(4), 459–489.

• Linehan, M. M. (2015). DBT skills training manual (2nd ed.). Guilford Press.

• Lock, J., & Le Grange, D. (2015). Family-based treatment of eating disorders. International Journal of Eating Disorders, 48(3), 354–357.