Healing Your Relationship with Food and Yourself
Specialist Eating Disorder Treatment and Support in Dubai
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What are Eating Disorders?
Eating disorders (such as Anorexia, Bulimia, and Binge Eating Disorder) are severe, complex mental health conditions characterised by an unhealthy relationship with food, weight, and body image. They are not simply “diets gone too far” or lifestyle choices; they are deeply ingrained coping mechanisms that have profound physical and psychological impacts. With specialised care, complete recovery is attainable.
Signs & Symptoms
Eating disorders thrive in secrecy. You might notice some of the following patterns:
- An intense, overwhelming fear of gaining weight or severe body dissatisfaction
- Strict, rigid rules around food, calorie counting, or restricting entire food groups
- Episodes of uncontrollable eating, sometimes followed by purging, over-exercising, or fasting
- Avoiding social situations that involve food
- Physical signs like extreme fatigue, dizziness, hair loss, or gastrointestinal issues
Eating disorders often masquerade as “health” or “discipline.” Normalise that recognising these patterns is the bravest step toward true wellness.
What Causes It?
Eating disorders are rarely just about food or weight. They are driven by several factors:
- Biological factors and genetic predispositions
- Psychological traits like perfectionism, anxiety, or a need for control
- Cultural and societal pressures that idolise specific body types
- A history of trauma, bullying, or difficult family dynamics
- Life transitions where focusing on food provides a false sense of safety
How It’s Diagnosed
Eating disorder diagnosis in The Psychiatry and Therapy Centre requires a careful, multidisciplinary approach to ensure both medical and mental safety:
- A clinical interview with a specialised therapist to understand your relationship with food and body image.
- A physical examination by a medical doctor to check your vital signs, blood work, and overall physiological health.
- A collaborative treatment plan designed by a team that understands the complexities of the disorder.
Treatment & Support Options
Because eating disorders affect both mind and body, a team approach is essential:
- Evidence-based therapies like CBT-E, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), or Family-Based Treatment (FBT) for teens
- Nutritional counselling with a specialised dietitian to help normalise eating patterns
- Medical monitoring to ensure physical stability
- Group support to break the isolation and shame associated with the condition
Living With Eating Disorders
Recovery from an eating disorder is a journey, and it is rarely linear. However, countless individuals do fully recover. Over time, food loses its moral weight, and body image no longer dictates your self-worth. By building healthy coping skills, you make room for a life filled with genuine connection, spontaneity, and peace.
Are eating disorders just about food and weight, or is there more to it?
Eating disorders are far more complex than just concerns about food or weight. They are severe mental health conditions rooted in an unhealthy relationship with food, body image, and self-worth. Often, they are deeply ingrained coping mechanisms for underlying emotional struggles, and they can have profound physical and psychological impacts. It’s crucial to understand they are not simply lifestyle choices.
I'm worried about a loved one's eating habits. What are some signs that might indicate an eating disorder?
Eating disorders often thrive in secrecy, making them hard to spot. You might notice an intense fear of gaining weight, rigid rules around food, episodes of uncontrollable eating sometimes followed by purging or excessive exercise, or avoidance of social situations involving food. Physical signs like extreme fatigue, dizziness, or hair loss can also be present. Recognising these patterns is the bravest step towards seeking help.
What causes eating disorders? Is it something I could have prevented?
Eating disorders are never anyone’s fault and are not something you could have prevented. They are driven by a complex interplay of biological factors (like genetics), psychological traits (such as perfectionism or anxiety), cultural pressures, and sometimes a history of trauma or difficult life transitions. Understanding these multiple factors is key to effective treatment and recovery.
Is full recovery from an eating disorder truly possible?
Yes, absolutely. With specialised, compassionate care, complete recovery from an eating disorder is attainable. Our multidisciplinary approach focuses on healing both the physical and psychological aspects, helping you develop a healthier relationship with food, your body, and yourself. It’s a journey, but one where you can find lasting freedom and well-being.
Eating Disorder Experts at The Psychiatry and Therapy Centre
English, Spanish
Dr Jose Belda Pastor (Consultant Psychiatrist)
A Consultant Psychiatrist with over 20 years of experience, trained in the UK and Spain, with specialised expertise in Adult ADHD and Eating Disorders.
• MSc in Psychiatric Research at University College London,
• Specialist register of General Medical Council, UK
• Member of the British Royal College of Psychiatrists
English
Dr Mohammed Yaseen Aslam (Consultant Psychiatry)
A Consultant Psychiatrist with over 16 years of mental health experience, including eight years in the NHS and a substantive private sector leadership role.
• MRCPsych (Royal College of Psychiatrists, London)
• CCT (GMC Specialist Register UK No. 4742809
• DHA License Consultant Psychiatrist
English
Dr Rachael Emma Phillips (Allied – Psychologist)
An HCPC-registered Clinical Psychologist and Autism Assessment Lead with extensive experience in the UK and UAE, specialising in neurodiversity.
• DPsych- Professional Doctorate in Counselling
Psychology, University of East London, UK
• Qualified Autism Assessor, Autism Assessment Lead
• Expert in Eating Disorders
English, German
Christina Burmeister (Psychologist)
A Systemic Family Therapist and Social Counselor with over 15 years of experience, specializing in family dynamics and relationship therapy.
• MA Counselling Psychologist (USA)
• CDA License – Psychologist
• Expert in Eating Disorders, Panic Disorders, Couples’ Counselling
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A Safe Space to Begin Your Healing
We understand that reaching out can feel like a daunting step, and you don’t have to have all the answers right now. At The Psychiatry & Therapy Centre, your comfort and peace of mind are our absolute priorities. You don’t have to carry the weight of what you’re going through alone.
When you’re ready, we’re here to listen at your pace and on your terms. You can reach out to our compassionate team in whichever way feels most secure and comfortable for you: