Online Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Bulimia Nervosa

Optimizing Technology in the Treatment of Bulimia Nervosa

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Bulimia Nervosa (CBT4BN) is a research program funded by the National Institute of Mental Health and conducted by the UNC Eating Disorders Program and the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is an evidence-based treatment and the gold-standard for treating bulimia nervosa. The current study aims to compare two forms of CBT: face-to-face group therapy and online group therapy via cbt4bn.org.

All treatment is conducted by trained professionals from either the UNC Eating Disorders Program (in Chapel Hill) or Western Psychiatric Institute (in Pittsburgh) who are experienced in the treatment of eating disorders.

Participants will participate in 16 1.5 hour long group sessions of group CBT over 20 weeks. Groups will include 5-8 participants, one or two co-therapists, and two sessions by a registered dietitian. Participants will be expected to complete self-monitoring forms which assess their mood and behavior. Groups will either take place face-to-face or online in a therapist-moderated chat group.

Inclusion Criteria:

• DSM-IV criteria for BN
• Internet access at home
• Either off psychotropic medication for at least one month or on a stable dose of psychotropic medication

Exclusion Criteria:

• Any major medical condition that would interfere with treatment or require alternative treatment
• Alcohol or drug dependence in the last three months
• Current significant suicidal ideation
• Developmental disability that would impair the ability to use the internet program effectively
• Psychosis, including schizophrenia, or bipolar I disorder