Family-Based Treatment (FBT) for Eating Disorders in NYC
If your child or teen is struggling with an eating disorder, it can feel overwhelming to know how to help. You may be wondering:
Should I be more involved or give them space?
Am I making things worse without realizing it?
What actually helps teens recover?
At Body Liberation Collective, we offer Family-Based Treatment (FBT) for eating disorders in NYC - an evidence-based approach designed for adolescents and teens that actively involves caregivers in the recovery process.
What Is Family-Based Treatment (FBT)?
Family-Based Treatment (FBT) is a structured, research-supported approach for adolescents with eating disorders. In FBT:
Caregivers take an active role in supporting their child’s nourishment
The therapist provides guidance, structure, and support
The focus is on restoring health while maintaining a strong parent-child relationship
Rather than placing the responsibility solely on the adolescent, FBT recognizes that families are a powerful part of recovery.
When Is FBT a Good Fit?
FBT can be especially effective for:
Adolescents and teens living at home
Early to mid-stage eating disorders
Families who are able to participate actively in treatment
It is commonly used for anorexia, bulimia and disordered eating patterns. That said, FBT is not the right fit for every teen or every family.
Our Approach to FBT
At Body Liberation Collective, we offer FBT as one of several approaches to treating adolescent eating disorders. We begin with a thoughtful assessment to determine whether FBT is the best fit, or whether another therapeutic approach would be more supportive. When we use FBT, we:
Guide caregivers in supporting their child’s eating and recovery
Help families navigate the emotional challenges of this process
Maintain a compassionate, non-blaming stance toward both parents and teens
We also integrate a trauma-informed, weight-inclusive (HAES-aligned) lens into our work, ensuring that treatment supports both physical and emotional healing.
We also integrate a trauma-informed, weight-inclusive (HAES-aligned) lens into our work, ensuring that treatment supports both physical and emotional healing.
You can learn more about our overall approach to eating disorder therapy here →
Supporting Both Teens and Parents
One of the most important aspects of FBT is that it supports the entire family system. Parents often come to us feeling unsure how to help, afraid of saying the wrong thing and overwhelmed by the intensity of the situation. Our role is to help you feel more confident, supported and equipped to navigate recovery. At the same time, we work to maintain a strong, trusting relationship with your teen throughout the process.
When FBT Isn’t the Right Fit
Not every adolescent benefits from FBT. In some cases, a more individualized or integrative approach may be more appropriate. We also offer individual therapy for teens, support for co-occurring concerns like anxiety, trauma, or depression, and collaborative care with families when helpful.
Learn more about our adolescent eating disorder therapy services→
Getting Started with FBT
If you’re considering Family-Based Treatment, we’re here to help you understand your options. Our team will learn more about your child and your family, assess whether FBT is the right approach, match you with a clinician who fits your needs.
Sessions are available in-person in Manhattan and virtually across New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut.
Ready to take
the next step?
If your child is struggling with an eating disorder, you don’t have to navigate this alone.
Reach out to schedule a free consultation, and we’ll help you determine the best next step for your family.
HELPFUL RESOURCES FOR PARENTS
WHERE ARE WE LOCATED?
Address: 280 Madison Avenue, Suite 1110, New York, NY 10016
Subway: Conveniently located in the heart of Midtown Manhattan near Metro North and Grand Central Terminal Subway (Trains: 4, 5, 6, 7, F, B, D, M, N, R, Q, W)