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ORANGE COUNTY EATING DISORDER THERAPIST GROUP LOGO
949-473-7907

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Family-Based Treatment (FBT)
For Teens in Orange County

Parent‑led recovery with expert coaching—available in
Mission Viejo and via secure telehealth across California

Evidence-based • Parent‑Empowering • In-person & Telehealth
BOOK A FREE 15-MINUTE PARENT CONSULT
949-473-7907

What is FBT?

Family-Based Treatment (FBT) is a structured, short-term therapy for adolescent eating disorders that actively involves parents as the primary agents of change. Instead of focusing on blame or cause, FBT equips families to restore health first, and then gradually return independence to the teen.

FBT has been identified as an effective approach for adolescents with anorexia nervosa and promising for bulimia nervosa.
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Why FBT Works

  • FBT is guided by these principles:
  • Parents are empowered as the primary agents of change
  • We’re agnostic about cause—we focus on getting well now
  • Therapists act as coaches and consultants
  • We separate the illness from your teen
  • Care is pragmatic and action‑oriented
FBT Work

What to Expect: The 3 Phases of FBT

PHASE 1
Restoring Health

Parents temporarily lead meals and snacks. Clinicians coach families through re-feeding, disrupting disordered behaviors, and restoring weight/nutrition. Often includes a family meal session for hands-on support.

PHASE 2
Gradual Return of
Control

As stability improves, responsibility for eating is gradually returned to the teen in age-appropriate steps.


PHASE 3
Adolescent Development & Relapse Prevention

With eating normalized, focus shifts to typical teen development—friendships, school, identity—and skills to prevent relapse.

Typical length: About 20 sessions across 9–12 months.

Condition Treat FBT

Conditions We Treat with FBT

  • Anorexia nervosa (adolescents) — recommended first‑line
  • Bulimia nervosa (adolescents) — guideline‑supported
  • Other restrictive / mixed presentations — case‑by‑case (we’ll guide you)

Our FBT Program at OC Eating Disorders

  • Clinicians trained in FBT principles
  • Coordinated care with pediatricians and dietitians as needed
  • Family meal support and practical at-home coaching
  • Sibling-inclusive sessions when helpful
  • In-person and telehealth options
  • Warm, non-stigmatizing care focused on safety, dignity, and recovery
Eating Disorder

Your First 3 Steps

Free 15-minute consult

Ask questions and see if FBT is right for your family.

Intake & safety check

Review medical/nutritional status and create a roadmap.

Begin Phase 1

Parents begin guided meal support with coaching.

Start with a Free Consult
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Practical Details

  • Session length: 45–60 minutes
  • Frequency: Weekly early on, then biweekly/monthly
  • Caregiver participation: At least one parent/caregiver; siblings included as appropriate
  • Medical monitoring: Coordinated with your teen’s provider
  • Insurance/fees: Superbill or benefits verification available

FAQS

No. It is most established for adolescent anorexia, but also effective for bulimia nervosa and other restrictive disorders.

Very involved. In Phase 1, parents take leadership of meals with the therapist’s coaching and support.

Yes. As stability returns, eating responsibility is gradually handed back in Phase 2, with Phase 3 focusing on development and relapse prevention.

Usually around 20 sessions over 9–12 months, but it is individualized.

Yes. Professional guidelines list FBT as a recommended psychotherapy for adolescents with anorexia and bulimia.

Book a Free 15-Minute Consult

Book a Free 15-Minute Consult

Tell us what you’re looking for, and we’ll recommend a fit and next steps.

We reply same business day

We will never disclose your information in any way that violates HIPAA regulations.

Crisis & Safety Note

If your teen has medical instability (fainting, chest pain, severe restriction, abnormal labs, suicidal thoughts), call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department. For mental health crisis support in the U.S., call/text 988