Residential binge eating disorder treatment
Take control of your relationship with food – discover our comprehensive treatment options for binge eating disorder (BED) and start your recovery journey today.
Binge eating disorder (BED) can feel overwhelming, but with the right treatment and support, recovery is absolutely possible.
At Priory, we offer fast access to specialist BED treatment across inpatient, day care, outpatient and online settings. Our compassionate, multidisciplinary teams use evidence-based therapies to help you regain control of your relationship with food and rebuild confidence in everyday life.
Effective treatments for BED
Treatment for binge eating disorder focuses on reducing binge frequency, restoring regular eating, and addressing emotions, not weight loss.
All of Priory’s treatments are evidence-based and in line with National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) guidance.
The most effective approaches include:
Guided self-help (CBT-ED-Based)
- Recommended as a first-line treatment for many adults with BED
- Involves structured self-help materials, food diaries, and sessions with a trained therapist
- Helps you identify binge triggers and develop healthier eating habits
Cognitive behavioural therapy for eating disorders (CBT-ED)
If self-help isn’t effective, or symptoms are more severe, a more intensive CBT-ED might to more effective, either individually or within a group.
- Focuses on understanding binge-urge cycles
- Teaches practical skills for managing triggers, perfectionism and shame
- Builds emotional regulation and self-compassion
Interpersonal psychotherapy (IPT)
Where binge eating is strongly linked to relationship stress, grief or social conflict, IPT can help by improving communication and emotional awareness.
Family-Based and adolescent interventions
For young people, family support is a core part of recovery. Family-based therapy helps parents and carers learn supportive mealtime strategies and communication tools.
Medication
Medication isn’t usually used as a standalone treatment for BED but may be considered under psychiatric supervision if you have co-existing conditions such as depression, anxiety or ADHD.
Priory’s stepped-care pathways
We tailor every treatment plan to your needs. Our flexible pathways mean you can move between inpatient, day care, outpatient or online therapy as your recovery progresses.
Inpatient treatment
Best for: severe BED, significant emotional distress, or co-existing mental or physical health risks.
Our inpatient programmes provide:
- 24-hour therapeutic and medical support
- Structured, supervised meal plans
- Intensive individual and group therapy
- Practical exposure to feared foods
- Family therapy and emotional regulation work
Outpatient and day care treatment
Best for: less intense symptoms of BED or those who are medically stable.
Includes:
- Weekly one-to-one or group CBT-ED/IPT
- Dietitian-led meal planning and food exposure work
- Practical skills for managing urges
- Body image and self-esteem workshops
- Relapse prevention planning
Day care provides more intensive, structured support (half or full days) including supervised meals and group therapy, while still allowing you to return home each evening.
Online therapy
We offer secure online-based therapy for those who prefer remote treatment. Online sessions mirror our in-person programmes, including CBT-ED, IPT, and dietetic support.
Effective treatments for BED
Treatment for binge eating disorder focuses on reducing binge frequency, restoring regular eating, and addressing emotions, not weight loss.
All of Priory’s treatments are evidence-based and in line with National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) guidance.
The most effective approaches include:
Guided self-help (CBT-ED-Based)
- Recommended as a first-line treatment for many adults with BED
- Involves structured self-help materials, food diaries, and sessions with a trained therapist
- Helps you identify binge triggers and develop healthier eating habits
Cognitive behavioural therapy for eating disorders (CBT-ED)
If self-help isn’t effective, or symptoms are more severe, a more intensive CBT-ED might to more effective, either individually or within a group.
- Focuses on understanding binge-urge cycles
- Teaches practical skills for managing triggers, perfectionism and shame
- Builds emotional regulation and self-compassion
Interpersonal psychotherapy (IPT)
Where binge eating is strongly linked to relationship stress, grief or social conflict, IPT can help by improving communication and emotional awareness.
Family-Based and adolescent interventions
For young people, family support is a core part of recovery. Family-based therapy helps parents and carers learn supportive mealtime strategies and communication tools.
Medication
Medication isn’t usually used as a standalone treatment for BED but may be considered under psychiatric supervision if you have co-existing conditions such as depression, anxiety or ADHD.
What treatment involves (week to week)
BED treatment combines emotional, behavioural and nutritional support to help you build sustainable recovery skills.
You can expect:
- Regular eating: establishing three meals and 2–3 snacks daily to reduce restriction and chaos
- CBT-ED skills: identifying triggers, managing urges, problem-solving and coping card techniques
- Emotion regulation: learning DBT-informed skills to manage distress without turning to food
- Body image and self-compassion work: reducing shame and perfectionism
- Dietetic input: understanding nutrition, portioning and paced exposure to feared foods
- Relapse prevention: spotting early warning signs and planning for setbacks
- Family involvement (if appropriate): education, boundaries and supportive scripts
How we tailor care
No two people experience BED in the same way. That’s why our clinicians begin with a comprehensive assessment to design a plan that works for you.
We consider:
- Co-existing conditions such as depression, trauma or ADHD
- Physical health checks and GP liaison (e.g. metabolic risk, diabetes, hypertension)
- Cultural, neurodiversity and accessibility needs
- Step-up or step-down transitions between inpatient, day care and outpatient care
Treatment for children and young people (CAMHS)
BED can also affect young people and teenagers. At Priory, we provide age-appropriate, family-focused care that combines emotional support with education continuity.
Treatment may include:
- Family-based therapy and caregiver coaching
- CBT-ED or IPT adapted for young people
- Meal support and nutritional guidance
- School liaison and ongoing educational provision during inpatient stays
Start your recovery with Priory
You don’t have to face binge eating disorder alone. With expert, evidence-based support, recovery is within reach.
Priory offers:
- Free, confidential eating disorder assessments
- Flexible inpatient, day care and outpatient programmes
- Online therapy for alternative access to care
Book your free eating disorder assessment today and take the first step towards a balanced, healthy relationship with food.
BED treatment FAQs
Do I need inpatient care or can I be treated as an outpatient?
Inpatient care is recommended if symptoms are severe or other treatments haven’t been effective. Otherwise, treatment as an outpatient or in day care can allow you to recover while still enjoying flexibility of work and home life.
How long does BED treatment take?
Duration varies. Guided self-help might last 6–8 weeks, while structured therapy programmes typically run for 12–20 weeks. Longer support is available if needed.
Will I be put on a diet or weight-loss plan?
No. The goal is to build a regular, balanced eating routine and reduce binge frequency, not to lose weight. Weight management is considered only after bingeing has stabilised.
Is medication used for BED?
Medication isn’t a first-line treatment but may be used if co-existing conditions are present.
Can I get help if I’m also depressed or anxious?
Yes. BED often co-occurs with other mental health conditions, and your plan can include therapy and medication to support both.
What support is available for families?
Families can access educational sessions, support groups, and involvement in care planning to help loved ones maintain progress.
