Eating Disorder Treatment Plans

Eating disorders are complex mental health conditions that can affect a person emotionally, physically, psychologically, and socially. They are not simply about food, weight, or appearance — they are often deeply connected to emotional distress, coping, self-worth, perfectionism, trauma, anxiety, or difficulties managing overwhelming feelings.

Seeking support can feel incredibly vulnerable, and many people struggle silently for a long time before reaching out. Recovery is possible, and support can help people rebuild a healthier 

relationship with food, their body, emotions, and themselves.

An Eating Disorder Treatment Plan (EDTP) is a plan prepared by a GP to help eligible individuals access Medicare rebates for treatment related to an eating disorder.

An Eating Disorder Treatment Plan is different from a standard Mental Health Care Plan and is designed specifically for people experiencing diagnosed eating disorders such as:

• Anorexia Nervosa 
• Bulimia Nervosa 
• Binge Eating Disorder 
• Other Specified Feeding or Eating Disorders (OSFED) 

These plans support a more coordinated and multidisciplinary approach to treatment.

To be eligible, a person must meet criteria for a diagnosed eating disorder as assessed by their GP or medical team.

Your GP may:

• Conduct a physical health assessment 
• Review eating patterns, mental health, and medical concerns 
• Assess physical risks and nutritional concerns 
• Discuss appropriate supports and referrals 
• 
  

If appropriate, your GP can prepare:

• An Eating Disorder Treatment Plan 
• Referrals for psychological treatment 
• Referrals to other allied health professionals such as dietitians 

Treatment for eating disorders often works best when care is collaborative and tailored to the individual.

Depending on a person’s needs, treatment may involve:

• Psychological therapy 
• Nutritional support and meal planning 
• Medical monitoring 
• Emotional regulation and coping skills 
• Support around body image and self-esteem 
• Trauma-informed care where appropriate 
• Family or support involvement 
• Relapse prevention planning 
• 
  

Therapy may focus not only on eating behaviours, but also on the emotional experiences underneath them.

Eligible clients may be able to access Medicare rebates for a larger number of sessions than those available under a standard Mental Health Care Plan.

This can include:

• Psychological treatment sessions 
• Dietetic sessions 
• Ongoing GP reviews 
• 
  

The number of sessions available can change in line with current Medicare guidelines and individual treatment needs.

Eating disorder treatment is not about judgment, pressure, or forcing change before someone feels ready.

Therapy aims to create a safe and supportive space to explore:

• The role the eating disorder may be playing 
• Emotional triggers and coping patterns 
• Relationships with food, body image, and self-worth 
• Anxiety, perfectionism, shame, or control 
• Underlying emotional pain or stressors 
• Building healthier coping strategies over time 
• 
  

Recovery is rarely linear, and progress often happens gradually. Support focuses on compassion, safety, understanding, and sustainable change.

Eating disorders can have serious physical and psychological impacts. If there are immediate concerns about physical health, medical safety, or risk, urgent medical support should be sought through a GP, hospital, or emergency services.