Our previous research studies have found that patients with eating disorders display differences in social processing and behavior, and social anxiety is one of the most common co-occurring conditions in this population. Additionally, patients with anxiety disorders frequently experience problems related to their eating. This novel eight-session group therapy intervention targets the social domain, rather than specific eating-related symptoms, to improve outcomes for patients.
Current status: ENROLLING
- For more information about the study and/or enrollment process, please fill out this interest form.
- You can also contact us directly via Email or by calling (214) 648-4617.
We are currently enrolling young adults who:
- Are between the ages of 18-30
- Have met DSM-5 diagnostic criteria for an eating disorder within the past 12 months, and/or have met criteria for an anxiety disorder
- Can safely be treated at the outpatient level of care
The group intervention is available in two different formats. The virtual group takes place on Mondays from 4-5pm and is primarily educational. The in-person group takes place at UT Southwestern in Dallas on Wednesdays from 2:30-4:30pm and includes interactive art therapy tasks along with the educational component.
In addition to the group sessions, study participation includes baseline and final study visits that will take place one year apart at UT Southwestern Empire Plaza Building II. Participants will also complete brief virtual assessments at the 0, 4, 8, and 12-month timepoints. At each study milestone, participants will receive financial compensation for their time and effort.
Individuals who will be unable to attend group sessions are still welcome to enroll and complete the baseline, follow-up, and final study assessments. This comparison data will help us evaluate the efficacy of the group intervention and improve our understanding of how eating disorder and anxiety symptoms change over time.
Upcoming Group Dates:
| Week | Topic | Virtual | In-Person |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Safety & The Social Brain | 1/27/25 | 1/29/25 |
| 2 | Attributions | 2/03/25 | 2/05/25 |
| 3 | Perspective-Taking | 2/10/25 | 2/12/25 |
| 4 | Identity | 2/17/25 | 2/19/25 |
| 5 | Values | 2/24/25 | 2/26/25 |
| 6 | Connection | 3/03/25 | 3/05/25 |
| 7 | Social Signals | 3/10/25 | 3/12/25 |
| 8 | Relationship-Building | 3/17/25 | 3/19/25 |