Cognitive-behavioural therapy for adolescents with bulimic symptomatology: the acceptability and effectiveness of internet-based delivery

The evidence base for the treatment of adolescents with bulimia nervosa (BN) is limited. Aims: To assess the feasibility, acceptability, and clinical outcomes of a web-based cognitive-behavioural (CBT) intervention for adolescents with bulimic symptomatology. Method: 101 participants were recruited from eating disorders clinics or from beat, a UK-wide eating disorders charity. The programme consisted of online CBT sessions (‘Overcoming Bulimia Online’), peer support via message boards, and email support from a clinician. Participants’ bulimic symptomatology and service utilisation were assessed by interview at baseline and at three and six months. Participants’ views of the treatment package were also determined. Results: Therewere significant improvements in eatingdisorder symptoms andservice contacts frombaseline to three months, whichwere maintained at six months. Participants’ views of the interventionwere positive. Conclusions: The intervention has the potential for use as a first step in the treatment of adolescents with bulimic symptomatology.